This practical work is a classic case of "saving the best for last."
A week ago, we published my hands-on review of the Citizen Super Titanium Eco-Drive Day-Date and Chronograph series. The third set of models we reviewed were the Citizen Super Titanium Automatic Small Seconds. After trying three different model lines, I can confirm that Citizen has three potential hits on their hands. But this mechanical version of Small Seconds, in my opinion, is the best. I spent some time with all four variants, and it seems to me that this series can appeal to both "ordinary" people looking for great everyday watches at an affordable price and watch enthusiasts. Now I will explain why.
When various new versions of the Citizen Super Titanium family appeared, I first tried the Eco-Drive Day-Date and Chronograph series. As you might have guessed, I liked both models, but they also had details that I would like Citizen to optimize. These are details that can turn a watch from good to great. After getting acquainted with these two models, I became curious to know how the Citizen Super Titanium Automatic Small Seconds would differ.
The Ideal Affordable Watch for Daily Wear
I would like to remind you that I really like the chronograph with the "panda" white and black dial, but I wish it were a bit smaller than its current size of 42.5 mm. Otherwise, it's an absolute winner. As for the Day-Date models, overall, they are done in a retro style. I like it when watches inspired by the 70s combine retro charm and relevance today.
The Day-Date models have too much vintage style. But this is where the Small Seconds models come to the rescue. Visually, they fit me perfectly and are even equipped with an automatic movement.
Let's start with some technical specifications to compare the watch with the other two series. These four models have a 40.5-mm tonneau-shaped Super Titanium case with a thickness of 11 mm, treated with Duratect TIC to give it increased scratch resistance. The case has a predominantly matte finish with polished bevels and a polished bezel.
The case length is 46 mm, the bracelet width is 23 mm, tapering to 20 mm at the clasp. When I put the watch on, I immediately felt there was something special. It turned out that the size and proportions are perfect for my 19-centimeter wrist. The thin profile and light weight make the Super Titanium Automatic Small Seconds pleasant to wear. But we'll talk about that a bit later.
Four Dial Options for Super Titanium Automatic Small Seconds
Citizen offers four dial colors for the Super Titanium Automatic Small Seconds. They all have the same scratch-like texture, which is more noticeable on the darker dials than on their lighter counterparts. The dark dials - green (NJ0180-80X) and blue (NJ0180-80L) - match the dials of the Chronograph and Day-Date models. A black ring with a white minute scale is located around the perimeter of the dial. Additionally, there is a version with a white dial (NJ0180-80A) and a variant with a turquoise dial, which Citizen calls "Lightgreen" (NJ0180-80M). These two dials do not have a black outer ring, and I prefer this design as it makes the dial more open.
My favorite immediately was the model with the white dial. Thanks to the color (or lack thereof), the texture is present but does not stand out, enlivening the dial at the right moments. All four dials are equipped with applied markers with luminous coating, as well as two sword-style hands - for hours and minutes. The element that distinguishes these watches is the small seconds subdial between 4 and 5 o'clock.
The additional subdial has a concentric graining and glossy finish, beautifully contrasting with the dial. Finally, at the "3 o'clock" position is a date window displaying the date printed in black on a white date disc. As you might have guessed, the date is best integrated into the version with the white dial, and this is yet another reason why I prefer it over the other three options.
A Lightweight Bracelet That Brings Joy in Wearing
Like other models, these watches come on a Super Titanium bracelet with Duratect TIC coating for scratch resistance. The bracelet has a predominantly matte finish, except for the central bevels of the links, which have a glossy finish for additional visual contrast. The bracelet quality is quite decent, although the jangly sound can be somewhat misleading.
Titanium bracelets rattle more than stainless steel bracelets, creating the impression of lower execution quality. But this is not the case, the sound of the material is just different.
The bracelets come with a stamped folding clasp of not the highest quality. Opening it reveals untreated titanium with a sandblasted finish, making it look unfinished. Practically speaking, the clasp closes with a confident click every time, and it is easy to open thanks to the double push-button. This is a very convenient and lightweight bracelet, which makes the watch wonderful to wear. I would have liked the bracelet to be a bit more expressive and with a thinner clasp, which would add extra sophistication, but for me, these details are not critical.
In-House Automatic Caliber 8213-21A
Citizen equips these watches with their own mechanical caliber 8213-21A. This automatic movement operates at a frequency of 21,600 per hour and has a 40-hour power reserve. It is the small seconds version of the caliber 8210, used in the popular Tsuyosa Automatic series. The stated accuracy is ±20 seconds per day.
A mere glance at the movement through the sapphire caseback window shows that it is a very simple automatic movement that will handle the task. For long-time watch fans, the caseback may not be necessary, but for those just starting to get to know watches, the ability to see the mechanical movement in action significantly enhances the overall impression.
Wearing the Citizen Super Titanium Automatic Small Seconds
As I mentioned earlier, my first impression favored the version with the white dial. However, the turquoise model turned out to be an excellent second option. Once the watch was on the wrist, this preference became even stronger. These two versions have a certain appeal because they strike the perfect balance between retro vibes and modern execution, which works surprisingly well. The green and blue dial options look very nice, but they are also visually more rigid. The lighter dials feel more airy and have more breathing space.
Manipulating the crown is easy, and I was pleasantly surprised by how easily it pulls out to the first position for date change. Sometimes in more affordable watches, it can be difficult to find this first position as it does not have that clear click that is needed. As a result, it often gets moved to the second position, allowing for time setting. If you are a watch enthusiast, you probably know well how hard it is to find the first position for changing the date. But with these watches, that problem is nonexistent.
Final Thoughts on the Citizen Super Titanium Automatic Small Seconds
After trying all four models, I decided to spend more time with the version with the white dial. Over the course of several days, I was impressed by the comfort and style of these watches, especially considering the price of 429 euros. For stylish and thin modern sports watches made of lightweight titanium, it is hard to beat. Of course, in some places, the execution is a bit rough, but this in no way affects my opinion. What you get in terms of style, comfort, and materials is, in my opinion, unparalleled.
The biggest competitor I see is the aforementioned Tsuyosa Automatic series from Citizen. But if you want a slightly different design and lightweight watches, these Super Titanium Automatic Small Seconds are a fantastic choice.
Without a doubt, Citizen has become the best brand for watches priced under 500 euros.
The new watch series is further confirmation of this, and that is why I think it can become a big hit for the Japanese brand. Hats off to Citizen for releasing one great series after another. Now it is the most affordable brand, and honestly, I don't think this will change anytime soon!
All Citizen Super Titanium Automatic Small Seconds models are now available on the brand's official website. Tell us what you think about these new watches in the Telegram channel.