Eco-Drive VITRO

Designer: Shinichi Enomoto
Year launched: 2001
12 categories: 03 / Eco-Drive

Commentary: Light Transparency
This is a women’s watch in which the cover glass serves as the solar cell. Since it is not necessary for the dial to receive light, it became possible to use metallic dials. We released it in white, light blue, and pink—colors that were quite difficult to achieve with Eco-Drive at the time. We repeatedly reviewed the design of the case and band, and even visited the band manufacturer directly to request prototypes. The structure was complex, and after many discussions and much effort with the designers, we finally brought the product to market. I have a special attachment to it, so I bought one for myself. Even now, it continues to keep time at home.

Link tags
Product code: VTU74-6012
CAL.: F780
Watch type: Eco-Drive
Case material: Stainless steel

https://ms.citizen.jp/assets/021_03-03_ビトロ_01

POWER IN THE GLASS

"VITRO" means "inside the glass" in Latin. While this "glass" appears to be completely transparent, in reality, it contains semiconductors arranged in ultra-fine lines that are invisible to the human eye. In other words, this "glass" is a transparent solar cell. To emphasize its transparency, a transparent case back has been adopted, allowing you to see through the case. This is a challenging idea that creates multiple layers within the limited space of a women's model. In CITIZEN products, the connection between technology and beauty is extremely close and powerful. Designers are always striving to challenge new forms of expression that can surprise people by deeply understanding this correlation between technology and beauty, and the solar cell within this glass has become one of the footprints moving forward. We are always imagining the future that awaits beyond this point.