The Tissot Pinarello Special Edition ref. T162.408.97.061.00 marks a landmark collaboration between two icons of precision: the Swiss watchmaker Tissot and the legendary Italian bicycle manufacturer Pinarello. Released in 2026, this timepiece captures the essence of high-performance cycling, blending horological expertise with the cutting-edge materials and aerodynamic design language of elite road racing.
The watch is deeply rooted in the racing DNA of Pinarello, a brand often referred to as the "Ferrari of the cycling world." The primary inspiration for the watch’s architecture comes from the distinctive "ForkFlap"—the aerodynamic protruding lip found on the front forks of Pinarello’s high-end frames. This inspiration is most visible in the watch's unique, asymmetrical silhouette. Furthermore, the collaboration aims to celebrate a shared commitment to speed, precision, and technological advancement.
The case is a masterclass in material innovation, utilizing a 42mm forged carbon composite—the same lightweight and ultra-resilient material employed in Pinarello’s professional racing bikes. Despite its 42mm nominal diameter, the case features an asymmetrical width of 43.14mm from 3 to 9 o'clock and a length of 40mm from 6 to 12 o'clock.
A standout design element is the placement of the crown at the 10 o'clock position, where the case bulges out to mimic the shape of a bike’s fork flap, providing a unique profile that is both ergonomic and visually striking. The watch maintains a sleek thickness of 12.15mm and offers a water resistance of 10 bar (100 meters / 330 feet), ensuring it is robust enough for both the saddle and daily wear.
The watch is protected by a box-shaped, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with an antireflective coating, which adds depth to the dial while ensuring maximum durability. It comes with an interchangeable quick-release strap system, allowing users to swap between a high-performance technical synthetic strap—ideal for active use—and a handcrafted Italian leather strap for more formal occasions. This allows the watch to adapt effortlessly to the wearer’s pace, whether they are in the city or on the road.
The dial is finished in a grained grey texture designed to evoke the appearance of asphalt—the very terrain where cycling champions are forged. It features black-nickeled baton indexes and groove-faceted hands, both treated with Super-LumiNova for exceptional legibility in low-light conditions.
The most vibrant detail is the Borealis blue second hand, which carries a counterweight shaped like the stylized Pinarello "P." This specific shade of blue is a signature color expression tied to the Italian brand's identity, adding a dynamic touch of color to the technical aesthetic.
Powering the Tissot Pinarello is the renowned COSC-certified Powermatic 80. This Swiss automatic movement provides a formidable 80-hour power reserve, allowing the watch to remain accurate even if left unworn over a long weekend. To combat the magnetic fields of modern electronics, the movement is equipped with a Nivachron™ balance spring, a titanium-based alloy that enhances reliability and precision. The exhibition caseback allows enthusiasts to view the movement in action, including the oscillation of the rotor.
In summary, the Tissot Pinarello Ref. T162.408.97.061.00 is more than just a timepiece; it is a technical tribute to the world of competitive cycling, offering a unique blend of forged carbon, chronometer-grade accuracy, and Italian design flair. This special edition is priced for €1,495.
Design and Case Specifications
Dial and Movement
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