In 2017, Citizen released the Promaster Eco-Drive Professional Diver 1000m, a watch with a water resistance of 1000m. While no human being can ever dive to 1000m, the exceptional safety and ease of use of this watch, combined with its advanced water resistance, will provide you with peace of mind at any depth. Even if you don't dive to 1000m, this is a must-see!
A tool watch that advocates "extreme"
The Promaster Eco-Drive Professional Diver 1000m attracted attention with its huge Super Titanium case measuring 52.5mm in diameter and 22.2mm thick, and its uncompromising appearance as a tool for the deep sea. The purpose of this watch body is not to be worn on the cuff. It is designed to fulfill its original purpose as a "tool" - to safely measure diving time even under extreme water pressure.
While continuing the lineage of the first 1000m water-resistant model, commonly known as the "Autogira," released in 2002, this model employs a bezel-locking mechanism instead of a detachable bezel. When the orange indicator appears at the 7 o'clock position on the outer periphery of the case, the 120-click bezel can be rotated counterclockwise. In addition, the crown at the 4 o'clock position has been designed to visually indicate whether it is open or closed.
"Excess" leads to trust. Operability and safety
To begin with, the unidirectional rotating bezel itself is a safety device that prevents the bezel from being moved in the wrong direction. In addition to that, a bezel locking mechanism has been added to turn the bezel rotation on and off. This "excessive" safety, which even feels like over-engineering, is what makes this watch so special.
In addition, to ensure reliable operation even with thick gloves, the bezel is only equipped with six large protrusions reminiscent of sawtooth. I was truly impressed by its simplicity and sturdiness, which was designed with operability in the deep sea in mind.
The plastic box also includes an extension strap for dry suits, which is a consideration for actual deep-sea use. The bezel's 0-20 minute, 30-45 minute, and 30-45 minute inscriptions are in slightly larger font, highlighting the initial 20-minute mark.
Helium release valve and integrated lug
In saturation diving environments, helium molecules can enter the case, potentially causing the crystal to detach due to the internal pressure difference during decompression. The automatic helium release valve at 10 o'clock is a feature designed to reduce this risk. The case lacks the usual lugs and spring bars; instead, the strap is integrated with the case and secured to the case back. This improves comfort while virtually eliminating the risk of accidental removal. However, the unique lug adapter makes it difficult to switch to a standard strap. The case back is secured with four screws, ensuring the engraved diving helmet is always in the correct position.
Eco-Drive Cal. J210: Uninterrupted peace of mind even in the depths of the ocean
The watch is powered by the solar-powered Eco-Drive Cal. J210. It lasts for approximately 1.5 years on a full charge and boasts an accuracy of ±15 seconds per month. While light is scarce in the aphotic zone between 200 and 1000 meters, divers rarely venture beyond 300 meters for extended periods of time. Furthermore, its long battery life ensures its practicality. Incidentally, since 1995, Eco-Drive has also contributed to a significant reduction in battery waste.
The slightly smaller dial features large hour and minute hands (the minute hand is orange), a date display, a power reserve indicator, and large indexes. It's easy to read, even in the dark or underwater. According to Citizen, the luminous material retains its afterglow brightness for more than five hours, more than twice as long as conventional models.
JAMSTEC Collaborative Field Testing and ISO Compliance
This ISO 6425-compliant device has passed a 15-day pressure test in a helium/oxygen (or 100% helium) environment, followed by a rapid decompression test to return to atmospheric pressure. Furthermore, in collaboration with the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC), verification under actual operating conditions has also been carried out, confirming its reliability as a professional tool.
The value of being serious
Eco-Drive (Cal. J210). Runs for approximately 1.5 years on a full charge. Super Titanium case (diameter 52.5mm, thickness 22.2mm). Water resistant to 1000m (suitable for saturation diving). Price: 33 yen (tax included).
When you wear it, you feel an overwhelming presence, yet it is surprisingly comfortable. Its excessive design, which can be used to a depth of 1000m, a depth that humans cannot reach, directly translates to a sense of security. Its one-of-a-kind design and operability, as well as its durability to withstand saturation diving, make it a truly serious diver's watch when it comes to deep diving. And the price is also worthy of that.
