We at Chrono Scent are thrilled to announce the arrival of the new Citizen Series 8 GMT. Notably, this is a remarkable addition to Citizen’s esteemed Series 8 lineup. This collection showcases a range of time-and-date integrated bracelet steel sports watches that incorporate the brand’s innovative mechanical GMT movement. 

With a focus on everyday appeal and time zone versatility, these stylish models effortlessly blend known concepts into a single watch. This sets a new standard for style and functionality. Let’s dig deeper into this Citizen Series 8 GMT review! 

The History of Citizen Watches: From Pocket Watches to Modern Timepieces

Citizen is a Japanese multinational conglomerate company that has been manufacturing watches since 1918. The company’s early years were focused on creating affordable timepieces for the Japanese public. In the 1920s, most watches sold in Japan were pocket watches imported from overseas.

Determined to create a Japanese rival product, the Shokosha Watch Research Institute, the precursor to Citizen, launched its own pocket watch in 1924. As a first product, it was magnificent but it lacked a name. Tokyo Mayor Count Shinpei Goto was asked to suggest one, and he came up with “CITIZEN.” Since then, Citizen has been crafting watches that are an integral part of their customers’ lives.

The company has incorporated and refined technologies that delight the wearer. Their philosophy of making watches that many people will cherish for a long time has remained unchanged since their first pocket watch in 1924. Today, Citizen is one of the largest watch manufacturers in the world, with a reputation for innovation and quality.

Citizen Series 8: Design and Dimensions

The Series 8 GMT models embody sleek elegance. They effortlessly transition from formal affairs to everyday adventures. Also, they have a 41mm diameter and a thin 13.5mm thickness. This blends bold presence with comfy wear. 

Take your pick from the captivating “Pepsi” version with its striking blue dial, the alluring blue/black “Batman” variant featuring a sleek black dial, or the limited-edition gold-tone “Root Beer” option. Each showcases its unique personality while maintaining a harmonious aesthetic. These watches reflect refined craftsmanship and tasteful design. This truly makes them the ideal companions for any occasion.

Craftsmanship and Durability: Built to Last

The Series 8 GMT continues Citizen’s unwavering commitment to excellence. These exceptional timepieces exude style and offer unmatched durability. With an impressive water resistance of up to 100 meters, they effortlessly withstand daily life. They provide you with peace of mind wherever your adventures take you. 

The sapphire crystal, adorned with an anti-reflective coating, ensures crystal-clear visibility and guards against unsightly scratches. This allows you to appreciate every intricate detail of the dial without compromise. Moreover, the inclusion of a display case back enhances the allure of these watches. This truly offers a glimpse into the exquisite inner workings of the timepiece. 

The 24-hour bi-directional rotating bezels further elevate the design, allowing for easy tracking of additional time zones and adding a practical touch to overall functionality. With the Series 8 GMT, Citizen has once again demonstrated its commitment to delivering timepieces that combine exceptional quality with superior practicality.

The Impressive Movement: Citizen 9054

The pulsating core of the Series 8 GMT is the extraordinary Citizen 9054 movement. This automatic wonder operates at 4 Hz, ensuring accurate timekeeping and impressive accuracy. What sets this movement apart is its remarkable functionality. That is the local-jumping GMT feature, often hailed as the “flyer” GMT. 

With this innovative addition, wearers can easily adjust the main hour hand. They can effortlessly transition between different time zones without fuss. Traditionally reserved for high-end luxury watches, this coveted feature is now within reach at an affordable price point. This is thanks to Citizen’s relentless commitment to innovation and accessibility. 

Prepare to be captivated by the seamless performance and superb functionality of the Citizen 9054 movement. In terms of precision and convenience, it truly makes the Series 8 GMT a whole new animal.

Thoughts and Expectations

We are enthusiastic about the release of the Series 8 GMT by Citizen. Including the GMT at an attractive price below $2,000 makes this timepiece an enticing option for watch enthusiasts and frequent travelers alike. The Series 8 collection has already garnered praise for its well-considered design and attention to detail, and these new GMT models uphold that reputation while incorporating unique elements inspired by Japanese aesthetics.

While it is challenging to fully assess the wearing experience without hands-on exploration, initial impressions suggest that the sizing of these integrated bracelet steel sports watches strikes a harmonious balance. The bracelet undoubtedly contributes to managing the thickness and ensures a comfortable fit on the wrist. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to examine these timepieces up close before they hit stores later this fall.

Pricing and Availability

The Series 8 GMT models will be available for purchase starting this fall. The steel models will be priced at $1,695, while the gold-tone reference, limited to just 1,300 units, will be offered at $1,795. 

