The Tissot caliber 2401 is a manual-winding mechanical movement developed in the 1950s and 1960s, and it belongs to Tissot’s compact 24xx series. Designed for slim and elegant wristwatches, particularly ladies’ models and small unisex watches, the 2401 is a straightforward, time-only movement built for durability, reliability, and efficient servicing.

This movement reflects Tissot’s philosophy during the mid-20th century—offering quality Swiss engineering in refined yet accessible timepieces for daily wear.

Overview of the Tissot Caliber 2401

The Tissot 2401 was widely used in watches with:

• Manual winding operation

• Central hour and minute hands

• In many cases, a small seconds subdial at 6 o’clock

The movement was housed in round, square, or tonneau-shaped cases made of stainless steel, gold-plated brass, or sometimes solid gold. These watches featured minimalist dials, reflecting the post-war design trends of the time—clean, practical, and stylish.

Technical Specifications

• Type: Manual-winding

• Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds (in most models)

• Jewels: 15

• Frequency: 18,000 vibrations per hour (2.5 Hz)

• Power Reserve: Approximately 40 hours

• Diameter: ~23 mm (around 10½ lignes)

• Height: ~3 mm

• Shock Protection: Present in later models (e.g., Incabloc); early versions may lack this

• Finish: Clean industrial finish with Tissot-signed bridges and often blued screws

It features a Swiss lever escapement and is known for being mechanically simple, yet reliable, with a construction that allows for straightforward maintenance.

Maintenance and Servicing

To preserve accuracy and mechanical integrity, the Tissot 2401 should be serviced every 4 to 6 years. As a vintage movement, dried lubrication or accumulated dirt can lead to friction, reduced power reserve, and wear on critical components.

A complete professional service includes:

1. Full disassembly of the movement

2. Ultrasonic cleaning of all parts

3. Inspection for wear on the mainspring, pivots, and gear teeth

4. Lubrication with modern synthetic oils

5. Replacement of worn parts (typically sourced from donor movements)

6. Reassembly and regulation

7. Case cleaning, and replacing seals if applicable

Watchmakers familiar with vintage Swiss calibers will typically find the 2401 straightforward to work on.

Common Points of Wear

• Mainspring fatigue can lead to weak amplitude

• Balance staff pivots and jewels may show wear if the movement has run dry

• Small seconds gear train, often under continuous load, can develop play or tooth wear

• Crown and stem, especially if heavily used, may become worn or loose

• Winding and setting components (keyless works) can misalign with age

Despite these concerns, the 2401 is generally considered robust and well-designed for its purpose.

Best Practices for Use

• Wind the watch daily, but avoid over-winding—stop when resistance is felt

• Avoid exposure to moisture, as vintage cases were rarely sealed against water

• Keep away from magnetic fields, which can disrupt the hairspring

• Store in a dry, stable environment, ideally face-up in a padded case

Collectibility and Value

The Tissot 2401 is not a rare movement, but it has a place in vintage collecting for:

• Its mechanical simplicity and reliability

• Mid-century Swiss quality at a modest size

• Elegant case designs that remain fashionable

• Affordability and ease of ownership for vintage beginners

It is often found in well-preserved dress watches, making it a great choice for those seeking mechanical charm and historical value in a compact package.

Conclusion

The Tissot caliber 2401 is a compact, dependable manual-wind movement that powered many of the brand’s stylish mid-century watches. It balances Swiss engineering, simplicity, and classic design, making it a standout choice for collectors of vintage timepieces or anyone who appreciates traditional mechanical craftsmanship. When properly maintained, it delivers decades of reliable service with timeless elegance.