Citizen's Eco-Drive is a revolutionary technology that converts all light, including sunlight and indoor light, into energy to power a watch. This technology eliminates the need for battery replacement, providing convenience while reducing environmental impact. In this article, we'll explain the mechanism and history of Eco-Drive, as well as recommend some men's models, and reveal the appeal of this technology.
What is Citizen's "Eco-Drive"?
Citizen's Eco-Drive is a unique photovoltaic technology that converts light into energy, eliminating the need for battery replacement. Since the world's first analog photovoltaic model was released in 1976, it has undergone repeated improvements, establishing a mechanism that can generate electricity even from the faint light of indoor lighting.
Below, we will explain in more detail how Eco-Drive works and its evolutionary history.
Citizen's proprietary light-powered technology "Eco-Drive"
Eco-Drive is a system in which light received by a solar cell is converted into electricity, which is then stored in a built-in secondary battery to power the watch.
It can generate electricity not only from sunlight, but also from indoor light such as fluorescent lights in offices and home lighting.Since there is no need for regular battery replacement, it reduces the amount of discarded batteries and is environmentally friendly.
Furthermore, the power saving function allows the watch to operate for several months even in dark places, so it is unlikely to stop working even if it is stored in a drawer, which is a major advantage for everyday use.
How Eco-Drive Works
Eco-Drive generates electricity when exposed to light through a solar cell located on the back of the dial, and stores that energy in a secondary battery.
Secondary batteries can be repeatedly charged and discharged, and unlike conventional disposable batteries, waste can be significantly reduced.
Furthermore, when fully charged, the watch can operate for several months to over six months, and its power saving function maintains its performance even when it is not exposed to light. As a result, you can wear the watch on a daily basis without worrying about the battery running out.
Many models are also waterproof and shock-resistant, making them suitable for a variety of lifestyles, including business, casual, and outdoor activities. This high level of practicality is the reason why they are so popular.
The History and Evolution of Eco-Drive
Citizen's solar-powered technology began with the world's first analog solar-powered watch, the Crystron Solar Cell, released in 1976, and has continued to evolve ever since. Let's take a look back at the history and evolution of Eco-Drive to see how it has evolved to what it is today.
The world's first light-powered watch
In 1976, Citizen released the Crystron Solar Cell, which caused a stir as the world's first analog light-powered watch.
At the time, battery replacement was a regular burden for users, but this model used a system that converted sunlight into electricity to power a quartz movement, introducing new value to the market by eliminating the need for battery replacement.
Crystron solar cells were recognized as an environmentally friendly product that reduces daily maintenance and also reduces battery waste.
This success prompted Citizen to move forward with the development of products that combine sustainability and convenience, and became the driving force behind the subsequent development and spread of Eco-Drive technology.
More efficient and thinner
Early models had issues with operating time and power generation efficiency, but through repeated technological improvements, photovoltaic technology has evolved significantly.
In the 1980s, continuous operating time was extended, and the Eco-Drive brand was born in 1995. Reduced power consumption and smaller movements made it possible to develop thinner models.
The Attesa Eco-Drive, released in the same year, also offered improved everyday usability, with a battery life of approximately six months. Through these developments, Eco-Drive has gained popularity as a watch that meets a variety of needs, combining functionality, design, and environmental friendliness.
Used as a core technology in numerous models
Today, Eco-Drive is a core technology of Citizen and is installed in a wide range of models.
There is a wide range of options to choose from depending on your purpose and style, including "The Citizen" which pursues high precision, "Eco-Drive One" which is the ultimate in ultra-thinness, "Campanola" which is the highest quality brand that brings together Citizen's technology, "Attesa" which is useful in business situations, and "Promaster" which has high functionality.
It also received the Eco Mark in 1996 and is recognized as a sustainable product. Eco-Drive embodies Citizen's brand value as a core technology that combines convenience with reduced environmental impact.
Recommended Eco-Drive models
There are a wide variety of Eco-Drive models, each with its own unique character. Here we introduce five particularly noteworthy brands and their men's models.
The Citizen "AQ4091-56M"
Light-powered Eco-Drive (Cal. A060). Runs for approximately 1.5 years on a full charge (power save mode). Super titanium case (diameter 40mm, thickness 12.2mm). Water resistant to 10 bar. Price: 44 yen (tax included).
The Citizen is a brand that was established in 1995. Characterized by high-precision movements and sophisticated designs, the brand is highly regarded by watch enthusiasts.
The AQ4091-56M is one of the models in The Citizen lineup, and combines high precision with a luxurious feel.
Equipped with Eco-Drive technology that allows for an annual accuracy of ±5 seconds, it can always keep accurate time without the need for regular battery changes.
The material used is lightweight, rust-resistant super titanium, and the Duratect Platinum coating makes it scratch-resistant.
The dial is made of indigo-dyed Tosa washi paper, creating a rich texture.
The dual spherical sapphire crystal with clarity coating enhances visibility, and the watch is also equipped with PERFEX, which provides JIS Class 1 magnetic resistance and an automatic hand correction function, making it a reliable companion for everyday use and business.
