Last week, the new premium Citizen Eco-Drive 50th Anniversary Edition with an exquisite green dial made of Japanese washi paper was unveiled.
In the same week, Citizen announced two new watch models equipped with a completely new Eco-Drive caliber. The new lightweight Photon models stand out with advanced dials that combine original design and the latest Eco-Drive technology advancements from Citizen. Let's take a closer look at the new limited Citizen Photon models.
Design and Technology of the New Citizen Eco-Drive Photon
One glance at the two new Citizen Eco-Drive Photon models is enough to understand: the dials of these watches are special. The name Photon is associated with the quantum unit of light energy - the photon. The design is inspired by scientific research on light and reflects the evolution of Eco-Drive technology. This year marks the 50th anniversary of Eco-Drive, which Citizen will celebrate throughout 2026. While the previous novelty focused on the classic green dial, the new Photon models take Eco-Drive technology to a qualitatively new level.
Both models are made from lightweight, ultra-strong Super Titanium. The first version (ref. BJ6560-53W) is coated with silver titanium carbide Duratect, while the second (ref. BJ6569-59X) stands out with a more exotic two-tone design due to the combination of black Duratect DLC coating and amber-yellow Duratect.
Citizen Photon Case and Dials: A Blend of Innovation and Aesthetics
The case of both models measures 39.6 × 9.9 mm and is equipped with an integrated bracelet with micro-adjustment in the clasp, ensuring a comfortable fit on the wrist. The dial is protected by a double-convex sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating, featuring the brand name and the Eco-Drive logo.
The unique dial design symbolizes the passage of light through it - reflecting the essence of Eco-Drive technology, which converts light into energy. The dial consists of two overlapping metal plates with wave-like and circular cutouts, through which a textured colored foil is visible. When the angle of light changes, various shades appear, creating a sense of depth and dynamics.
The outer ring with luminescent hour markers and minute markings serves as both a protective layer for the dial and enhances the multi-layered design. Above the dial are luminescent-filled hands: the hour and minute hands are either silver or gold (depending on the model), and the second hand is gold for the titanium and purple for the two-tone version.
New Citizen Eco-Drive E036 Caliber: Technical Specifications
Inside both models is the new proprietary E036 caliber, placed under a special case back engraved to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Eco-Drive technology. This solar-powered quartz movement provides up to 365 days of autonomy on a full charge and accuracy of ±15 seconds per month.
Thanks to the new caliber, the Citizen Eco-Drive Photon models combine practicality and modern technology, making them an excellent choice for everyday use without unnecessary worries.
Limited Edition and Price of the New Citizen Photon
Citizen will release 5000 pieces of each version, allowing most fans of the brand to acquire one of the novelties. The standard titanium model will be sold at a price of €895, and the two-tone version for €995. These watches not only showcase the latest advancements in Eco-Drive technology but also represent a stylish and modern duo.
Technical Specifications of Citizen Eco-Drive Photon
- References: BJ6560-53W (titanium) / BJ6569-59X (two-tone titanium)
- Dial: multilayer construction, black or gold ring with luminescent hour markers and minute markings, two overlapping metal plates with wave-like and circular cutouts, textured colored foil underneath
- Case Material: Super Titanium with Duratect titanium carbide coating (BJ6560-53W) or Duratect black DLC and amber-yellow (BJ6569-59X)
- Case Dimensions: 39.6 mm (diameter) × 9.9 mm (thickness)
- Crystal: double-convex sapphire with anti-reflective coating
- Case Back: Super Titanium, screw-down
- Movement: Citizen E036, quartz, solar-powered, 12-month power reserve, accuracy ±15 s/month
- Water Resistance: 5 bar (50 meters)
- Strap: integrated bracelet made of Super Titanium with Duratect coating, clasp with button mechanism and micro-adjustment
- Functions: hours, minutes, seconds
- Price: €895 (BJ6560-53W) / €995 (BJ6569-59X)
- Features: limited edition of 5000 pieces of each model, special packaging for the 50th anniversary of Eco-Drive
The new Citizen Eco-Drive Photon models demonstrate how innovation and design can combine in modern watches, creating a product that meets the demands of practicality and aesthetics. These models continue the traditions and development of Eco-Drive technology, making it even more attractive to users worldwide.
