Shinichi Enomoto

The Essential Role of a Watch

A watch, as its name suggests, is an instrument that marks the passage of time. This model focuses on how to make that time as easy to read and as beautiful as possible. Not only are the shapes and finishes of the hands and indexes, and the large, highly legible date display carefully considered, but the case and bezel are also composed of multiple surfaces that are skillfully combined. This results in a beautiful finish from any angle, thanks to the way they reflect light. In the case of a three-hand layout, which can often appear monotonous, the power reserve indicator positioned at 10 o'clock adds a distinctive touch and expresses individuality. The symbolic emblem on the case back provides a sense of satisfaction to the wearer, while the case size and the way the lugs are shaped ensure a comfortable fit on the wrist. The design fulfills the essential role of a watch worthy of the name The CITIZEN. Elegant and refined, this is a timepiece exuding luxury.

POWER IN THE GLASS

"VITRO" means "inside the glass" in Latin. While this "glass" appears to be completely transparent, in reality, it contains semiconductors arranged in ultra-fine lines that are invisible to the human eye. In other words, this "glass" is a transparent solar cell. To emphasize its transparency, a transparent case back has been adopted, allowing you to see through the case. This is a challenging idea that creates multiple layers within the limited space of a women's model. In CITIZEN products, the connection between technology and beauty is extremely close and powerful. Designers are always striving to challenge new forms of expression that can surprise people by deeply understanding this correlation between technology and beauty, and the solar cell within this glass has become one of the footprints moving forward. We are always imagining the future that awaits beyond this point.

The Base Design

This model breaks away from the conventional design of placing an aviation slide rule on a rotating bezel, instead incorporating a rotating ring inside the case and keeping the exterior as simple as possible. This design became the foundation for subsequent PROMASTER pilot radio-controlled watches and has been carried on for many years. It was also the first time that the reception function display for the radio-controlled watch was shown at the "tail" of the second hand, and that a double-layered dial was used for the Eco-Drive, attempting a dial design with a large visible area. These design techniques, now standard, originated with this model. Even though the dial could easily become cluttered with elements like the slide rule and minute track, the use of Arabic numeral indexes at 12 and 6 o'clock makes the time easy to read. The case design expresses a stripped-down, functional beauty without waste. The dial design skillfully conveys both legibility and a sense of precision. By combining a titanium exterior treated with MRK processing, Eco-Drive functionality, and radio-controlled features, the watch is light, scratch-resistant, never stops, and never loses accuracy, providing true practicality for users. This is a model where technology is brilliantly elevated through design, and its influence on CITIZEN's design philosophy is truly significant.

Expression of Elements

At the heart of this model lies the distinctive 'multi-function' as its core 'element.' How these 'elements' have been expressed from a design perspective is reflected in the high level of completion of this watch. The unique configuration, such as displaying the charge level in a fan shape and using its center as the 12 o'clock index, is one of this model's attractions. At the same time, many elements are arranged on the dial and ring in layers and surfaces so that they do not interfere with each other. Rather than superficially expressing the word 'sports' in form, the design is carefully crafted, such as not adding unnecessary recessed or protruding structures, anticipating actual usage situations. The metal band features alternating polished finishes on the connecting links, creating a dynamic sense of individuality. Additionally, by finishing the crown and push button guards separately, the model is characterized, and together with the shape of the push buttons, it invites the user to utilize the chronograph functions. By structuring and expressing the 'elements' of 'function' and 'sports' with a focus on their essence, this model embodies the true spirit of PROMASTER.

Expression of New Materials

In the 1970s, stainless steel was the mainstream material for watches. The 'black' exterior made from this 'special light alloy' made a sensational debut in the market. CITIZEN’s proactive approach to adopting such new materials ahead of other companies exemplifies the brand’s manufacturing philosophy that continues to this day. Looking at this model from the perspective of 'how to beautifully express this new material,' it is extremely well executed. The modern form, created without a bezel and shaped by a conical design, stands out. The side surfaces of the case are not vertical but are slanted inward, and this sloped design creates ridges with the conical surface, giving the case expressive character lines that are never inorganic, whether viewed from the front or the side. The ridgeline on the back slope of the case is set higher, which helps the case appear thinner and ensures that the various ridges are well balanced. With the main components—case, band, and dial—all rendered in 'black,' the silver color of the polished ring part on the inner bezel serves as an excellent accent, tightening the overall look. The vivid 'orange' applied to the indexes and hands adds a fresh color expression, and together with the modern expression of the new case material, it gives this model a strong impression.

Impactful Face

A major feature of this model is its timer function, which is specifically designed for windsurfing and yacht (dinghy) races. The development involved designers with actual yacht racing experience, focusing on making the watch easier to use and read. The digital display shows the most important information during a race—the elapsed seconds—most prominently at the 6 o’clock position. The elapsed time is also presented in a more graphical way, incorporating design elements reminiscent of car dashboards from that era, achieving both clarity and a sense of period style. As a result, this face design is highly distinctive and unforgettable at first glance. There is no doubt that this impactful design has played a key role in launching the new 'yacht timer' category as a product that is both user-friendly and unique.

Tracing with Finger

If you look at the watch from above, you’ll notice that the case and band are unified in a full-flow design, with the lines of the band smoothly connecting to those of the case. Instead of the typical four-lug case, this is a case designed exclusively for a metal band. This allows for a flowing expression throughout the design. Rather than the case and band each asserting their own individuality, they come together as a single exterior, expressing a unified character. The bezel is also thin and intentionally left undecorated, which maximizes the information conveyed by the dial. When viewed from the side, you can also see the flowing lines that make up the design. The bezel’s height is kept low, and there are no large steps, so the flow is uninterrupted. The cross-section of the case and band from 3 to 9 o’clock forms a gentle mountain shape. For the band, the center link is set one step lower, so the thickness is not felt. Thanks to this shape, a high level of comfort on the wrist is achieved both visually and physically. This smooth continuity in the design sometimes makes you want to trace the surface with your finger and enjoy its lack of resistance. Here lies one answer to the question, “What does it mean to wear a watch?”