06/11/2020 CITIZEN announces a limited-edition model commemorating its 50th anniversary of the world’s first titanium watch
CITIZEN celebrates its 50th anniversary this year of the release of the world's first titanium watch. In commemoration, the company announces the new SATELLITE WAVE GPS F950 — CITIZEN Titanium Technology 50th Anniversary Limited Model — a testament to its superior titanium processing technology.
[Overview]
Titanium was the favored construction material used in the Apollo spacecrafts in the 1960s due to its lightweight and rust-resistant properties. The material is also uniquely biocompatible and less likely to cause metal allergy reactions to the human body. CITIZEN quickly realized the potential of the material for a new generation of watches, and created the X-8 Chronometer model in 1970, which became the world’s first titanium watch. While titanium material offers many advantages in watch construction, the metal is prone to stick to the mold when subject to pressure of a hundred or more tons, resulting in deformation, and has a softer surface than stainless steel which is easily scratched. In 2000, CITIZEN overcame these challenges by developing Super Titanium™*1 – its own surface treatment and titanium processing technologies that offered nearly five times the surface hardness of stainless steel, as well as a wide variety of color variations, and smooth, mirror-like finish.
Marking the 50th anniversary since the release of the world’s first titanium watch, CITIZEN proudly announces the 50th Anniversary Model of CITIZEN Titanium Technology as a culmination of titanium innovation.
[CITIZEN Titanium Technology 50th Anniversary Limited Model]
This model inherits the “space” design concept of the “SATELLITE WAVE GPS F100” released in 2014 and “SATELLITE WAVE GPS F900” in 2015, respectively, while making full use of CITIZEN's exclusive titanium-processing technologies to further advance innovation. The case and band feature pronounced three-dimensional surfaces with edgy, straight lines that create a symmetrical profile shape of angles and shadows. The black dial comprises a multi-layered structure with six parts stacked on top of one another, evoking the image of the endless depths of outer space. The case conveys a sense of refinement by combining two parts from CITIZEN's unique surface hardening technology, “Duratect*2 DLC” and “Duratect Sakura Pink”.
Caliber F950 is featured in this top-of-the-line movement Eco-Drive GPS SATELLITE WAVE*3. With reception of exclusive time signal, this advanced movement has the ability to receive GPS satellite signals at the world's fastest speed of within 3 seconds, and offers remarkably fast watch hand movements through a high-speed twin-coil motor that’s capable of rotating the second hand 360° forward or reverse in a single second. This unprecedented speed streamlines the process from reception to completion seamlessly.
[Main features]
“Space” design theme
The new model utilizes SuperTitanium™, which is the same material that will be used in Japan’s lunar exploration project, “HAKUTO-R*4”. While inheriting the design concept “Space” from the 2014 SATELLITE WAVE GPS F100 and the 2015 SATELLITE WAVE GPS F900, the new design idea is further advanced through the use of CITIZEN’s proprietary titanium processing technologies to create a multi-layer, six-part stacked dial that envisions the depth of the endless universe.
Edgy, linear design lines for case and band
Centering on CITIZEN’s titanium-processing technology cultivated and advanced over decades, the case and band feature edgy, straight lines that form a three-dimensional surface, creating a stunning sculpted shape of angles and shadows.
Cohesive color combination inspired by Duratect
Representing the 50th anniversary of the world’s first titanium watch, the new F950 model features a combination of Duratect DLC and Sakura Pink that produces a cultivated finish. The dual-case structure is the result of precision processing technologies developed over decades of innovation.
Equipped with top-of-the-line movement F950 of Eco-Drive GPS SATELLITE WAVE
Cal.F950 is the top-of-the-line Eco-Drive GPS SATELLITE WAVE movement using light as a power source and an innovative satellite reception technology that was pioneered by CITIZEN. With exclusive reception of time data, this advanced movement has the ability to receive GPS satellite signals at the world's fastest speed of within 3 seconds, and offers remarkably fast watch hand movements through a high-speed twin-coil motor that’s capable of rotating second hand 360° forward or reverse in a single second. This unprecedented speed streamlines the process from reception to completion seamlessly.
