Review: Tissot Seastar 2000 Professional

Tissot had impressed us tremendously over the last few years, with its slew of brilliant novelties that offer incredible value.

The brand had really pulled its weight, especially in the entry-level scene. Notable models include the PRX Powermatic 80, as well as the Heritage “Antimagnétique”. These two models, and especially the former, offer collectors a superb product at a very modest price point. We even dare say that these watches have carved a niche for themselves, and they really start to question both microbrands and entry-level watch brands on the concept of value.

Tissot Seastar 2000 Professional

The Tissot Seastar 2000 Professional is priced at S$1,580, for the stainless steel variant with black PVD coating as per the review.

The new 2022 variant follows hot on the heels of the Seastar 2000 Professional collection, which was notably refreshed last year with new dial variations and upgraded performance. Imagine a timepiece with a water resistance of up to 600m, anti-magnetism properties, and an 80-hour power reserve – all at a price point of less than S$1,600.

This particular version, which is part of the 2022 novelties, sees the Seastar 2000 Professional feature a stainless steel case with black PVD coating. This adds a new dimension to the watch, and it definitely accentuates a sense of masculinity and stylishness with its overall aesthetics.

How does this particular model stack up? We took the watch for a spin for a week, and here is what we thought about this timepiece.

The Case, Dial, and Hands

The first thing that one notices about the watch is its massive presence. The Seastar 2000 Professional means business, and it does not shy away from the fact with its gigantic 46mm case (and a thickness of 16.3mm, no less).

Interestingly, on the wrist, the Seastar 2000 Professional is rather pleasant despite the author’s relatively smaller wrist circumference (of around 6.5 inches). This can be attributed to the short lugs, which translates to a lesser amount of overhang on the wrist.

As mentioned, the review piece features a stainless steel case with a black PVD coating. The black PVD coating adds a different dimension to the watch, compared to its plain stainless steel counterpart. In our opinion, the black PVD coating definitely makes the watch look cooler and more stylish. We also feel that it adds to the masculinity of the piece, which frankly, is something that the watch already possesses. Think of it as a steroid overdose, in a good way.

On the subject of the case, it should also be pointed out that there is a helium escape valve at the left side of the case. The valve is used to allow helium gas to escape, to prevent excessive pressure from building up inside the watch case. The fact that the Seastar has the valve shows us that it is indeed a serious diver’s watch, and it means business.

Moving on, we have one of the highlights of the new Seastar 2000 Professional: Dial. The dial on this Tissot is rather gorgeous, especially with the gradient blue dial. We particularly like the shade of blue that was used for this piece, and we feel that it complements the wave motifs on the dial perfectly.

Accompanying the dial are twelve applied indices, each filled with SuperLuminova. Intriguing enough, it appears that the indices are floating on the dial, given how it is attached to the outer minute track. There is also a date window at the 6 o’clock position, which is something we favour since it does not alter the symmetry of the timepiece.

Lastly, the watch is fitted with a pair of large sword hands – they are each filled with SuperLuminova as well. The final piece of the puzzle is the centre seconds hand, which features a “T” motif as the counterweight.

The dial and hands of the watch certainly emphasised on the utilitarian nature of the watch. Every element is large and highly legible, and this is especially important since the timepiece is a proper tool watch that has the capabilities to operate in depths of up to 600m. Of course, we are unable to ascertain its performance under water, but under low-light conditions at night, the Tissot performed reasonably well and it is definitely easy to tell time regardless.

The Movement: Powermatic 80

As with most flagship Tissot watches, the Seastar 2000 Professional is fitted with the Powermatic 80.

The self-winding movement features a patented Nivachron balance spring, and it boasts a power reserve of around 80 hours (as suggested by its namesake). In addition, the movement also has a date function, in which the aperture is placed at the 6 o’clock position on the dial side.

The finishing of the movement is simple and in line with its price point. The only notable touch is the winding rotor, which features Tissot’s logo and some waves motif on it. Otherwise, it is a no-frills movement that does its job superbly and reliably.

Competitive Landscape

The Tissot Seastar 2000 Professional, with the black PVD coated case, is priced at S$1,580. The watch is paired with a blue textile strap with rubber padding. The watch is also available with non-PVD coated variations, and they are priced at S$1,480 (with rubber strap) onwards.

When it comes to similar watches at this price point, options are certainly far and few between.

The first one is perhaps the Seiko Prospex Diver SPB301. The watch is based on the 1970s classic that was worn by Japanese adventurer Naomi Uemura between 1974 to 1976, where he completed a 12,500km solo dog-sled run from Greenland to Alaska. This particular version – which is part of the Save The Ocean series – also features a stunning white textured dial. The watch is priced at €1,400 (approximately S$2,062).

Next, we have the striking Bulova Oceanographer 96B350. This 41mm watch features a bright orange dial, which contrasts very nicely with the bi-colour black and orange bezel insert (albeit 75% of it is in black). There is a very nice retro touch to this piece, and it certainly works for someone who is looking for a more casual timepiece. It is priced at US$750 (approximately S$1,030).

Lastly, we have the Citizen Fugu 4.0. This is another robust diver’s watch, and one that is relatively popular amongst collectors. The 44mm watch is definitely a tad chunkier and larger, but it is perhaps the closest to a proper tool watch like the Seastar. Prices of the Fugu begin at S$738, and we reckon this is perhaps a timepiece that is suited for someone who is looking for something with a larger wrist presence.

Concluding Thoughts

We are finding it difficult to identify any faults with the Seastar 2000 Professional. With a price tag of S$1,580, we dare say that this Tissot is easily positioned at the 95th percentile when it comes to watches with the best value proposition. In fact, it even puts many of the more expensive diver’s watches to shame, with its build quality and modest price point.

The one week that we spent with the watch reinforces our opinions of this timepiece. The watch feels very solid and reliable, and it seems as though it is ready to accompany the wearer onto the next adventure, without any single hesitation. It is simply a joy to know that you have a watch that you can easily count on, when the occasion arises.

Tissot had really impressed us tremendously with its previous novelties, and the Seastar cements the brand’s position as one of the leading entry-level watch brands. Many brands can definitely take a leaf out of Tissot’s book, and learn a thing or two on producing great watches with a reasonable price.