Citizen automatic watches for men offer a unique balance between Japanese innovation and watchmaking heritage. This ultra-comprehensive guide (3000-5000 words) introduces you to Citizen’s flagship mechanical movement models, with an engaging and accessible tone. Whether you’re passionate about watchmaking history, looking for the ideal watch, or simply curious, discover how Citizen has evolved and offered some of the best automatic watches for men on the market.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction & History of Citizen
Founded in 1918 in Tokyo, Citizen has established itself as one of the key references in Japanese watchmaking: its name reflects the brand’s philosophy: to design innovative and accessible watches for everyone. Throughout the 20th century, Citizen pioneered numerous technologies – from the first electromechanical caliber to the invention of the Eco-Drive (solar-powered movement) in 1976.
While the brand is globally known for its quartz watches and ultra-reliable solar movements, it has not neglected traditional mechanical watchmaking.
Indeed, as early as the 1920s, Citizen was producing mechanical watches, and in the following decades, it refined its expertise. The acquisition of the movement manufacturer Miyota (now a subsidiary of Citizen) allowed the brand to fully master the production of quality automatic calibers. Citizen was thus able to develop robust and precise movements, used not only in its own models but also by many other watch brands. After the quartz revolution, Citizen gradually relaunched its automatic ranges to meet the enthusiasm of enthusiasts seeking the charm and longevity of a mechanical watch.
Contrary to some beliefs, Citizen’s sole purpose is not to provide entry-level watches. Through its automatic collections, the brand pursues several objectives: offering robust timepieces capable of lasting decades, providing neat design and high precision, while maintaining excellent value for money. From iconic vintage models to high-end modern creations, Citizen demonstrates that an automatic watch can be innovative, reliable, and affordable.
In the next section, we will analyze Citizen’s main automatic collections, witnesses to the brand’s evolution and ambitions.
2. Analysis of the main Citizen automatic ranges
Citizen currently offers several flagship ranges of automatic watches, each with its own identity and target audience. Here is an overview of the collections to know:
a. Promaster: the spirit of adventure
The Promaster collection embodies Citizen’s sporty DNA. Launched in 1989, it includes watches designed for extreme environments – sea, land, air. This range notably features robust automatic dive watches (like the famous Promaster divers) and « field watch » or pilot models. Automatic Promasters are distinguished by their rugged construction (steel or titanium, screw-down crown, often 200m water resistance), compliant with ISO diving standards for some models.
The goal is clear: provide adventurers with a reliable mechanical watch capable of withstanding the rigors of their expeditions, all at a competitive price compared to Swiss competitors.
Positioning – In the segment of accessible automatic dive watches, Citizen Promaster competes directly with Seiko (Prospex range) and Orient (Kamasu range, etc.). Citizen stands out by offering innovative materials like Super Titanium (in-house hardened titanium) for more lightness and scratch resistance, as well as movements with practical functions (e.g., the hacking second function and manual winding, not always found on older calibers).
Evolution – An iconic model illustrates this range: the Citizen Promaster NY0040, launched in the 1990s for the Italian Navy. With its distinctive crown at 8 o’clock and robust automatic movement, the NY0040 gained a cult following among amateur divers.
Citizen evolved its automatic Promasters in 2022 by introducing the Mechanical Diver 200m series (see the « Fujitsubo » below), signaling the brand’s desire to remain at the forefront of the mechanical diver segment.
Windup watches
b. Series 8: the high-end revival
Launched in 2020, the Citizen Series 8 marks Citizen’s return to the mid/high-end mechanical watch segment. The idea behind Series 8 was to create contemporary watches with « trendy » designs and advanced technical features (like anti-magnetism) for everyday use. Series 8 models – available in sub-families 870, 830, and 831 – feature a sport-chic style slightly inspired by the 1970s, with angular cases with polished/brushed facets and integrated or quasi-integrated bracelets.
There’s a touch of « Japanese » originality in the design, giving them a distinct identity in a market dominated by Swiss icons.
