CITIZEN

In 1918 the “Shoukousha Watch Research Institute” was founded. Later, this became “CITIZEN Watch Co.”. The founder of the Shoukousha Watch Research Institute opened the watchmaking school to train his employees. His purpose was to make them experts in the manufacture of precision watches.

At the time, most of the watches in Japan were imported and considered a luxury product. CITIZEN watches are affordable for the public. Therefore, the mayor of Tokyo called the first watch CITIZEN.

Since 1918 the brand statement has been “Better Starts Now“. Whoever you are, whatever you do, there is always time to do something better and now is the time to start. CITIZEN is always working on the development of new watches and technologies, like their Eco-Drive technology with light drive and satellite-controlled Satellite Wave timing system.

Eco-Drive Technology

In 1976, CITIZEN developed worlds first analogue, light-powered watch. This is the Eco-Drive technology. Thanks to this technology, the watch generates energy from light. Even dim light. Not only sunlight, but also indoor light. No battery required. The watch can run for months, even in the dark. CITIZEN is a pioneer in light-powered watches.