In the ever-growing world of affordable integrated bracelet watches, two standout contenders have captured the attention of enthusiasts and newcomers alike: the Tissot PRX and the Citizen Tsuyosa. Often pitted against each other on Reddit forums and YouTube reviews, these two timepieces bring their strengths to the table, whether you’re looking for Swiss pedigree or Japanese precision. But when it comes to choosing just one, which deserves a spot on your wrist?
In this detailed comparison, we’ll break down the Tissot PRX Quartz and Powermatic 80 versus the Citizen Tsuyosa NJ015, exploring key differences in design, movement, specifications, wearability, pricing, and more. Let’s help you decide which one is the better fit for your lifestyle.
Table of Contents
📃 Summary Table: Tissot PRX vs Citizen Tsuyosa
| Feature | Tissot PRX Quartz | Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 | Citizen Tsuyosa NJ015 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Movement | Swiss Quartz | Swiss Automatic (Powermatic 80) | Japanese Automatic (Miyota 8210) |
| Power Reserve | ~2-3 years battery | 80 hours | ~40 hours |
| Case Size | 35mm / 40mm | 40mm | 40mm |
| Thickness | ~10.4mm (Quartz) | ~11.3mm | ~11.7mm |
| Water Resistance | 100m | 100m | 50m |
| Price Range (USD) | $300 – $375 | $650 – $750 | $300 – $350 |
| Bracelet | Integrated steel bracelet | Integrated steel bracelet | Integrated Jubilee-style bracelet |
| Lume Quality | Minimal | Moderate | Moderate |
| Display Back | No | Yes | Yes |
| Brand Origin | Switzerland | Switzerland | Japan |
| Style | Dress-sport hybrid | Dress-sport hybrid | Dress-casual |
🕱️ Design & Wearability
Tissot PRX: With sharp lines, a polished integrated bracelet, and a bold 1970s retro aesthetic, the PRX is one of the cleanest, most visually impactful designs under $1,000. Whether you go with the sleek quartz dial or the textured waffle design of the Powermatic 80, it oozes luxury in both size variants (35mm and 40mm).
Citizen Tsuyosa: Also leaning into retro charm, the Tsuyosa feels like a cousin of the PRX, but it offers a softer, more rounded aesthetic. The bracelet features polished center links in a Jubilee style, giving it a playful, almost vintage Rolex-like appeal. Its bright dial colors (blue, green, yellow, turquoise) make it stand out, especially for summer wear.
Winner – Design: Tissot PRX for timeless sharpness; Tsuyosa for fun and bold flair.
⏲️ Movement & Accuracy
Tissot PRX Quartz: If you want set-it-and-forget-it accuracy, the PRX Quartz is hard to beat. It offers years of accurate timekeeping with minimal maintenance.
Tissot PRX Powermatic 80: This automatic version steps up the game with an impressive 80-hour power reserve and a Nivachron balance spring to improve anti-magnetism. However, it includes some plastic parts in the movement, which has led to mixed reviews about serviceability.
Citizen Tsuyosa: Inside ticks the Miyota 8210, a robust workhorse movement with a 40-hour power reserve. It doesn’t hack or hand-wind as smoothly as the Powermatic, and its beat rate is a lower 21,600 bph. But it’s reliable and easy to maintain.
Winner – Movement: PRX Quartz for convenience; Powermatic 80 for innovation; Tsuyosa for value.
💲 Pricing & Value
Tissot PRX Quartz: Around $300-$375 USD, the PRX Quartz is a phenomenal deal for those who want luxury looks without the fuss.
Tissot PRX Powermatic 80: At $650-$750, the automatic PRX brings mechanical prestige into a mid-range budget, but you’ll be paying double compared to the Tsuyosa.
Citizen Tsuyosa: Often priced at ~$300, the Tsuyosa is incredible value for a full-steel automatic watch. For budget-conscious buyers or first-time mechanical watch owners, it’s a low-risk, high-reward option.
Winner – Value: Tsuyosa takes the win for overall affordability.
📊 Specs & Build Quality
Case & Bracelet: The PRX has a more angular and sculpted bracelet integration, giving it a seamless luxury feel. The Tsuyosa’s bracelet, while attractive, doesn’t taper as well and feels lighter and more rattly by comparison.
Crystal: Both watches use sapphire crystals—though in some markets, the Tsuyosa might come with mineral glass, so double-check your region.
Case Finishing: The PRX offers superior brushing and polishing across the case and bracelet. The Tsuyosa looks good from afar, but up close, the finishing is a bit rougher.
Water Resistance: The PRX wins here with 100m of water resistance, while the Tsuyosa trails with 50m. Neither is a dive watch, but the PRX can handle pool days better.
Winner – Build: Tissot PRX in both variants.
🚪 Everyday Wear & Comfort
Citizen Tsuyosa: Slightly thicker and chunkier, but it wears comfortably thanks to its rounded lugs and mid-case. Perfect for casual and colorful outfits.
Tissot PRX Quartz: With a slimmer profile, the PRX Quartz slides easily under sleeves and feels light and elegant. It’s ideal for workwear and minimalist styling.
Tissot PRX Powermatic 80: Slightly thicker but still wears well thanks to excellent ergonomics.
Winner – Comfort: PRX Quartz for daily ease; Tsuyosa for casual flair.
🚀 Lume, Display, and Extras
Lume: Neither watch is a lume monster. The Tsuyosa has decent lume on the hands and markers, but don’t expect diver-level brightness. The PRX’s lume is very subtle and fades quickly.
Case Back: Both automatic versions (Powermatic 80 and Tsuyosa) offer see-through casebacks, which is a nice bonus for those who like admiring the movement.
Dial Variants: Tsuyosa wins in fun—its vibrant dials are full of personality. PRX leans toward conservative, elegant designs.
Winner – Extras: Tie, depending on your taste.
🤔 So…Tissot PRX or Citizen Tsuyosa?
Still undecided? Here’s the final verdict based on common buyer profiles:
Choose the Tissot PRX Quartz if:
- You want ultra-accurate timekeeping
- You love vintage integrated bracelet styles
- You don’t want to worry about winding or servicing
- You’re after a low-maintenance daily driver
Choose the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 if:
- You want Swiss mechanical engineering
- You appreciate long power reserves (80 hours!)
- You don’t mind higher upfront costs for quality
Choose the Citizen Tsuyosa NJ015 if:
- You’re on a budget and want an automatic movement
- You love colorful, expressive dials
- You prefer Japanese reliability
- You want a great entry-level mechanical watch
✨ Final Thoughts
Tissot PRX vs Citizen Tsuyosa is a close battle of design, heritage, and horological personality. Both are excellent watches, but they cater to slightly different audiences. If you value sleek minimalism and Swiss precision, the PRX Quartz or Powermatic 80 is your winner. But if you’re looking for fun, affordability, and mechanical character, the Citizen Tsuyosa won’t disappoint.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a new enthusiast, either watch will bring joy to your wrist and style to your wardrobe. And the best part? You can’t really go wrong.
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