Citizen Series 8 | An in-depth look at the collection and new Limited Edition
Citizen is marking the first anniversary of the re-launch of its Series 8 collection with a Limited Edition. With an all-black colour scheme, the NA1025-10E has a striking grey dial made from Carbon. Also, it’s the first Series 8 with a see-through caseback. In this article we give you an overview of the collection, discover the various models and see how the new Limited Edition fits in.
Series 8
First offered in Japan in 2008, Citizen re-launched the Series 8 in 2021 to a global audience. The 8 stands for the infinite (∞) possibilities offered by Citizen’s craftsmanship. Also “the never-ending bond between watch and wearer”.
Series 8 watches use two types of automatic mechanical movements – the Calibre 0950 (870 and 830 models) and the Calibre 9051 (831 model). The two movements provide enhanced magnetic resistance to protect against external magnetic fields (from smartphones etc). Also they are significantly thinner.
831 Mechanical
Firstly, let’s take a look at the standard model: the 831. Aesthetically, the 831 has a strong look with its octagonal case. Three variations are available: two on a steel bracelet and one in gold tone on a strap. For a sports watch, the look is pared-back. No tachymeter bezels or additional crowns here. Instead, the focus is on honest, refined detailing such as the sculpted lines of the 40mm case, the hairline and mirror finishing and the interesting gradation detail on the dial. Furthermore, the movement is accurate to approx -10～+20sec/day with a power reserve of 42 hours. Priced at £695, the NB6010-81E with black dial is our choice.
830 Mechanical
Secondly, the 830 is where things start to get really interesting. With the same octagonal case shape as the 831, the 830 takes it up a notch with its vivid dial. Described by Citizen as “a watch of ever-changing expression”, it has an innovative three-layer dial. Firstly a metal dial is at the base with a Mother of Pearl layer in the middle. Finally, a metal lattice goes on top. The faceted hour markers are simple so as not to detract from the delicate dial. Also, the hands are cut-out at the centre so as not to obstruct the dial. Lume on the tips of the hands and hour markers ensure the dial is visible in low light.
Internally, the 830 has the Cal. 0950 which benefits from improved accuracy of an average of -5～+10sec/day. Also it has a running time of approx. 50 hours (when fully wound). In silver tone stainless steel, model NA1010-84X is priced at £1095. However, it is the NA1015-81Z in black ion-plated steel with rose gold tone detailing on the dial that perhaps makes the most powerful impression (also £1095).
870 Mechanical
Finally, the 870 is bold. Designed to be powerful in its simplicity, it has a sturdy, sporty design. Unlike the 831 and the 830, the 870 has no case protection around the crown. Consequently the uninterupted lines of the 40.8mm case have a pleasing flow. Decribed by Citizen as a ” contemporary, sporty design with a real sense of heft”, it has a solid case with a two piece bezel. Furthermore the dial has bold indexes and chunky hands that make it supremely legible. As with the other two Series 8 models, the combination of hairline and mirror finishing add to the overall sense of refinement. Under the dial, the 870 also benefits from the accuracy of the Cal.0950. Priced at £1,195, choose from the NA1004-87E with black dial or the NA1000-88A with silver dial.
Series 8 Special Limited Edition
New from 870 Mechanical, the NA1025-10E is a Limited Edition of just 700 pieces worldwide. Created to mark the first anniversary of Series 8, it has a dynamic all-black design. Firstly, the stainless steel case is treated with Citizen’s own Duratect DLC for a long-lasting shine. Secondly, the grey/black Carbon composite dial offers a truly unique look for a material used more commonly in planes and sportscars. Offered for the first time with a see-through caseback, “Limited Editon” and “1st Anniversary” are printed on the glass. Finally, a black urethane strap offers fabulous wrist comfort and freedom of movement. Price: £1,695.
Series 8: Verdict
Series 8 is an exciting development for Citizen in the £1,000 – £2,000 space, normally so dominated by Seiko. With Eco-Drive as the focus for so long, it’s interesting to see Citizen moving into advanced mechanical movements. We wait expectantly to see how Series 8 evolves.
Series 8 at Watch Specialists
Browse our selection of Series 8 Watches, available from our Independent Watch Specialists. All Citizen watches are available with free UK delivery. Best of all, every sale through watchspecialists.com supports a family owned, UK tax-paying business. Support the High Street and shop with us today!
Sources:
https://www.citizenwatch-global.com/series8/870_mechanical_limited-edition2022/index.html
