The last time we were hands-on with the Citizen Promaster Fugu, it was in more of a classic vintage dive-watch scheme, with a black dial, yellow accents, and a rubber strap (you can see that review here). That was a year ago, though. Since that review, we’ve been spending a lot more time with a version that’s a bit more aimed at us “desk divers”, giving a dressier look to things. So, let’s talk about this version of the Citizen Promaster Fugu.
What’s changed?
As compared to the Citizen Promaster Fugu (ref. NY0130-08E) that we reviewed before, the watches are much the same. It has the same movement, same case, and all the same specs. The big difference is the switch to a steel bracelet, and the all-blue dial and bezel insert. Sure, you lose some of those classic dive watch color cues, but I’m also not a diver. So, this means that – for me – this version of the Citizen Promaster Fugu makes a lot more sense in my day-to-day.
Daily wear
So, why is the Citizen Promaster Fugu so perfect for what I like in a watch? First off, it has a pretty bold wrist presence. The 44mm case is large, which gives you plenty of dial. Despite that, the watch wears a good bit smaller. There are curves from the crystal down to the midcase, and then back to the caseback. Pair that with a “destro” style crown and the 20mm bracelet, and you have a watch that is as compact as it can be.
Speaking of that bracelet – I like bracelets on watches. I think it brings just about any watch a little more upscale, which makes it feel appropriate for the office and daily life. And yes, I have been wearing this one with a suit as well. I suppose if you were doing a bunch of yard work, the bracelet might just get crudded up. Short of that, though, it works for most anything.
Finally, there’s that dial on the Citizen Promaster Fugu. Blue is my favorite color, so that really gave it a leg up. It is a darker blue, but compared to the black dial on our original review, it really allows you to see that pattern on the dial, which I appreciate. Add in a color-matched bezel insert, and you’ve got a classic blue-and-silver color palette that works for anything.
Wrapping things up
If you couldn’t tell, I’ve really enjoyed having this longer-term time with the Citizen Promaster Fugu (courtesy of our friends over at Citizen). When I’m getting ready to head out the door, if I haven’t had a specific review loaner I was focused on, I found myself grabbing the Fugu more often than not.
The style on the watch is great, and it has just the right level of boldness to it. For those of us with eyes that weren’t what they used to be, the generously-sized handset and indices are great (and wow, do they light up at night!). The day/date can feel a tad small, but on a diver, that’s just a bonus readout. And speaking of bonuses – while the MSRP on the Citizen Promaster Fugu is $595 (a solid value in our book), right now it’s marked 25% off for Mother’s Day, bringing it down to $446.25. You can order yours, on the bracelet or the rubber strap, directly from citizenwatch.com
Citizen Promaster Fugu Tech Specs
- Caliber 8204
- 44mm stainless steel case / 20mm lugs
- 3 Hand / Day / Date
- Sapphire Crystal
- Water Resistance 200M
- Stainless steel bracelet
- Fold Over Clasp with Hidden Double Push Buttons
- Screw down case back closure
- Rotating Bezel
- Luminous Hands & Markers
- Screw Down Crown
- Fugu Icon on Case-back
