The Tissot caliber 872 is a vintage manual-winding mechanical movement developed and used by Tissot during the 1960s and 1970s. Like many of Tissot’s calibers from this period, the 872 reflects the brand's close relationship with Lemania and Omega, all of which were part of the SSIH group (Société Suisse pour l’Industrie Horlogère). This shared development environment allowed Tissot to access robust and proven mechanical platforms while branding them under its own caliber numbers.

Overview of the Caliber 872

The Tissot 872 is a manual-wind time-only movement, known for its thin profile, reliability, and use in elegant, mid-century wristwatches. It was often fitted into dress watches with slim steel or gold-plated cases and minimalist dials.

Unlike the Tissot 873 (a chronograph), the 872 is a non-chronograph caliber, meant to power simple, reliable daily wear watches with clean lines and understated styling.

Technical Specifications

While official detailed specs may vary slightly between models, the typical features of the Tissot 872 include:

• Type: Manual winding

• Functions: Hours, minutes, central seconds

• Jewels: 17

• Frequency: 21,600 vibrations per hour (3 Hz)

• Power reserve: Approximately 44 hours

• Diameter: Around 23–25 mm (est., ~10.5 lignes)

• Height: Approx. 3–3.5 mm

• Hacking seconds: No (in most versions)

• Finishing: Basic industrial finish, but clean and reliable design

The movement is recognized for its simple architecture, ease of service, and smooth winding feel.

Watches Using Caliber 872

The Tissot 872 was installed in a range of time-only wristwatches during the 1960s and 1970s. These were typically:

• Dress watches with slim gold or steel cases

• Tissot Seastar models

• Mid-size or unisex designs

• References with clean, legible dials and thin bezels

Some models came with date versions (likely designated as 872-1 or with related calibers such as 874 or 875).

Reliability and Serviceability

The 872 is known as a robust and straightforward movement, easy to maintain and ideal for regular use. Parts are relatively easy to source through vintage parts suppliers, and most competent watchmakers can service this movement without difficulty.

It benefits from traditional Swiss design with a proven gear train layout, manual winding reliability, and long-term durability when properly cared for.

Collectibility

The Tissot 872 itself is not highly collectible on its own but is appreciated by vintage watch enthusiasts for what it represents:

• Swiss-made mechanical heritage

• Excellent build quality for the price

• Classic mid-century styling

• An affordable entry point into vintage mechanical watches

Watches powered by the 872 offer value, reliability, and authentic charm, particularly for collectors looking for well-preserved vintage Tissot pieces.

Conclusion

The Tissot caliber 872 is a solid, workhorse manual-wind movement from the mid-20th century. Designed for simplicity, durability, and elegance, it served as the engine behind many of Tissot’s slim and stylish dress watches. While not flashy or complicated, the 872 stands as a reminder of a time when mechanical quality was the norm—even in accessible Swiss watches. For collectors or enthusiasts, it represents affordable vintage horology with timeless appeal.