A model approached with a design concept inspired by a clean and transparent medical motif. The organic styling gives it a strong sense of individuality.
Translucent textures, which were a trend at the end of the 20th century, are used for the case, band, and other parts. Light is also brought in from the side surface of the three-dimensional crystal, and new ideas are incorporated, such as indexes designed to resemble transparent capsules. In addition, the asymmetrical case between 12 and 6 o'clock causes the dial to tilt slightly toward the wearer when worn, making it easier to read the time.
Translucent and organic styling that captures sunlight throughout the entire watch. The clear color and rounded form accentuate its individuality.
An asymmetrical side view that emphasizes a comfortable fit on the wrist. Styling that fully utilizes the characteristics of plastic molding.
Three-dimensional indexes inspired by medicine capsules. Indexes (recessed) integrally molded with the glass.
Hands with a medical image.
ENGINEER'S EYE
INDEPENDENT
For a CITIZEN product of the time, it was rare to have a model whose exterior was constructed with resin-based materials. With little prior knowledge or experience, we began development by trial and error on both the plastic case and the polyurethane band. We held repeated meetings with resin mold engineers, making full use of drawings, illustrations, and even clay models. We repeatedly fine-tuned the transparent tones of the plastic crystal, bezel, indicator ring, dial, band, and other parts, and in particular, we attempted two-color molding for the band—a high-difficulty process for that era. In the INDEPENDENT series, designers and engineers worked together, driven by a strong will to “create sharp, groundbreaking models” and a conviction that “this is cool,” to bring the products to life. This spirit of taking on new possibilities has been handed down unbroken as part of CITIZEN’s DNA.
WATCH
CREDIT
RELATED
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.
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.
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.
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?