Like a Power Stone

Quartz E.F.A.

https://ms.citizen.jp/assets/045_06-03_クオーツEFA_01

2024.03.25

In August 1973, CITIZEN specially adjusted the accuracy of its first quartz watch, Cal. 8810, which had already been released, from a monthly deviation of ±10 seconds to within ±5 seconds, and launched it in October as a special edition. This model embodies the spirit of the engineers and designers of the time, who wanted to present their own quartz technology—which was still novel then—in the finest form possible.
The case boldly features the mainstream cutting techniques of the era, and the dial is made from goldstone. Three cut rubies are set as indexes. The combination of gold hands and ruby indexes floating above the glossy, dark dial gives this model a unique power—almost like a subtle sense of self-assertion—that surely gave its owners a special confidence at the time.

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The center and outer frame of the case are made as separate parts. This allows for chamfering on both the top and sides.

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Although the center and outer parts are separate, they are crafted with a continuous curve on the same surface. The polishing is beautiful.

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The crown is engraved with the CQ mark for CITIZEN QUARTZ. The coarse knurling provides excellent operability.

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The bezel features a slightly reverse-tapered slope. The main case is chamfered by cutting, making the thickness less noticeable from the side.

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The base of the dial is goldstone, with three rubies set in place. The 'E.F.A' in the layout certifies that this model is a special high-precision piece.

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The center of the second hand is non-hole. The hour and minute hands are each made from two separate parts, finished with both sand-blast and polished techniques.

WATCH

Quartz E, F, A

1973

CREDIT

Researcher

Yuri Kawashima

https://ms.citizen.jp/assets/070_10-02_カリキュレーター_01

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?