"Eco-Drive One AR5060-58E"
Solar-powered Eco-Drive (Cal. 8826). Runs for approximately one year on a full charge. Stainless steel case (diameter 38mm, thickness 3.88mm). Water resistant to 5 bar. Price: 440,000 yen (tax included).
Eco-Drive One is a premium watch brand equipped with the world's thinnest light-powered movement at just 1.00mm.
It combines simple, sophisticated design with outstanding technical capabilities, and the cermet bezel in particular is both thin and strong.
Among them, models that use Super Titanium for the exterior are lightweight, gentle on the skin, and highly scratch-resistant.All models also feature Eco-Drive technology, which converts sunlight or indoor light into electricity, eliminating the need for periodic battery changes and allowing for long-lasting operation even in dark environments.
The AR5060-58E can be said to be a representative model of Eco-Drive One, equipped with the world's thinnest 1.00mm movement.
The ultra-thin case design, just 3.88mm thick, provides a lightweight fit on the wrist and blends naturally with both suits and casual wear.
Thanks to its photovoltaic technology, there's no need to replace the battery, and the 5-atmosphere water resistance makes it suitable for everyday tasks involving water or sudden rain. The simple and sophisticated dial also makes the time easy to read, making this the perfect watch for those seeking both functional beauty and comfort.
Campanola "Sora Kagami" BU0020-20L
Solar-powered Eco-Drive (Cal. 8730). Runs for approximately 6 months on a full charge. Stainless steel case (diameter 43.5mm, thickness 14.8mm). Water resistant for everyday use. Price: 385,000 yen (tax included).
Campanola is a luxury watch brand that combines outstanding technology with Japanese aesthetics. Characterized by original designs and complex mechanisms, its watches offer a special experience of enjoying time.
The watches are equipped with mechanical movements assembled by the skilled watchmakers at La Joux-Perret in Switzerland, and the lineup also includes models with dials that make full use of traditional Japanese craft techniques, making them highly popular for allowing customers to enjoy Citizen's technical capabilities and sense of style.
The Sorakagami BU0020-20L is Campanola's Eco-Drive model, which combines traditional Japanese craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology.
The inset dial at 6 o'clock is made with lacquer and metal powder to represent the twinkling of stars in the vast universe. The ring solar cell allows you to enjoy the delicate expression of the dial while still being equipped with Eco-Drive.
It is highly functional, with a triple calendar and moon phase display, and can run for approximately six months on a full charge.
The stainless steel case and crocodile leather band combine luxury and durability, while the anti-reflective sapphire crystal ensures visibility, making it a highly practical watch.
Citizen Attesa "ACT Line/Black Titanium Series CC4059-64L"
Light-powered Eco-Drive (Cal. F950). Runs for approximately 5 years on a full charge (power save mode). Super titanium case (diameter 44.6mm, thickness 15.4mm). Water resistant to 10 bar. Price: 33 yen (tax included).
ATTESA is a brand characterized by sophisticated designs using lightweight and strong "Super Titanium."
They are suitable for a wide range of occasions, from business to casual, and are equipped with cutting-edge technologies such as Eco-Drive and GPS satellite signal reception. The "Black Titanium" and "ACT Line" models are particularly popular, combining durability and functionality.
The CC4059-64L is a model in the Attesa lineup equipped with GPS satellite signal reception. It automatically receives accurate time and calendar data anywhere in the world, eliminating the need to adjust for time differences when traveling.
The material used is lightweight and durable Super Titanium, and the Duratect DLC coating makes it scratch resistant.
The blue-purple sapphire bezel and striped dial create a sense of quality, and the 10-atmosphere water resistance and proprietary Perfectx technology prevent the hands from shifting due to porcelain or impact.
The clarity-coated sapphire glass provides excellent visibility, making it a reliable choice for a wide range of occasions, from business to leisure.
Citizen Promaster "BN0231-01L"
Light-powered Eco-Drive (Cal. E168). Runs for approximately 6 months on a full charge. Stainless steel case (46mm diameter, 14.6mm thick). Water resistant to 200m. Price: 66,000 yen (tax included).
Promaster is divided into three categories: "MARINE," "LAND," and "SKY," and as the name suggests, it is a brand for professionals that provides specialized functionality and high reliability in each field of land, sea, and air.
The Promaster NB6021-17E is an ideal model for outdoor enthusiasts, boasting excellent durability and waterproof performance.
It has a water resistance of 200m for diving in accordance with the ISO 6425 standard, making it suitable for professional diving and use in harsh environments.
The streamlined form, the indexes at 12 o'clock and odd hours, and the urethane strap all incorporate an orca (killer whale) motif, giving the watch a unique and eye-catching look.
Enjoy your watch with Eco-Drive. Towards an era of harmony with the environment
Eco-Drive is an innovative concept that eliminates the need for battery replacement, and has dramatically changed the way people use watches.
Its distinctive feature is that it combines environmental friendliness with everyday convenience, and can be used in a variety of situations, not only on and off the job but also while traveling.
Another attractive feature is that it is used by a wide range of brands, including the ones introduced here, such as "The Citizen," "Eco-Drive One," "Campanola," "Attesa," and "Promaster," so you can choose based on your outfit, the occasion, and your preferences.
Through Eco-Drive, we hope you will gain new values that combine a sustainable future with a rich watch experience.
