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If there is a single design element that defines the swagger of 1970s watchmaking, it might just be the “floating” index. While many brands experimented with depth during this era, the Tissot PR 516 GL perfected it. The “GL” stands for Grand Luxe, a fitting title for a watch that took the sporty, automotive-inspired DNA of the standard PR 516 and elevated it with an architectural dial layout that collectors still obsess over today. It is a watch that feels fast even when it is sitting still, capturing the spirit of rally racing and the freedom of the open road.
The history of the PR 516 series is rooted in durability, with “PR” standing for “Particularly Robust” (or Precision Robust, depending on which marketing material you read). Tissot designed these watches to withstand the vibrations of a steering wheel and the shocks of daily life. The GL variant introduced a clever three-dimensional dial construction where the minute track is printed on a raised chapter ring, and the hour markers are cantilevered out over the dial surface. This allows the hands to pass underneath the markers, creating a sense of depth and volume that is mesmerising to look at on the wrist.
This specific example, Reference 46572, steps away from the common blue or silver dials and presents a rich, deep maroon face that looks incredible against the gold-plated case. The floating block indices are prominent, featuring gold tones that match the case, while the white baton hands and bright orange seconds hand provide excellent legibility and a sporty contrast. Unusually for a watch of this age, it retains what appears to be its original strap setup, complete with a gold-tone folding clasp featuring the applied “T” logo, a rare accessory that completes the package.
This watch has been enjoyed as intended and wears its age with character. The gold-plated case shows honest wear, with scratches visible on the sides and lugs, particularly on the non-crown side. The stainless steel caseback remains clean, protecting the Tissot Caliber 794 automatic movement within. The dial itself is in lovely condition, with the maroon finish remaining consistent and the text crisp, allowing the unique architecture of the floating indices to take center stage without distraction.
For the collector who wants a piece of 1970s design history that does not look like everything else in the room, the PR 516 GL is a fantastic option. The combination of the maroon dial, the gold case, and that sculptural floating index design makes it a true conversation starter. It is distinct, robust, and undeniably cool, a testament to a time when Tissot was producing some of the most creative sports watches in Switzerland.
