Introduction: A refined upgrade in an affordable package
Since its 2022 debut, the Tsuyosa line from Citizen has embodied an affordable sports-luxury ethos. Built as a modern take on a cult 1990s model, the collection offered two sizes, solid features, and a compelling price. The Tsuyosa 60 Automatic is the brand’s latest step, aiming to elevate perceived value while keeping the approachable price point. So, how good is it in day-to-day wear and how does it stack up against the competition?
What’s new vs. the original Tsuyosa NJ015
The 60 Automatic retains the familiar 40mm case profile from the NJ015, with a slender 11.7mm thickness and a compact 45mm lug-to-lug footprint. The case is stainless steel with vertical brushing and polished bevels, paired with a flat sapphire crystal, date magnifier, and a 50-meter water resistance. Inside sits the upgraded calibre 8310, replacing the prior 8210, and delivering a 60-hour power reserve at 3Hz with hacking seconds. The movement is rhodium-plated with blue screws, an openworked rotor, and striped bridges—decorative elements that noticeably lift the watch’s visual appeal.
Externally, Citizen updated the bracelet to a five-link jubilee style, with outer brushed links and three inner polished links. The clasp is a new concealed butterfly design, which reads as more integrated with the overall look, though it omits micro-adjustment holes. The crown sits at 4 o’clock for comfort, but can be a touch recessed for some wrists. The 50-meter rating remains more suited to daily wear than poolside adventures, so a little care is warranted around water exposure.
Three case variants and dial textures
For the launch, three dial variants were offered: NK0020-55E with a classic uncoated steel case and black dial; NK0024-54X with a two-tone yellow-gold IP finish on the crown/bezel/mid-links and a green dial for a retro vibe; and NK0023-57L featuring a rose-gold coating and a rich blue dial. The dial texture is a notable upgrade: a discreet guilloché-like concentric pattern adds depth without compromising legibility. The hands and markers retain generous lume, ensuring readability in low light while contributing to a premium feel overall.
Movement and accuracy: a practical step up
The 60 Automatic’s calibre 8310 brings a 60-hour power reserve and a modern look on the movement side, with rhodium plating, blue screws, and visible decoration. In daily use, expect accuracy within -20/+40 seconds per day, a typical range for a watch in this category. The combination of longer power reserve and a more attractive movement appearance helps justify the higher price versus the NJ015 while maintaining accessibility compared with higher-end Swiss rivals.
wearability, value, and comparison
On the wrist, the Tsuyosa 60 Automatic feels substantial yet comfortable. The 40mm version is a clean, versatile option for most wrists, while the 37mm variant caters to smaller wrists or those seeking a more understated presence. While some may notice the larger silhouette, the improved bracelet and refined dial texture elevate the overall impression to “premium-like” within an affordable segment.
From a value perspective, the Tsuyosa 60 Automatic positions itself as a strong alternative to popular Seiko 5 Sports and the mid-range Tissot PRX — though priced more accessibly than many Swiss options in the same tier. The combination of a stronger movement, better finishing, and revised bracelet makes the 60 Automatic a compelling buy for enthusiasts who want a stylish, reliable daily wearer without paying a premium for luxury branding.
Conclusion: a well-rounded evolution
The Tsuyosa 60 Automatic is not a radical departure from its forebear, but it is a thoughtful, value-forward evolution. With a longer power reserve, a more refined movement, an upgraded bracelet, and a dial texture that adds subtle depth, Citizen has addressed many of the original model’s perceived shortcomings. At its current price, it presents a very attractive package for anyone seeking a stylish daily wearer that doesn’t break the bank, while still offering enough character to stand out in a crowded field.
