A Shape from the Future

VOICE MEMO

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The word that best describes this model is probably "futuristic." At first glance, its distinctive form evokes the cockpit of a spaceship, yet it was designed in 1984, over 40 years ago. Despite being a watch from the past, it exudes a sense of the future. It brings together various functions and elements in a harmonious way, and while the design is unique, it still feels simple—a watch packed with mysterious qualities.
The sense of simplicity may come from the bold, sharp forms and pronounced edges. The unwavering, clean lines and the pleasant transitions between crisp surfaces unify the complexity of each element, creating a sense of cohesion.
Another charm of this model is the sense of "familiarity" and "cuteness" within its sharpness. The large, rounded cutouts and speaker section that appear among the straight lines, the gold and red accents used only for the CITIZEN logo and the REC lettering, and the subtle deviations from the overall monochrome scheme all contribute to its lovable character.
The watch features a groundbreaking function for its time—the ability to record and play back six seconds of audio. By clearly separating the VOICE and TIME functions, the layout is both functional and visually impactful. This watch possesses a futuristic form that remains relevant today, along with uniquely charming details.

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Despite bringing together various functions and elements, this watch achieves a balanced sense of unity.

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Although the case is thick, the bold slopes and the ingenuity of the case back make it feel less bulky.

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The case, with its futuristic design reminiscent of a spaceship cockpit, is cleverly zoned according to function.

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The dynamic form gives off a retro-futuristic vibe. The surfaces transition crisply and pleasantly.

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By using color as a subtle accent for important functions, the watch is easy for users to understand and these points also add to its charm.

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A design that combines straight lines with rounded forms in contrast.

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The dial with its thin, delicate indexes harmonizes well with the unique case through a subtractive design approach.

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The band, with its sharp-edged, stylish look, is solid and inorganic, yet its clean form gives a futuristic impression. Its understated presence highlights the unique case.

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The hands, which taper to a fine, charming point, have a metallic silver finish only at the base, with the rest in white, making them stylish and easy to read.

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The case back is constructed in two layers, designed to appear as thin as possible.

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A clasp designed for easy size adjustment.

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Retro Future

In the 1970s, a new method of time display—digital display—was developed. At the time, this display function evoked expectations for watches of the near future. This watch was designed based on the idea of utilizing the effectiveness of digital display and, for the first time, adding a calculator function to a wristwatch. The first domestically produced wristwatch to combine watch and calculator functions is expressed with a unique design style: a central display monitor and 23 push buttons arranged radially around the perimeter. Achieving this in the classic round shape of a wristwatch is a testament to the creativity of watch designers. The artificial brilliance of the push buttons, arranged every 15 degrees. The simple lines of the case and band, free from any recesses or protrusions. These are the result of traditional machining, and the combination of a thick case and cool digital display creates a retro-futuristic feel through the imbalance of old and new technologies. Additionally, this early model is unified in gold, skillfully using gold with different textures for each exterior part, creating an elegant atmosphere despite the flashy color scheme. Although the distinctive button layout did not become standard, it exudes the coolness and pride of being a pioneer.

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Feeling Light

Urushi beads, diamonds, and smoked glass—each reflects light differently, revealing a model with depth and ever-changing expressions depending on the light source and time of day. The simplicity of the case shape and dial design highlights the beauty of the details, allowing you to sense not mechanical time, but the gentle passage of time illuminated by light. Although there are no indexes on the dial, the hour and minute hands are easy to read, giving the impression of a bracelet that also functions as a watch. Furthermore, urushi lacquer is not presented in the traditional way, but is fused with the watch in a modern design, letting you enjoy a contemporary expression of traditional craftsmanship. Despite its asymmetrical shape, it is comfortable to wear and offers a special feeling, as if wearing modern jewelry.

https://ms.citizen.jp/assets/099_12-07_L ムービングダイヤ_01

Vitality of Nature

Many CITIZEN L models are inspired by shapes and light found in nature, and this model is themed around 'morning dew.' The three diamonds on the case move smoothly along the curve of the case, and the indexes are scattered across the dial, creating a story that evokes scenes from nature even for those who know nothing about the watch. Looking at the parts, despite the many asymmetrical elements—such as the dial pattern, index arrangement, crown position, and case shape—each is balanced in its placement, so there is no sense of discomfort or difficulty in wearing it. The asymmetrical design brings a rhythm and movement reminiscent of the vitality of nature, making you feel a relaxed, natural flow of time rather than a uniform one. Although the watch uses many diamonds and has a jewelry-like feel, the arrangement of the indexes and the spacing between the case and band give it an airy look, making it suitable for everyday wear as well.

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From Small Cues to Decoration

"Band, hands, circle"—these are the minimal components by which people recognize a watch. ◆ A watch is a "wrist" watch because it has a band. ◆ A watch is a watch because it has hands. ◆ Time was created from the recurring cycles (circles) of celestial bodies. This model seems to be a textbook example of a "watch" that focuses on these three elements. By lavishly decorating these three elements, it clearly establishes the hierarchy among the other components. Isn’t this the ideal model for all watches, combining the "watch-like" qualities users seek with the beauty of an ornament that satisfies them?