Top 13 Best Citizen Watches [List & Guide]

Top 13 Best Citizen Watches

Citizen is a popular watch brand that, just like Seiko Seiko and Casio, is known for making high-quality, durable, and affordable watches. Like the other two brands mentioned, Citizen is also a brand based in Japan.

The brand was founded in 1918 and, according to themselves ” has set itself the goal of continuous research and development to produce watches that show all people the precise time and support their lifestyle. CITIZEN is still a pioneer in the development of new movements and technologies that increase the wearing comfort of watches.”

Citizen has tons of different watches to choose from in all kinds of designs, shapes, and forms. With that said, it can be difficult to decide on one watch when the offering is so big.

Which is the best Citizen watch?

The definition of ”best” is really difficult because, for the most part, this is relatively subjective. It depends on a number of factors such as your needs, wants, and tastes. For example, if you are looking for a dive watch, then a Citizen dress watch won’t be ”the best” choice for you, in the same way, that a Citizen dive watch won’t be the best choice for you if you are looking for a dress watch.

But of course, there is in general a strong correlation between price, quality, and attention to detail in the watch world, which is important to keep in mind. Citizen makes both ultra-affordable entry-level watches, but they also make some more expensive, well-finished timepieces, so from a quality and craftsmanship point of view, the more expensive Citizen watches can be considered the best. But the goal is not always to find the most expensive watch, the goal is to find the watch that offers the best relation between price and quality, and across the range, that is exactly what Citizen is known for, so you can be confident in your choice regardless of the watch you choose.

But in this article, we have compiled a list of the most popular Citizen watches that have received the highest reviews and ratings, so regardless of which you choose, you can be sure that you are getting a well-made, beautiful timepiece that offers great value for money.

Which Citizen should you choose?

There are a number of things you want to consider when buying a timepiece, regardless of the brand.

Defining these criteria will help you find the perfect watch for you according to your wants and needs.

Some questions you can ask yourself are:

• Do I want an automatic or quartz movement?
• What type of watch do I want? Sports watch? Dive watch? Dress watch? Everyday watch?
• What size do I want? 
• What color do I want the watch to be? Monochrome or bright and colorful?

When you have answered these questions, you know roughly what you are looking for, so making a decision becomes much easier.

Without further ado, let’s dig into some of the most popular Citizen watches that have received the best reviews and ratings.

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Best Citizen watches

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Citizen BN0151-09L Promaster Professional Diver

Dive watches truly never go out of style. And there are plenty of reasons why the Citizen Promaster professional diver BN0151-09L is so immensely popular. In fact, one of Citizen’s most popular dive watches.

First off, it is offered at a very attractive price, generally below 300 USD. But don’t let that fool you, because this watch is still solid, well-built, stylish, and gives a great impression of quality.

The watch is presented with a 48mm stainless steel case and has a mineral glass window. Already at first glance, it is a very sporty dive watch with a classic and traditional design.

It features a unidirectional bezel and a beautiful blue dial with large markers and hands for optimum legibility. It has a date window at 4 o’clock. The great thing about this watch is the fact that it uses Citizen’s Eco-Drive technology, which means that it is powered by ambient and solar light, so you don’t have to replace the battery.

Being a dive watch, it of course has a good water resistance of 200 meters, meaning it is suitable for swimming and diving. The watch is presented on a sporty blue silicone bracelet with buckle closure. Round face. 

Specifications

• Diameter: 48mm
• Water resistance: 200m/660 feet/20 bar
• Eco-Drive technology
• Thickness: 12mm

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Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster Diver Watch BN0150-28E

This watch is the same timepiece as above, but this time in black. If you enjoyed the watch above but prefer a monochrome dive watch, then this is a great choice. It offers great value for money, is robust, and is well-built. It has a water resistance of 200m which makes it suitable for swimming and diving.

It is equipped with Citizen’s quartz Eco-Drive technology, which means it can convert solar and ambient light to energy for movement, so you won’t have to replace the battery.

The watch is equipped with an anti-reflective mineral crystal and has a 44mm stainless steel case with a thickness of 12mm. As a dive watch should, it of course has a unidirectional rotating bezel as well as a black dial with large hands and markers for optimum legibility.

Specifications

• Diameter: 48mm
• Water resistance: 200m/660 feet/20 bar
• Eco-Drive technology
• Thickness: 12mm

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Citizen BN2038-01L Aqualand

This is the ultimate sporty dive watch for people who want something different, unique, and bold. The design of this timepiece certainly stands out from the crowd, without compromising on its performance.

