Uncompromising Craftsmanship

AUTO DATER SEVEN

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Every single part, from its shape to its finish, is crafted with meticulous attention, making this a masterpiece where you can sense the artisan’s dedication in every detail. The shape and cut of the indexes, the unique design of the day window frame, the magnifying lens over the date display, the font and layout of the logo and mark, the width and length of the minute track printing, the parting line between the case and bezel, the way the surfaces are finished, the box-shaped glass—there is not a single aspect where any compromise can be found. When all these elements come together to form a complete watch, each part harmonizes without overpowering the others. The result is a piece that is both striking and individual, yet exudes an indescribable elegance. This is truly the work of a master craftsman.

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Overall, it feels clean and gives an elegant impression.

It has a plump, voluminous feel when viewed from the side, more so than from the front.

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The base of each lug (at all four points) is half-embedded into the bezel. By exposing the parting line between the case and bezel, the design cleverly prevents the side from appearing thick. The lower part of the case has a subtly reverse-arched surface, so the overall thickness is minimized by the way it reflects light. The solid, domed glass gives a dynamic yet delicate impression.

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The solid, domed glass gives a dynamic yet delicate impression.

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When viewed at an angle, you can recognize the attention to detail in the shape of each component.

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The center of the dial is domed, but there is a step at the outer edge. By printing the 1/2-second minute track there, the automatic movement is highlighted as part of the design, while the overall look remains clean and sharp. The combination of the dial and box glass gives the watch a deeply expressive face.

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The eight round applied indexes are tall, with conical cuts on the top and reverse taper cuts on the sides, making them appear to float and enhancing legibility.

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For the date display, an applied window frame is used to balance with the other three bar indexes. The outer shape of the applied window frame is also rounded, giving it a uniquely tasteful atmosphere. A lens is placed on the underside (inner side) of the box glass to improve the visibility of the date display. The crown is relatively large for the case size, considering its frequent use and ease of operation.

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By placing the day display at the prominent 12 o’clock position, the dial takes on a symbolic appearance. The 12 o’clock index, day display, and layout come together for a distinctive and well-balanced look. The applied window frame also has a unique shape, and the inside is cut to match that shape, preventing shadows from making the day display hard to read.

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The combination of curved and V-cuts on the top of the indexes creates a sparkling effect as light reflects off them, while maintaining a highly legible design.

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The case back features an attractive engraving with a vintage feel. The serial number is so distinctive that it almost seems like a limited edition, adding to its unique charm.

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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?