Tissot Wristwatch Navigator Yachting 45503 Chronograph 1974

SPECIFICATION

• In good preowned condition with signs of wear form use
• Case and bezel have some scratches
• Fully serviced movement
• Chronograph hand has some paint loss
• Date wheel has light scratches
• Omega signed crystal
• Paired with its original Tissot signed bracelet that fits up to an 8 inch wrist

THE WATCH

Rarely seen Tissot Navigator "Yachting" Chronograph, reference 45503, in very good vintage condition and powered by the high-grade Lemania cal. 1341 (Tissot 2170). The case shows only light, normal wear for its age, and the dial features a stunning graduated deep blue tone. The orange sub-dial hand does show a bit of paint loss, and the date wheel has minor scratches on a couple of dates (notably the 17th and 24th), but nothing that detracts from the overall appeal.

Remarkably, this example still retains its original bracelet and signed buckle. The crystal is in excellent condition and bears the Omega logo faintly visible near the centre—hard to capture in photos, but clearly present under bright light. This is no mistake: during this era, much like the relationship between Tudor and Rolex, Tissot and Omega shared components and technical expertise. The blank caseback is also a fun detail—it’s exactly where the Omega Seamaster hippocampus would have been stamped.

Freshly serviced by our watchmaker, this piece is running beautifully and comes backed by our 12-month non-waterproof warranty, so you can purchase with complete confidence.

A BIT OF TRIVIA

In 1930, Tissot merged with Omega SA to form SSIH (Société Suisse pour l'Industrie Horlogère), a major milestone in Swiss watchmaking history. Watches produced during this Tissot-Omega partnership are now highly sought after by collectors for their shared heritage and quality.

Tissot's journey as an official timekeeper began in 1938 when the brand timed a series of ski races in Villars-sur-Ollon, close to its home in the Jura Mountains. That same year, Tissot was also used to time downhill skiing events in Switzerland. By 1957, the brand had expanded its presence in sports timing to international events like the Davis Cup.

In 1983, SSIH merged with ASUAG (Allgemeine Schweizerische Uhrenindustrie AG), a major Swiss watch industry holding company, forming a new entity—SMH (Société Suisse de Microélectronique et d’Horlogerie). SMH later rebranded in 1998 as the Swatch Group, now one of the world’s largest watch conglomerates. Throughout these changes, Tissot remained headquartered in Le Locle, Switzerland, and expanded its reach to over 160 countries.

Today, Tissot continues its legacy in precision sports timing. It serves as the official timekeeper for world championships in cycling, motorcycling, fencing, ice hockey, and more. The brand has also had a strong presence in motorsport, sponsoring iconic Formula One teams such as Lotus, Renault, and Sauber.

OUR THOUGHTS

The Tissot 45503 may fly under the radar for many, but for those in the know, it’s a true hidden gem. It delivers the full package—distinctive style, solid functionality, and serious wrist presence—all wrapped up in a design that echoes the spirit of the Omega Seamaster Yachting, but at a fraction of the price. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just discovering vintage chronographs, this is one of those watches that quietly punches well above its weight. A smart, standout addition to any collection.