Positioning – Series 8 positions itself against watches like the Tissot PRX Powermatic or certain Seiko Presage Prestige models, offering impressive build quality (finely crafted case, elaborate dials) and solid technical specifications.
For example, the in-house calibers (0950 and 9054 series) offer 50 hours of power reserve, high magnetic resistance (16,000 A/m), and an announced precision around -5/+10 sec/day – figures worthy of Swiss chronometer movements. Series 8 thus targets the discerning enthusiast looking for an elegant, original, and high-performing watch, without reaching the price of an Omega or a Rolex.
Evolution – Citizen first released Series 8 in Japan before offering them internationally, signaling the brand’s global ambition in this segment. There are models with partially skeletonized dials (reference 870), highly elaborate textured patterns (830), or more sober three-hand + date models (831).
This diversity demonstrates Citizen’s desire to showcase its watchmaking expertise in the high-end mechanical field, after years focused on quartz.
Series 8 is thus seen as the spearhead of the mechanical revival at Citizen.
c. Tsuyosa: the vintage-fashion touch
Tsuyosa (meaning « strength » in Japanese) is one of Citizen’s most prominent automatic collections since its launch in 2022. With its 40mm case featuring soft lines and an integrated steel bracelet, the Citizen Tsuyosa recalls the aesthetics of 1970s sport-chic watches. It comes in several trendy dial colors (bright yellow, green, turquoise blue, black, etc.), giving it a fun and modern feel. Citizen clearly targeted a young, urban audience with the Tsuyosa, offering a stylish, versatile, and especially very affordable mechanical watch (around €300).
Positioning On the segment of accessible « dressy sports » watches, the Tsuyosa competes notably with the Tissot PRX Powermatic (a famous Swiss alternative) or the Seiko 5 Sports Style. And the Citizen has nothing to be ashamed of: its automatic movement with manual winding and hacking seconds (Miyota caliber 8210 series) is proven, it features a sapphire crystal (rare at this price point, competitors often have mineral glass), and its overall finish is deemed very satisfactory by owners.
On Reddit, a user owning the yellow dial version highlights that the Tsuyosa is « pretty, comfortable on the wrist, and excellent value for money, » with a reliable movement offering over 40 hours of power reserve, a magnificent sunburst dial, and a bracelet that « while not amazing, does the job without pulling hairs. »
Another adds that he is « surprised to find a sapphire crystal, a must-have in his opinion, which has become rare in this price range. »
Differentiation – The strength of the Tsuyosa is therefore offering a « luxurious » look inspired by the Rolex Oyster Perpetual or Day-Date (baton indexes, colored sunburst dial, and date window with cyclops magnifier at 3 o’clock) for ~€300 without falling into a direct copy, all with Japanese quality.
Several user reviews note that the Tsuyosa « ticks a lot of boxes » for its price (automatic, transparent caseback, sapphire, neat design).
Of course, it’s not perfect: the rather small crown is not very practical to handle, and the lume is almost non-existent – « better accept there’s almost none and you’ll be happier, » jokes one owner.
Despite these details, the Tsuyosa has established itself as a bestseller, often compared very favorably to Tissot’s PRX, which it « surpasses in charm » in the eyes of some.
Target audience – The Citizen Tsuyosa targets both the vintage watch enthusiast on a budget and the novice looking for a distinctive first « real » automatic watch. Its storytelling is less linked to Citizen’s history (like the Promaster or Bullhead) than to a current market desire: the return of retro sports watches. And in this regard, Citizen got it right, offering bright colors and an authentic Japanese name that speaks to collectors. In short, the Tsuyosa symbolizes Citizen’s ability to combine heritage and modern trends.
d. Other notable collections and models
Besides the mentioned ranges, Citizen has other noteworthy automatic models:
- Citizen « Signature Collection »: a series of mid-range automatic watches (not distributed everywhere) with superior finishing quality and often complications (moon phase, power reserve). For example, the Signature Grand Classic NJ features a very elegant guilloché dial and aims to compete with Swiss brands in the dress watch category.
