The Tissot T Touch Connect Sport represents a bold step into the world of connected timepieces by the renowned Swiss watchmaker.
This hybrid smartwatch combines traditional Swiss craftsmanship with modern technology, offering a unique proposition in the increasingly crowded smartwatch market.
In this comprehensive review, you will gain insight into the design, features, performance, and overall value of the Tissot T Touch Connect Sport. So read through carefully.
Key Takeaways:
- Premium build quality with titanium case and ceramic bezel
- Solar charging capability for extended battery life
- Limited smartwatch features compared to competitors
- Unique analog-digital hybrid design
- Excellent battery life of up to 6 months in connected mode
- Sw-ALPS operating system with a minimalist interface
- Lacks some common health monitoring features
Design and Build Quality
The Tissot T Touch Connect Sport makes a strong first impression with its premium construction and attention to detail.
The watch features a 42.5mm wide titanium case, which strikes a balance between presence and wearability. At 12.8mm thick, it maintains a relatively slim profile for a hybrid smartwatch.
Key Design Elements:
- Titanium case with brushed finish and polished angles
- Ceramic bezel (available in blue, black, or brown)
- Water-resistant to 50 meters
- Sapphire crystal touch-sensitive display
- Two pushers for navigation and input
The use of high-end materials like titanium and ceramic not only enhances the watch’s durability but also gives it a luxurious feel.
The blue ceramic bezel on our review unit provides a striking contrast against the titanium case, creating a sporty yet sophisticated aesthetic.
Unlike some solar-powered watches that try to hide this element, Tissot has made it a central part of the design.
The result is a unique look that sets the T-Touch Connect Sport apart from both traditional watches and typical smartwatches.
Display and Interface
The T-Touch Connect Sport employs a hybrid display system:
- Analog hands for time display
- Small AMOLED screen for digital functions and notifications
The analog hands are powered by a quartz movement, ensuring precise timekeeping.
When accessing digital features, the hands automatically move out of the way to provide an unobstructed view of the AMOLED screen.
AMOLED Screen Specifications:
- Size: Approximately 2cm across (capsule-shaped)
- Always-off when not in use
- Activates with button press or incoming notification
- Supports touch and swipe gestures
While the small size of the AMOLED screen limits the amount of information that can be displayed at once, it maintains the watch’s traditional appearance when not in use.
This design choice may appeal to those who prefer a more classic look but still want some smart functionality.
Software and Features
The Tissot T-Touch Connect Sport runs on the proprietary Sw-ALPS (Swiss Autonomous Low Power System) operating system.
This software is designed to balance functionality with power efficiency, contributing to the watch’s impressive battery life.
Key Software Features:
- Basic activity tracking (steps, calories, distance)
- Customizable daily goals
- Multiple sport modes (running, cycling, hiking)
- Notifications for calls, messages, and apps
- Chronograph and countdown timer functions
- Dual time zone support
While the feature set is more limited compared to full-fledged smartwatches, it covers the essentials for many users.
The minimalist interface can be navigated using touch gestures or the physical pushers, offering flexibility in interaction.
T Connect Companion App
The T-Connect app for iOS and Android provides additional functionality and easier management of the watch’s features. Key aspects of the app include:
- Activity data synchronization and analysis
- Watch face customization
- Notification settings management
- Alarm and timer setup
- Integration with Apple Health (iOS) or Google Fit (Android)
The app’s clean, intuitive design makes it easy to access and configure the watch’s various functions.
Performance and Accuracy
As a hybrid device, the T-Touch Connect Sport excels in some areas while falling short in others:
Strengths:
- Accurate timekeeping thanks to the quartz movement
- Reliable step counting and basic activity tracking
- Long battery life with solar charging capability
- Clear notification display
Limitations:
- No built-in GPS (relies on connected smartphone)
- Lacks continuous heart rate monitoring
- No SpO2 or advanced health metrics
- Limited smartwatch functionality compared to competitors
For users primarily interested in basic activity tracking and notifications, the T-Touch Connect Sport performs admirably.
However, fitness enthusiasts or those seeking comprehensive health monitoring may find the feature set lacking.
Battery Life and Charging
One of the standout features of the Tissot T-Touch Connect Sport is its impressive battery life:
Mode | Battery Life | Solar Charging Requirement |
Connected | Up to 6 months | 35 minutes of sunlight per day |
Sport Connected | 3 months | 60 minutes of sunlight per day |
Time Only | Indefinite | 20 minutes of sunlight per day |
The integration of solar charging technology allows the watch to maintain its charge with regular exposure to sunlight.
For times when solar charging is insufficient, a magnetic charging cable is provided for traditional charging.
Price and Value Proposition
The Tissot T-Touch Connect Sport is positioned as a premium hybrid smartwatch, with prices ranging from $995 to $1,100 USD depending on the specific model and strap options.
This pricing places it in competition with high-end smartwatches and entry-level luxury mechanical watches.
Value Considerations:
- Premium materials and Swiss craftsmanship
- Unique hybrid design
- Long battery life
- Limited smart features compared to similarly priced full smartwatches
For those seeking a well-crafted timepiece with basic smart functionality, the T-Touch Connect Sport offers a compelling package.
However, users prioritizing advanced health tracking or extensive smartwatch features may find better value in other options.
Conclusion
The Tissot T-Touch Connect Sport represents an interesting entry into the connected watch market from a traditional Swiss watchmaker.
It successfully blends classic horological elements with modern technology, creating a unique hybrid device.
Pros:
- Excellent build quality and premium materials
- Impressive battery life with solar charging
- Classic watch aesthetics with smart capabilities
- Accurate timekeeping and basic activity tracking
Cons:
- Limited smartwatch functionality
- Small digital display
- Lacks advanced health monitoring features
- High price point compared to feature set
Finally, people who value traditional watchmaking but wish to experiment in the field of linked electronics may find the Tissot T-Touch Connect Sport appealing.
It offers a tasteful compromise between classic and modern, though it may not satisfy users looking for a full-featured smartwatch experience.
For Tissot, the T-Touch Connect Sport represents a starting point in their connected watch journey.