Introducing: The Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 Damian Lillard Special Edition — The First Official PRX Collab

This question has an affirmative answer, and this baller PRX even makes me forget my preference for the 35mm models. Yes, it might be that good, with just the right glitz in an already accomplished package. Is the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 Damian Lillard Special Edition the start of the brand showing us a new side to its hit watch?

I’ve had a PRX, the 40mm quartz version, and we all remember the massive wave of popularity that washed over Tissot when the PRX Powermatic 80 appeared, right? But have you asked yourself why? Not everybody knows about the grail watches from Genta, Jorg Hysek’s Overseas, or even the understated GP Laureato. We watch nerds love the PRX for its closeness to the deep saturation of the ’70s vibes it represents for a great price. But it is also a well-built steel watch with an integrated bracelet for the rest of the watch-buying public, a double win for Tissot.

A golden makeover by an NBA player and artist

I will happily admit to being skeptical of sports personalities and musicians leaving their mark on much-loved watches. But there are big exceptions, like the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak designed with rapper Travis Scott. I loved it. And by the first glance of this PRX, my feelings are similar thanks to the understated Easter eggs here. The watch isn’t that different until you have a closer look. And by holding back, Tissot and Damian Lillard have created a pretty cool drop with just the right IYKYK details.

But who is Damian Lillard? He is no less than an eight-time NBA All-Star player, who also goes by the name Dame D.O.L.L.A in the rap world. Lillard says, “What I love about the PRX collection is its sleek design paired with the Swiss watch quality we all know but still [. . .] at a price that’s fair. [It is] a watch that speaks to my style and values — high quality, down to earth, and inclusive. It’s about bringing top-notch Swiss craftsmanship experience to every wrist, not just the privileged few.” And I agree wholeheartedly with an honest, down-to-earth view on a magnanimous design. This new PRX is still under €900, and compared to other aftermarket versions, that’s quite the bargain for a limited, sleek, integrated-bracelet star.

What’s new?

I’m not going into the basics of this watch, as we’ve covered those many times. However, I will underline the ongoing value of the Powermatic 80. We might take it for granted today, but it’s impressive with its antimagnetic hairspring and big power reserve. You’ll only have to go back five or six years to be knocked out by the spec-for-price ratio. Tissot sends a strong signal by making its first celeb collab a big-case gold PVD PRX. And this time, the PRX Powermatic 80 accentuates the more glamorous side of its ’70 inspiration.

For my 17.5cm wrists, the 40mm is a tad long due to its end links. But they still angle down enough to create a solid wrist hug that spells comfort. And yes, the flat links’ brushing and discreet polished bevel still imbue it with plenty more luxury than its price indicates. “Tissot and I share a common belief — greatness can be for everyone,” Damian Lillard says, a telling quote. It takes the PRX to a different, refreshing view on collaborative efforts, and Lillard wants to celebrate that his fame was found through hard work rather than luck.

Understated or over the top?

This 40mm PRX looks fairly standard at a distance except for its bold bling-and-black look. But there is much to unpack inside the bezel. First of all, Tissot has created a new dial pattern for this watch. Look closely, and you will see tall zeros instead of Tissot’s usual Tapisserie-esque pattern. This is a nod to Damian Lillard’s NBA jersey number. On the rehaut, we also find subtle but meaningful engravings — the abbreviations “DDKK” for his and his children’s names (Damian Lamonte Ollie, Damian Jr., Kali Emma Lee, and Kahli Laheem) and “YKWTII” (You Know What Time It Is) along with Lillard’s “DAME TIME” nickname. “DAME TIME.” These very personal touches underline the understated vibe (well, as understated as gold gets…). The best and most eye-catching detail for me is the brand-new seconds hand.

It will probably be what you notice first, black with a counterweight of Dame D.O.L.L.A.’s flamboyant dollar-sign-like “D” signature. With Tissot’s quick-change bracelet, you could change personalities like Lillard does when he swaps the ball for a mic. Then again, gold is gold, so I’d be tempted to enjoy the full-on glimmer no matter the outfit. This PRX Powermatic 80 Damian Lillard Special Edition is a glitzy move from Tissot but well thought out with great, subtle details. It’s also executed without ratcheting up the price, so it gets big, hand-clapping approval from me with a whoop thrown in for good measure. This watch is available for €895 from Tissot.

What do you reckon, Fratelli? Will this be the start of Tissot rocking the boat with a series of official PRX specials? I suspect the Damian Lillard Special Edition will leave Tissot with a sweet taste of the collaboration scene, and I’m all for it. Let me know what you think in the comments, people.