Switzerland has long been synonymous with precision watchmaking, producing some of the world’s most respected and admired timepieces. Among its many brands, Tissot and Movado stand out for offering a mix of design excellence, Swiss craftsmanship, and global appeal.
However, when it comes to choosing between the two, many buyers wonder—which one offers better value for money? While both have their strengths, they cater to slightly different preferences. Let’s compare them in terms of history, design, build quality, movement, pricing, and overall value so you can make an informed choice.
Brand Heritage & History
Tissot was founded in 1853 in Le Locle, Switzerland, and has built a reputation for innovation and accessible luxury. The brand introduced the first mass-produced pocket watch and has since developed a wide range of styles—from classic dress watches to rugged sports models. Tissot is also deeply involved in sports sponsorships, particularly in cycling, basketball, and motorsports.
Movado, established in 1881 in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, is famous for its minimalist approach to watch design. The brand’s signature Museum Watch, designed in 1947 by Nathan George Horwitt, features a simple black dial with a single gold dot at 12 o’clock—symbolizing the sun at high noon. Movado’s focus has primarily been on sleek, artistic designs rather than technical complexity.
Design Philosophy
Tissot offers a wide spectrum of designs, catering to both traditional watch lovers and modern enthusiasts. Their collections include:
Tissot Le Locle – Timeless dress watches.
Tissot PRX – Trendy integrated bracelet sport watches.
Tissot Seastar – Professional-grade divers.
Tissot PR100 – Everyday versatile pieces.
Movado, on the other hand, takes a “less is more” approach. Most Movado watches are minimalist, focusing on clean dials, thin cases, and elegant lines. While this aesthetic appeals to fans of modern art and understated luxury, it might feel too minimal for someone who prefers more detailed watch dials and mechanical features.
Build Quality & Materials
Both brands uphold Swiss standards, but their approaches differ.
Tissot typically uses stainless steel cases, sapphire crystal, high-quality leather straps, and ceramic elements in some models. Many of their watches have water resistance ratings between 50–300 meters, making them suitable for daily wear and sports use.
Movado also uses premium materials, including sapphire crystal and stainless steel, but many models focus more on aesthetics than on high-spec durability. Their watches usually have modest water resistance and are better suited for dress or office wear.
Movement & Technology
Here’s where Tissot pulls ahead for value seekers. Tissot offers a range of movements:
Swiss quartz for accuracy and affordability.
Swiss automatic, including the impressive Powermatic 80 with an 80-hour power reserve.
Specialized chronographs and even tactile watches like the T-Touch series.
Movado predominantly uses Swiss quartz movements, which are reliable but less mechanically complex. They do offer automatic watches in some collections, but these are fewer and generally more expensive compared to Tissot’s equivalent offerings.
Price Range
Tissot: ₹20,000 to ₹1,00,000+ in India, with most models under ₹60,000. This wide range makes it accessible to first-time buyers and enthusiasts alike.
Movado: ₹40,000 to ₹1,50,000+, with a stronger focus on the mid-to-high range. Movado positions itself as a fashion-oriented luxury brand, which can mean paying more for design than for mechanical features.
Target Audience
Tissot appeals to watch lovers who appreciate a balance of traditional Swiss craftsmanship, variety, and technical specifications. It’s great for those who want a daily wearer or a sports-capable timepiece without breaking the bank.
Movado caters to those who prioritize design aesthetics over technical complexity. If you want a statement piece with a modern, artistic vibe, Movado delivers.
Resale Value & Collectibility
In terms of resale value, neither Tissot nor Movado is known for significant appreciation over time, as both fall into the affordable luxury category. However, certain Tissot limited editions and heritage models tend to hold value better due to their connection to sports events and mechanical innovations. Movado’s resale value often depends heavily on its design appeal rather than mechanical rarity.
Which Brand Offers Better Value?
When we talk strictly about value for money, Tissot tends to win for several reasons:
Greater variety of movements (especially mechanical).
Broader price range with more entry-level Swiss-made options.
Watches suitable for different lifestyles—sports, dress, casual.
Solid water resistance and durability for everyday use.
Movado is not without merit—it offers a unique design identity that no other brand replicates, and for fans of minimalist style, its appeal is unmatched. However, you may end up paying more for design than for watchmaking complexity.
Tips for Choosing Between Tissot and Movado
If you value mechanics and versatility, go for Tissot. You’ll get more features for your money.
If you prioritize unique design and minimalist luxury, Movado might be the better fit.
Always buy from authorized retailers to ensure authenticity and warranty support.
Try the watches in person—designs look different on the wrist than in photos.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between Tissot and Movado ultimately comes down to what you value most in a watch—technical features and versatility, or iconic minimalist design. For the average buyer seeking a mix of style, durability, and Swiss craftsmanship at an accessible price, Tissot often provides better value. On the other hand, Movado will appeal to those who see their watch as a statement piece of art.
If you’re in India and want an authentic buying experience for either brand, visiting Krishna Watch Company can help you explore both side-by-side and find the model that perfectly matches your style and needs.