CITIZEN prides itself on its proprietary light-powered Eco-Drive technology. Not limiting itself to sunlight, it transforms even faint indoor lighting into energy that powers the watch. Not requiring regular battery replacement makes it a reliable choice for those who regularly travel abroad for business or pleasure.
Its journey began in 1976, with the release of CRYSTRON SOLAR CELL, the world’s first light-powered analogue watch. Originating from the idea of using light as a power source, CITIZEN has continued to improve this technology, enhancing power-generation efficiency, energy-storage performance, and design. Today, its Eco-Drive technology is incorporated into a wide range of its models.
Supporting this advanced technology is CITIZEN's manufacturing process, which is carried out entirely in-house, from creating a watch’s components to its final assembly and adjustment. It’s this manufacturing philosophy that enables the creation of watches that combine functionality and beauty.

To commemorateEco-Drive 50th Anniversary, CITIZEN launched the LIGHT in BLACK collection, which spans several of its major brands. As the name suggests, every model in the collection is characterized by a black body reminiscent of shadows and gold-colored accents that evoke light.
We interviewed Taro Miyahara from CITIZEN WATCH’s Product Planning Department, who was involved in planning and developing this collection. We asked him about the concepts and design choices behind each model, as well as the unique appeal of Eco-Drive’s 50th anniversary from a product planner's perspective.

“The Eco-Drive works even with minimal light, which reminds me of people moving forward towards a light of hope even in turbulent times. This model also embodies that positive message.”

One design aspect that deserves particular attention is the dial's design. Advanced inkjet printing technology is used on the dials to produce a sense of depth and dimension, reminiscent of light shining into darkness, with five overlapping patterns that symbolize the 50th anniversary.
Light-powered watches have a solar cell placed beneath the dial to capture light. For 50 years, CITIZEN has continued to refine its light-powered technology, while pursuing enticing dial designs that conceal the high-tech within.
“The dial is, in a sense, the face of the watch. We decided on the design while discussing what sort of look would make the watch evoke a sense of excitement.”

Among the LIGHT in BLACK collection, the ATTESA CC4078-51E is a particular standout.
Its most distinctive feature is that it's a high-performance Satellite Wave GPS Radio-Controlled watch. It receives date and time information from Satellite Wave GPS and displays the accurate local time wherever you find yourself in the world, eliminating the hassle of adjusting the time when traveling abroad. Furthermore, it’s equipped with Double Direct Flight, which can display both home time and local time.
“This model is a 'fully equipped' timepiece, packed with all the technology CITIZEN prides itself in. I would especially recommend it to people who frequently travel abroad.”

Design-wise, this is the first ATTESA model to feature Duratect Amber Yellow. A flash of amber yellow cuts across the black exterior. It's also characterized by its lightweight and scratch-resistant properties, thanks to the use of Super Titanium™.

The ladies’ brand xC has also released a limited edition LIGHT in BLACK version of the ES9495-59E model. The lightweight Super Titanium™ provides a comfortable fit and feel, making it practical for everyday use.

A highlight of the design is the lab-grown diamond set at the 50-minute mark, commemorating the 50th anniversary. The hour markers alternate between gold and silver, resulting in a simple yet sophisticated finish.
“We've adorned the area around the diamond with cut stones, creating a dial that exudes elegance despite its black base.”

This model is highly practical, featuring the Happy Flight function that allows you to easily adjust to local time in other countries.

From CITIZEN COLLECTION comes the sporty chronograph AT2576-68E model.

The inner surface of the sapphire glass and the inner ring have stylish gold-colored edges that give the design an overall sense of balance and a stylish look.

“Within this cross-brand project, CITIZEN COLLECTION serves as an entry-level model. It's recommended as a watch for those who want to experience the comfort of Eco-Drive.”

From Citizen's top-of-the-line brand, "The CITIZEN," comes a new model featuring a washi paper dial, embodying a traditional Japanese aesthetic.

Its appeal lies in the deep green dial. The color was chosen to evoke the deep shade of the pine tree, a traditional Japanese motif. The pine tree has long been considered an auspicious plant, symbolizing an emblem of steadfastness, which aligns with The CITIZEN's philosophy of “being your partner for many years to come.”

“This time, we've combined a rare natural yellow dye called ibuki kariyasu with indigo dye to create a deep, beautiful green color. It's an artistic model that allows you to feel the essence of traditional Japanese craftsmanship.”
In terms of functionality, it features Eco-Drive, which eliminates the need for battery replacement, while achieving high precision with Annual Accuracy of ±5 Seconds, meaning that even with continuous use 365 days a year, the margin of error will be kept to within ±5 seconds.

For those who want to change the look of their watch depending on the occasion, the xC Square 2way Model is highly recommended. The key feature of this model is its interchangeable bands, allowing you to change its appearance to match your outfit and the situation.

“You can easily remove the band by simply hooking your fingernail onto the protruding part and pulling it up, so no special tools are required.”

The nearly square shape offers high visibility and a soft appearance. Another point of appeal is that it’s made from Super Titanium™, which makes it lightweight and scratch-resistant.
In terms of functionality, it features Eco-Drive, time signals reception from four areas worldwide, and Happy Flight technology, ensuring accurate timekeeping.

If you're looking for a watch you can wear for both business and casual occasions, you should consider the three-hand model from ATTESA's ACT Line. Its distinguishing feature is its compact octagonal case with a focus on metallic color and texture. With a relatively small size of 39 mm, it's a model that's easy to match with a variety of everyday situations.

“For more formal occasions, we decided on a deep blue for the dial. We also incorporated a rose gold color into the indices, creating a design with a touch of playfulness.”

In addition to Eco-Drive technology and the ability to receive time signals from four regions worldwide, it also features Direct Flight, which allows you to easily adjust it to local time in other countries. Made with Super Titanium™, it's lightweight, scratch-resistant, and makes for a reliable companion for any occasion.

Q: Where can I purchase the watches featured in this article?
A: You can purchase these watches at any CITIZEN retailer across Japan. If you would like to view the brand’s extensive collection, visit the CITIZEN FLAGSHIP STORE locations in Tokyo and Osaka, where you will find all the main models from CITIZEN Group.

If you show this page at the CITIZEN FLAGSHIP STORE, you will receive a watch cleaning cloth as a thank-you gift for visiting and reading this article.

Q: Can the staff speak any other language than Japanese?
A: Yes, they have multilingual staff available. At CITIZEN FLAGSHIP STORE TOKYO, some staff members can assist you in English, Chinese, and Spanish. Both flagship stores have expert staff who will explain each product’s features and differences in detail.

Q: Do you offer tax-free shopping?
A: Both the Tokyo and Osaka locations offer tax-free shopping. All you need is to present your passport.

Q: What happens in case of damage after purchase in Japan?
A: Your watch comes with a three-year international warranty from the date of purchase. Check the official website for more details on the eligible regions.

Fifty years have passed since the birth of the Eco-Drive light-powered technology. In addition to the practical appeal of not requiring regular battery changes, CITIZEN has continued to develop this line in terms of design, materials, and precision.
From the 50th anniversary limited collection LIGHT in BLACK to The CITIZEN, which embodies traditional Japanese beauty, to the xC, which is easy to use while traveling, and the ATTESA, which is suitable for a wide range of occasions, CITIZEN offers a variety of models that you'll want to cherish for years to come. When you visit Japan, you can find your next watch at our flagship stores in Ginza, Tokyo or Shinsaibashi, Osaka.