- Vintage « Challenge Timer » watches: in the 1970s, Citizen produced several automatic chronographs nicknamed Challenge Timer, including the famous « Bullhead » (see below) or chronograph dive models. These vintage pieces are sought after by collectors for their period design and innovative Flyback movement.
- Regional collections: Citizen offers certain automatic ranges exclusively in specific markets (Japan, Asia). For example, the Attesa or The Citizen line in Japan includes high-end mechanical watches (often in limited editions) that don’t always reach Europe. Enthusiasts often import them to get special calibers or unique designs.
In the next section, we will review a concrete selection of models – old or recent – that best embody Citizen’s expertise in automatic watches for men. Storytelling, innovations, comparisons, and user reviews are on the agenda!
3. Selection of the best Citizen automatic watches
Here is our selection of the best Citizen automatic watches for men. Each model is presented with its context, strengths, comparison with competitors, user reviews, and image suggestions to illustrate it. From legendary divers to new design novelties, there’s something for everyone.
① Citizen Promaster Mechanical Diver 200m « Fujitsubo » (NB6021-17E)
Let’s start with one of Citizen’s most notable releases of 2022: the Promaster Mechanical Diver 200m reference NB6021-17E, nicknamed « Fujitsubo » (barnacle in Japanese). This automatic dive watch pays homage to the 1977 « Challenge Timer, » the first Citizen diver to brave the abyss. The Fujitsubo retains the overall design of the vintage model (41mm round case, thick square indexes, unidirectional bezel with large numerals) while updating it. Its case is made of Super Titanium™ with Duratect coating, making it ultra-light and scratch-resistant. It is water-resistant to 200m (20 ATM) with a screw-down crown and caseback, compliant with ISO standards. Its black dial proudly displays « Diver’s 200m » and « Titanium, » offering exemplary legibility thanks to high contrast and generous lume.
The Promaster Fujitsubo houses the brand new Citizen 9051 automatic caliber, a 24-jewel movement operating at 28,800 vph (4 Hz) and offering approximately 42 hours of power reserve.
This caliber features high resistance to magnetic fields (up to 16,000 A/m), an asset for a tool watch often used in marine environments (navigation instruments, compasses, etc.). In terms of accuracy, Citizen announces -10/+20 sec/day, which is very respectable for an automatic dive timepiece. Users confirm that timekeeping is on point – some even report minimal drifts of a few seconds per week.
Storytelling – This model embodies Citizen’s return to the forefront of mechanical divers. Its name « Fujitsubo » comes from the Japanese nickname given to the 1977 Challenge Timer (found encrusted with barnacles after spending months at sea following an extreme test). The watch thus tells the story of Citizen’s diving expertise, from the wild tests of the 70s to the mastery of titanium today. It’s also the first automatic Promaster in titanium in a long time, symbolizing the marriage of tradition (mechanical) and innovation (hardened titanium, new anti-magnetic tech).
Comparison – Compared to competitors, the Fujitsubo positions itself very well. Against a Seiko SPB143 (another 40.5mm neo-vintage diver), the Citizen offers titanium (resulting in a featherweight of ~90g including bracelet, half the weight of the steel Seiko) and a lower price. Compared to an Orient Kamasu (in a lower price range), it justifies the gap with nobler materials and better precision. Some also compare it to contemporary Seiko « Samurai » or « Turtle » models: the Citizen has its slimness (only about 12.3mm thick, notably thinner than Seikos), making it very comfortable for daily wear. In short, the Fujitsubo targets both the diving enthusiast seeking a lightweight and high-performing toolwatch, and the collector appreciating a beautiful reissued historical timepiece.
User Reviews – Feedback from early owners is enthusiastic. On forums, many praise the « incredible perceived quality for the price » (around €700). The finish of the brushed titanium case is considered excellent, and the rotating bezel clicks firmly. A diver on WatchUseek notes that « underwater legibility is exemplary, surpassing some more expensive Swiss Made watches » thanks to the large indexes and lume. On Reddit, a user rejoices that the watch is « relatively small for a diver, » fitting even thin wrists (the compact case makes it appear smaller than a Seiko of equivalent diameter). On the downside, some mention a slightly stiff bezel action initially (the tight clicks require some force, but without excessive play), and the original polyurethane strap which, although high quality, is less appreciated than a potential titanium bracelet. Incidentally, Citizen offers a version NB6021-68L with a blue dial delivered on a titanium bracelet – many owners of the black version NB6021-17E have purchased the titanium bracelet separately for an all-metal look.
