7 of the Best Tissot PRX Alternatives: Integrated Bracelet Timepieces

It seems like Swiss automatic watches have taken over the world with their simplicity and style. A “Swiss-made” watch is nowadays a symbol of longevity, primarily because of the build quality, number of metal gears used, and high-level scratch resistance.

It goes without saying that Swiss watches are popular heirlooms that stand the test of time as some of the world’s most well-crafted and reliable products. The Tissot PRX model is a perfect example of this – it is a watch with a great personality. Elegant and available in different versions, this timepiece has all the important features for a watch worn day in, day out.

In this article, we are handpicking the best Tissot PRX alternatives. While most of them don’t have the exact same features as the original PRX, all deliver a similar combination of the features the PRX is known for – and most importantly – come from trusted and respected brands in the watch industry.

A brief Look at The Tissot PRX

Some say it’s the best affordable daily watch, and others describe it as the perfect integration of case and bracelet in a modern timepiece. The Tissot PRX offers a high level of clarity and visibility, which is a feature most men will appreciate. It is also one of the classic timepieces from the 1970s that stood the test of time with its iconic integrated bracelet design.

The timepiece is surely an unpretentious way of being casual and chic, and a model that resembles the features of late 1970s and early 1980s retro-chic watches. In fact, the 70s retro personality of the PRX is proof that retro designs are still popular and are not forgotten by chronograph aficionados.

One of the potential drawbacks of the Tissot PRX is the fact that it is too simple, lacking some modern features or a more eye-catching design. Also, people would appreciate it more if it had a more interesting quartz movement or would be less polished, resulting in a more visible dial.

The price of the Tissot PRX does not cause a headache, but may also be high for people looking for an affordable watch. Finally, there are also people who would appreciate more modern bracelet/strap options and combine the watch with casual attire.

Below, we are listing some of the best Tissot PRX alternatives.

7 Tissot PRX Alternatives With Integrated Retro Bracelet Style

1. Seiko 5 SNK793

The Seiko 5 series is a great bet for those who want a cheap Tissot PRX alternative; the SNK793 is one popular choice. It comes in different versions, colours, and design styles. Some of the most popular models feature a silver-tone bracelet with a deployment clasp closure. The watch is made of classic stainless steel with a 36mm case and Hardlex dial window, featuring a blue sunray dial along with a day/date window.

The gold version of the watch (SNXL72) is also good for those who want a touch of more luxury. The hands are luminous across all models, and the watch is water resistant up to 30 meters, which practically means splash-resistant only.

2. Citizen Series 8 870 Mechanical

For those of you who appreciate the design of the Tissot PRX but want a higher end timepiece from a reliable manufacturer, the Citizen Series 8 870 is a model to consider. The series 8 is something a little outside of Citizen’s usual remit, but the end result is impressive.

First things first – we have a sleek design that incorporates the Citizen Chronometer technology that is based on a winding mechanical model. With this, Citizen goes a level up from its original quartz movement found in the earlier models.

The case features an angular, 70s inspired look that resembles the classic Model 830. The dial, however, is simpler and does not require lattice metalwork. The case is thinner (10.9 mm) adding up to a more minimalist look and a watch that is lighter in weight. Another detail worth accenting is the “rehaut” of the watch, which is vertical instead of sloped. Altogether, the Citizen Series 8 is a timepiece that has visible hands and a beautifully polished design.

3. Frederique Constant Highlife Automatic COSC

Frederique Constant is a brand that has been on the market for more than 30 years, manufacturing iconic watches that come in various styles. The Highlife Automatic COSC is one of the best Tissot PRX alternatives, but also a model that brings a mix of bracelets and straps for those who want to escape the all-around stainless steel design.

Similar to the case, the dials in the Highlife Automatic COSC combine a refined and modern look. If you appreciate sports watches but want the elegance found in the Tissot PRX, you should shortlist this model by Frederique Constant.