These price points make the Series 8 GMT an excellent value proposition, especially when considering the popular integrated bracelet steel sports watch format. Although the cost is slightly higher than comparable models with Swatch’s Flyer GMT movement, such as the Mido Ocean Star GMT, the Citizen Series 8 GMT remains an appealing option for those seeking a high-quality Flyer GMT watch at an affordable price.

Seiko vs. Citizen: A Comparative Analysis of Two Iconic Watch Brands

When comparing Seiko and Citizen, two prominent watch brands, there are several factors to consider. Seiko is renowned for its superior craftsmanship and innovative tech. Yet, Citizen is known for its commitment to affordability and reliability. The Seiko brand offers a broad range of mechanical and automatic watches. This includes their iconic Seiko 5 line, which appeals to watch enthusiasts seeking traditional timepieces with intricate movements. On the other hand, Citizen showcases a diverse collection of quartz watches. 

They incorporate cutting-edge Eco-Drive technology that harnesses light energy for sustainable power. Sports watch enthusiasts will find both brands’ Prospex and Promaster lines appealing to them. 

Ultimately, the choice between Seiko and Citizen boils down to personal preferences, whether you prioritize mechanical precision, eco-friendly technology, or specific design aesthetics. Whichever brand you opt for, you can expect a timepiece that combines functionality, style, and a rich heritage of watchmaking expertise.

Bulova vs. Citizen: Exploring the Distinctions

Bulova and Citizen stand out as iconic watch brands with unique strengths. Bulova has long been recognized for its precision and innovation. Namely, Bulova watches often showcase elegant designs and a wide range of styles to suit different tastes. On the flip side, Citizen has made a name for itself through its dedication to affordable luxury and other advancements. 

Citizen’s Eco-Drive technology, which harnesses light as a power source, has been a game-changer in the industry. It offers convenience and sustainability by eliminating battery replacements. When comparing Bulova and Citizen, it ultimately comes down to personal preferences. If you value timeless elegance and superior precision, Bulova might be your brand. 

Yet, if you appreciate affordable luxury and cutting-edge technology, Citizen might be the perfect fit. Both brands boast a rich heritage and a commitment to quality. This ensures that whichever brand you choose, you’ll have a timepiece that makes a statement on your wrist.

Getting Ready for Fall 2023: Citizen Series 8 Collection Release

Mark your calendars for fall 2023, as Citizen’s highly anticipated Series 8 watches are set to make their debut. With their excellent craftsmanship and stylish designs, these watches are sure to charm watch enthusiasts and collectors alike. 

Whether you choose the “Pepsi” version, the “Batman” version, or the limited-edition gold-tone “Root Beer” version, each watch promises to impress. Stay tuned for the release of the Citizen Series 8 collection and prepare for a horological journey like no other.

Experience the Citizen Series 8 GMT for Yourself

So, are there any last words about the Citizen Series 8 GMT? These remarkable timepieces offer a harmonious blend of style, functionality, and affordability. With its sleek and elegant design, the Series 8 GMT is equally suited for formal occasions and casual outings. Each watch in this collection possesses its distinct character, from the striking blue dial of the “Pepsi” version to the sleek black dial of the “Batman” variant, and the limited-edition gold-tone “Root Beer” option. But it’s not just about looks! 

The Series 8 GMT boasts impressive features, including water resistance of up to 100 meters, ensuring durability for everyday wear. Also, the sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective layer guarantees exceptional clarity and scratch resistance. This allows you to appreciate the intricate dial details without compromise. The Citizen Series 8 GMT promises a special and unforgettable experience on your wrist.

The Basics: Key Specifications

• Brand: Citizen
• Model: Series 8 / 880 Mechanical GMT
• Reference Number: NB6031-56E (blue/black), NB6030-59L (blue/red), NB6032-53P (gold tone, limited edition)
• Diameter: 41mm
• Thickness: 13.5mm
• Case Material: Steel
• Dial Color: Black, blue, or gold-tone
• Indexes: Applied
• Lume: Yes
• Water Resistance: 100 meters
• Strap/Bracelet: Integrated steel bracelet

The Movement: Power and Precision

• Caliber: Citizen 9054
• Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date, second-time zone
• Power Reserve: Approximately 50 hours
• Winding: Automatic (can be hand-wound)
• Jewels: 24
• Additional Details: All three models have a display case back

Pricing and Availability

• Price: $1,695 (blue/black or blue/red), $1,795 (gold tone)
• Availability: Fall 2023
• Limited Edition: Yes, the gold-tone NB6032-53P is limited to 1,300 pieces.