Tissot Cal. 15TL

Tissot 15 TL Chronograph From 1941 — Case & Dial with Original Patina and Multi-Scale Layout

This 1941 Tissot Chronograph presents a 37.5 mm stainless steel case with elegant mid-century proportions, its polished lugs complementing the aged dial for a harmonious vintage presence. The dial, originally cream, has developed a uniform warm patina with areas of oxidation, lending authentic charm to this collectible timepiece. The multi-scale layout incorporates an outer black minute/seconds track, a telemeter scale in blue around the periphery, and a central spiral tachymeter scale—hallmarks of professional chronographs from the era. The heat-blued feuille hands, long chronograph seconds hand, and recessed sub-dials at 9 and 3 o’clock complete the balanced and purposeful design.

Tissot Chronograph — Dial Layout and Finishing

The dial retains all original printed scales and Arabic numerals at even-hour positions, with crisp sub-dial numerals despite age-related wear. Heat-blued steel hands contrast elegantly against the aged dial, enhancing legibility. The combination of telemeter and tachymeter functions reflects the period’s emphasis on precision timing for both civilian and professional applications.

Manual Winding Caliber 15TL

At the heart of this chronograph is the Tissot Caliber 15TL, a manual-winding Swiss-made movement developed in the early 1940s through the technical collaboration of Tissot, Omega, and Lemania. Measuring 33.3 mm in diameter, this calibre integrates all chronograph functions—start, stop, and reset—via a single pusher, a technical hallmark of the period. Known for its robust construction and precision timekeeping, the 15TL is regarded as a forerunner to the Omega Calibre 321 and Lemania 27CH, both celebrated among horological connoisseurs for their performance in professional-grade chronographs.

1941 Tissot Chronograph — Accuracy and Service History

This example has undergone a full professional service, ensuring optimal mechanical integrity while preserving its originality. Fully serviced and ready to wear, this watch will provide reliable performance for years to come. The chronograph mechanism engages smoothly, reflecting the precision engineering and durability that have made the 15TL a respected calibre in vintage Swiss watchmaking.

Heritage of the Tissot Chronograph in 1940s Professional Timing

Produced during an era when Swiss chronographs were essential tools for engineers, scientists, and sportsmen, the 1941 Tissot Chronograph embodies the brand’s commitment to precision timekeeping and functional elegance. The dual telemeter and tachymeter scales catered to professionals needing accurate distance and speed measurements, while the understated styling ensured versatility for both formal and field use. As part of the SSIH group’s collaborative efforts, Tissot contributed significantly to advancing chronograph design, influencing models from Omega and Lemania that would achieve legendary status in decades to follow. This reference stands as a testament to the golden age of mechanical chronograph development.

Tissot Chronograph — Condition, Originality & Collectibility

This watch remains in original condition, with its untouched dial, heat-blued hands, and authentic stainless steel case preserved. All components are original, adding to its historical and collector value. The visible patina tells the story of eight decades of existence, making it appealing to collectors who appreciate unaltered vintage character. With a respected movement, iconic multi-scale dial, and Swiss-made heritage, this piece represents a rare opportunity to acquire a mechanically sound, visually compelling chronograph from the formative years of modern wristwatch history. Enthusiasts seeking more examples of Tissot vintage chronographs with Caliber 15TL or vintage chronograph watches with multi-scale dials from the 1940s will appreciate the significance of this model.