Tomoki Koyama

The 'Beauty' of Machining

This 'Crystron Mega' is a model released in 1976. At the time, there were no highly precise CAD-based cutting machines like we have today, so it is easy to imagine that the skills of many experienced craftsmen were essential in the production of exterior parts. Upon closely examining the shape and each part of this watch, you can see that even the smallest components are meticulously processed and finished. Even the indexes, for example, have tiny steps that require high machining precision and feature 'black printing' likely added to improve legibility—there is no sense of compromise anywhere. Looking closely at the case shape, you can see bold curves in some areas and sharp, straight-edged cut surfaces that beautifully accentuate the lines. This suggests that the watch was manufactured with a deep understanding of the 'beauty' created by machining. The top surfaces of the case lugs and dial are decorated with sand-blast-like patterns made using metal molds, making the stainless steel surface look lively. It's as if the pattern is calling out, 'Look at me! Look at me!'

Sincere Beauty

The 'Super Deluxe' is a model released in 1958. If you look at Japanese industrial products from the 1950s (Showa 25–34), you will find many practical items that are still widely used in daily life today. It was in this era that this watch was introduced to the world. With its simple and practical appearance, there is no excessive decoration on the case, dial, or small parts, making it look easy to use and clearly reflecting the spirit of the times. If anything, the box-shaped glass, the crown shaped like the tip of a rocket, and the curved case back are three features that add just the right amount of character. The fine case lugs, slender bezel, and large dial diameter all showcase the beautiful attention to detail. The outer edge of the dial is bent, and together with the box-shaped glass and curved case back, it truly embodies 'thinness, performance, and the beauty of craftsmanship.' CITIZEN's sincere attitude is clearly present in this product, giving it an appeal that would make it competitive even today. The gentle reflections from the bent dial processing are also soft and pleasant. From this 'Super Deluxe,' you can feel both the sincere craftsmanship and a gentle warmth reminiscent of human touch.

The Balanced Beauty

This 'World Time' is a model that was sold for overseas markets in the 1970s and clearly showcases the beautiful cutting techniques characteristic of that era. The 1970s were marked by many historical events, such as the 'Dollar Shock' and two 'Oil Shocks,' which had a significant impact on industrial products and daily life. Looking at industrial products, many Japanese products were exported overseas during this period, and CITIZEN also produced this 'World Time' as a watch for overseas markets, taking on new challenges in foreign markets where many competitors existed. In terms of design, the watch body features a simple cut shape, while the functional city names are placed on a rotating ring, achieving a perfect balance between 'simplicity' and 'complexity.' On the top surface of the watch body, there are sharply conical cut surfaces and hairline finishes, while the ends of the lugs, which match well with leather or metal bands, are boldly and powerfully beveled, resulting in an impressive sense of balance. Nowadays, it feels refreshing to see a watch crafted with such simple, visibly machined techniques, which are now quite rare. One cannot help but admire the creators' refined aesthetic and sense of balance that brought this watch to life.