Preliminary identification

Tissot PR 516 Ladies' Wristwatch, c. 1970

Photo reference

3 uploaded photos

Overview

A classic Swiss-made timepiece from Tissot's 'Particularly Robust' line, featuring a gold-toned case and a clean sunburst dial with a date window.

Story

In 1965, Tissot revolutionized their lineup with the PR 516, a watch designed to handle the vibrations of high-speed racing and the rigors of an active lifestyle.

Maker / Origin

Founded in 1853 by the father-son duo Charles-Félicien and Charles-Émile Tissot, the company is a titan of Swiss watchmaking history.

Condition & Value

The case shows noticeable wear to the gold plating, particularly on the lugs and edges, revealing the base metal beneath. The leather strap is heavily degraded and requires replacement. However, the dial appears remarkably clean and well-preserved, which is the most important factor for vintage watch collectors.

Full Research

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

Build on this identification

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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