TISSOT CARROUSEL VINTAGE, PULSE METER

The story of Tissot began in 1853 in Le Locle, Switzerland, when Charles-Félicien Tissot and his son Charles-Émile Tissot founded a small watchmaking company under the name Charles-Félicien Tissot & Son. From the outset, Tissot distinguished itself with finely crafted pocket watches and the use of innovative materials and technologies, quickly establishing itself as a benchmark in the Swiss watch industry.

Innovation in the Early Years

Tissot was one of the first brands to pursue international expansion. In 1858, Charles-Émile traveled to Russia, where the brand’s watches gained rapid popularity, especially among the aristocracy. Tissot became renowned as a maker of high-quality timepieces and was a pioneer in using unconventional materials for the era, such as mother-of-pearl and stone.

Growth and Technical Advancements

During the 20th century, Tissot solidified its place in the watchmaking industry through technical innovations and continued international growth. In 1930, Tissot introduced the Tissot Antimagnétique, the world’s first antimagnetic wristwatch, a milestone that established the brand as a symbol of precision and durability. Around this time, Tissot also became well-known for its connection to sports, producing durable and functional watches for various disciplines.

Partnership with Omega and the Creation of SSIH

In 1930, Tissot partnered with Omega to form the Société Suisse pour l’Industrie Horlogère (SSIH), which would later become one of the largest watchmaking groups in Switzerland and a precursor to today’s Swatch Group. This collaboration allowed Tissot to benefit from Omega’s distribution networks and resources, strengthening its market position and ability to innovate.

Adapting During the Quartz Crisis

The Quartz Crisis of the 1970s significantly impacted the Swiss watch industry, but Tissot successfully adapted by embracing quartz technology. The brand launched innovative models such as the Tissot RockWatch (1985), crafted from natural stone, and experimented with other unusual materials like wood and mother-of-pearl. This bold strategy helped Tissot maintain its relevance and stand out in an increasingly competitive market.

Tissot Today

Now part of the Swatch Group, Tissot remains committed to its philosophy of offering high-quality Swiss watches at accessible prices. The brand is celebrated for its blend of tradition and innovation, with collections like the Tissot PRX, Le Locle, and T-Touch. Additionally, Tissot serves as the official timekeeper for major sporting events, including the Tour de France and the NBA, reinforcing its strong presence in the sports world.

Globally recognized for its ability to evolve, its legacy of innovation, and its dedication to Swiss quality, Tissot is a popular choice for both watch enthusiasts and those seeking an affordable and reliable Swiss timepiece.

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