Subtraction

EXCEED GOLD

https://ms.citizen.jp/assets/004_01-04_エクシード・ゴールド_01

As a form that further accentuates the watch equipped with the world’s thinnest analog quartz movement at the time, meticulous treatments and design processes that make the watch appear even thinner—many of which are too fine to be recognized by the naked eye—have been applied throughout. This is a subtractive design that does not compromise thinness.
The height of the fitting between the glass and the bezel has been minimized, and the glass itself is as thin as possible. On both sides of the applied index, which has a protruding cross-section, there are extremely fine cuts that are indistinguishable to the naked eye. Additionally, the case is designed to make the side surface as thin as possible, and by aligning the outside diameter of the bezel and the case, the number of ridges forming the exterior is kept to a minimum. Each of these is a very fine design detail, but together, these small refinements create a sense of precision in the watch’s appearance.
Through the accumulation of such minute details—so fine they cannot be distinguished without a magnifying glass—and calculated minimal design treatments, the form expresses the ultimate thinness.

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A minimal design with elements pared down as much as possible.

The vertical surfaces of the case are made thinner, creating a visual impression of even greater thinness.

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By applying extremely small radius corner treatments to the ridges, the thin flat surfaces and ridges are made to stand out clearly.

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The side surface of the case is made thin and tall, further enhancing the visual impression of thinness.

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By embedding a stone that tapers to a point into the crown, a slim impression is achieved.

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By minimizing the number of ridges forming the exterior, the thinness is further accentuated.

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The upper surface of the ultra-thin hands is arc-cut, making the cross-section as thin as possible.

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On both sides of the applied index, protruding cuts only several tens of microns wide are made, creating a sense of precision.

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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?