Citizen Challenge Timer 'Tsuno' Review

Citizen 'bullhead' - a cult chronograph reintroduced as the Challenge Timer, with a design rooted in the 1970s.

Now Citizen is bringing this model, previously available only in Japan, to the European market with its distinctive button and crown placement at the top of the case.

This reissue is significant for a simple reason. Demand for the Citizen Bullhead increased after Brad Pitt wore such a model in the movie 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood'. Citizen offers a more affordable version with a quartz movement priced at €229, making the watch accessible to a much wider audience.

New Citizen Challenge Timer 'Tsuno' Model

Citizen crafted the Challenge Timer, strictly adhering to the original 1973 design. The case diameter is 38 mm, maintaining proportions close to the vintage style. The overall design is executed with a high degree of authenticity, which is particularly important to collectors familiar with the original.

The nickname 'Tsuno', meaning 'horn' in Japanese, explains the layout. It refers to the horn-like button arrangement at the 11 and 1 o'clock positions. This configuration is borrowed from handheld stopwatches, where buttons are placed on top for easy handling. After experiencing this new Citizen model, I can confirm that the ease of use remains high.

Citizen positions this model as an affordable entry into the world of Bullhead chronographs. Transitioning to an in-house quartz movement signifies a clear shift from the original mechanical caliber. This reduces costs and simplifies operation. Priced at €229, the Citizen Challenge Timer is aimed at young enthusiasts and collectors seeking historically significant watches without the typical issues of vintage models.

Technical Specifications

The Citizen Challenge Timer 'Tsuno' features a stainless steel case with compact dimensions of 38 × 11.7 mm, consistent with the original model. The dial is protected by mineral glass. The shape of the case allows the buttons to be placed on top without excessively increasing wrist size. The watch comes with a simple stainless steel bracelet with single fold-over links and a sliding clasp similar to those used in Milanese bracelets.

Inside is the in-house quartz caliber 0510. It supports chronograph functions with maximum measurement up to 12 hours and accuracy to one second. The movement also includes a date function, displayed on the dial around the 4:45 position, and has an accuracy of ±20 seconds per month.

Citizen offers two dial versions. The standard model features a white 'panda' dial with black sub-dials. The second is a limited edition of 4000 pieces with a luminescent green dial. In both versions, the chronograph hands and the second hand are painted orange, except for the hour and minute hands. At first glance, this looks like functional color coding, but in reality, it is more of a stylistic choice, as the second hand should have remained uncolored for better readability.

Impressions of Wearing the Citizen Challenge Timer 'Tsuno'

Wearing the Bullhead evokes associations with vintage watches, primarily due to the case proportions. The wrist feel is somewhat unusual due to the pebble-like case shape, which is quite high on a thin bracelet. This creates a slight upward shift in the center of gravity, despite the overall light weight. Wearing does not cause discomfort but differs from the usual feel of watches with a tightly fitting bracelet.

Personally, I prefer the standard version with the 'panda' dial over the limited model with a luminescent dial. It appears more restrained and expensive, and better conveys the romance of vintage watches that Citizen Bullhead fans seek. The limited version seems brighter and more eccentric.

The bracelet is very comfortable due to its thinness and short links. Although there are watches with more secure wrist fixation, this bracelet performs its functions at an adequate level. Overall, the Citizen Challenge Timer offers excellent value for money at a price of €229. The only minor note is the date window placement, which I believe would be more convenient at the 4:30 mark instead of 4:45. Otherwise, these are light, interesting, and well-crafted watches.

Your Opinion on the Citizen Challenge Timer 'Tsuno'

What do you think about the new Citizen Challenge Timer 'Tsuno' chronographs? Share your opinion in the comments.

Watch Technical Specifications

This review explores the features of the Citizen Challenge Timer 'Tsuno' and assists potential buyers and collectors in making an informed choice, considering the historical significance and technical specifications of the model.