Curious about the average price of Citizen watches? Good. Their range is impressive, as is the quality-to-price ratio.
My introduction to Citizen was through Bulova. I've long been a fan of this former American brand (though in spirit, they're still American). Citizen acquired them in August.
When that happened, I took a closer look at Citizen. It turned out they are an excellent parent company for the brand.
The average price of Citizen watches, by the way, is more than fair.
Watches could very well be the core of this Japanese electronics company. When it comes to well-made, affordable, low-maintenance timepieces, I tend to trust electronic companies. That's why I like Braun so much.
Let's explore the vast price range of Citizen watches and consider some buying recommendations.
How Much Do Citizen Watches Cost
So, how much do Citizen watches cost? Well, the price of Citizen watches depends on the model. Their range is very wide - from just over $100 to about $5,000. I mean the retail price.
On secondary markets and Amazon, this range can be both lower and higher.
When a watch brand has such a wide range, there are always two risks.
First, the affordable main line might just become a cash cow. Sometimes brands use quick sales of cheap items as a way to fund and draw attention to expensive ones.
The other risk is the complete opposite. Perhaps their specialization is inexpensive or mid-range models. Thus, their more expensive pieces may end up being overpriced and not represent as much watch value as the models below them. Or what is offered is not worth the price difference.
Fortunately, in this case, that's not the case. Here's why.
Citizen Watch Price: Range Explained
Citizen boasts a number of achievements in watchmaking. When you're done with this, check out our research in this post. And these achievements or specific features of the brand can be found in any price category.
That's why I believe they are worth it.
To give you an idea of this, let's look at a budget model and then an expensive one.
Review of a Budget Citizen Model
This budget model, Corso (some reference numbers include AW1232-04A and AW1236-03A), costs under $200. Considering that all Citizen watches are genuine timepieces, not fashion watches, this is quite a budget price.
The watch is made of a durable stainless steel case and comes with a decent leather strap. By the way, Citizen is also a member of the Leather Working Group. This group works to minimize the environmental impact of the leather industry.
Most importantly, in my opinion, is the classic, timeless design and signature movement. Citizen Eco-Drive is a reliable quartz movement that runs on light and reduces the need for battery replacement.
Here's a deep dive into this technology.
It's a good sign that they equip their inexpensive models with such technology. It indicates that they don't skimp.
These watches have mineral glass. However, there are Citizen models with sapphires that cost less than $100 more, like the Eco-Drive Arezzo.
Meanwhile, on Amazon, you can find models for even less than $100. The reference model B008FG6ZRI may not feature the Eco-Drive system, but it is sturdy, versatile, and has excellent details like a date window.
It's a good, honest price.
Did I mention that all Citizen watches come with a five-year warranty?
A Look at a More Expensive Citizen Model
Now we know that inexpensive Citizen watches are worth it. But what about watches with a six-figure price tag?
As an example, let's look at the Citizen Reference AQ4100-65W model. Among the premium features, the titanium construction and movement stand out. The Caliber A060 has a timekeeping accuracy within five seconds per year. That is, it is robust, lightweight, and insanely accurate.
The watch also features a perpetual calendar, which is, by and large, a high-class complication.
Considering the flawless build, I would say these features justify the price of around $2,000.
Additionally, it is a limited edition, noted on the case back. And to create the flawless dial surface, Japanese washi paper was used. This is a handmade material made from special fibers of the Japanese tree.
Anyone who has ever thought of Citizen only as a "workhorse" brand will be surprised to learn that they produce such artistic models. I definitely think this adds a unique cultural feature that justifies the price.
There are other models with such a perfect balance of features.
Buying Citizen: Best Practices
Fortunately, since Citizen offers fair prices, you can simply set a budget and look for models within it. Of course, you should consider what features are important to you, as Citizen offers them all.
My main advice when buying Citizen is to study reviews. If you want to compare prices on a specific model across different markets, always add the article or model number to your search.
The way they label lines can be confusing. Type a Google search for Citizen Corso. You'll get several models under that name, none of which have a single theme. It's like the Omega Seamasters of the '80s.
Citizen is a Japanese company, popular throughout Asia. You might think that Citizen watch prices in India or the average Citizen watch price in the Philippines might be more affordable.
First, even if that's the case, shipping might balance things out.
Second, that's not always the case. Historically, more watches have been sold in Asia than in America. Therefore, often higher demand dictates higher prices.
Conclusion: Worthy Workhorses
People have criticized my respect for Citizen for being a workhorse brand. No one will deny that they possess good watch qualities. But in the past, they often lacked branding.
Many people like that.
But beyond that, as you now know, you can delve into their sub-lines to find some pretty artistic pieces. And when it comes to Citizen watch prices, you also know that it is completely fair.
Do you have a Citizen watch? Tell us about it in our Telegram channel and don't forget to subscribe!