Table of Contents
1. Citizen History and Technologies
1.1 Who is Citizen?
Citizen is a Japanese company founded in 1918 in Tokyo. Originally called the “Shokosha Watch Research Institute”, it was renamed Citizen in 1930, symbolizing the ambition to create watches for all citizens of the world.
Today, Citizen is the largest watch manufacturer in the world in terms of production volume. The brand is present in more than 100 countries and employs more than 20,000 people. It is particularly renowned for:
- Technological innovation : Eco-Drive, Promaster, Attesa
- Quality at an affordable price : Reliable watches without prohibitive prices
- Japanese design : Clean, functional, timeless
- Sustainability : Watches designed to last for decades
1.2 Citizen’s key technologies
Citizen has developed several proprietary technologies that set it apart from its competitors:
Eco-Drive: Revolutionary solar energy
Eco-Drive is Citizen’s flagship technology. It allows the watch to operate by converting any source of light (sun, artificial light) into energy. The advantages:
- ✅ No battery to change : Battery life up to 10 years in total darkness
- ✅ Ecological : Zero battery waste
- ✅ Reliability : Proven technology since 1995
- ✅ Economic : No maintenance costs
To find out more, see our detailed Eco-Drive vs Seiko Solar comparison.
Automatic: Traditional mechanics
Citizen also offers watches automatic (self-winding), for purists who appreciate traditional watchmaking mechanics. These watches work without a battery, thanks to the movement of the wrist.
Discover our selection of the best automatic Citizen models for mechanical watch enthusiasts.
Quartz: Classic precision
Quartz remains the most common technology at Citizen. It offers excellent precision (±15 seconds/month) and proven reliability.
Promaster & Attesa: Sports collections
- Promaster : Diving, sports and adventure watches. Water resistance up to 300m, sapphire crystal, robust case.
- Attesa : Luxury watches with Eco-Drive technology, sophisticated design, premium finishes.
2. Citizen Watches for Men
2.1 Flagship models for men
Citizen offers a wide range of men’s watches, from casual models to sports chronographs. Here are the essentials:
| Model | Technology | Style | Estimated price | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Promaster BN0150 | Quartz | Sportsman/Diving | 250-350€ | Adventurers, divers |
| Promaster Tough | Quartz | Rugged/Military | 200-300€ | Outdoor, hiking |
| CA0690-88L | Quartz | Casual/Elegant | 150-250€ | Every day |
| Tsuyosa | Quartz | Modern/Minimalist | 300-400€ | Clean design |
| Attesa AT8040 | Eco-Drive | Luxury/Formal | 400-600€ | Special occasions |
2.2 Detailed reviews of men’s models
We have tested the main Citizen models for men in detail. Check out our full reviews:
2.3 Which Citizen model to choose for men?
Depending on your use:
| Need | Recommended model | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Everyday watch | CA0690-88L or Tsuyosa | Discreet, reliable design, reasonable price |
| Sports/Diving | Promaster BN0150 | 300m water resistance, sapphire crystal |
| Adventure/Outdoor | Promaster Tough | Ultra-robust, long-lasting battery |
| Special occasion | Attesa AT8040 | Luxury, Eco-Drive, premium finishes |
| Limited budget | CA0690-88L | Best value for money |
3. Citizen Watches for Women
3.1 Key models for women
Citizen offers elegant women’s watches, combining style and technology. Here are the models to remember:
| Model | Technology | Style | Estimated price | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Citizen Solar Women | Eco-Drive | Elegant/Casual | 150-250€ | Every day |
| Promaster Diver Lady | Quartz | Sporty | 200-300€ | Sports/Diving |
| Attesa Eco-Drive Woman | Eco-Drive | Luxury/Formal | 350-500€ | Special occasions |
| Silhouette | Quartz | Minimalist | 100-200€ | Clean design |
3.2 Detailed reviews of women’s models
3.3 Which Citizen model to choose for women?
According to your style:
| Style | Recommended model | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Casual/Everyday | Citizen Solar Women | Eco-Drive, sleek design, autonomy |
| Sporty | Promaster Diver Lady | Water resistance, robustness |
| Minimalist | Silhouette | Sleek design, affordable price |
| Luxury/Formal | Attesa Eco-Drive | Premium finishes, Eco-Drive |
4. Citizen Automatic Watches
4.1 Why choose an automatic Citizen?
Automatic watches fascinate watch enthusiasts. Unlike quartz or Eco-Drive watches, an automatic watch works thanks to a pure mechanical mechanismwithout battery.
