Citizen Series 8 / 830 Mechanical
A First Look At Citizen’s Relaunched Series 8 Automatic Collection
The Japanese brand is aiming for a more upscale audience with both accuracy and aesthetics.
By Rhonda Riche
Editor-At-Large
One of our favorite things about human beings is their ability to adapt and grow. We see it when people embrace new worlds through books and movies. And when they travel the world to experience new cultures.
For many watch enthusiasts, participating in the collector community is a great way to meet new people and learn about different ideas and attitudes. That is why we’re psyched about Citizen’s Series 8 relaunch.
For folks looking for a solid entry-level mechanical timepiece, the Series 8 is new and much more affordable than its Swiss counterparts. And for those who are deep into a watch addiction, it offers a whole new avenue of collecting to explore.
Global Citizens
Citizen has always been at the cutting edge of horological innovation. Just think of the light-powered Eco-Drive or the Calibre 0200 collaboration with La Joux-Perret that just launched. But the brand also offers plenty of appeal to those who like a time-tested look. Vintage collectors are always on the lookout for the brand’s beautiful diving watches. And don’t forget the buzz generated when Brad Pitt wore a 1970s Citizen 8110 Bullhead in Once Upon A Time in Hollywood.
The Series 8 collection also goes back a bit. It originally debuted in 2008 but was a Japan-only line.
The 2021 collection is going global with two new models, the 870 and 831. Look-wise, the watches share a similar octagonal case shape. According to Citizen, the goal for the Series 8 is to create pieces that are “functional and practical.” But at the same time, the brand has upped the finishes with bold hairline effects contrasting and mirror polishing.
The 870 also makes a sporty statement with a robust two-piece bezel, easy-to-read indices, and wide, generously lumed hands for enhanced functionality. It is available in two variations, the black-dialed NA1004-87E and the white-dialed NA1000‐88A. The 40mm stainless steel watch features Citizen’s brand new 0950 automatic and manual winding calibre, which packs a 4Hz operating frequency, a 50-hour power reserve, and enhanced magnetic resistance into a thin 10.90mm case. For extra comfort, it comes on a flexible steel bracelet.
The Series 8 870 will be available this fall and is priced at $2,000.
New Editions
Because the original Series 8 was only released in the Japanese domestic market, it still feels novel to the rest of the world. But that’s not all that feels fresh about the 831. Its contemporary-looking case and dial design are clean and uncluttered, allowing the watch to work in casual and formal situations, both.
Powered by the equally versatile automatic calibre 9051, which is thinner than the 0950 but just as robust, the Series 8 831 has an accuracy of -5 to +10 seconds per day. It also touts an increased magnetic resistance that can protect the balance wheel from the magnetic fields people encounter every day in this technology-driven world.
The 831 comes in two versions: a stainless steel case and bracelet with a glossy black dial and a gold-tone case with a shiny blue dial presented on a urethane and calfskin strap. Another nice touch is the edged hands that almost reach the rim of the dial. These unassuming yet thoughtful details elevate the elegance of this timepiece.
The Series 8 831 will also be available this fall and is priced at $1,200.
Both the 870 and the 831 watches feature sapphire glass and 100-meter water resistance; two more reasons these new models are ideal for everyday wear. If you are an enthusiast, there’s nothing better than a watch you can wear every day but that still projects a lot of presence, proving that you don’t necessarily need to wear a Patek or Rolex to engage with fellow collectors.
For more information, check out Citizen’s website.
(Images © Citizen Watch)
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