The Tissot Autolub Actualis represents one of the brand's more innovative chapters in 1970s Swiss watchmaking. Developed around Tissot's experimental Autolub technology, these watches were designed with self-lubricating components intended to reduce wear and improve long-term reliability. Produced for only a relatively short period, they remain an interesting and often overlooked part of Tissot's mechanical heritage.
This example features a beautifully preserved gold sunburst dial that comes alive under changing light, revealing rich golden tones across its finely brushed surface. Slim hands and applied hour markers maintain the clean, balanced aesthetic typical of the decade, while the gold-plated cushion case gives the watch a distinctive period character without feeling oversized on the wrist.
Powering the watch is the hand-wound Tissot Calibre T512 Autolub movement, a fascinating example of the brand's technical experimentation during the era. The movement has been inspected and is running well at the point of inspection, offering an engaging manual-wind experience for enthusiasts who appreciate vintage mechanical watchmaking.
Paired with a quality leather strap, the watch wears comfortably thanks to its balanced 36mm case and slim profile. At Vintage Watch HQ, we selected this example for its beautifully preserved dial, unusual movement and honest overall presentation, making it an appealing choice for collectors seeking something beyond the more familiar Swiss dress watches of the period.
Specifications
Brand: Tissot Model: Autolub Actualis Reference: Not stated Year: Circa 1970s Movement: Manual Wind Calibre: Tissot Calibre T512 Autolub Case Material: Gold-plated Case Size: 36mm (38mm including crown) Lug Width: 18mm Dial: Gold sunburst dial Crystal: Original acrylic Strap: Aftermarket leather strap Functions: Hours, Minutes, Seconds Servicing: Movement inspected and running well at the point of inspection Condition: Excellent vintage condition with light signs of age consistent with careful ownership Box/Papers: Supplied with a Vintage Watch HQ presentation box
The watch presents in excellent vintage condition with light, honest signs of wear consistent with its age. The gold sunburst dial remains particularly well preserved with crisp printing and attractive depth under changing light, while the gold-plated cushion case retains its distinctive vintage character. The original acrylic crystal and hands complete an honest, well-preserved example of one of Tissot's most interesting mechanical watches from the 1970s. As with all vintage watches, the photographs form an important part of the description and should be reviewed carefully.
