Impactful Face

SPORTE WIND JACK

https://ms.citizen.jp/assets/074_10-06_ウィンドジャック_01

A major feature of this model is its timer function, which is specifically designed for windsurfing and yacht (dinghy) races. The development involved designers with actual yacht racing experience, focusing on making the watch easier to use and read.
The digital display shows the most important information during a race—the elapsed seconds—most prominently at the 6 o’clock position. The elapsed time is also presented in a more graphical way, incorporating design elements reminiscent of car dashboards from that era, achieving both clarity and a sense of period style. As a result, this face design is highly distinctive and unforgettable at first glance.
There is no doubt that this impactful design has played a key role in launching the new 'yacht timer' category as a product that is both user-friendly and unique.

undefined

While the rotating bezel features an aluminum nameplate and a classic sports model design, there are also unique design elements such as the parallel arrangement of the push buttons. The rotating bezel, which is about one-third the total thickness of the case (3.0 mm), allows for secure operation. The balance with the case body is also exquisite.

undefined

Because the bezel nameplate’s orientation and angle markings and the nine protrusions on the bezel grip section are not aligned, some of the numbers and protrusions are offset. Perhaps having eight positions would have resulted in a more cohesive look.

undefined

The side surface of the bezel features gentle curves with recesses and protrusions, reflecting consideration for both operability and aesthetics. Additionally, the top surface of the bezel is designed to be higher than the top surface of the glass, helping to prevent the glass from getting scratched.

undefined

The case back is fixed with four screws, but if the case back flexes, there may be concerns about water resistance. Also, the screws are Phillips head. While this may be suitable for mass production, from an aesthetic perspective, slotted screws would be preferable for a watch.

undefined

Polyurethane is considered an appropriate material for a marine sports watch. The back surface features a grid pattern, likely for slip resistance. There is a step around the spring bar holes, and even this area has a pattern. The area around the holes is chamfered.

undefined

The numbers and minute track indicating direction and angle are printed on the underside of the glass. The passage of time is visually easy to understand and is expressed graphically.

undefined

The heads of the buttons feature protruding details for slip resistance. The start/stop button at the 2 o’clock position is molded in red, while the others are black.

WATCH

CREDIT

RELATED

https://ms.citizen.jp/assets/image03

Challenging Design

Throughout its history of over 100 years, CITIZEN has produced numerous world firsts and world records. This article introduces epoch-making products that have pioneered new possibilities for watches by incorporating the technology of each era.

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.