Thanks to their technical precision, innovative mindset and design excellence, Citizen is one of the most trusted names in the watchmaking world. Their portfolio includes a wide range of timepieces for both men and women; many of which follow a sport-inspired design. While the Japanese brand places a strong focus on the aesthetic of its watches, their functionality has not been pushed aside. As emphasised through the quality craftsmanship and technologies that go into each watch, Citizen’s commitment to excellence is unmatched. Over the past few years, the brand has seen a growth in popularity; more and more people are wanting to purchase a Citizen. As a result, we have curated this list of 5 things you should know before buying a Citizen. Keep reading to discover what these are!
5 Things You Should Know Before Buying a Citizen
1. The brand has a long history
Citizen Watch Co., Ltd., founded in 1930 in Tokyo, Japan, has become a globally respected brand known for pioneering advancements in watchmaking. Originally a small watch institute established in 1918, the brand was named “Citizen” to reflect its mission of creating high-quality, accessible watches for people worldwide. Early on, Citizen focused on producing timepieces with durability and precision, quickly gaining popularity in Japan and expanding internationally. From producing the first electronic watch to the first full metal case radio-controlled watch with a built-in antenna, Citizen created a world of first within the horological world. And it’s through these decades of innovation, as well as a commitment to accessible luxury, that they remain a leader in the global watch industry.
2. Citizen pride themselves on creating eco-mindful watches
One of Citizen’s most significant contributions to horology came with its Eco-Drive technology, introduced in 1976, which uses light as a power source to eliminate the need for batteries. This innovation helped shape the industry standard for eco-friendly watch technology and remains a hallmark of Citizen’s products today. In addition to this, the Japanese brand utilises a range of sustainable materials in the production of its watches. From dials made of recycled materials to knitted watch straps made from upcycled PET bottles, Citizen is serious about reducing environmental impacts.
3. Citizen has a strong relationship with the Red Arrows
The Red Arrows are a world-renowned aerobatic display team and ambassadors of the Royal Air Force. Since the team was officially formed in 1965, they have completed over 4,800 displays in 57 countries worldwide; how impressive! The Red Arrows’ reputation is built on commitment and professionalism, combined with high precision performance, unrivalled skill, passion and equipment. It is these qualities that make the Red Arrows perfect long-term partners of Citizen. As part of this partnership, Citizen has produced a variety of Red Arrows-themed watches. While the design and features are different across the collection, they all pay homage to the aerobatic display in a special way.
4. Citizen have created a range of impressive technologies
After imagining one potential future, Citizen apply their passion and curiosity to the challenges it may bring. From this process, technologies that astonish and delight are born. These technologies are inspired by the futures that Citizen imagine, and it’s this belief that motivates the brand to innovate as it does so today. From Eco-Drive to Super Titanium™ and Satellite GPS Timekeeping, the technologies that Citizen produces place both technical precision and quality craftsmanship at the centre.
5. The brand has a diverse portfolio of watches
Citizen has a diverse portfolio of timepieces for both men and women. From elegant dress watches to innovative chronographs, there is something for every taste and style! Citizen also uses a variety of movements to ensure each individual can find a watch that suits their lifestyle. No matter what type of watch you choose, with a Citizen, style and quality is certain. The wide selection of watches is also reasonably priced, which illustrates Citizen’s efforts to make their portfolio accessible for all.
Our Favourite Citizen Pieces
Citizen Promaster Air Geo Trekker Layers of Time Limited Edition (46mm) Blue Dial / Grey ION Steel Bracelet BY3005-56E
This timepiece represents the unique embodiment of Citizen’s watchmaking. The data-driven dial, with touches of greens, purples and blues, exhibits luminous, silver-tone baton indices and three sub-dials. Other functions of the watch include luminous hour, minute and second hands, a date aperture at 4 o’clock, a northern hemisphere rotating disc at 6 o’clock, power reserve indication, world time, and a slide rule bezel function. Measuring 46mm in diameter, a bold grey ion-plated stainless steel case frames the dial. A scratch-resistant sapphire crystal protects the dial, and together with the case, guarantees a durable design. Moreover, the watch is water-resistant up to 200 metres (20 bar). This watch utilises Citizen’s Eco-Drive technology. Powered by any light and never requiring a battery change, it is a reliable and sustainable choice for missions and everyday wear alike. A five-link grey ion-plated stainless steel bracelet concludes the design of this distinctive sports watch.
Citizen Zenshin Super Titanium ‘Zenshin Chrono’ (42mm) Light Turquoise Dial / Super Titanium Bracelet CA4610-85M
With a distinctly modern style, this Citizen is sure to stand out on the wrist. The textured light turquoise dial exhibits an outer tachymeter scale and a triple register configuration in black. Alongside this, the dial features luminous baton indices, luminous silver-tone hands and a date aperture. Measuring 42mm in diameter, a Super Titanium™ case, with a sapphire crystal, protects the dial. Lightweight, hypoallergenic and also resistant to rusting, it ensures great comfort on the wrist. The stylised crown at 3 o’clock aids the watch’s 100-metre water resistance rating whereas the two stylish chronograph pushers allow the wearer to control the 12/24 hour time, date, running time and split-second chronograph. Eco-Drive technology powers this watch, so it never requires a battery change. No matter the light conditions, you can remain confident this watch won’t fail you. Matching the case, a Super Titanium™ bracelet secures the watch on the wrist.
Citizen Women’s Dress Eco-Drive (28mm) Pink Dial / Rose Gold-Tone Stainless Steel Bracelet EM0993-82X
This Citizen is an elegant addition to any wrist. Soft and stunning, the light pink dial exhibits rose gold-tone baton indices and matching rose gold-tone hands. While the dial design is simple, it does not take away from the beautiful appeal of the watch. Rather, it takes it to a new height. Complementing the hands and indices, a rose gold-tone stainless steel case frames the dial. Measuring 28mm in diameter, it lends a pretty, petite look to the wrist. Moreover, this case safely houses the watch’s solar-powered quartz movement; also known as Eco-Drive. Eco-Drive converts both natural and artificial light into energy, so no matter your lighting conditions, the watch will continue to run. A rose gold-tone stainless steel bracelet, with a fold-over clasp, concludes the design of this stylish and sustainable timepiece.
If these 5 things you should know before buying a Citizen have provided you with more understanding of the Japanese brand, and you are now confident that you want to buy one of their watches, click here to view the selection on our website.
What are your thoughts on our 5 things you should know before buying a Citizen? Did any of the reasons take you by surprise? Let us know in the comments!