IFL Watches Introduces The Fun Citizen Tsuyosa Automatic Space Surfer

IFL Watches is one of the remarkable success stories of the past few years within the world of watches. I vividly remember seeing the brand’s Tissot PRX Arctic Sky and Midnight Sky models for the first time. At the hands of IFLW’s artists, the PRX had transformed into something even more unique with beautiful handpainted dials. I even thought of buying one before a regular PRX. Ever since then, I have been watching all the different releases that the Stockholm-based company has created. We have seen several models from G-Shock, Tissot, Oris, Timex, and Seiko, but the newest brand to join that list is Citizen. IFL Watches made a special custom version of the brand’s popular Tsuyosa Automatic model called the Space Surfer. It’s time to find out more.

When the Citizen NJ0150 debuted in 2022, it gained a lot of favorable reviews. The yellow-dial version that Robert-Jan reviewed was an immediate standout, but I equally enjoyed reviewing the more conventional black- and blue-dial versions. With a price under €300, these models offer something special in the realm of affordable sports watches with integrated bracelets. And that unique position was further strengthened by introducing four more models in early 2023. Perhaps that’s why, since then, Citizen has taken to calling this collection Tsuyosa, meaning “strength” in Japanese (強さ). Regardless, I loved those newest models even more because they showed a nice variety of dial options. But when it comes to special dials, leave it up to the team at IFLW to come up with something fun and memorable.

The new IFL Watches Space Surfer

The new IFLW Space Surfer is based on the black-dial version of the Tsuyosa Automatic. Every dial is carefully removed and customized with enamel paint to realize the interstellar adventure of the surfing astronaut. According to the team at IFL Watches, the artwork takes inspiration from the spirit of pioneers and trailblazers who dare to dream big. For them, life is not about checking boxes; rather, it is a playground of unlimited possibilities.

To express that spirit, the surfing astronaut on the dial of this watch reminds us of not being confined by boundaries or gravity. In the world of space exploration, the adventure and excitement of the unknown led to the opportunity to create and discover new things. It’s also representative of the spirit that characterizes the people at IFL Watches. Every limited-edition timepiece that they create is another adventure and a break from the norm. The team’s artists customize watches for an audience who is less interested in conventional timepieces and loves the combination of watches and modern street art.

A closer look at the dial of the Space Surfer

Looking closely, the first step in creating this fun and playful dial is applying all the dots in the background. This creates the feel and depth of the universe. It is achieved by applying an abstract pointillism technique and painting every dot on the dial by hand in different colors and sizes. The next step, in great style, is painting the planet and the image of the space surfer riding the rings or “the wave,” so to speak. As you can see, the colorful image is created with a nice palette of different colors.

But the key to every IFLW creation is maximum impact on multiple levels. First off, the dial colors need to stand out from a distance. Therefore, the need for large, colorful parts is a must. The Space Surfer combines the blackness of space with the popping turquoise shades of the ringed planet. The next thing you notice is the space surfer riding a flame-spitting surfboard, telling the story of the piece. Finally, if you zoom in on all the details, you will discover shades of blue, orange, yellow, and red in the stars and all the intricacies and incredible effort that went into creating this special dial.

The specs of the Citizen Tsuyosa Automatic

The watch features a 40mm stainless steel case that is 11.7mm thick and 49mm long. A big draw of this model is the integrated stainless steel bracelet with a folding clasp, making it easy to wear. Inside the case, you will find the in-house Citizen 8210 movement. This automatic caliber operates at a 21,600vph frequency and provides a 40-hour power reserve. You can see the movement through the display case back.

The team at IFL Watches will create this new Space Surfer in a limited run of 150 pieces. As each dial is painted by hand, you will understand that each example is unique. It is a nice touch to a fun and colorful watch. It tells an uplifting story and makes for a great first custom Citizen Tsyosa Automatic. These 150 pieces will be available for a price of €890. That is a substantial chunk of money on top of the €299 retail price of the standard Tsuyosa. But remember the care and effort that go into painting these dials, which are the perfect proof of the skills and dedication of the IFL Watches team.

Final thoughts on the new Citizen Tsuyosa Automatic Space Surfer by ILFW

I love that the guys at IFL Watches have added the Citizen Tsuyosa Automatic to their lineup. It’s a great, affordable daily wearer that connects perfectly to the creative treatment we have seen with the different Tissot PRX models. And those are some of the best that the Stockholm-based team has created over time. As a result of this choice, I can’t wait to see what IFLW comes up with for future releases.

This effort is fun and colorful, representing the uplifting spirit of exploration and adventure. If you buy the watch with that concept in mind, you’ll be reminded of your daily adventures and possible future adventures. Additionally, I like how the team at IFLW has merged the worlds of abstract pointillism and animated storytelling. That’s why I am sure all 150 pieces will sell out quickly. This Space Surfer is another great page in the adventure book of IFL Watches. For now, it’s a book that has no ending in sight.

For more information or to buy the new Space Surfer, head to the official IFL Watches website, where the watch will be available to purchase from 4pm CET today. In the comments section, let us know your thoughts on this new Citizen Tsuyosa with its customized dial.