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 On: 2007-09-12
Decided to buy a Tissot PRs 516 automatic because of its claim to fame by a Swiss manufacturer. Since buying the watch in early March, I have worn it for approximately 4 weeks total and it has been in the workshop for the rest of the time (sent back twice). I lead a normal lifestyle and enjoy the occasional leisurely swim. I also wear the watch in the shower.
Within 2 weeks of wearing the watch, there was a thin film of mist inside the watch chamber, both front and back portions. This got worse until water droplets formed inside the chamber, staining the luminova and the watch face. I tried to get in touch with Tissot, but it appears they only have regional offices as such who seem to reply with an automated e-mail reply detailing various factory warranty repair centers in the locality.
Till today, none of my personal inquiries have been answered by Tissot.
Having sent the watch to the local watch repair center (from their private website they claim to repair high end swiss watches as their specialty), the repair center kept the watch for 2 months because there was a back-order of parts from Tissot for about 6 weeks, and then another 2 to do the necessary work on the watch.
The watch was returned in a polished and as new condition. Within 3 days, there was again, a mist of condensation inside the watch. There was 1 leisurely swim in an 18 meter pool, and a few showers that the 50m watch had to withstand- that was all.. not even a 49m dive was required of the watch.
As expected, the moisture got worse, and the dialface + luminova got discoloured again. the watch was then sent back to the repair center and Ive only just received it back after 2 1/2 months wait. the black ring around the watch with the numbers on it appear to be off-orientation by 1-2 mm. Hence, the numbers and the clock luminovas do not match up now.
Having researched the background of Tissot, they are now owned exclusively by the Swatch group. Therein lies the main issue. If you wish to buy a swatch, go ahead and buy a swatch. Dont buy a Tissot disguised as as Swatch and pay 4 times the price for a watch which does not stand up to the simple test of waterproofing.
For the price I paid, approx US $550 or £300, I would have been happier with an ugly Tag, knowing that I can take a shower or swim and not be worried about water in the watch.
I am even happy to provide photographic evidence of the moisture within the watch, since there appears to be no response from tissot USA, Tissot UK or Tissot Switzerland.
by: totallybichintroy On: 2007-03-17
This is a very nice sports watch but with its dazzling looks, I wont hestitate to wear it as a dress watch. I love Swiss Automatics and this fits the bill. You can even view the movements through the see-through back. Tissot watches also come with a Sapphire Crystal like the more expensive watches.
The T Sport 516 came in an impressive and heavy (2 lb.) box with enough hidden compartments to satisfy 007.
All in all, a very satisfying purchase at a great price. Ill be shopping for a Tissot again for my next watch.
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