Citizen Tsuyosa Small Seconds Review: Vintage Charm Meets Modern Innovation
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Introduction
Hey watch enthusiasts! Let’s talk about the latest gem from Citizen, the "Tsuyosa" Automatic Small Seconds. Building on the success of the original Tsuyosa, which was already a big hit due to its affordability and great design, this new version takes things up a notch. Here's everything you need to know about this impressive timepiece.
Specifications
Case Diameter: 40mm
Case Thickness: 11.7mm
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Crystal: Sapphire
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Movement: Citizen caliber 8322
Power Reserve: 60 hours
Dial: Guilloche-style with small seconds sub-dial at 6 o'clock
Bracelet: Stainless steel with butterfly clasp and quick-release system
Color Options: Blue, Green, Gray (with leather strap)
Price: Under £500
Aesthetic and Design
One of the first things you'll notice about the Citizen "Tsuyosa" Automatic Small Seconds is its sharp and sophisticated dial. The guilloche-style pattern adds a touch of elegance, and the absence of a date window provides a clean, balanced look. This dial is available in several colors, but the blue version is particularly striking, offering a rich and vivid hue that catches the eye.
The case maintains the 40mm width and 11.7mm thickness of its predecessors, ensuring a comfortable fit on wrists of various sizes. The 4 o'clock crown remains a distinctive feature, harkening back to designs from the 1970s. The watch also features a new butterfly bracelet clasp, which enhances the premium feel of the bracelet, although a bit more tapering would have been ideal.
Movement and Performance
Under the hood, the Tsuyosa Small Seconds houses the Citizen caliber 8322. This movement is a significant upgrade, boasting a 60-hour power reserve and a beautifully skeletonized rotor. The enhanced finishing, including Côtes de Genève stripes, gives the movement a more luxurious appearance, reminiscent of higher-end watches.
The small seconds sub-dial at 6 o'clock replaces the central seconds hand, adding a unique touch to the dial. This feature not only enhances the watch's aesthetic appeal but also provides a functional benefit by allowing for a more precise reading of the seconds.
Historical Context
The Citizen Tsuyosa line has a rich history that dates back to its initial launch. Inspired by 1970s designs, the Tsuyosa watches have always combined modern functionality with a touch of vintage charm. The original Tsuyosa gained popularity due to its integrated bracelet and distinctive 4 o'clock crown, features that have been retained and enhanced in the Small Seconds version. This latest iteration continues the tradition of blending past and present, offering a watch that appeals to both nostalgic and contemporary tastes.
User Experience and Wearability
Having worn the Tsuyosa Small Seconds for several weeks, I can confidently say that it delivers a great wearing experience. The watch sits comfortably on my just over 7-inch wrist, and the bracelet's quick-release system allows for easy strap changes. This flexibility is a welcome addition, as it enables wearers to switch between different looks effortlessly.
The guilloche dial is truly the star of the show. Its intricate pattern and the play of light on the surface make it a pleasure to glance at throughout the day. The lack of a date window contributes to the dial's uncluttered and elegant appearance, making it suitable for both casual and formal settings.
Value and Market Position
Citizen has positioned the Tsuyosa Small Seconds as an affordable yet high-quality mechanical watch. Priced below £500, it offers exceptional value for money. The watch feels and looks much more expensive than it is, thanks to its premium design elements and upgraded movement.
This model, along with the original Tsuyosa, serves as an excellent gateway into the world of mechanical watches. It provides a compelling entry point for those new to the hobby, while also appealing to seasoned collectors looking for a stylish and reliable timepiece.
Comparison with Other Watches
When comparing the Citizen Tsuyosa Small Seconds to other popular models like the Tissot PRX and Seiko 5, it stands out due to its unique design elements and competitive movement. While the Citizen caliber 8322 and the Tissot Powermatic 80 are on par in terms of technical performance, the Tsuyosa Small Seconds arguably features a more aesthetically pleasing and balanced dial due to the absence of a date window.
For a deeper dive into how the Tsuyosa compares with the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80, check out our comparative review of affordable luxury watches. If you're interested in more hands-on impressions of the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80, we have a detailed review here.
Conclusion
Citizen has made small but impactful changes to the Tsuyosa line with the Small Seconds version, transforming a good watch into a great one. The combination of a beautifully designed dial, upgraded movement, and premium bracelet clasp makes this watch a standout in its price range. Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned watch enthusiast, the Citizen "Tsuyosa" Automatic Small Seconds is sure to impress.
For more reviews and comparisons, don't miss our detailed look at the Citizen NJ0180-80X Super Titanium Small Seconds.
FAQs
What is the Citizen caliber 8322? The Citizen caliber 8322 is an in-house automatic movement with a 60-hour power reserve, featuring a skeletonized rotor and Côtes de Genève stripes for an enhanced aesthetic.
How does the quick-release system work? The quick-release system allows for easy strap changes without the need for special tools. This feature adds versatility to the watch, enabling wearers to switch between different styles effortlessly.
Is the Citizen Tsuyosa Small Seconds suitable for formal occasions? Yes, the clean and elegant design, especially with the guilloche dial and absence of a date window, makes the Tsuyosa Small Seconds suitable for both casual and formal settings.
How does the Tsuyosa Small Seconds compare to the Tissot PRX? While both watches offer great value, the Tsuyosa Small Seconds stands out with its unique dial design and the balanced look provided by the absence of a date window. The Citizen caliber 8322 provides a competitive performance similar to the Tissot Powermatic 80.