Who is it for? The Promaster Mechanical Diver Fujitsubo is aimed at the sporty man or toolwatch enthusiast looking for a serious automatic for diving or swimming, without sacrificing comfort. Its neo-retro style will also appeal to collectors who see it as a rarer alternative to Seiko’s divers. Finally, its lightweight nature makes it an excellent option for travel or daily use for those who find steel divers too heavy.
▶ Buy the Citizen Fujitsubo NB6021-17E at Windheure
② Citizen Tsuyosa Sport Automatic (NJ0150)
Within a few months, the Citizen Tsuyosa went from being a novelty to a real phenomenon in the watch community. This 40mm automatic model, launched mid-2022, immediately captivated with its style inspired by seventies luxury sports watches, reinterpreted with a Citizen twist. Its softly shaped steel case naturally integrates a multi-link bracelet, giving it a very trendy « integrated » look. But the most eye-catching feature is its dials: Citizen dared to use bright colors like lemon yellow, turquoise blue, or green, alongside classic black or royal blue. This pop palette, extremely rare on watches under €300, gives it a fun and trendy identity that caught the eye of enthusiasts.
Context and History – The Tsuyosa is not a historical reissue; it’s an original creation designed to meet the current market demand for affordable « vintage style » watches. However, Citizen drew on its heritage to give it an authentic Japanese name (Tsuyosa means « strength »), emphasizing the model’s dynamic spirit. Although not directly derived from a Citizen ancestor, one can see a distant nod to Citizen watches from the 70s (like some Citizen 8110 « Challenge Timer » non-chronographs, with their day-date window at 3 o’clock). The presence of a magnifier (cyclops) over the date at 3 o’clock is also an acknowledged vintage trait, evoking the Rolex Day-Date – a prestigious model that Citizen had « democratized » in the 1970s through homages (the Citizen Homer Date). The Tsuyosa thus updates this heritage of « affordable luxury » with a 2020s flavor.
Technical Features – Under the hood, the Tsuyosa houses the Miyota 8210 (Citizen 8210) automatic 3-hand + date caliber, running at 21,600 vph for a power reserve of about 40 hours. It’s a proven movement known for its robustness. Citizen has adjusted it here with hacking seconds and manual winding, two functions sometimes missing on older Citizens. The caseback is transparent, allowing observation of the Citizen-signed golden oscillating weight. Another major surprise for a watch at this price: a sapphire crystal protects the dial (whereas many rivals settle for mineral glass). Water resistance is 50m – sufficient for daily life (showering, washing dishes) but it’s not a diver. The dial finish is a beautiful sunburst, with applied polished indexes and luminescent dauphine hands (though the lume is relatively discreet). The 11.7mm thick case features alternating polished/brushed finishes, as does the bracelet.
Experience and Reviews – On the wrist, the Tsuyosa surprises with its comfort. Its articulated bracelet conforms well to the wrist, and the watch is relatively light (~135g) and balanced. Several owners report wearing it « very often daily without any discomfort. »
The overall look « feels much more high-end than its price, » with a dial whose changing reflections catch the eye. On Reddit, one user even compares the Tsuyosa to the Tissot PRX in these terms: « I like its look much better, and for almost half the cost. »
Another mentions the excellent accuracy of his example: only +5 seconds over several days of use – far exceeding expectations for a mass-market caliber. Obviously, the watch also has its minor flaws: the almost total lack of luminescence (hard to read the time in the dark) and a crown that is a bit too recessed, making manual winding impractical.
But nothing prohibitive for most, who primarily consider its unbeatable price.
