Challenging Design

EPOCH-MAKING DESIGN

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2024.04.08

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.

X-8 (1966)

Japan’s first electronic watch, which achieved long-duration operation of not stopping for a whole year during an era when mechanical watches were mainstream. Its flowing, futuristic form challenged the conventional shape of the watch.

MIM OF CITIZEN (2002)

A unique world time watch equipped with five of the world’s smallest movements. This movement was also recognized by the Guinness World Records.

PROMASTER AQUALAND DEPTH METER (1985)

The world’s first diver’s watch equipped with an electronic depth meter. With its dynamically emphasized water pressure sensor, this model became the prototype for CITIZEN’s diver’s watches.

SATELLITE WAVE H990 (2011)

The world’s first analog light-powered satellite radio-controlled watch that receives time information from satellites. Its spatially layered design expresses the romance and scale of connecting with space.

SATELLITE WAVE F100 (2014)

A satellite radio-controlled watch with advanced titanium processing. The sharp surfaces express the sense of speed of instantly connecting with space.

SPORTE WIND JACK (1985)

A sports digital watch equipped with a timer for yacht racing. It features a graphical interface that visually expresses the passage of time in an easy-to-understand way.

CITIZEN L AMBILUNA Collection (2016)

The light, symbolizing Eco-Drive, is expressed through frosted glass inspired by moonlight and the shine of lacquer beads. A modern fusion of traditional craftsmanship and watches.

SOUNDWITCH (1984)

A digital watch that allows you to listen to AM/FM radio. This model brought to life the innovative idea of incorporating a radio unit into a watch.

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Fusion of Technology and Design

SOUNDWITCH is a digital clock that can also play the radio. By making the main unit and the battery box for the radio detachable, you can use it as a clock while also enjoying the radio when you wish. This versatility is one of its main attractions. The clock body is made of plastic and, while the overall structure is linear, the careful rounding of the corners in the details prevents it from feeling cheap. Additionally, there are thoughtful touches for operability, and even as it incorporates new technology, the know-how from wristwatch design is evident in its user-friendly features.

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Showmanship

This model turns the constraints of using a large movement to its advantage, creating a dynamic, deep form that leverages the ample volume to substantiate its functions, resulting in an extraordinary presence. The design, composed of a contrast between black and green, combines beauty with the functionality of a watch. The case uses ceramic material to avoid affecting reception sensitivity, and features a highly glossy, smooth finish that cannot be achieved with plating. The vivid green coil encircling the outer edge of the dial is inspired by the antenna of the first radio-controlled watch. The bezel is placed on the sapphire glass surface, creating an expression as if it is floating, evoking the image of a satellite orbiting, and the motif of the green coil on the dial can be seen from the side, allowing enjoyment from every angle. The hour hand is three-dimensionally bent, and the letters engraved on the disc-type hand rotate, with precisely assembled parts operating in a small space. The way these parts function evokes the excitement of wearing a miniature city diorama on your wrist, offering a sense of fun that brings out the child in the user. Whether or not you are interested in watches, this model is designed to make you stop and stare. Such dramatic presentation is embodied in this watch.

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Pursuit of New Value

To highlight the value of CITIZEN’s core technology, the light-powered Eco-Drive, a total of eight concept models were unveiled between 2009 and 2012. The models were selected through an in-house competition. The only rule was that they had to be 'powered by light.' With no other restrictions, designers were free to propose new products from a completely blank slate. The models were announced on a grand scale at BASELWORLD, the world’s largest watch fair held in Switzerland, drawing significant attention. Furthermore, the initiative did not end with the unveiling of the concept models; efforts were made to mass-produce them with their original designs as much as possible. Four of the announced models were produced in limited quantities, and their technology and design codes had a major influence on subsequent models.