When discussing ultra-affordable entry-level watches, the Citizen Tsuyosa series is often mentioned among enthusiasts.
Since the Japanese brand first introduced the Tsuyosa model in 2022, this line has gained immense popularity. Over the past four years, there have been vibrant dial variations in the original 40mm size, reduced 37mm versions, and models with small seconds. In its latest release, Citizen has transformed elegant daily wear watches into stylish sports watches. The addition of a rotating bezel and improved technical specifications has made the new Tsuyosa Shore series a potential favorite among fans. I had the opportunity to explore these new models in detail.
My most recent experience with Tsuyosa was not with a regular brand model. A few months ago, I was fortunate to test a fun limited edition Citizen × Seconde/Seconde/ Tsuyosa Limited Edition. This playful interpretation perfectly reflects what I love about the Tsuyosa series.
Both the standard 40mm models and the reduced 37mm versions represent elegant everyday watches that look significantly more expensive than their actual cost. This is a remarkable achievement, and commercial success only confirms it. In the new series, Citizen has introduced four models that take Tsuyosa to a new level. The new Tsuyosa Shore series is a sports version that will surely appeal to fans.
The History of the New Citizen Tsuyosa Shore Series
If you were to describe the new series in a few words, most would say it's a sports version of the regular Tsuyosa due to the addition of a rotating bezel. And that would be fair. However, Citizen has also enhanced the technical specifications, making the Tsuyosa Shore ready for water use. The water resistance has been increased from 50 to 100 meters, ensuring the watches are ready for summer adventures on both land and water. While these watches cannot be called professional divers, they are perfect as sporty summer models.
As mentioned, I was able to familiarize myself with all four new models. They all have the same average case as the original Tsuyosa, but the overall case dimensions have slightly changed due to stylistic alterations.
The new case has a diameter of 40mm, a thickness of 12.5mm, and a length of 45mm. Additionally, it features a signature recessed crown with a pull-out mechanism located at the 4 o'clock position.
The case smoothly transitions into the familiar President-style bracelet. Both elements combine polished and matte surfaces, giving the watch a luxurious feel. The bracelet is equipped with a folding clasp with a button for secure fitting on the wrist. The quality of the bracelet and clasp is quite good, ensuring comfort when worn.
All new models are equipped with a rotating bezel with an aluminum insert and a 60-minute scale. The color of the insert matches the dial, which is protected by sapphire glass with a date magnifier - another signature element of the Tsuyosa series. The four novelties are presented in various colors and styles.
| Model | Case Color | Dial and Bezel Color |
|---|---|---|
| NJ0230-59L | Steel | Dark Blue |
| NJ0231-56 | Steel | Marine Blue |
| NJ0232-53X | Gold | Moss Green |
| NJ0234-58X | Two-tone | Coral Red |
Dial Design Features
Looking at the dials of all four models, you can see that the main elements have remained the same. All dials have a radial-brushed sunray finish and applied hour markers. The first change compared to the regular models is the minute markings with detailed second divisions, adding visual sophistication.
Another update is the hands. Citizen chose two large sword-shaped hands instead of the usual batons. The second hand with a "paddle" adds an additional stylish accent. All three hands are filled with luminescent material for easy reading in the dark.
Inside the cases of all models is the proprietary caliber 8210, which is also used in the standard 40mm and 37mm versions. The automatic movement operates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour, contains 21 jewels, and provides a power reserve of up to 40 hours. Additionally, the movement supports manual winding and hacking. As I noted in previous reviews, this is a simple and reliable movement that is perfect for everyday wear in the Tsuyosa series.
Wearing the New Citizen Tsuyosa Shore
On the wrist, the new Shore models immediately demonstrate their difference from the regular Tsuyosa. Despite retaining many signature elements, the watches have evolved into a sporty direction. Citizen's designers successfully integrated these changes, maintaining visual balance and proportions, ensuring the watches look harmonious and recognizable.
Despite the slight increase in thickness, the watches are comfortable on the wrist. The flexible President-style bracelets are very comfortable, and the button clasp securely fastens the watches. The polished central links of the bracelet, inherited from the standard model, create a pleasant contrast with the matte side links. This element emphasizes that the Tsuyosa Shore is not a rigid diver's watch, but a sporty version for everyday wear.
Final Thoughts on the New Citizen Tsuyosa Shore Series
The new Citizen Tsuyosa Shore series is a fresh take on a proven concept. This is a smart move by Citizen, which will further increase the popularity of the Tsuyosa collection. The new series offers a more casual option for those who were not interested in the initial models. At the same time, the Tsuyosa Shore perfectly complements the standard watches, creating a convenient duo for different situations. Personally, I would take both models on a summer vacation: the Tsuyosa Shore for daytime wear and the standard Tsuyosa for evening events.
As for the choice, it all depends on personal preferences. I liked the marine blue model with the almost turquoise dial and bezel the most. This shade creates a fresh and pleasant look for the steel case. The gold and two-tone versions are brighter and more noticeable on the wrist, which requires a certain taste.
Nevertheless, the combination of gold and green looks stylish and is enjoyable to wear. In terms of price, the two steel models cost €329, the two-tone model €349, and the gold model €359. Overall, Citizen has done an excellent job creating the Tsuyosa Shore series. This proves there's still much to expect from the popular line, and we eagerly await new releases from the brand. For now, the Tsuyosa Shore series will undoubtedly become another successful product from Citizen.