4. Batavi Architect Copper

Looking for a Tissot PRX alternative that has a similar price point, but an updated and more modern look? The Batavi Architect Copper welcomes you with a refined look and a colour that is not found in the original PRX model lineup. This model features a dial that has a mix of wood, steel, and copper – a design ideal for those who want to spruce up their look and combine their watch with darker colours.

Batavi’s Architect Copper is a sleek piece that incorporates the same integrated bracelet style with a quick release mechanism. The bezel of the watch is all metal, and its functions show hours, minutes, and seconds. In terms of build quality, you should expect a lot from this piece – it is made from stainless steel and has a 39mm diameter face with 10.6mm thickness. The case back is made of sapphire see through material, while the movement is Automatic Miyota 9039 with 100 meters water resistance. Designed in the Netherlands, it symbolizes the very best of the retro-like European look.

5. Zenith Defy Classic

The Zenith Defy Classic timepiece is another integrated bracelet-style watch model which falls under the premium segment. The dial shows that simplicity was key when designing this model – you can see how elegant the watch is as a result of that. With a slightly metallic shade (not to the extent that it becomes shiny), this Zenith timepiece is a great Tissot PRX alternative just because of its simplicity and awesome index markers (which are polished, beveled, and filled with white Super-LumiNova glow).

Zenith’s 41mm Defy Classic chronograph also features a super titanium band and case, and comes in a variety of unique colour combinations. You can wear it with almost everything and combine it with both casual and formal looks. The case finishing is just awesome – you can see how elegantly brushed the top of the bezel and sloped sides are. Its Sapphire case back and crystal ensure superior scratch resistance and hardness – perfect for those who appreciate the integrated bracelet style found in the Tissot PRX but want a more modern and rugged chronograph on their wrist.

Lastly, the Zenith Defy Classic timepiece gives you a unique combination of elegancy and durability. You can swim, shower or snorkel with it, too – it has 100m water resistance and a rugged titanium bracelet.

6. Melbourne Watch Company Burnley

The Australia-based Melbourne Watch Company is manufacturing high-quality timepieces which are inspired by the charm of Melbourne, and their Burnley model is a great Tissot PRX alternative. First off, it mimics the style of the PRX with an elegant 20mm bracelet and a clean 42mm diameter watch head that has visible white dials and a Miyota 9015 automatic movement. However, the high-quality features don’t stop there – the watch delivers 28,800 beats per hour in a smooth sweep and improved accuracy over the previous models’ 21,600 beat-per-hour movement.

There are 24 contact points of moving components and synthetic jewels that reduce friction and improve accuracy, put together in a 10mm thick profile. The watch features a date window that snaps over sharply at 12:00am every day. Labeled as a “modern classic,” this watch has a unique shape and design which uses a slightly more brushed finish compared to the Tissot PRX, with crown guards and a modern influence all over its profile.

At the time of writing, this watch is unavailable to buy brand new.

7. TUDOR ROYAL DATE-DAY 41MM

Last but not least is a sophisticated model from Tudor, the famous Swiss manufacturer of wrist watches based in Geneva and the sister company to Rolex. Many watch critics describe it as one of the brands that offer excellent value for money and well-finished timepieces. The Royal Date-Day 41mm by Tudor resembles the iconic style of the Tissot PRX, adding up plenty of more sophisticated details.

There is a 100m water resistance, day-date complication and elements that also make it similar to other models – for instance, the numbers are similar to the one found in the Cartier Roman, and the bezels look like the ones found in the Rolex Turn-o-graph ones. People who appreciate a touch of gold can also consider the 316L steel and 18 ct. yellow gold with satin-brushed external and central links, an elegant clasp and safety catch.

Summary

The pleasing proportions, elegant design and stylish look of Tissot’s PRX timepiece are certainly some of the main reasons behind the popularity of this timepiece. However, if you are looking for a similar watch in a different price range and with a similar retro-inspired design, you should definitely consider all of these Tissot PRX alternatives.

Do you like these models and their features? Let us know your thoughts, or give us your feedback if you think we haven’t covered some other similar watch models!

Featured image credit: Monochrome Watches