Fusion of Analog and Digital Ver.2.0

ALTERNA SHUTTER DIGITAL

https://ms.citizen.jp/assets/018_02-07_オルタナシャッターデジタル_01

To put it simply, this watch is a "watch that demonstrates a new relationship between analog and digital." It can also be seen as a challenge to refresh the busy impression often associated with digital watches.
In 1978, CITIZEN released the "Digi-Ana," the first domestically produced combination watch in Japan. Early combination watches featured a layout where the digital and analog displays were independent. Later, integrated designs with digital displays beneath the hands became mainstream, and this model’s LCD layout follows that type.
The standout feature of this model is undoubtedly its digital display shutter function. Normally, it can be worn as a simple three-hand watch, and the digital display can be called up only when you want to use functions like the calendar or chronograph. As the name "shutter" suggests, the LCD opens and closes gradually from top to bottom, creating an attractive effect. This model pursues the best of both worlds: the simplicity and luxury of a watch, and the functionality of digital. If the always-on combination watches, which create a mechanical and busy design reminiscent of cockpit instruments, represent the first generation of "fusion of analog and digital," then this model, which blends the LCD into the background except when needed to achieve both simplicity and luxury, could be called the second generation.

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The bezel with a circular hairline finish creates a striking design. When the shutter is closed, it looks like nothing more than a simple three-hand watch. The off-center logo placement, designed to avoid the LCD display when the shutter is open, enhances its modern feel.


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The substantial mass and the beauty of the watch’s appearance stand out. The side view of the lugs is also beautifully designed, giving the exterior both product appeal and the charm of a watch.

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The shape of the end piece is adjusted so that a crescent-shaped surface does not appear in the surface between the lugs.

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The case intentionally avoids techniques like adding slopes to the underside of the bezel or case body to make it look thinner, resulting in a solid, so-called "bento box" shape. The push buttons, with their rounded cube corners, match the case and strongly convey the intention to achieve a solid design. The band length can be adjusted in eight steps at the spring bar position, and further adjusted in two steps at the buckle. The buckle is a double-lock type used in authentic sports watches.

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The first four links are gently tapered, connecting smoothly in a straight line to give a high-quality impression. The link shape connects the large arc on the top surface and the flat on the bottom with a curve, and since there are no edges, it gives a glamorous impression.

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The shutter opening effect. The LCD is usually hidden, so the watch never looks thin, and you can sense the high level of movement completion. The 7-segment characters (numbers) are not just simple hexagons, but are designed for maximum readability.

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The lugs have a complex surface composition, but since the entire surface is polished, the chamfered parts are rounded, giving it a lustrous feel.

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The band length can be adjusted in eight steps at the spring bar position, and further adjusted in two steps at the buckle. The buckle is a double-lock type used in authentic sports watches.

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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.

https://ms.citizen.jp/assets/100_12-08_L 漆玉_01

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?