Advantages of automatic watches:
- ✅ Traditional mechanics : Fascinating operation, often visible through a transparent case back
- ✅ No battery : Automatic winding by movement of the wrist
- ✅ Prestige : Symbol of watchmaking know-how
- ✅ Sustainability : Can operate for decades with regular maintenance
Disadvantages:
- ❌ Less precise than quartz (±10-20 seconds/day)
- ❌ Require regular maintenance (service every 5-10 years)
- ❌ Generally more expensive than quartz
4.2 Recommended automatic Citizen models
Citizen offers a nice selection of automatic watches. Discover our full analysis:
Which Citizen models are most suitable for automatic watch lovers?
In this article, we detail:
- The best Citizen automatic watches
- Automatic vs Eco-Drive Comparison
- Budget buying guide
- Where to buy them
4.3 Maintenance of an automatic Citizen watch
Practical advice:
- Regular winding : Wear your watch at least 8 hours a day for optimal winding
- Review every 5-10 years : Cleaning, lubrication, checking tightness
- Storage : Store in a dry place, away from direct light
- Cleaning : Warm water and mild soap, never chemicals
- Shocks : Avoid violent shocks which could damage the mechanism
5. Citizen Eco-Drive Watches
5.1 What is Eco-Drive?
Eco-Drive is Citizen’s proprietary solar technology, launched in 1995. It converts any source of light (sun, artificial light, even very weak) into electrical energy, stored in a rechargeable battery.
Main features:
- ???? Exceptional autonomy : Up to 10 years in total darkness
- ☀️ Fast charging : A few hours of light are enough
- ???? Ecological : Zero battery waste
- ???? Economic : No maintenance costs
- ⚡ Reliability : Technology proven for 30 years
5.2 Citizen Eco-Drive vs Seiko Solar: Which choice?
Both Citizen and Seiko offer solar watches. Which is the best? Our detailed comparison answers this question:
Eco-friendly watches: Citizen Eco-Drive vs Seiko Solar
Summary of differences:
| Criteria | Citizen Eco-Drive | Seiko Solar |
|---|---|---|
| Autonomy | Up to 10 years | Up to 10 years |
| Recharge | Very fast | Fast |
| Price range | 150-600€ | 200-700€ |
| Design | Modern, refined | Classic, robust |
| Reliability | Excellent | Excellent |
5.3 Best Eco-Drive models
By use:
| Use | Model | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Every day | Citizen Eco-Drive Casual | 150-250€ |
| Sports/Diving | Promaster Eco-Drive | 250-400€ |
| Luxury/Formal | Attesa Eco-Drive | 400-700€ |
| Women | Citizen Solar Women | 150-250€ |
6. Citizen vs Seiko: Which choice?
6.1 Complete comparison Citizen vs Seiko
Citizen and Seiko are the two giants of Japanese watchmaking. Which brand to choose? Our comprehensive guide breaks down the differences:
Citizen or Seiko: Complete guide to Japanese watches
6.2 Detailed comparison table
| Criteria | Citizen | Seiko |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation | 1918 | 1881 |
| Production volume | World’s largest manufacturer | Second largest |
| Price range | 100-700€ | 150-1000€ |
| Flagship technology | Eco-Drive | Seiko Solar, Kinetic |
| Design | Modern, refined | Classic, robust |
| Automatic | Good selection | Excellent selection |
| Diving watches | Promaster (very good) | Prospex (excellent) |
| Luxury watches | Attesa | Presage, Prospex |
| Reliability | Excellent | Excellent |
| Value for money | Very good | Good |
| Guarantee | 2-5 years depending on model | 2-5 years depending on model |
6.3 Which choice according to your needs?
Choose Citizen if:
- ✅ Are you looking for excellent value for money?
- ✅ You prefer Eco-Drive technology
- ✅ You like modern and clean designs
- ✅ You have a limited budget (100-300€)
Choose Seiko if:
- ✅ You are passionate about automatic watches
- ✅ Are you looking for a high-end diving watch
- ✅ You prefer classic and sturdy designs
- ✅ You have a larger budget (€300+)
Verdict: Both brands are excellent. The choice depends on your personal preferences and budget.
