Tissot has unveiled a new T-Race watch collection at the MotoGP championship’s first race of the season, the Grande Prémio Tissot de Portugal. It comprises a limited-edition watch alongside three unlimited references with white, blue and black dials.

The design ethos behind the new collection is more refined than previous iterations, says CEO Sylvain Dolla: ‘We felt there was a bit too much happening – the design was great when we made it years ago, but design evolves. So we have removed some elements and played with strong recognisable elements from the motorbikes.’

Indeed, the new limited-edition T-Race MotoGP chronograph (there will only be 8,000 made), is full of details referencing the two-wheeled machines. Take the red rubber strap – it’s moulded on the inside with a pattern to resemble bike tyres, while the pushers take design cues from handlebars, and the case edges from engine cooling fins. On the caseback, there is dual branding to commemorate the partnership, which has now been running for 22 years.

In addition to Tissot’s watch reveal, the brand announced Ducati Lenovo Team rider, Enea Bastianini as its new ambassador and he replaces Marc Márquez. However, Bastianini was knocked out of Saturday’s sprint race – literally – and suffered a fractured collarbone that ruled him out of Sunday’s title race and Tissot’s planned celebrations. Unfortunate, yes, but a reminder of the unpredictability and danger involved in one of the world’s most compelling motorsport championships.

As Bastianini went to the hospital, Dolla described him as a ‘completely passionate person. When you meet him, he is full of life and passion. When you reach this level, you have to be committed and devoted, and despite his young age he is really focused. And he has a touch of craziness. He is one of the most positively aggressive racers, but he is also a really nice person.’

Tissot T-Race collection prices start at £490. Tissotwatches.com