The Tissot V8 Automatic Chronograph is a Swiss-made racing-inspired chronograph created for enthusiasts who appreciate mechanical watchmaking and vintage motorsport aesthetics. Introduced around 2017, this model combines the bold proportions of the V8 collection with an automatic chronograph movement derived from the architecture of the legendary Lemania 5100 “a legendary automatic chronograph movement, produced by the historic Swiss manufacturer Lemania between 1974 and 2002“.
Its combination of a tachymeter bezel, dashboard-inspired dial layout, and rally-style leather strap gives the watch a strong automotive identity. The ETA C01.211 movement and accessible pricing have also made it one of the most interesting entry points into Swiss automatic chronographs.
Design
The Tissot V8 Automatic Chronograph embraces a distinctly motorsport-inspired appearance. Its stainless steel case presents a bold and angular profile, with brushed surfaces that reinforce the sporty character of the watch. Measuring 45 mm in diameter, the case gives the model substantial wrist presence while preserving balanced proportions thanks to its relatively compact lug architecture.
A fixed black bezel surrounds the dial and features a tachymeter scale, one of the most recognizable elements associated with racing chronographs. The contrast between the polished steel case and the dark bezel insert creates visual depth and contributes to the vintage dashboard aesthetic that inspired the collection.
The black textured dial is the centerpiece of the design. Applied baton indices and polished hands provide contrast against the dark background, while 3 recessed chronograph counters are arranged in an unusual 6-9-12 configuration. This layout recalls classic chronographs powered by the historic Lemania 5100. A discreet date window positioned at 3 o’clock adds everyday practicality without disrupting the overall symmetry.
The dial is protected by a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. Completing the look is a black perforated leather rally strap with contrasting white stitching and a butterfly folding clasp. The strap reinforces the automotive theme and gives the watch a vintage racing personality that distinguishes it from more conventional sports chronographs.
Case & Construction
The Tissot V8 Automatic Chronograph features a 316L stainless steel case measuring 45 mm in diameter and approximately 14.8 mm in thickness. Brushed finishing dominates the surfaces, emphasizing durability and giving the chronograph a purposeful character.
A fixed tachymeter bezel frames the dial, while scratch-resistant sapphire crystals are used on both sides of the watch. The exhibition caseback allows the wearer to observe the movement and oscillating rotor, a feature rarely found in this price segment.
Large chronograph pushers and a signed crown enhance usability. Water resistance is rated at 100 meters (10 ATM), making the watch suitable for daily wear and occasional water exposure. The overall construction reflects Tissot’s emphasis on combining robust engineering with practical sports-watch versatility.
Movement
Powering the Tissot V8 Automatic Chronograph is the Swiss ETA C01.211, a self-winding mechanical chronograph movement developed by ETA and introduced in 2008. The caliber is partially derived from the architecture of the famous Lemania 5100, a movement known for its durability and widespread use in professional and military chronographs.
The movement operates at 21,600 vibrations per hour (3 Hz), contains 15 jewels, and provides approximately 45 hours of power reserve. Automatic winding is achieved through a centrally mounted rotor, while hacking seconds allows precise time setting. One of the distinctive characteristics of the C01.211 is the use of advanced synthetic components that reduce friction and simplify manufacturing, helping keep costs under control without sacrificing reliability.
Among collectors, the caliber is appreciated as one of the most affordable ways to own a Swiss-made automatic chronograph. Its unusual subdial arrangement and historical connection to the Lemania family give it additional appeal beyond its practical qualities.
Functions & Complications
This Tissot V8 Automatic Chronograph offers traditional timekeeping with hours, minutes, and central seconds, together with a full chronograph complication. The central chronograph hand measures elapsed seconds, while the subdials record 30 minutes at 12 o’clock and 6 hours at 6 o’clock. Small seconds are displayed at 9 o’clock.
A date window positioned at 3 o’clock provides additional everyday functionality. The fixed tachymeter bezel allows average speed calculations, reinforcing the model’s motorsport-oriented identity. These features are integrated into the dial in a clear and balanced manner, preserving legibility while enhancing the technical appeal of the watch.
Performance
Despite its large dimensions, the Tissot V8 Automatic Chronograph wears comfortably thanks to its short downward-curving lugs and balanced proportions. The perforated leather strap contributes to comfort and reduces overall weight compared with a steel bracelet version.
Legibility is excellent. The silver hands and indices contrast effectively against the textured black dial, while the chronograph counters remain easy to distinguish. The large pushers provide positive tactile feedback during operation, making the stopwatch function pleasant to use.
With 100 meters of water resistance, sapphire crystals, and a robust automatic movement, the watch is suitable for daily wear and casual sporting activities. It is particularly appealing to enthusiasts looking for the character of a traditional mechanical chronograph without entering the higher price range typically associated with Valjoux 7750-powered models. “One of the most famous, reliable, and widely used Swiss automatic chronograph movements (€1,500 / $1,650)”.
Technical Data
Brand: Tissot Watches;
Model: Tissot V8 Automatic Chronograph (Ref. T106.427.16.051.00);
Year: 2017+;
Case Material: 316L Stainless Steel;
Case Diameter: 45 mm;
Case Thickness: 14.8 mm;
Lug Width: 22 mm;
Lug-to-Lug: 45 mm;
Crystal: Scratch-Resistant Sapphire Crystal (Front and Exhibition Caseback);
Water Resistance: 100 m / 330 ft (10 ATM);
Power Reserve: ~45 Hours;
Movement: Automatic Mechanical Watches – ETA C01.211 (Swiss Movement);
Functions: Hours, Minutes, Seconds, Automatic Winding;
Complications: Date Display, Chronograph, Tachymeter Scale;
Bracelet / Strap: Black Perforated Leather Strap;
Type: Chronograph Watches, Classic Watches, Racing Watches, Sports Watches, Tool Watches;
Sex: Men’s Watches;
Nationality: Swiss Watches.
Retail Price (Launch): €885 / $950.
The Tissot V8 Automatic Chronograph reflects the brand’s longstanding connection with motorsport and its philosophy of offering accessible Swiss watchmaking. Its dashboard-inspired dial, tachymeter bezel, and rally strap evoke the atmosphere of classic racing instruments, while the ETA C01.211 movement brings genuine mechanical chronograph credentials to an approachable price category.
Within the Tissot V8 collection, this model occupies an interesting position between vintage-inspired design and modern practicality. For enthusiasts seeking a large, characterful Swiss automatic chronograph with historical roots and strong value for money, the V8 Automatic Chronograph remains one of the most distinctive choices in its segment.
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