Competition – The Tsuyosa is often compared to Tissot’s PRX. While the latter boasts a more modern Swiss Powermatic 80 movement (80h power reserve) and perhaps a slightly higher level of finish, it also costs almost double (in the automatic version). Many young buyers thus hesitate between the two, and the Citizen often wins thanks to its fun colors and Japanese charm. Against the Seiko 5 Sports (~€250-300), the Tsuyosa offers a different style (dressier, less toolwatch) and the advantage of sapphire. Citizen has thus achieved a somewhat hybrid positioning: that of the affordable « sport-chic » watch. The enthusiasm is such that some colors are regularly out of stock at authorized dealers.
Who is it for? The Tsuyosa is perfect for the urban man looking for a versatile automatic watch capable of accompanying both casual and dressier outfits. Its design recalling iconic luxury watches will appeal to those who want the style without breaking the bank. It’s also suitable as a first automatic watch – many novice buyers have purchased one after reading glowing online reviews. With its different colors, everyone can find the Tsuyosa that matches their personality (sober in black, bold in yellow, etc.). In summary, Citizen hit hard with this timepiece that democratizes the « luxury sport » aesthetic for a few hundred euros.
③ Citizen Series 8 – 870 « Open Heart » Limited Edition (NA1025-10E)
To represent the Series 8 range, let’s focus on a limited edition that made an impression: the Citizen Series 8 870 NA1025-10E, often called the « Open Heart Limited. » Presented in 2021 for the collection’s launch, this 41mm automatic watch features an ultra-modern and bold design.
Its black dial is not fully open (it’s more of an « open heart » than a total skeleton): a large central opening reveals the mainplate and balance wheel of the movement, covered by an openworked black grid bearing the indexes and Citizen logo ([Citizen Series 8 830 Mechanical NA1015-81Z – Hands-On, Price](https://monochrome-watches.com/hands-on-citizen-series-8-830-mechanical-na1015-81z-price/#:~:text=The%20most%20surprising%20element%20of,resulting%20in%20a%20bold%20look)). The result is spectacular, blending a midnight blue tinted mother-of-pearl background with a futuristic grid structure – a marriage of tradition and high-tech, perfectly in the spirit of this Series 8.
The stainless steel case has an anthracite grey finish via ion plating (black plating), giving it a decidedly contemporary look. Its multi-faceted angular shape evokes a certain « industrial » robustness, while remaining elegant thanks to judiciously placed polished surfaces. The watch features a crown protected by a prominent module integrated into the case, reinforcing its distinctive sporty style.
It is mounted on a black rubber strap, contrasting with the visual complexity of the dial for an overall sober and refined look. Performance-wise, it houses the Citizen manufacture caliber 0950 – a movement designed specifically for Series 8 – with 50 hours of power reserve, high magnetic resistance, and a reduced thickness of only 4.1mm.
This allows the NA1025-10E to be only 11mm thick, an achievement for an automatic watch sporting such an elaborate design.
Target Audience & Storytelling – This model (limited to 700 units) was clearly aimed at discerning collectors seeking an extraordinary mechanical Citizen. The storytelling emphasized by Citizen revolves around the concept of « innovation in continuity »: it’s one of the first watches to integrate their new 0950 caliber, proof of the house’s technical know-how, packaged in an avant-garde design showing that Citizen can also be fashionable. The Series 8 Limited was also an opportunity for Citizen to recall its heritage in precision – these watches are regulated to tolerances approaching chronometer standards, a nod to the Chronomasters of the 1970s (Citizen chronometer-certified watches).
Comparison – In the sport-chic segment around €1500, this Citizen Series 8 competes with the Seiko Sharp Edge « Style 60’s » or even some Swiss Made models like the Tag Heuer Carrera Twin-Time (for the technical aspect) or the Longines Conquest. What sets it apart is its frankly original and distinctly Japanese design, which doesn’t seek to imitate a Royal Oak or a Nautilus, but offers something different. The perceived quality is judged excellent – during its presentation, the specialized press praised « impressive finishing details on the case and integrated bracelet. »
Some criticized the absence of a transparent caseback (the back is solid, engraved), regretting not seeing the beautiful 0950 caliber in action, but Citizen prioritized maximum anti-magnetism and the clean aesthetic of the watch back here.
