Tissot Introduces the Brand New 39 mm and 29 mm Le Locle 20th Anniversary Editions
If there’s one thing that watch brands love, it’s celebrating their heritage. A strong emphasis on heritage can create a sense of authenticity, craftsmanship, and tradition, which are highly valued in the luxury watch industry. It allows brands to tell compelling stories about their origins, values, and the evolution of their timepieces. These stories can resonate with consumers, helping them emotionally connect with brands steeped in history. Tissot’s signature Le Locle lineup is now celebrating 20 years of production and the brand has revealed two special-edition models for the occasion: 39 mm Tissot Le Locle Powermatic 80 20th Anniversary (Ref. T006.407.11.033.03) and 29 mm Le Locle Automatic Lady (29.00) 20th Anniversary (Ref. T006.207.11.036.01).
Le Locle, a town located in the canton of Neuchâtel in Switzerland, is historically significant in the watchmaking industry. The town has played a crucial role in the development and growth of Swiss watchmaking. Widely recognised for its contribution to the art of watchmaking, Le Locle is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with the nearby town of La Chaux-de-Fonds. There’s no denying the fact that Le Locle’s role in this industry has significantly contributed to building Switzerland's reputation as a leader in watchmaking.
The new Tissot Le Locle models come in 39 mm and 29 mm stainless steel cases. The watches are slim in profile because each is under 10 mm thick. These special-edition Le Locle 20th Anniversary models use an embossed Clous de Paris pattern at the centre of each silver dial and the chapter ring. Common to both models is a date window at 3 o’clock with a white background and a black numeral. The 39 mm models get 12 blue Roman numerals and the 29 mm models get blue Roman numerals for 12 o’clock, 3 o’clock, 6 o’clock, and 9 o’clock while the remaining eight hour markers are in diamonds. The leaf-shaped hour, minute, and second hands are also blue in colour.
Power comes from Calibre Powermatic 80 for the 39 mm models with an 80-hour power reserve. The 29 mm models are run by Calibre Powermatic 48, with a 48-hour power reserve. Also, the escapement features a Nivachron hairspring, bringing anti-magnetic properties. Turning each watch over showcases a sapphire crystal caseback with a split see-through window and a stainless steel oscillating weight. Both models come with a quick release bracelet system that can be switched between a metal bracelet and a blue leather strap that matches the colour of the hour markers and hands.