[f]TissotPrxQuartz Vs. Tissot PRC 100 Solar Quartz

Last week, they organized a sophisticated conflict between the two platinum dress watches. This week we decided to keep it a little more reserved. Recently, Tissot introduced the new PRC 100 Solar Quartz with cutting-edge Lightmaster technology integrated into the crystals of the watch. With the demand for this new watch already higher than supply, why not take a stand against other extremely popular quartz watches from Tissot, the integrated bracelet PRX?

Surprisingly, Tissot introduced new technology in a revived model from the 2000s. The original 12-sided bezel makes a comeback, but the H-Link bracelet is new. Isn’t it more logical to introduce this technology on an already popular model, like the PRX? We never know why Tissot didn’t decide, but let’s see how Mike and Dern protect their picks.

Last week, Sunday morning showdown…

But first, let’s take a look at the article from last Sunday morning showdown. It was Stern vs. Scheufele, Smooth Salmon vs. Grainy Ice Blue, and Patek Philippe vs. Lu Chopard. In advance, we thought it would be a very good matchup, but we didn’t expect Chopardruk Quattromark IV to be able to come near the Patek Philippe Calatrava 6196p. Certainly, we were hoping that the classically modest Calatrava would win. But with 55% of the votes, it did so without crushing Quattro. Chopard captivated many voters with his impressive four-barrel architecture with a bolder design and acclaimed 216 hours (9 days) power reserve. The result shows that both of these watches have a lot of respect. Let’s see what happens to this week’s opponents.

Daan: Tissot PRC 100 Solar Quartz

I’ll admit it immediately. I’m not a huge fan of the Tissot PRX, but I’m a fan of solar-powered watches. This makes it the perfect defender for the newly introduced PRC 100 solar quartz. Of course, the PRX has an integrated bracelet design from the 70s, which is nowadays very trendy. I like that style too, but for some reason, I have never really connected to PRX. I think the most important reason is the fact that you can’t find the right size.

The 40mm size is reliable for most men, but I think it’s a little too big for a 17cm wrist. The case is a little too long and thick and doesn’t sit well on your wrist. That’s why I was excited when the 35mm model came on. However, the small case is also thin and looks a little small on the wrist. It might be a fun bonus watch in gold, but I don’t think I wear it too often. What’s more, a simple battery-powered quartz watch doesn’t leave much of a imagination, right? Introducing the new Tissot PRC 100 solar quartz.

Accurate, robust, classic

PRC stands for “Precise”, “Robust”, and “Classic”. Such an adjective may sound good, but not very exciting, but when I first got my new PRC 100 solar quartz, it really got me quite excited. Its brush and polished case have a strong character with a 12-sided bezel. But the biggest part of the story is its dimensions. The 39mm case fits perfectly on my wrist. This is also because it is only 9.2mm thick. Yes, it is 1.2mm thinner than the PRX. It makes it a very comfortable watch and it’s out of the way.

Looking at the PRC 100 close-up, you can actually notice the crystal honeycomb pattern. But isn’t that a reminder of the cool technology that drives the watch? As Rex said in a behind-the-scenes article, “(It) takes advantage of the power of the stars that we spin and make time visible.” Plus, putting solar cells into the crystal gives us more options when it comes to dial finishing. So Tissot is able to launch the PRC 100 with such a lovely sunburst finish, and the possibilities are endless for future releases.

More stamina

Do you know what PRX stands for? “Accurate”, “robust”, and “X” is a Roman numeral of 10. The last one refers to the water resistance rating of 10 bars (100m). Interestingly, the PRC 100 is just as capable and robust as the PRX. Both are suitable stainless steel sports watches, but the solar-powered PRC100 has far more stamina.

The battery life of a regular quartz PRX is 2 to 3 years. Meanwhile, the PRC 100 solar quartz is etched every 15 years, as long as you make sure it’s not hidden in a dark drawer. At least for the next 10 and a half years, it will be a truly worry-free watch.

For 495 euros, the PRC 100 on the bracelet is 100 euros more than the Quartz PRX. However, changing the battery via Tissotto Service Points costs around 50 euros. In the end, the watch will be even more expensive when it passes through the official channel, as it is likely that the PRX will need at least five battery changes in its PRX in the end.

Considering the better fit of the PRC 100 solar quartz, we’ll ultimately go to this watch around the PRX. I’m sure Mike has a different opinion, so let’s ask.

Microphone: Tissot Prx Quartz

PRX quartz solidifies Tissot as a leader in the affordable yet elegant watch segment. In a world full of Apple Watches, PRX is one of the few decent pieces I see everywhere. Yes, PRX is a genuine hit, so when Tissot recently unveiled the new PRC 100 Solar Quartz, I was pretty excited. Frankly, I’m still there, but I wonder if it has the same appeal as the PRX due to the lack of integrated bracelets…

Master stroke

When Tissot dropped the PRX Quartz in 2021, it was done at expert timing. The market was full of demand for integrated bracelet sports watches such as the Nautilus and Royal Oak. Tissot gave it a trusty name and offered the option to offer bargains to those who want to join the trend without re-registering their home. Since 2021, it has been dealt with a major flood of PRX models, including the chronograph, PowerMatic 80, and more, but in this showdown they’ve kept it on the Quartz model.

Easy and relatively worry-free watch

Today, Tissot offers PRX quartz in 25mm, 35mm, and 40mm diameters. I understand Daan’s comment that he cannot connect to a specific case size using these options. The 40mm version is large, and its 35mm siblings can feel small for those with medium wrists. Frankly, not offering the 37mm option is a strange decision. Still, it doesn’t stop most people wearing the 40mm version without any issues.

Inside, the watch uses a simple ETA quartz movement with heavy drive technology (impact management of the hand that keeps ticking). These movements include a quick set date and an end of life indicator (handskip in seconds). The battery is estimated to last for 2-3 years. Is that annoying compared to solar quartz? Although only a small amount, local watch shops should be able to change quickly and cheaply, ensuring that the watch maintains a rating of 100m depth.

Sweet and edgy case

The PRX quartz is about 10mm thick and is about 10mm depending on the diameter, so it’s thin enough to work under a shirt, but it’s so sturdy that it feels like a daily watch. Among the metals, Tissot presents a well-defined case with sharp edges and a consistently brushed surface. The bracelet with a slim push button clasp is also comfortable and has a nice taper.

PRX Quartz isn’t a very good deal

For just 395 euros, the PRX Quartz is screaming. In fact, when compared to several recent Swatch collaboration releases, which have prices surprisingly close, PRX shows even more of its value. And with nearly five years of production, the watch comes in a number of colours, finishes and size options. Again, as a wearer of dyed wool eco-drive, I cannot deny the practicality of solar quartz movements, but I don’t choose PRC over PRX based solely on movement. For me, PRX is more unique and desirable. Let’s hope that Tissot will add a solar movement to this platform.

Time to vote!

Now is the time to vote for your chosen non-mechanical Tissault Watch. Would you like to go to PRC Solar Quartz or PRX Quartz? Both should provide very good value and provide the wearer with a trouble-free life of ownership. Of course, you will need service along the way. Give me your vote and tell me why you voted for your way. Thank you for playing!