The world of watches is one that, at times, can be criticised for taking itself a bit too seriously. Sometimes it’s okay to embrace the playful side of things. One lot in our upcoming Watch and Watch Accessories auction on the 8th June is all about enjoyment. Lot 197 is a Tissot Limited Edition Tom Lüthi T-Race chronograph wrist watch and comes complete
It is impossible to not crack a smile when removing this watch’s outer box to reveal the helmet inside. It is fair to say that Tissot went somewhat avant-garde in their approach. The box is a handsome display case and even comes with a functional visor! Though, with that said, I would not suggest attempting to use this helmet at a track day. Compared to typical watch boxes, it does not quite have the elegance or style of a Rolex or Patek Philippe box. However it certainly more entertaining than them and perhaps even more eye catching or striking.
The design of the watch
Turning to the watch itself, we can see its design cues have also been influenced by the racer it is named after. Adopting the yellow and black design motif of his helmet, the watch has a rugged and sporty appearance. It has a larger case size of 46mm and large visible bolts and screws, giving it a mechanical, industrial feel. The bezel of the watch may remind a reader of brake disc and caliper, further leaning into the fun motorsport aesthetic. That bezel rotates, bringing convenient functionality to the watch. This also allows its user to have another time zone and time themselves around the track.
Continuing the motorbike theme, the watch is fitted to a rubber strap that features internal grooves like that of a tyre. The watch does not limit itself to Lüthi fans. This is due to the watch showing no visible mentions of the rider. Rather, the watch wears like a bright burst of eccentricity that provides great functionality for race fans with a tachymeter and chronograph built-in.
The watch is a limited-edition model for the Swiss racer Tom Lüthi, a successful motorcyclist who’s nearly two-decade career saw him rise all the way to the pinnacle of his sport. In 2005 he became the 125cc world champion. In total he managed sixty-five career podiums and has seventeen race wins to his name. Tissot rewarded Lüthi with a role as brand ambassador and he received his signature watch in 2008. Tissot made 2112 pieces and released them in 2014. This lot comes complete with box and papers. Tissot appear to have continually refreshed Lüthi’s line of watches, most recently in 2020. Lüthi retired from the sport in 2021, however he continues to be involved in motorbike racing in a management role.
Watches in motorsport
Watches and motorsport have for the longest time had a strong association. Motorsport has influenced some of the most famous watches of our time, perhaps most notably the Rolex Daytona. At any Formula One race weekend you will see the Rolex logo adorned alongside the track and a Rolex clock in pride of place at the end of the pit lane. Tag Heuer is a major sponsor of the Red Bull team and, of course, manufactures its Formula One line of watches. Look at the wrist of most drivers and you will see them sporting a sponsor’s watch, most notably Richard Mille.
Eschewing the saturated market of Formula One, Tissot has shown a continued interest in the world of MotoGP. They have been intimately connected for over two decades. It is also the Official Timekeeper for the racing series since the turn of the millennium. Tissot has several brand ambassadors in the MotoGP, including Enea Bastianini. It has expanded its line of watches into more general MotoGP models. Tissot have even begun sponsoring the new Sprint race format in the series.
The Tissot Tom Lüthi watch at auction
TISSOT – a limited edition stainless steel T-Race Tom Luthi 12 chronograph wrist watch
Estimate £50-80
This watch provides a great choice for any fan of sporty watches. Especially if you embrace the fun and entertainment of motorsports. You will find it in the upcoming Watches and Watch Accessories auction that ends from 10am on June 8th.
Valuations
Our valuations are free, with no obligation to sell with us. Our experts will value your item with an estimate, so you can find out what it could achieve at auction.
The process is simple. You can fill in a form online or book an appointment to visit either of our offices in Birmingham or London. Virtual valuation appointments are also available.
Make sure you don’t miss finding that special something by signing up for our emails. You’ll be the first to know when catalogues become available, receive invitations to special events, and preview the hottest lots from our auctions, plus much more. You can also set up lot alerts, to tell us exactly what you are looking for. Our personal shopping service will make sure that you are the first to hear about it.
Nathan Boot | BA (Hons), MA (Hons)
