Call me old-fashioned, sentimental, or just someone with great taste in music. Either way, I think the 1965 song “What the World Needs Now Is Love” written by Hal David and Burt Bacharach is a true gem. Some may find the song a bit preachy, but people need to be preached to every now and again. Whenever Tissot preaches about the greatness of the PRX, they never give out any unnecessary moral advice about the watch. On the contrary, the brand seems to be preaching to its sympathizers. The model has risen to the top since its debut, and there are now over 58 models in the collection. These include two Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 “Chameleon” models with gradient dials.
Sometimes you just don’t know what you want, like a PRX with a vertically color-changing dial. But Tissot knew we needed one, and so they recently released the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 “Black Chameleon” (T137.407.11.051.01) and “Ice Blue Chameleon” (T137.407.11.351.01). The watch, like the other 40mm steel PRXs, is equipped with an automatic movement with 80 hours of power reserve and the patented Nivachron balance spring. It also has the same price of 775 euros as the “standard” model with a black dial. But the color-changing dial has an attractive look and a somewhat hypnotic effect that slowly but surely works on your “watch brain.”
Introducing two models of the chameleon-like Tissot PRX Powermatic 80
When I knew I would be trying on the Black Chameleon and the Ice Blue Chameleon at Fratello HQ, I made sure to wear the PRX Powermatic 80 Ice Blue. This was a kind of precaution. I was in love with the PRX from the moment it suddenly appeared. When the pale blue dial version came out, I knew I had to get it. I love the way the 138g watch fits on the wrist, the look, the feel, and the value for money. There aren’t many flaws with the watch. And, at least for me, it’s easy to forgive what “flaws” there are. Anyway, I didn’t want to be seduced by the two Chameleons, so I wore the PRX. Did my strategy work?
Dusk or dawn, PRX has you covered
I’ve seen two chameleon versions of the PRX Powermatic 80 before. I had a chance to briefly play with these two colorful creatures this spring, and both made quite an impression. A few months later, after their worldwide launch, the two enigmatic models arrived at Fratello HQ. Would one of them eclipse my Ice Blue version? Or would one of them hypnotize me and make me desperate to get my hands on this model?
Before I answer these questions, I should say that I usually don’t enjoy wearing watches with gimmicky dials. I quickly get bored of cartoon characters or overly themed designs. I was worried the same would happen with a dial that changes color from top to bottom. As delicious as one tequila sunrise is, a second sip of a super sweet cocktail is hard on the palate. But on the wrist, neither PRX Chameleon model feels gimmicky. The gradient dials are very sophisticated, and the hint of purple at certain angles is understated.
I referenced the Tequila Sunrise cocktail, but Tissot didn’t take inspiration from alcohol. Instead, the two versions represent dusk and dawn. In an ideal watch world, you’d want both references. Start your day with the dawn-like Ice Blue Chameleon, then switch to the dusk-like Black Chameleon in the late afternoon. This plan costs 1,550 euros.
These PRX watches are truly chameleon-like!
The trick with a true chameleon is to blend in, not stand out. And that’s no different with the two color-changing PRX references. Yes, shades of blue change and purple hues appear and disappear as you hold and move the watch in your hand. These dials show a little flair, but the color-changing trait isn’t overdone. And on the wrist, the watches have a more subdued look. For the most part, the two new PRX Powermatic 80 variants behave just like the other 40mm models, with their monochromatic dials and embossed square patterns.
That makes the Black and Ice Blue Chameleons more versatile and wearable watches than I expected. My favorite is the Ice Blue Chameleon, which mimics dawn, because the color transition from light to dark feels more natural. But when I put the Ice Blue model next to the Ice Blue Chameleon, I also felt “safe.” The new variation is too similar to the one I have to work the magic of buying it. But if you have a Black or Green dial PRX, either of these two Chameleon models could be a welcome variation on a beloved theme.
Chameleons are expected to continue to grow
Most watch brands are not afraid to take a bold approach to a successful concept, and Tissot is no exception. In just three years, the brand has had 58 PRX references in its catalog. It’s safe to say that the chameleon versions of the PRX Powermatic 80 are the first two of many to come. With over 150 chameleon species in the wild, the arrival of two more watch versions doesn’t put the chameleon at risk. The PRX has enriched the watch world. It’s been such a success that watch fans of all kinds love the ’70s-inspired timepiece.
Hal David wrote, “What the world needs right now is love, sweet love. Not just for the few, but for all.” Similarly, the watch world needs more PRX Chameleon watches for all, not just for the few. I am one of those people. While I resisted the first two color-changing versions, maybe the next Chameleon will come in the sweet colors I need.
