Watch writer Shinichi Sato introduces the new Series Eight design as a must-have for 2026. It features a case diameter of under 40mm, incorporating global trends, and a slim silhouette with a thickness of 10.4mm. Different finishes are used for each component, highlighting the transitions between components and creating an edgy, three-dimensional finish.
Automatic movement (Cal. 9051). 24 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve approximately 42 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 39.3mm, thickness 10.4mm). Water resistant to 10 bar. Limited to 1200 pieces worldwide. Price: 275,000 yen (tax included).
Text and Photographs by Shin-ichi Sato
[Article published on January 06, 2026]
Introducing a new slim design in the popular mechanical collection "Series Eight"
Among the new watches announced in 2026, writer Shinichi Sato has been paying close attention to the new, slim model added to the "Series Eight." The watch's 39.3mm diameter and 10.4mm thickness, which are in line with global trends, are key features. This time, we'll review the Series Eight and delve deeper into its appeal.
A quick recap of "Series Eight"
The Series Eight is a collection based on the concept of being "a mechanical watch brand from Japan that combines edgy modern design with high practicality." The key point here is that it is clearly stated as a "mechanical watch." The background to this is that Citizen, which had previously focused on quartz models in its lineup, announced a mechanical model of "The Citizen" in 2021, and in the same year revived the Series Eight and added it to its lineup. It is still fresh in our memory that the watch magazine "Chronos Japan" called 2021 the "first year of Citizen's return to mechanical watches" and gave it extensive coverage (Reference:https://www.webchronos.net/features/61976/).
In terms of specifications, it is equipped with a mechanical movement that has basic anti-magnetic properties to prevent the impact of magnetism on accuracy. This reflects the concept of modern lifestyles. The design has an edgy, three-dimensional feel, making it suitable for a wide range of occasions, from business to casual. For more details on the design, let's take a look at the new products we are introducing.
The new model's case design is noteworthy
The new collection comes in three variations: the Ref. NB6080-51W with a silver case, the Ref. NB6085-57W with a gold case, and the Ref. NB6086-54E, a limited edition model with a gray dial and forged carbon fiber. While previous models in the lineup exceeded 40mm in diameter, this collection incorporates global trends with a diameter of 39.3mm. Furthermore, optimized case structure has achieved a slimmer thickness of just 10.4mm.
The first thing to note is the sharpness of the case design. The Series Eight is characterized by a three-dimensional, sharp design thanks to a separate structure made up of multiple parts. This structure and design code has been carried over into the new model.
Also, by using different finishes for each part, the transitions between parts stand out. If you look closely at the hairline finish, it is intentionally made rough to express a sense of weight and metallic texture. This leads to the sharpness that I felt, creating a further sense of three-dimensionality.
Limited edition Ref. 6086-54E with a forged carbon dial
The limited edition grey Ref. 6086-54E features a forged carbon dial, incorporating the unique texture of carbon into the design. The dial is made by attaching a thin forged carbon plate to a base plate.
The entire watch is made of gray-plated stainless steel, with gold-plated parts in some areas. The use of gold is kept to a minimum, creating a chic look that is very impressive.
Green dial Ref. NB6080-51W and gold dial Ref. NB6085-57W
The regular models, Ref. NB6080-51W and Ref. NB6085-57W, feature the Series Eight's unique embossed dial pattern. This pattern combines the unique Japanese checkerboard pattern with a design inspired by urban skyscrapers, and its random embossments create shadows when exposed to light.
Automatic movement (Cal. 9051). 24 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve approximately 42 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 39.3mm, thickness 10.4mm). Water resistant to 10 bar. Price: 1,061,500 yen (tax included).
Automatic movement (Cal. 9051). 24 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve approximately 42 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 39.3mm, thickness 10.4mm). Water resistant to 10 bar. Price: 1,061,500 yen (tax included).
This pattern has been used as the original design for the Series Eight, but whereas it was previously applied to the entire dial, the new model takes a new approach by leaving the outer edge flat and applying the pattern only to the center. It is a simple approach but has a great effect, creating a sharp contrast between the outer edge and center of the dial, further tightening up the compact model.
The gorgeous gold-colored model, Ref. NB6085-57W, is primarily made of plated yellow gold. This is combined with a warm gold finish on the crown guard, indexes, part of the bezel, and bracelet center links. This creates a distinctive look that prevents the design from becoming monotonous, highlighting the three-dimensionality unique to the Series Eight.
Highly practical with two-level magnetic resistance and comfortable fit
The watch is equipped with the automatic Cal. 9051 movement, which has Class 2 magnetic resistance. Class 2 magnetic resistance means that the watch can maintain its performance in most cases even when brought up to 1 cm from a magnetically-generating device such as a smartphone or tablet. In today's society, where we literally cannot let go of our smartphones or tablets, it is highly practical and reassuring to know that a watch close to our hands has Class 2 magnetic resistance.
As mentioned earlier, the Caliber 9051 is a movement that has also been used in previous models, but this model has been made smaller and thinner, measuring 39.3mm in diameter and 10.4mm thick, thanks to changes to the silhouette and optimized case structure. The previous model, the Reference NB6050-51E, was 40.0mm in diameter and 10.6mm thick, which was also relatively thin, but this model has been slimmed down by an additional 0.2mm. This is likely the result of gradual optimizations in various areas. Working as an engineer under a false name, I can imagine the designers working in front of a 3D CAD screen, trying and failing...
Perhaps due to this effect, the watch fits well and is comfortable to wear. The bracelet's silhouette extends diagonally from the case, which means there is a small gap between the lugs and the wrist, which contributes to an improved fit. If the gap in this area were large, the case would not fit well even if it was thin, but this model fits well on the wrist, making it easy to feel its thinness. This contributes to the overall elegance of the watch.
If you like edgy designs, check out the new "Series Eight"
As we've repeatedly stated, the Series Eight is characterized by its edgy design. To emphasize this appeal, different finishes are used for each part, highlighting the transitions between parts and creating a sense of contrast. As a result, despite the small diameter and slim design, the finished product has a three-dimensional feel and presence. If you like edgy designs, keep an eye out for the new Series Eight. Then, come to the store and try it on. You'll understand its appeal.
