Preliminary identification

Vintage Tissot Seastar Automatic, c.1970

Photo reference

2 uploaded photos

Overview

A classic Swiss-made automatic timepiece featuring a gold-tone cushion case and a date complication at the 3 o'clock position.

Story

The late 1960s marked a period of bold experimentation in Swiss watchmaking, where traditional round cases evolved into the 'cushion' and 'tonneau' shapes seen here.

Maker / Origin

Founded in 1853 by Charles-Félicien Tissot and his son, the company has been a pioneer in Swiss horology for over 170 years.

Condition & Value

The dial shows heavy oxidation/spotting, and there is visible wear to the gold plating on the lugs and case edges. The crystal has minor surface scratches consistent with age, and the strap is a modern leather replacement.

Full Research

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps

Regional auction

· Jun 2024

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD