Two new models of the Citizen Attesa "ACT Line" will be released on Thursday, March 12, 2026: Ref. CB3040-56H and Ref. CB3045-61L. In this article, we will delve into the appeal of both models, focusing on their common solid and sporty design and new dial specifications with a metallic texture.
Photographs & Text by Kento Nii
[Article published on January 10, 2026]
New colors now available for Good Design Award-winning model
The Citizen Attesa features Citizen's practical features, including Eco-Drive solar-powered technology, housed in a case made from the company's proprietary Super Titanium™ material. New models in the "ACT Line" include the silver-toned Ref. CB3040-56H and the navy dial model Ref. CB3045-61L, both of which feature an all-black case. These two models will be available from Thursday, March 12, 2026.
This model features a Duratect titanium carbide case that gives it a metallic feel. It features a light-powered quartz movement. It lasts for approximately two years on a full charge (in power save mode). It has a titanium case (diameter 39.0mm, thickness 9.7mm). It's water resistant to 10 bar. It's priced at 99,000 yen (tax included). It's scheduled to be released on Thursday, March 12, 2026.
This watch features an all-black case made with Duratect DLC and a navy dial. The pink gold-colored hands and indexes add a touch of elegance. It features a solar-powered quartz movement. It lasts for approximately two years on a full charge (in power save mode). It has a titanium case (diameter 39.0mm, thickness 9.7mm). It's water resistant to 10 bar. It's priced at 126,500 yen (tax included). It's scheduled to be released on Thursday, March 12, 2026.
These new variations on the three-hand model feature an octagonal bezel and a compact, one-piece case. At 39.0mm in diameter and 9.7mm thick, it's a relatively compact package within the collection. The polyhedral shape, combined with the fine-pitch bracelet that smoothly transitions from the case, and the matte finish on a large surface, create a powerful yet sophisticated appearance.
The main topic of the two new models is their metallic design. The dials in particular feature a glossy metallic finish and a vertical hairline pattern, giving each color a finish reminiscent of a single piece of metal. Previous models of the same model featured a rough black dial with a titanium gemstone motif, or a glitter dial that resembles a starry sky, so this new design will be a particularly noticeable point of differentiation.
In terms of functionality, the watch is equipped with Eco-Drive technology, a radio-controlled watch that can receive standard radio waves from two locations in Japan, as well as China, the United States, and Europe, and also features practical functions for everyday use, such as a perpetual calendar, direct flight, and world time. These functions are operated using the crown and the recessed pushers located above and below it. This multifunctionality, combined with the simple and sophisticated design and the lightweight, scratch-resistant, and hypoallergenic properties of Super Titanium™, makes it a versatile watch that can be worn both on and off the job, and with any outfit.
The prices are 99,000 yen for the Ref. CB3040-56H and 126,500 yen for the Ref. CB3045-61L (both including tax). These are within an affordable price range, and their release may have come at just the right time for those considering purchasing a watch for their new life.
A thorough pursuit of metallic finish and excellent dial coating
When I first saw the two new models, I was surprised by the dials, especially the metallic texture.
Generally, paints used for metallic paints like this one contain tiny metal particles that reflect light, creating a metallic sheen. When painting models, the container containing the paint is vigorously shaken in order to agitate the particles. Another characteristic of metallic paint is its excellent hiding power. In essence, metallic paint excels at concealing the color of the base it is painted on, but on the dial of an Eco-Drive watch, this characteristic can be a disadvantage, as it also blocks light.
Considering this, the metallic texture of the new dial is achieved through a delicate balance, which can be attributed to the fact that it is a three-hand model that allows light to enter most of the dial, and that Eco-Drive consumes little power and has excellent power generation efficiency.
I would also like to mention the case that matches this dial. The surface finish is primarily hairline, with polishing limited to parts of the bezel and bracelet. At the same time, the incorporation of sharp edges creates a bold transition in the surfaces that reflect light, making the polyhedrons stand out clearly. As a result, despite the watch's thin, matte finish, it creates a sense of three-dimensionality and prevents a flat impression.
The bracelet also features a subtle horizontal hairline on the center links, creating a visual gap between them and the vertically finished side links. This gives the bracelet a sharp appearance, while also giving the bracelet a matte texture overall, skillfully creating a sense of unity with the case and dial. Overall, the three-dimensional and sophisticated metallic feel that can be enjoyed throughout the entire watch is a major attraction of these two new models.
Summary
The new models introduced in this article are closer to the entry-level line of Citizen Attesa, and haven't generated much buzz. For example, compared to the limited edition "Shades of Red" series announced on February 26th, they may be somewhat less impressive in terms of the grandeur of their design theme or the buzz they generate.
However, as we have explored in depth so far, this is undoubtedly a model with hidden potential that is worthy of attention, with an outstanding dial that combines the seemingly contradictory elements of metal's solidity with light transparency, and an edgy case design that has been awarded the Good Design Award.
Furthermore, these two models are attractive as luxury sports watches, with the case and bracelet integrated. In terms of other Citizen brands, there are the "The Citizen Mechanical" that emphasizes luxury and references its heritage, and the "TSUYOSA" that has gained popularity for its retro look, but in contrast to these, the new models give the impression of being very modern and sporty.
For those who want a modern, sporty, and sophisticated watch at their fingertips while still maintaining everyday convenience, purchasing this watch would be a very logical choice.