[Product specifications]
| Brand / Product Name | CITIZEN Titanium Technology 50th Anniversary Limited Model SATELLITE WAVE GPS F950 |
|---|---|
| Model | CC4025-82E |
| Retail Price | SGD 7,249.25 with GST / MYR 21,680 |
| Limited quantity | 550 (Worldwide) |
| Launch(projected) | End December 2020 |
| Case / Band | Super Titanium |
| Glass | Sapphire glass with anti-reflective coating |
| Case diameter / thickness | 47.5 mm / 14.71 mm (design specification only) |
| Specifications | Cal.F950 / Accuracy ±5 seconds per month (without time signal reception) / Eco-Drive running for 5 years on full charge (in power save mode) / SATELLITE WAVE GPS / W.R. 10 BAR / Limited Edition box / Serial number engraving |
[History of titanium watches]
1970 - World’s first titanium wristwatch released
X-8 chronometer
The world's first titanium watch used titanium with a purity of 99.6% for the case. The “X-8” product name comes from a combination of “x” signifying the “unknown” and “8”, the infinite symbol of “∞” turned sideways to portray infinite possibilities of titanium.
X-8 chronometer
The world's first titanium watch used titanium with a purity of 99.6% for the case. The “X-8” product name comes from a combination of “x” signifying the “unknown” and “8”, the infinite symbol of “∞” turned sideways to portray infinite possibilities of titanium.
1987 New technology development with soft brilliance
ATTESA first model released
The first model “ATTESA” elevated the texture of titanium to a new level. Known to be difficult to polish to a mirror-like shine, titanium metal is normally used for outdoor watches for a rough, matte surface texture look. ATTESA is the first genuine business watch to introduce the new surface treatment process that creates a refined, polished look with a beautiful luster. It is also hypo-allergic.
ATTESA first model released
The first model “ATTESA” elevated the texture of titanium to a new level. Known to be difficult to polish to a mirror-like shine, titanium metal is normally used for outdoor watches for a rough, matte surface texture look. ATTESA is the first genuine business watch to introduce the new surface treatment process that creates a refined, polished look with a beautiful luster. It is also hypo-allergic.
2000 Birth of Super Titanium™
ASPEC World Time
The first model to use Super Titanium™, which utilizes CITIZEN's proprietary surface-hardening technology “Duratect”.
ASPEC World Time
The first model to use Super Titanium™, which utilizes CITIZEN's proprietary surface-hardening technology “Duratect”.
2006 First model to adopt dual-surface hardening technology “Duratect MRK + DLC”
Promaster Eco-Drive radio-controlled watch
This is the first model to adopt “Duratect MRK + DLC”, which is made by applying “Duratect MRK” to harden the surface of the material itself and then overlaying “Duratect DLC” to coat the surface with low-temperature plasma technology. This combination results in reinforced durability that’s highly resistant to scratches. It is also hypo-allergic.
Promaster Eco-Drive radio-controlled watch
This is the first model to adopt “Duratect MRK + DLC”, which is made by applying “Duratect MRK” to harden the surface of the material itself and then overlaying “Duratect DLC” to coat the surface with low-temperature plasma technology. This combination results in reinforced durability that’s highly resistant to scratches. It is also hypo-allergic.
2018: Super-thin 3.53 mm model using Super Titanium™
Eco-Drive One
This model features Eco-Drive — CITIZEN’s light-powered technology with the world’s thinnest movement of only 1.00 mm thickness — housed in a Super Titanium™ case just 3.53 mm in total. Despite being ultra-thin, Super Titanium™ achieves remarkable durability and robustness required for watches.
Eco-Drive One
This model features Eco-Drive — CITIZEN’s light-powered technology with the world’s thinnest movement of only 1.00 mm thickness — housed in a Super Titanium™ case just 3.53 mm in total. Despite being ultra-thin, Super Titanium™ achieves remarkable durability and robustness required for watches.
[Super Titanium™ characteristics]
Super Titanium™ is the amalgamation of CITIZEN's original titanium-processing and Duratect surface-hardening technology.
1. Resistant to scratches
Five times the hardness of stainless steel, Super Titanium™ is highly resistant to scratches that may occur during daily wear, and continues to retain its original brilliant luster even after 10 years of usage.
2. Lightweight
Weighing only 60% of stainless steel, the material is surprisingly lightweight and feels like a part of your body, allowing you to wear it all day long without fatigue or stress.
3. Gentle on the skin
Titanium is a metal-allergy-resistant material that is gentle on the skin. By applying proprietary surface-hardening technologies instead of traditional metal-coating technologies, all of titanium’s inherent positive qualities are brought to life.