7. Where to buy a Citizen watch?
7.1 Official resellers
To ensure authenticity and warranty, purchase from authorized dealers:
- Citizen.com : Citizen France official website
- Authorized Resellers : Swiss Made Watch, Histoire d’Or, Timeshop24, Chrono24
- Department stores : Galeries Lafayette, Spring
7.2 Best prices
Prices vary depending on resellers. Here’s where to find the best deals:
- Swiss Made Watch : Good selection, competitive prices
- Timeshop24 : Wide range, regular promotions
- Chrono24 : New and used watches
- Amazon : Be careful of authenticity, check the seller
Advice : Compare prices on 3-4 sites before buying. The differences can be significant.
7.3 Warranty and after-sales service
- Official guarantee : 2-5 years depending on the model
- Revision : Usually costs 50-150€
- Customer service : Citizen offers repair service in European countries
- Spare parts : Available from authorized resellers
8. FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Citizen Watches
What is the best Citizen watch?
There is no “best” universal Citizen watch. It depends on your needs:
- Best value for money : CA0690-88L
- Best dive watch : Promaster BN0150
- Best technology : Attesa Eco-Drive
- Best for women : Citizen Solar Women
Check out our detailed reviews to find the perfect watch.
Is Citizen a good brand?
Yes, absolutely. Citizen is the world’s largest watch manufacturer. The brand offers:
- ✅ Reliability proven for over a century
- ✅ Innovative technology (Eco-Drive)
- ✅ Excellent value for money
- ✅ Timeless design
- ✅ Warranty and after-sales service
Citizen is a safe choice for a first watch or to enrich a collection.
How much does a Citizen watch cost?
Prices vary depending on model and technology:
- Entry level : 100-200€ (basic quartz)
- Mid-range : 200-400€ (Promaster, Eco-Drive)
- High end : 400-700€ (Attesa, luxury watches)
Citizen offers watches for all budgets.
Citizen Eco-Drive vs automatic: which one to choose?
Eco-Drive if:
- Are you looking for a reliable, maintenance-free watch?
- You prefer modern technology
- You have a limited budget
- You don’t want to change the battery
Automatic if:
- You like watch mechanics
- You appreciate the prestige of a mechanical watch
- You are ready to do regular maintenance
- You have a bigger budget
Check out our complete guide to Citizen automatic watches for more details.
Where to buy an authentic Citizen watch?
Buy from authorized dealers to ensure authenticity:
- Citizen official website
- Swiss Made Watch, Histoire d’Or, Timeshop24
- Department stores (Galeries Lafayette, Printemps)
- Chrono24 (for the occasion)
Avoid unverified sellers on marketplaces.
What is the Citizen guarantee?
The official Citizen warranty is generally 2 to 5 years depending on the model. It covers manufacturing defects, but not normal wear and tear or accidental damage.
Citizen Promaster: for whom?
The Promaster range is aimed at lovers of sports and adventure watches. It offers:
- Water resistance up to 300m
- Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal
- Robust housing
- Proven reliability
Ideal for diving, hiking, or simply for an everyday sporty style.
How long does a Citizen watch last?
A well-maintained Citizen watch can last several decades. Citizen has been making watches since 1918, and many models from the 1960s-1980s still work perfectly.
With regular maintenance (service every 5-10 years), your Citizen will accompany you all your life.
Conclusion
Citizen is an essential choice for anyone looking for a reliable, stylish and affordable watch. Whether you opt for revolutionary Eco-Drive technology, a traditional automatic watch, or a sporty Promaster model, Citizen has an impressive range to suit all styles and budgets.
With over a century of expertise, constant innovation and excellent value for money, Citizen deserves its reputation as a world leader in watchmaking.
Ready to find your ideal Citizen watch? Check out our detailed reviews:
TL;DR (Summary)
Citizen is the world’s largest watch manufacturer. The brand offers excellent value for money with innovative technologies such as Eco-Drive (solar).
Best models:
- Men: Promaster BN0150 (diving), CA0690-88L (everyday)
- Women: Citizen Solar Women
- Automatics: See our complete guide
- Luxury: Attesa Eco-Drive
Where to buy: Authorized resellers (Swiss Made Watch, Timeshop24, Histoire d’Or) to guarantee authenticity.
Verdict: Citizen vs. Seiko? Both are excellent. Citizen wins on value for money and Eco-Drive; Seiko on high-end automatics.