The watch is powered by a quartz movement, is ISO compliant, and has a water resistance of 200m/660 feet. It has a maximum depth memory, rapid ascent alarm, auto start dive mode, and power reserve.

The Eco-Drive technology means it is powered by light so you won’t have to replace the battery.

It is presented with a beautiful blue dial with large markers which provide good contrast and great legibility, which is crucial for dive watches. It also has a date window and a unidirectional rotating bezel with a 60-minute graduation scale.

The watch is obviously large and bulky, but this goes very well with its design and purpose. The case measures 44mm in diameter and has a thickness of 16.5mm

Specifications

• Water resistance: up to 20 ATM/200 meters
• Functions: Date, maximum depth memory, rapid ascent alarm, auto start dive mode, and power reserve.
• Movement: Caliber J250
• Crystal: Mineral crystal
• Diameter: 44mm
• Thickness: 16.5mm

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Citizen Thin Blue Line Chronograph CA0291-59E Nigthhawk

This is a popular and stylish quartz chronograph with a sporty presence. It still has a water resistance of 200 meters/660 feet which brings it into dive watch territory, giving it a dive watch performance.

The Nighthawk has a tachymeter scale on its inner bezel ring for the chronograph function. What particularly stands out about this monochrome watch is its blue stripe across the dial. This is a nice touch that adds some color and makes it much more interesting. This is particularly because this watch otherwise has a black dial and even black luminous material on the hands and markers.

The watch is equipped with a 1/5 second chronograph, which measures up to 60 minutes 12/24 hour time. On top, it has a mineral glass and a date window at 3 o’clock.

Another nice feature is that it is solar-powered so never requires a battery change. The case measures 42mm which makes it a great alternative for a sporty chronograph

Specifications

• Water-Resistance: 200m/660 feet
• Diameter: 42mm
• Crystal: Hardlex
• Solar-powered

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Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster Diver BJ8050-08E

This is a serious dive watch for people who wants a sporty diver that stands out from the crowd, is robust, and can handle virtually any harsh conditions you subject it to. 

To begin with, the watch has an impressive 300m/1000 feet water resistance, making it suitable for virtually any water activity. As a dive watch should, it has a focus on legibility, with an easy-to-read dial thanks to its large hour markers with generous amounts of luminous material applied to them. It is also equipped with a unidirectional rotating bezel, this time in full stainless steel to add to its sporty appearance.

The watch is also powered by Citizen’s Eco-Drive technology, meaning it is powered by light, thus removing the need for replacing the battery.

The watch is presented with a stainless steel case with a diameter of 48mm, has a mineral window, and is presented on a black rubber band. With that said, its size means that it is perhaps not suitable for everyone, but if you want a sporty and bold dive watch, then this is a great option for you.

Specifications

• Water-Resistance: 300m/1000 feet
• Eco-Drive solar technology
• Diameter: 48mm

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Citizen Eco-Drive Chronograph CA0649-06X

If you are looking for something a bit more refined and classic, then this Chronograph from Citizen is a great option. The watch features a stainless steel case with a diameter of 44mm. It is powered by a Japanese quartz movement and has a water resistance of 100m/330 feet. The movement is, like so many other Citizen watches, solar-powered and thus gets its energy from ambient and solar light. It has a 1/5 Second Chronograph Measuring up to 60 Minutes, 12/24 Hour Time, and date.

The watch has a stylish and slightly retro design to it.

Specifications

• Diameter: 44mm
• Functions: 1/5 Second Chronograph Measuring up to 60 Minutes, 12/24 Hour Time, Date.
• Water resistance: 100m/10Bar/333ft
• Solar-powered quartz Eco-Drive movement

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Citizen Avion Eco-Drive Chronograph

As the name suggests, this is an Aviation watch with a pilot’s inspired design. With that said, it is both sporty and casual, suitable for everyday wear.

What makes this stand out as a pilot’s watch is its chronograph function, large white markers, and large case. It has a date display positioned between four and five o’clock.

The watch is powered by a Japanese quartz movement and provides a water resistance of 100m/330 feet.