User Reviews – Being a very limited edition, reviews from French-speaking users are rare. However, on English-speaking forums, one reads that « the Series 8 exceeds expectations, with exemplary timekeeping (-3 sec/day for one owner) and surprising wrist comfort given the angular case. » Another appreciates that it « looks like no other watch in his collection, » calling it a « conversation piece » thanks to its unique dial. Conversely, some more conservative individuals admit they are not ready for such a bold design from Citizen – proof that this model does not leave anyone indifferent, which is often characteristic of watches with character.
Who is it for? The Citizen Series 8 NA1025-10E will suit the modern fine watchmaking enthusiast wanting to stray from the beaten path. If you’re looking for a high-end Japanese automatic that’s different from the perennial Swiss options, this timepiece offers plenty of content (technical and aesthetic). It’s the ultimate « pleasure » watch, embracing its originality while remaining wearable daily (100m water-resistant, robust, precise). Of course, its price reserves it for an audience already familiar with the brand or willing to invest more for a very special Citizen – but it demonstrates that Citizen can play in the big leagues.
▶ See the Citizen Series 8 NA1025-10E on Conteenium
④ Citizen Chronograph « Bullhead » (1973, Cal. 8110)
It’s impossible to talk about the best Citizen automatics without mentioning a legendary piece from the past: the Citizen Bullhead Chronograph. Appearing in 1973, this automatic chronograph acquired a mythical aura, even appearing on Brad Pitt’s wrist in the movie *Once Upon a Time in Hollywood* (2019), set at the end of the sixties.
Its nickname « Bullhead » comes from the peculiar arrangement of its two chronograph pushers, positioned not on the right side of the case as usual, but at the top at 11 and 1 o’clock, resembling a bull’s horns. The crown is also located at the top (at 12 o’clock). This original configuration, also adopted by Seiko at the time, had a practical purpose: to facilitate the use of the chronograph for a wrist holding a steering wheel (the top pushers avoided hindering the wrist in extension).
The Citizen Bullhead reference 67-9011 comes in a thick and massive case of ~38mm diameter, in steel, with a domed crystal. It existed in several dial variants, the most famous being the « Panda » version (white dial with black sub-dials) and « Reverse Panda » (black dial, white sub-dials).
The movement powering it is the Citizen 8110A caliber, an automatic chronograph with a column wheel, 23 jewels, beating at 28,800 vph – making it one of the most advanced chronographs of its time. It features the flyback function (resetting and restarting the chronograph instantly with a single gesture, without stopping first) and a day/date complication. The 8110A offers about 40 hours of power reserve. Its architecture incorporates a rather thin chronograph module, allowing for a relatively contained watch profile given the complexity.
Storytelling & Heritage – The Citizen Bullhead is part of the glorious history of automatic chronographs launched in the early 70s, when several brands competed to release the world’s first automatic chronograph. Citizen, with its 8110 caliber, proved it could technically rival Seiko (cal. 6139) and even the Swiss (cal. 11 from Heuer/Breitling or El Primero from Zenith). Citizen’s Bullhead design is bold and reflects the spirit of its era – a mix of racing style (tachymeter scale on the dial periphery, contrasting colors) and novel format. Wearing a Bullhead today is like having a piece of the seventies on your wrist, a choice that doesn’t go unnoticed by connoisseurs.
Comparison and Competition – On the vintage market, the Citizen Bullhead mainly rivals the Seiko Bullhead 6138-0040 (another « bull’s horns » chronograph released in 1975).
The Citizen has its more sophisticated movement (the Seiko 6138 lacks flyback and only beats at 21,600 vph), making it very attractive to technically-minded collectors. In terms of design, it’s a matter of taste: the Seiko sports a more angular case shape, the Citizen more rounded. Both are highly sought after. Compared to vintage Swiss chronographs, the Citizen Bullhead offers excellent value for money – one can still find them around a few hundred euros in good condition, whereas a similar Heuer Autavia skyrockets into thousands of euros.
