This distinctive model features CITIZEN’s most advanced quartz chronograph movement of the time, the Cal. 3510. It is a masterpiece that takes on the challenge of a face design that is neither simply angular nor round—a rounded square with no straight lines, achieving the best possible balance, which is extremely difficult to perfect. The case design is also skillfully unified without relying on pronounced bezels or edges to define its shape, showcasing the designer’s expertise. Despite its unusual form, it achieves 10-bar water resistance by using a screw-type round case back, allowing for worry-free daily use. The band is thin with fine pitch links and a free-adjust buckle, making it suitable for wrists of all sizes. In this way, every element is brought together in exquisite balance, resulting in a timeless model that remains appealing even today.
Rather than the standard round case typical of chronographs, this model boldly adopts a unique, unconventional shape that is neither simply rectangular nor round, and brings it all together seamlessly.
The case side, which connects the irregular face to the round case back, must change shape somewhere, but by matching the thin cross-section of the band, the case is boldly cut where it does not appear thick, maintaining overall balance.
The case is a subtly elongated rounded square, balanced so it does not appear squashed. The use of three different radii creates a unique dial shape that is neither too square nor too round, adding to its individuality.
The case is a monolithic form with no bezel or edges, and together with the sand-blast finish, it creates a modern atmosphere.
In contrast to the relatively large and thick case, the band is thin with a short 4 mm pitch. The highly flexible band ensures the best possible fit.
The dial is simple yet detailed, with sub dials expressed only by shallow steps and applied indexes that catch the light only on their small side facets.
The highly legible straight-style hands match the overall modern image. The central second hand, which is key to the chronograph model, is more robust than usual, contributing to a strong and functional impression.
While the front features an irregular dial shape, the case back is round and uses a screw-type back to ensure 10-bar water resistance.
ENGINEER'S EYE
The “35-face”
CITIZEN’s first analog quartz chronograph, released in 1985.
Developed as CITIZEN’s first full-fledged analog multi-function watch, it not only featured a chronograph but also included an alarm and a timer.
Leveraging IC-based electronic control, it employed three motors to drive the hands. By using a mode switch, the timekeeping second hand and the chronograph seconds hand could be switched for use. For the alarm, the hour and minute hand that indicate the time move rapidly to the set alarm time via crown operation, allowing precise, one-minute increment setting—an analog multi-function watch with a digital-watch-like feel.
Visually, it features a design known within CITIZEN as the “35-face,” arranging the timekeeping chronograph hand at 10 o’clock, the minute chronograph hand at 6 o’clock, and the 1/50-second chronograph hand at 2 o’clock. This widely loved design was carried on for many years in CITIZEN’s subsequent quartz multi-function chronograph watches.