For a more casual and pilot-inspired design, it is presented on a brown leather calfskin band. The watch has a 1/5 Second Chronograph that measures up to 60 Minutes, 12/24 Hour Time, Date

Specifications

• Crystal: Mineral
• Diameter: 45mm
• Water resistance: 100m/330 feet
• Functions:  1/5 Second Chronograph Measures up to 60 Minutes, 12/24 Hour Time, Date

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Citizen Corso Eco-Drive Chronograph

This refined and classy chronograph has more of an elegant design which makes it very versatile, both for formal and casual occasions. It has a stainless steel case with a diameter of 44mm and of course, uses Citizen’s Eco-Drive technology which is powered by solar and ambient light.

The watch has a water resistance of 100m/330 feet, but you probably won’t think about going swimming with this watch anyway.

It has a sleek and elegant design that combines functional simplicity with a touch of timeless elegance. It has a silver dial with a beautiful pattern, and all accents are made of polished steel, which goes very well with the silver theme.

Specifications

• Diameter: 44mm
• Eco-Drive solar movement
• Water resistance: 100m/330ft
• Functions: day/date display and 12/24-hour time

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Citizen Elegant Evolution 5 World Timer Eco-Drive Radio Watch CB0010-02E

This popular watch from Seiko is, as the name suggests, a world timer. This means it can present different time zones, which is a really handy feature. Overall, it still has a very classic and refined design.

It features a stainless steel case with a diameter of 43mm and is presented on a black leather strap with a croci embossed print. It has a date window at 3 o’clock, a black dial with a lovely pattern, and large hands and markers which provide excellent legibility.

The watch is also radio-controlled.

Specifications

• Diameter: 43mm
• Water resistance: 100m/330 feet

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Citizen Quartz steel diver AG8300-52L

This is a sporty watch with a dive-watch-inspired design. It is made in all steel, including its unidirectional rotating bezel. The watch features a 40mm stainless steel case and is powered by a quartz movement. As a contrast to its all-steel design, it has a striking blue dial with a sunburst finish and a striped pattern at its center. 

The watch is also presented with three sub-dials.

This is the perfect watch if you are looking for a stylish everyday watch with a touch of sportiness to it. A downside is that the bracelet has some rattle and doesn’t feel completely solid, but at this price point, it is certainly something we can expect

Specifications

• Diameter: 40mm
• Water resistance: 100m/330 feet
• Three sub-dials

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Citizen AT0200-05E Eco-Drive

This is one of Citizen’s most popular watches ever made. Part of this has to do with its exceptionally affordable price, but a lot of it has to do with the fact that it is just a stylish and versatile timepiece.

The watch has a very evident military-inspired design with a matte black dial with white numerals. Like many Citizen watches, it is light-powered through the Eco-Drive movement technology, so you won’t have to replace the battery. 

It is water-resistant to 100m/330 feet and also has a day/date window at 3 o’clock which adds to its practicality.

This is a timeless, sporty, and robust timepiece that will last for a long time and will work great as a stylish everyday watch.

Specifications

• Functions: 3 Hand, Day / Date 
• Eco-Drive quartz movement
• Military-Inspired design
• Day/date function
• Water resistance: 100m/330 feet

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Citizen Eco-Drive Blue Angels World Chronograph Atomic AT8020-03L

This is a chronograph watch from Citizen for those who want a little bit of ”extra everything”. There is nothing about this watch that reflects ”less is more”, and that is what people love about it.

The watch features. Stainless steel case with a diameter of 43mm. It has an anti-reflective sapphire dial, which is a great value proposition since most of them have mineral crystals.

It has a lovely blue dial with a sunburst finish, is radio-controlled, and has beautiful yellow accents. At 3 o’clock, we also find a date window. The water resistance is 666 feet/200m which is actually quite good for a chronograph.

It is also packed with functions, including a Synchronized Atomic Time Clock for Superior Accuracy, Atomic Timekeeping Technology with Synchronized Time Adjustment Available in 26 Time Zones, 1/20 Second Chronograph that Measures up to 60 Minutes, and a Perpetual Calendar.

Specifications

• Crystal: anti-reflective sapphire crystal
• Functions:  Synchronized to Atomic Time Clock for Superior Accuracy, Atomic Timekeeping Technology with Synchronized Time Adjustment Available in 26 Time Zones, 1/20 Second Chronograph Measures up to 60 Minutes, Perpetual Calendar 
• Water resistance: 660 feet/200m
• Diameter: 43mm

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Citizen AT0200-05E Eco-Drive Chronograph

Last but not least, we have this extremely popular and beautiful blue military-inspired chronograph.