User Reviews & Testimonials – Owners of Citizen Bullheads are often captivated collectors. They praise the reliability of the 8110A caliber: « once properly serviced, it’s good for another 50 years without fail, » says a watchmaker on a forum. Using the chronograph is a pleasure thanks to the flyback function – one user describes how he enjoys timing everything just to hear the mechanism restart instantly. In hand, the watch has weight and « commands presence despite its reasonable size. » Emotionally, many mention the pride of wearing a historic Citizen chronograph, a conversation starter that often surprises (the general public being unfamiliar with this facet of Citizen). On the downside, maintaining a Bullhead can be tricky: spare parts for the 8110 caliber are becoming scarce, and not all watchmakers accept repairs due to lack of knowledge. But that’s part of the charm – it’s an enthusiast’s watch, with its joys and constraints.
Who is it for? The Citizen Bullhead is primarily aimed at vintage enthusiasts and lovers of atypical watches. It will delight those who want an automatic chronograph steeped in history without mortgaging their house. Its very retro look may not suit formal or everyday wear for everyone, but for the collector on weekends or at watch gatherings, it brings immense charm. If you’re a fan of 70s aesthetics or watches seen in movies (thanks Brad Pitt for reviving public interest), this Citizen is a must-consider for a collection.
▶ Find a used Citizen Bullhead on Catawiki (online auctions)
⑤ (Bonus) Citizen Caliber 0200 – Japanese Haute Horlogerie
As a bonus, let’s briefly mention the Caliber 0200, a recent piece showcasing Citizen’s ambition in mechanical haute horlogerie. Introduced in 2021, Caliber 0200 is not a mass-market model but a high-end manufacture movement, developed with La Joux-Perret (a Swiss sister company). Housed in an eponymous watch The Citizen Caliber 0200 (ref. NC0200-90E), this 26-jewel caliber beats at 4 Hz with 60 hours of power reserve and, crucially, exceptional chronometric precision of -3/+5 sec/day.
The watch housing it is finished to a near-artisanal level (Côtes de Genève decoration, Zaratsu mirror-polished angled case, etc.) and is priced around €6000. With this exclusive timepiece, Citizen shows it can compete with Grand Seiko or Omega in the luxury mechanical field. It remains a technological showcase, but one that positively reflects on the entire range: expertise spreads, and Citizen’s serious watchmaking credentials are no longer in doubt.
4. Conclusion & purchasing recommendations
What should we take away from this journey into the world of Citizen automatic watches for men? Firstly, that it is a brand rich with an often overlooked heritage: Citizen is not just the quartz giant, but also a key player in mechanical watchmaking for decades, capable of major innovations. From extreme dives to racetracks to office life, there is a Citizen automatic tailored for every wrist and every use.
To make your choice, first identify your priorities:
- For an everyday sports watch with a trendy look, the Citizen Tsuyosa is an unbeatable choice – style, reliability, and contained price.
- If you’re looking for a robust diver for swimming or recreational diving, the titanium Promaster Fujitsubo offers an excellent alternative to Seikos, with the added cachet of novelty.
- Seeking a more high-end or original piece? The Series 8 will showcase your knowledge of fine Japanese mechanics and spark curiosity. It’s a bet on modern elegance.
- Finally, for vintage enthusiasts, a restored Citizen Bullhead will bring undeniable retro charm to your collection, while honoring a page of watchmaking history.
Whichever Citizen automatic watch you choose, you can be assured of getting a well-designed, durable, and precise timepiece – all with that touch of Japanese authenticity that makes the difference. Don’t hesitate to consult authorized dealers (Windheure, Conteenium, etc.) to compare offers and availability, or even auction sites for vintage models. We hope this guide has enlightened you and helped you find the Citizen that best suits your style and needs. Happy watch hunting!
Pour bien s'habiller, il faut comprendre le vêtement, mais aussi la marque et sa stratégie.