Rethinking

CHRONOGRAPH CHALLENGE TIMER

https://ms.citizen.jp/assets/046_06-04_チャレンジタイマーツノクロ_01

A model that makes you reconsider the possibilities of design through creative ideas. Originally, the movement had sub-dials at 12 and 6 o'clock. By rotating it 90 degrees and placing the push button at the 12 o'clock position, the sub-dials are now at 3 and 9 o'clock, and the calendar, now at 6 o'clock, is incorporated as one of the sub-dials. This design results in a 'three-eyed' chronograph face at the bottom. Placing the push button at 12 o'clock does not interfere with functionality at all.
The case shape is also generously rounded, making it very comfortable to wear. This overall roundness is a major feature of the model, giving users a pleasant impression when held in the hand. The black and white contrast of the dial, which leads to the nickname 'Panda,' is also likely due to this rounded case shape.
In this way, the shift in perspective of 'rotating the movement' brings a change to the design without compromising the original function of the watch, serving as a good example of maximizing its features. By changing the original concept, it is reborn in a completely different form. This flexible thinking broadens the scope of design and contributes to creating a special character. The nickname 'Tsuno Chrono' is proof of this.
Such methods are effective design strategies for expanding the range of universal watch styling.

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A chronograph with a push button at the 12 o'clock position. It was later named 'Tsuno Chrono.' The black bezel gives the overall impression a sharp look.

The case is generously rounded, giving a comfortable bulge when held in the hand. You can see that the lug at the 12 o'clock side is significantly lowered for a better fit on the wrist.

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The 12 o'clock side is rounded with a large arc, making it easier to press the push button. The push button is also easy to press and sized so that it doesn't hurt your finger.

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The overall roundness of the case contrasts with the flatness of the top of the glass, emphasizing a sense of solidity.

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The back of the lugs is deeply conically cut, with a slope extending to the tip of the lugs. The case back is a screw-back, firmly secured.

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An asymmetrical case design from top to bottom. The effect of the black sloped bezel gives it a sharp look. The metal band design adds a slightly modern touch to the otherwise classical case.

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The contrast of the three sub-dials in silver and black gives a sporty feel. The orange central chronograph second hand further enhances this impression. The sub-dial at 6 o'clock cleverly incorporates the calendar to complete the three-eye look.

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The metal band is relatively thin compared to the volume of the case. The fine pitch of the links ensures a good fit on the wrist. The clasp features a raised CITIZEN logo.

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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?