A dash of vintage... a guest review of the Citizen Eco-Drive Brycen Vintage.

Introduction

As always I'll start with a brief history lesson. So pens at the ready, I'll begin. Unless you have been living under a rock for the last 100 years you would have heard of Citizen Watches. They were originally registered as a brand, back in 1918 by Rodolphe Schmid in Switzerland, for watches he sold in Japan. Before moving to its now Headquarters In Tokyo in 1924, where it has gone on to become one of the most recognisable brands in the industry today.

The first Eco-Drive watch was released in 1976. The rechargeable cell can be powered by natural or artificial light. A full charge will power your watch for 6 months without an additional charge.

Review

Let's get into it, today I'll be reviewing the Citizen Eco-Drive Vintage Brycen Watch. Starting as always with the case, coming in with a diameter of 43mm ( excluding crown) 46.5mm with, and a thickness of 12mm. But before you think it's too big for you, the stainless steel case features a lug to lug of 49mm, and thanks to its super-short lugs, it wears more like 40mm, making it perfect for people with a 6-inch wrist of above. We also have a pretty stunning royal blue fixed bezel, with applied indices. To the side is where we are greeted, with sleek polished curves leading to a beveled crown, making it beyond easy to set the time and date. To the rear is where you will find your screw-down case back with 100meters of water resistance.

Moving to the main attraction, the blue sunburst dial, with polished baton markers and hands coated with exceptional lume. There is small but perfectly formed date window at the the 3 o clock position, that pops out against the blue dial. All protected with Mineral crystal. Yes, sapphire would be great, but honestly once you see this piece, you'll forget all about it. Plus you can always swap it out at a later date if it’s really an issue. In terms of straps you have a choice, of a sliver Milanese with a Citizen engraved clasp or you can go for a blue Vintage style leather strap, with white detailing. I went with the Milanese and have to be honest, its beyond comfortable and fits exceptionally well even on my 6.5inch wrist. Usually, I am not of fan of these straps, but Citizen has converted me. Rounding of the Review is the movement, in short you put it near an artificial light for several hours or in direct sunlight, and once fully charged it will last six months before having to repeat the process.

Overall Thoughts

This watch represents exceptional value for money coming in at between £200-265, depending where you buy it. I bought it from the guys over a republic of time, I'll leave a link to their site below. Along with a 5 -year guarantee and a brand that has been around over 100 years, this would be a great addition to any collection.

Paddy (@watches_on_a-shoestring_budget).

You can find out more about Paddy and read some more of his reviews by clicking here.