Story Highlight
– Tissot reintroduces 1985’s RockWatch with modern craftsmanship.
– Limited edition: 999 pieces, exclusive collector’s box included.
– Crafted from Swiss granite, celebrating Tissot’s heritage.
– New design features subtle nickel-plated hands.
– Priced at £995, available at select points of sale.
Full Story
In 1969, Tissot made a pioneering leap in watchmaking by incorporating fibreglass into their designs. This innovative trend was further cemented in 1971 with the launch of the Idea 2001, the world’s first plastic mechanical watch, paving the way for future developments like the iconic Swatch, which debuted in 1983. These ventures laid the groundwork for a collectible frenzy, culminating in the launch of the 1985 ‘RockWatch,’ crafted from unrefined Alpine granite.
Over four decades later, Tissot has resurrected the RockWatch, expertly recreated by the same skilled artisans who were involved in the original project. This new iteration has been meticulously fashioned into a limited run of 999 watches, each presented in a collector’s box that mimics a block of granite. Available exclusively through select retailers, this series serves as both a tribute to Tissot’s legacy and a tangible piece of Swiss heritage.
Unlike the vibrant red and yellow hands of the 1985 model, the latest version features understated nickel-plated hands that exude a classic and timeless elegance, echoing the raw beauty of alpine stone.
The process begins with sourcing granite from the rugged terrain of the Alps. Blocks extracted during the renovation of the Jungfrau Tunnel are transported to the workshop, where they are milled into cylinders. These blocks are subsequently shaped into smaller sections to relieve internal stresses, facilitating easier handling in the machining processes.
The granite undergoes an intricate grinding procedure, employing controlled pressure and abrasive materials to attain a smooth, even surface. Advanced tools operate with micron-level precision to sculpt the outer profiles, ensuring that each component conforms to rigorous dimensional specifications.
Subsequently, the Tissot logo is applied through pad printing, a method that uses a flexible silicone stamp to delicately impart the design onto the stone. A fine acrylic paint layer is employed to guarantee a crisp and enduring finish that enhances the stone’s natural aesthetics.
After assembling the movement within the granite case, the watch’s polished brass hands and sapphire crystal are installed. The hands are carefully designed to curve gracefully along the contours of the granite surface.
Final assembly includes affixing an engraved case back that bears the inscription “Jungfrau – Top of Europe” along with a unique serial number, followed by the attachment of the leather strap.
This limited edition RockWatch is available for £995 and can be found at select points of sale, including the Tissot website.