Tissot makes it rain Dame D.O.L.L.As with a new PRX collaborative effort with prolific NBA player Damian Lillard.
Collaborations in the watch game are a delicate thing. There are so many things that could go wrong, and it’s easy to either do too much or not enough in the creative process. Done right, however, they can truly blossom into something special, and Tissot has proven that they can tread the fine line and produce a gorgeous PRX edition that pays tribute to the eight-time NBA All-Star.
Though the PRX has grown to be a modern smash hit with its release in 2020/2021, its roots reach as far back as 1970, when integrated sports watches were becoming the norm. Tissot’s original Seastar lineup had already begun to follow suit, and unbeknownst to them at the time had laid the groundwork for what would become the modern-day PRX.
It’s no wonder, then, that in this renaissance of integrated sports watches Tissot’s reasonably priced lineup has caught the eyes of watch lovers worldwide, including none other than newly minted Tissot ambassador, NBA legend and rapper Damian Lillard. Enamoured by their shared beliefs that “Greatness is for everyone,” Lillard and Tissot set out to create a piece that was attractive to the average consumer, but still packed with plenty of references to the iconic Point Guard.
And references there are, but not egregiously so – Some will immediately jump out to the eye, such as Lillard’s monogram acting as the counterbalance to the second-hand, whilst the number ‘0’ embossed dial, a nod to Damian’s jersey number, is less apparent as it takes the place of the PRX’s traditional waffle cuts. Hidden within the dial’s flange, the words “DAME TIME” are engraved at the top left and right of the watch, while “YKWTII” and “DDKK” are present on the bottom left and right respectively.
Of course, these act as references to Lillard’s professional and personal life – “DAME TIME” refers to his nickname and clutch plays in the NBA, while “YKWTII” asks the wearer “You Know What Time It Is,” and “DDKK” is a heartfelt tribute to Lillard’s own family – Damian, Damian Lamonte Ollie, Kali Emma Lee, and Kalii Laheem.
As is signature in the PRX collection, the Damian Lillard Edition has been given a Gold PVD finish on both the case and bracelet. As much ire as it can get from those pesky watch snobs, I do appreciate that Tissot still maintains a high-quality level of finishing on the PRX. It opens the door for so many people to become ballers, but without breaking the bank.
Turning the watch around, the transparent case back has the reliable Powermatic 80 movement – the heart of every automatic PRX – on full display. Featuring an 80-hour power reserve, the Swatch Group’s patented Nivacrhon hairspring aids the anti-magnetic properties of the movement. Used in many pieces now, it’s a workhorse and won’t let you down. As always, though, there is a twist, as the sapphire crystal has been adorned with Lillard’s iconic celebration. So you will always know that, no matter where you are, you will always know what time it is – Dame Time.
Final Thoughts
If there are but two things I inherited from my father, it’s his love for James Bond and his love for the NBA – Sorry, Dad, but my love for watches grew on its own. To see two of my major interests manifest in a timepiece that is as beautiful as it is affordable is something that’s right up my alley, so for one of my favourite NBA players of all time to collaborate with a reasonably priced brand like Tissot is just serendipitous. A standout in creative subtlety, this new PRX collab showcases the impressive talents of both parties. Much like Lillard’s game-winning buzzer-beater against OKC in 2019, this thoughtfully crafted timepiece is bound to leave a lasting impact – ensuring this watch, like Lillard on the court, will send the opposition home packing.
Reference: T137.407.33.051.00
Specification
- Size: 40mm, 39.5mm Lug to lug and 10.9mm thick
- Case Material: Stainless steel case coated with yellow gold PVD coating
- Dial: Black with embossed 0 motif, applied indexes with SuperLuminova
- Crystal: Sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating
- Water resistance: 100m (10 Bar)
- Movement: Powermatic 80 automatic self winding calibre with Nivacrhon hairspring.
- Power reserve: 80 hours
- Bracelet: Stainless steel bracelet coated in yellow gold PVD with quick change mechanism and butterfly folding clasp
