For years, fans of integrated bracelet watches had few options if they had smaller wrists. While the watch industry has seen a surge in sporty integrated models inspired by high-end legends like the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak or the Patek Philippe Nautilus, most entries come in large case sizes — typically 40mm or more. For many enthusiasts, especially those with wrists under 6.75 inches, that size range can feel overwhelming. Enter the Citizen Tsuyosa 37mm, a new variant of the beloved affordable sports watch that’s finally giving the smaller-wristed crowd something to get excited about.
In this review, we’ll dive deep into what makes the Citizen Tsuyosa 37mm such a standout — from its design and wearability to its movement and value proposition. Spoiler alert: this might just be one of the most compelling watches under $500 right now.
First Impressions: Downsized, Not Downgraded
The original Tsuyosa line debuted in a 40mm case, offering a sleek, modern look with retro undertones and — crucially — an integrated bracelet that flows seamlessly from the case. That initial release was already well-received for its value, but Citizen listened to feedback and introduced a more compact 37mm version in 2024.
On wrist, the 37mm Tsuyosa feels just right. It preserves all the aesthetic hallmarks of its larger sibling but offers a better fit for smaller wrists. The watch doesn’t lose its presence either — the polished center links and crisp case finishing give it an upscale feel well beyond its price point.
Key Specifications at a Glance
| Feature | Citizen Tsuyosa 37mm |
|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 37mm |
| Lug-to-Lug Distance | 44mm |
| Case Thickness | 11.7mm |
| Movement | Citizen Caliber 8210 (Automatic) |
| Power Reserve | 40 hours |
| Water Resistance | 50 meters |
| Crystal | Sapphire |
| Bracelet | Integrated Stainless Steel |
| Price (Approx.) | $450 USD |
Design & Wearability: Form Meets Function
From the first glance, it’s clear that the Tsuyosa takes design cues from iconic integrated sports watches, but it isn’t trying to be a copycat. The softly rounded case with brushed surfaces and polished chamfers feels modern yet vintage-inspired. The 37mm case hits a sweet spot — large enough to look contemporary, small enough to stay elegant.
The real star is the bracelet. Integrated into the case, it tapers gently and wears snugly without any sharp edges. The butterfly clasp is a pleasant surprise at this price point and adds to the seamless visual appeal. Whether you’re wearing the watch in casual or dressy settings, it never looks out of place.
In terms of comfort, the watch wears much like a 36mm Oyster Perpetual — balanced, lightweight, and low-profile. For anyone with a wrist size between 5.75 and 6.75 inches, this is arguably one of the most wearable watches out there.
Dial Variants: Colors That Pop
Citizen didn’t hold back on dial options. Like the original 40mm Tsuyosa, the 37mm variant is offered in a vibrant range of colors including:
- Emerald Green
- Midnight Blue
- Sunburst Yellow
- Classic Black
- Ice Blue (arguably the most sought-after)
Each dial features sunburst finishing, giving it an ever-changing appearance depending on lighting conditions. The applied hour markers and polished hands enhance legibility and add a touch of elegance. There’s also a date window at 3 o’clock with a cyclops magnifier — a divisive detail, but one that underscores the watch’s everyday practicality.
Movement: Reliable and Time-Tested
Powering the Tsuyosa 37mm is Citizen’s in-house Caliber 8210 — a workhorse automatic movement based on the Miyota 8215 architecture. It beats at 21,600 vibrations per hour (6 beats per second) and offers a respectable 40-hour power reserve.
While it doesn’t hack (the second hand doesn’t stop when setting the time), it does hand-wind and has proven reliability. Accuracy is generally within -20 to +40 seconds per day, which is perfectly acceptable for a watch in this price range.
An exhibition case back lets you peek at the movement, which is minimally decorated but still satisfying to observe, especially for those new to mechanical watches.
Real-World Performance: A Daily Driver
Over several weeks of wear, the Tsuyosa 37mm performed admirably. It held up well during daily office use, casual weekend outings, and even during light outdoor activities. The 50-meter water resistance means it can handle splashes or rain, though it’s not suited for swimming or diving.
The sapphire crystal remained scratch-free, and the bracelet — though not adjustable via micro-adjustments — proved secure and didn’t pinch or pull hairs.
The only downside is the lack of lume. While the polished hands and markers catch the light well, visibility drops off quickly in the dark. This might be a dealbreaker for those needing a nighttime companion, but it’s forgivable given the watch’s elegant leanings.
The Verdict: A Big Win in a Smaller Package
In a world filled with oversized watches, the Citizen Tsuyosa 37mm feels like a breath of fresh air. It brings the integrated bracelet style down to an accessible size without compromising on design, quality, or mechanical integrity.
At under $500, you get:
- Timeless styling
- Mechanical movement with exhibition case back
- Integrated stainless steel bracelet with a premium clasp
- Sapphire crystal protection
And most importantly: it just looks and feels right on the wrist. For those with smaller wrists or those simply tired of the “bigger is better” mantra in watchmaking, this is a slam dunk.
The Tsuyosa 37mm may not be the most hyped watch on the market, but it’s easily one of the smartest buys in today’s entry-level luxury landscape. If you’re after an elegant daily-wear sports watch that nods to the greats without trying to be one — and fits like a dream — the Citizen Tsuyosa 37mm should be at the very top of your list.
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