The 'Beauty' of Machining

CRYSTRON MEGA

https://ms.citizen.jp/assets/003_01-03_クリスロトン・メガ_01

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!'

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The unique TV-shaped design, unlike the typical round watch, gives it a distinctive character. The fine sand-blast finish on the upper surface of the case, which looks like thin lines, also strongly expresses its individuality.

The side profile of the case has a sense of recesses and protrusions that cannot be imagined from the front view. The presence of a battery case back for a small battery on the case back gives it a sharp accent.

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The uniquely shaped case, characteristic of its era, features superbly finished edges. The special sand-blast finish on the case surface is also distinctive.

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The surface precision of the machining is reminiscent of a Japanese sword. The polished slopes are beautiful, and the sloped surfaces that surround the band convey a sense of the pursuit of beauty.

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The case back has a raised feel reminiscent of a steam locomotive, giving it a distinctive shape typical of the time. The center of the sunray pattern aligns with the center of the battery case back.

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The real appeal of this watch lies in its three-dimensional presence. Depending on the viewing angle, the watch reveals various expressions and shapes. It has a strong individuality that cannot be achieved with a round shape. The sloped and curved surfaces in each part also showcase the high precision of the machining.

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The dial features a distinctive track shape rarely seen today. The rough sand-blast-like texture on the surface is beautifully executed. The machining of the applied indexes is also well done.

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The deeply molded 'CQ' mark, created by a mold, is very sharp. The surface finish is also extremely beautiful.

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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.

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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?