The Tissot caliber 873 is a vintage manual-winding chronograph movement that holds a notable place in Tissot’s mechanical watchmaking history. It was developed during the 1960s–1970s, a time when Tissot was working closely with Omega under the SSIH (Société Suisse pour l’Industrie Horlogère) umbrella. As a result, many of the mechanical components and designs were shared or derived from common base movements—particularly Lemania chronograph calibers.

Overview of the Caliber 873

The Tissot 873 is a manual-wind chronograph movement based on the Lemania 1873—one of the most celebrated and widely used chronograph calibers in Swiss watchmaking. The Lemania 1873 is the same base movement used in the famed Omega caliber 861, which powered the Omega Speedmaster “Moonwatch” from 1968 onward.

Tissot used the 873 designation for its in-house labeled version, with minor cosmetic or branding changes. The core architecture and mechanical functions remained closely aligned with the Lemania standard.

Technical Specifications

• Type: Manual winding chronograph

• Chronograph layout: Central chronograph seconds, 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock, and continuous seconds at 9 o'clock

• Base movement: Lemania 1873

• Diameter: 27 mm (12 lignes)

• Height: Approximately 6.9 mm

• Jewels: 17

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

• Power reserve: Approximately 40–45 hours

• Chronograph control: Cam-lever system (not column-wheel)

• Clutch: Horizontal coupling

Although not a column-wheel movement, the 873 delivers robust, reliable performance and easy servicing, making it ideal for tool chronographs of the period.

Watches Featuring Caliber 873

The Tissot 873 powered several of the brand’s vintage chronograph models, often cased in steel, with dials designed in the popular bi-compax layout. These watches were made during a time when chronographs were transitioning from professional tools to everyday sporty watches.

Models with this movement include:

• Tissot Navigator Chronograph

• Tissot Seastar Chronograph

• Various 1970s racing and pilot-style chronographs

The movement was used in watches intended for active use but was also admired for its smooth pusher feel and reliability under stress.

Collectibility and Appeal

While not as celebrated as the Omega 861, the Tissot 873 is respected among vintage chronograph collectors for several reasons:

• It shares DNA with the Speedmaster’s legendary movement

• It was used during a golden age of Swiss mechanical chronographs

• Tissot chronographs of this era were well-constructed but are more affordable than Omega or Heuer equivalents

Collectors prize original examples, especially those with unpolished cases, intact dials, and properly functioning chronographs.

Servicing and Parts

The Tissot 873, being derived from the Lemania 1873, benefits from solid parts availability and serviceability. Many watchmakers are familiar with the platform, and sourcing components—while more limited than for modern calibers—is still feasible.

Servicing should occur every 4–6 years for best performance, especially since these watches are now decades old.

Conclusion

The Tissot caliber 873 is a historically important chronograph movement, directly connected to one of the most famous calibers in horology. Rugged, precise, and thoughtfully designed, it represents a time when Tissot produced high-quality tool watches at the peak of Swiss mechanical engineering. For collectors, it’s a hidden gem that delivers real mechanical pedigree without the premium pricing of more famous counterparts.