It is presented with a beautiful matte blue dial and a matching blue canvas strap. The watch has large white markers printed on the dial for legibility, and to go with the military-inspired theme.

At 4 o’clock, it has a date window. It is therefore a Chronograph watch with a 12/24 hour time and date. The diameter is 40mm, and the thickness measures 5mm. And like many Citizen watches, it uses ECO-Drive technology, meaning you won’t have to replace the battery.

With its blue color, it is a really striking watch that combines vintage-inspired design elements with modern technology.

Specifications

• Chronograph watch with 12/24 hour time and date 
• Water-Resistance: 100m/330 feet
• Diameter: 40mm
• Thickness: 11mm

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Citizen watches buyer’s guide

As discussed earlier, there are some things you want to keep in mind when buying a Citizen watch – and any watch for that matter. To help you make your pick, here are some things to take into consideration:

Movement

Citizen makes watches with all kinds of different movements – digital, quartz, and mechanical. With that said, you have a great selection of different timepieces depending on your needs and preferences. Citizen’s mechanical movements are appreciated for their durability and performance, but Citizen’s solar Eco-Drive movements are also appreciated for their functionality. Ultimately, it’s a matter of choice, but it’s still important to know that not all Citizen watches are made equal.

Style and design

Citizen has a wide collection of timepieces and offers watches for all kinds of different purposes. Dress watches, dive watches, sports watches, and much more. This is why narrowing down what type of watch you are looking for will help you find the watch that suits your taste and needs the best. Think about when and how you will use your watch and then choose a watch that suits those occasions.

Size

The size of the watch is always something to consider as everyone has different wrist sizes but also different preferences for how a watch should sit on the wrist. Consider if you want a small and slim watch or a large and bulky timepiece. Regardless, Citizen makes timepieces in all kinds of different styles.

Color

The color of the watch mainly refers to the dial and bezel (if applicable). Most people choose the color of their watch depending on their tastes and preferences, but you can also think about how well the color pairs with various outfits. A black or dark blue watch will naturally be more discreet and versatile than a watch with a bold red color. Ultimately, this also comes down to the occasions on which you plan to wear your watch.

Water resistance

Last but not least, water resistance is always an important factor to consider in a watch. It is not always important, but it’s always important to consider it. If you are buying an elegant dress watch that you’ll wear at the office, you probably don’t need good water resistance. But if you are going swimming and diving with it, it’s definitely something you need to look out for to make sure it can be used in those environments.

Which is the best Citizen watch?

The “best” Citizen watch will ultimately depend on your needs, taste, and preferences, including the factors above. With that said, there is no one “best” watch from Citizen. But when you buy a watch from Citizen, you can, regardless, be comfortable in the fact that you are getting a high-quality timepiece that offers great value for money.

Are Citizen watches good?

Yes! Citizen watches are known and appreciated for making great watches at attractive prices. Citizen is responsible for a number of watch-related innovations and improvements and constantly strives for making better, more accurate, and more qualitative watches. In their price range, Citizen watches are definitely one of the best choices out there. It is particularly the combination of quality and affordability that makes Citizen watches stand out.

Naturally, Citizen watches cannot compete with luxury watches in terms of quality and finish, but the price is always a factor to take into account, and this brings us to the next point.

Is Citizen a high-end watch?

Considering the price point of Citizen watches, they cannot really be called high-end. When it comes to high-end watches, we talk about an additional step of luxury and attention to detail that will also be reflected in the price, but this has never been the focus of Citizen with its watches. With this in mind, Citizen fits better into the category as an entry-level/mid-level. It’s not a luxury brand, but it’s not trying to be, either. But whilst the brand isn’t trying to achieve this reputation, Citizen watches still impress with their quality and are able to compete with other, much more expensive alternatives.

How long do Citizen watches last?

Ultimately, how long a Citizen watch lasts will depend on how you use it and what type of watch you have bought. Not to mention how well you look after it.

A mechanical Citizen watch can last for many years, and even several decades if you have it serviced when it needs it. Quartz and Eco-Drive watches are known for lasting up to 10 years. All of this is very impressive considering what they cost.

Are Citizen watches made in Japan?

Yes, Citizen watches are made in Japan, and what makes them stand out is that they make all the components in-house. This gives them greater control over each step of the production and allows them to reach a higher level of quality control, and ultimately better products. There are few watch brands in this price range that manufacture everything in-house, but it’s also what has helped Citizen become what it is today.

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