Between Flowing and Sparkling

GLORIOUS CITIZEN

https://ms.citizen.jp/assets/028_04-05_グロリアスシチズン_01

At first glance, this model appears simple, crafted according to the grammar of watch design, but from different angles, it reveals a surprisingly dynamic side. The softly glowing upper surface of the case is a polished spherical plane, while the large sloped hairline surface along the profile is subdued in tones from white to gray. The 1mm-wide vertical surface and the broad lower slope on the side are sharply polished, allowing light to flow across them, and the tips of the lugs feature three chamfers that sparkle brilliantly. In particular, the contrast between the flowing lines of the case sides and the sparkling chamfers at the tips of the lugs beautifully showcases the play of light on this watch.
The logo mark, the mountain-shaped cut indexes and hands, and the intricately chamfered window frame also sparkle, standing out in contrast to the matte dial.
Additionally, the case back and crown each have separate components, the dial features two applied marks, and even the buckle is a three-part soldered construction—details that show the utmost attention to craftsmanship. These elements hint at CITIZEN's passion for this model at the time, yet the design never feels overbearing. This restraint, in turn, draws the viewer’s attention to the effects of light.

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Although the center section protrudes significantly, the angled slopes and the thin bezel prevent it from appearing heavy.

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A distinctive side view that evokes both a Japanese sword and a sports car body.

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A form that combines intricacy and dynamism. The surface between the lugs is chamfered, allowing the strap to be inserted deeply.

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The exclusive Glorious CITIZEN buckle, engraved with its own mark, exudes a sense of luxury and meticulous craftsmanship.

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The dial, with its intricately constructed applied window and applied marks, and mountain-cut applied indexes, shines brilliantly amid its simplicity.

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A case characterized by the side lines and chamfers at the tips of the lugs. The skillful variation in finishing creates a captivating contrast between flowing and sparkling light.

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Compared to the volume of the case, the hands and indexes are understated, providing overall balance.

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The case back and crown are each adorned with a GC mark plaque for “Glorious CITIZEN.”

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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.

https://ms.citizen.jp/assets/098_12-06_エクシード ユーロス_01

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?