The Tissot caliber 2404 is a manual-winding mechanical movement developed and produced by Tissot during the 1950s and 1960s. It is part of Tissot’s 24xx series, a family of compact, time-only movements created for slim wristwatches with an emphasis on reliability, simplicity, and long-term durability. The 2404, in particular, was designed for use in ladies’ watches or smaller unisex models, where a thinner and smaller movement was required.

Overview of the Tissot Caliber 2404

The Tissot 2404 was built for compact cases, typically between 24 mm and 30 mm in diameter, which were popular for ladies’ dress watches and elegant mid-size timepieces of the era. Watches using this movement often featured:

• Manual winding

• Central hour and minute hands

• A small seconds subdial at 6 o’clock (in most configurations)

These watches were cased in stainless steel, gold-plated, or solid gold, and were often found under collections such as Tissot Antimagnetique, Stylist, or Seastar.

Technical Specifications

• Type: Manual winding

• Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds

• Jewels: 15

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

• Power Reserve: Approximately 40 hours

• Diameter: ~23 mm (approximately 10½ lignes)

• Height: ~3 mm

• Shock Protection: Later models often equipped with Incabloc or similar system

• Finish: Industrial matte or brushed plates with polished screw heads, typically Tissot-signed bridges

Despite its compact dimensions, the 2404 is robust, efficient, and easy to service, making it a practical movement for small-scale mechanical watches.

Service and Maintenance Recommendations

To ensure optimal performance, the Tissot 2404 should be serviced every 4 to 6 years, particularly if worn regularly. A proper overhaul is critical, as vintage oils dry out and can cause increased friction and wear.

A standard service includes:

1. Complete disassembly of the movement

2. Ultrasonic cleaning of all parts

3. Visual inspection of pivots, balance staff, and mainspring

4. Replacement of worn components, such as the crown or seconds pinion

5. Lubrication using modern synthetic watch oils

6. Reassembly and timing adjustment

7. Case and crystal cleaning, and gasket replacement if available

Due to the age of the movement, sourcing parts may require the use of donor movements from other 2400-series calibers.

Common Wear Areas

• Mainspring fatigue, which can lower power output

• Balance pivots and cap jewels, prone to wear if not properly lubricated

• Small seconds wheel, which operates continuously and can show gear wear

• Crown and stem, especially vulnerable in smaller watches with tight winding systems

• Keyless works (winding and setting mechanism) can become worn or misaligned

Despite its age, the movement is known for being reliable and straightforward to repair.

Handling and Storage Tips

• Wind daily, but do not overwind; stop when resistance is felt

• Avoid moisture, especially since most vintage cases lack modern sealing

• Keep away from magnetic fields, which can disrupt the balance spring

• Store in a dry, padded case, dial-up, to reduce positional wear

Collectibility and Value

The Tissot 2404 is not considered a rare movement, but it is appreciated by collectors and vintage watch enthusiasts for:

• Mechanical reliability in a small format

• Tissot’s strong mid-century manufacturing heritage

• Affordable access to vintage Swiss timepieces

• Aesthetic charm of mid-century design, especially in ladies’ watches

These watches are often undervalued but offer genuine mechanical craftsmanship and style.

Conclusion

The Tissot caliber 2404 is a compact, well-crafted manual-wind movement that served as the mechanical heart of many mid-century ladies' and small wristwatches. Designed for elegance and longevity, it remains a dependable and serviceable movement for those interested in vintage Swiss timepieces. With proper care and maintenance, the 2404 can continue to offer accurate timekeeping and timeless charm for decades to come.