4. Rust-resistant
Super Titanium™ will not rust from contact with fresh water, seawater, or sweat. Since there is no worry about rust or loss of its natural shine, outdoor enthusiasts and wearers who work with water can use it with peace of mind.
5. Rich color variations
Unlike untreated titanium, Super Titanium™ enables the creation of a wide variety of color tones such as silver, black, gold, and even pink gold. The design possibilities for watches are now virtually infinite.
*1 Super Titanium™ is CITIZEN’s proprietary technology to treat solid titanium with surface hardening technology. It is at least 5 times harder than stainless steel, resistant to scratches, lightweight and gentle to the skin for comfortable wearing.
*2 Duratect is CITIZEN’s proprietary surface hardening technology that enhances the surface hardness of metals such as stainless steel and titanium, protecting watch bodies from scratches and damage. This technology offers excellent abrasion quality and maintains lustre of metals for long periods of time.
*3 Eco-Drive is CITIZEN’s proprietary technology that powers watches using any natural or artificial light source, eliminating the need to replace batteries. Certified as an Eco Mark product for the first time in the watch industry. GPS satellite-synchronized watch captures the date and time signals sent by GPS satellites from space — orbiting 20,000 kilometers above the Earth — bringing ultra-precise timekeeping to wherever people are on the face of the globe.
*4 HAKUTO-R: HAKUTO-R is a program that coordinates two lunar exploration missions by iSpace Inc scheduled for 2021 and 2023. Developing its own lander and rover, it will make a lunar landing in 2021 and lunar exploration in 2023 using the SpaceX’s Falcon 9.
*2 Duratect is CITIZEN’s proprietary surface hardening technology that enhances the surface hardness of metals such as stainless steel and titanium, protecting watch bodies from scratches and damage. This technology offers excellent abrasion quality and maintains lustre of metals for long periods of time.
*3 Eco-Drive is CITIZEN’s proprietary technology that powers watches using any natural or artificial light source, eliminating the need to replace batteries. Certified as an Eco Mark product for the first time in the watch industry. GPS satellite-synchronized watch captures the date and time signals sent by GPS satellites from space — orbiting 20,000 kilometers above the Earth — bringing ultra-precise timekeeping to wherever people are on the face of the globe.
*4 HAKUTO-R: HAKUTO-R is a program that coordinates two lunar exploration missions by iSpace Inc scheduled for 2021 and 2023. Developing its own lander and rover, it will make a lunar landing in 2021 and lunar exploration in 2023 using the SpaceX’s Falcon 9.
[About CITIZEN WATCH]
CITIZEN WATCH is a true manufacture d'horlogerie with a comprehensive manufacturing process that extends from creating a watch’ s individual components to its final assembly. The company operates in more than 130 countries around the world. Since its founding in 1918, CITIZEN have held the belief of “Better Starts Now” — that is, no matter who you are and what you do, it is always possible to make something better, and now is the time to start doing it. Sharing this belief, we have made watches, invented and improved technologies and explored the future of watches such as our proprietary light-powered Eco-Drive technology and state-of-the-art satellite-synchronized timekeeping.
[Titanium Technology 50th Anniversary Special Website]
In 1970, CITIZEN launched the world’s first titanium watch. In 2020, we celebrate the 50th anniversary of titanium technology development. Believing in the potential of titanium, CITIZEN continues to evolve and refining this technology as it has for a half-century. Highly scratch resistant, rust-proof, lightweight, and skin-friendly, Super Titanium™ is also going to be used in commercial lunar exploration program. Titanium Technology 50th Anniversary Special Website conveys the future prospects of Super Titanium™.
Titanium Technology 50th Anniversary Special Website
https://www.citizenwatch-global.com/titaniumtechnology50th/
https://www.citizenwatch-global.com/titaniumtechnology50th/
*The final design and specifications are subject to change without notice.
*Eco-Drive, Super Titanium™, Duratect are trademarks or registered trademarks of Citizen Watch Co., Ltd.
*The availability, specifications and related information such as product code for the models featured in this site, may vary by markets. If you would like to know more details, including the availability of this products in your area, please select your “Local Website” from our global site.
*Eco-Drive, Super Titanium™, Duratect are trademarks or registered trademarks of Citizen Watch Co., Ltd.
*The availability, specifications and related information such as product code for the models featured in this site, may vary by markets. If you would like to know more details, including the availability of this products in your area, please select your “Local Website” from our global site.