Tissot and Pinarello Launch a Bold, Carbon-Clad Special Edition

Tissot, a brand with an enduring presence in the cycling world, proudly announces its latest collaboration with Pinarello, an esteemed manufacturer of high-performance road bicycles. This partnership introduces a distinctive watch series, cementing Tissot's role as a key timekeeper for major international cycling events, including the prestigious Tour de France and Vuelta a España, as well as for the Union Cycliste Internationale. Pinarello, established in 1952 in Treviso, Italy, is celebrated for its exceptional bike design, advanced engineering, and superior performance, often drawing comparisons to luxury automotive brands for its elite status and pricing.

The newly released timepiece draws profound inspiration from Pinarello's racing heritage. Its 42mm casing is crafted from forged carbon, mirroring the lightweight yet robust material prevalent in top-tier bicycle frames. The watch features a unique, dynamic, and asymmetrical case design, with the crown innovatively placed at the 10 o'clock position. This specific detail echoes Pinarello's ForkFlap, an aerodynamic element found on the front forks of their high-end road bikes. A domed sapphire crystal enhances the watch's sophisticated appearance, while its 100-meter water resistance underscores its athletic functionality. The watch's grey, textured dial, reminiscent of asphalt, further reinforces its cycling identity. Although the co-branding is subtly integrated, with Pinarello's name engraved on the side and back of the case, and a 'P' shaped counterweight on the second hand, there is no overt logo on the dial itself.

Internally, the watch is powered by the familiar Powermatic 80 movement, an advanced version of the ETA 2824. This movement boasts a redesigned kinetic chain, a Nivachron hairspring, and a frequency of 3Hz, offering an impressive 80-hour power reserve. Its superior resistance to magnetic fields and the inclusion of a stop-second mechanism ensure precise time setting. The movement's accuracy is officially certified by COSC, the official Swiss chronometer testing institute. The ensemble is completed with an integrated rubber strap, designed for both comfort and a dynamic aesthetic, and can be effortlessly interchanged with an additional leather strap using a quick-change system, allowing for a more refined look. This collaboration extends beyond the watch, with Pinarello also creating a special-edition bicycle, available as part of an exclusive package with the watch, priced at CHF 1,355.

This partnership between Tissot and Pinarello exemplifies how innovation and dedication to excellence can transcend different fields. It serves as a testament to the power of collaboration, bringing together the intricate mechanics of watchmaking with the advanced engineering of cycling. Such endeavors inspire us to pursue precision, push boundaries, and appreciate the artistry found in both craft and sport, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and shared passion.