Citizen has announced the "Eco-Drive PHOTON," a limited-edition model commemorating the 50th anniversary of its proprietary light-powered technology, "Eco-Drive." It features a multi-layered dial inspired by the "double-slit experiment" and a new quartz movement that can run for approximately 365 days on a single full charge. Two models will be available, both limited to 5000 pieces worldwide and released in the fall of 2026.
An innovative multi-layered dial inspired by the science of light.
Citizen has announced the "Eco-Drive PHOTON," a limited-edition model celebrating the 50th anniversary of the birth of "Eco-Drive."
The "photon" in the model name refers to the unit of measurement used when light energy is exchanged as a quantum. It features Eco-Drive (Cal. E036) light-powered movement, an accuracy of ±15 seconds per month, and approximately one year of operation on a full charge (in power-saving mode). It has a titanium case (39.6mm diameter, 9.9mm thickness) and is water-resistant to 5 atmospheres. It is a limited edition of 5000 pieces worldwide. The estimated price is 148,500 yen (including tax). It is scheduled for release in the fall of 2026.
Eco-Drive (Cal. E036) light-powered movement. Accuracy: ±15 seconds per month. Approximately 1 year of operation on a full charge (in power-saving mode). Titanium case (39.6mm diameter, 9.9mm thickness). 5 ATM water resistance. Limited edition of 5000 pieces worldwide. Estimated price: 178,200 yen (including tax). Scheduled for release in Autumn 2026.
Eco-Drive is Citizen's unique light-powered technology, which originated with the world's first analog light-powered watch, released by the company in 1976. It combines excellent power generation efficiency, converting even indoor light into electricity, with energy-saving features that enable long-term operation, and has remained a core element of the manufacturer's watchmaking to this day.
A notable feature of this new model, celebrating its 50th anniversary, is its multi-layered dial design, inspired by the "double-slit experiment," a scientific experiment related to light.
This dial is composed of two metal plates with wave-like slits and a dial cover that also has slits around its outer edge. This not only allows sufficient light to pass through to the solar cell but also emphasizes the presence of the Eco-Drive function itself to the user. In addition, a structural color dial is placed underneath, and the light that enters through the gaps in the slits reflects off it, creating a variety of color changes.
The case and bracelet are made of Citizen's proprietary Super Titanium™, which is lightweight and highly scratch-resistant. The rounded octagonal case and the bracelet with short pitches are seamlessly connected, resulting in a modern look that showcases the advanced features of Eco-Drive.
The lineup consists of two models: Ref. BJ6560-53W and Ref. BJ6569-59X. The former features a case treated with Duratect titanium carbide, highlighting the rich texture of the structural color film. The latter model, on the other hand, features a two-tone exterior made of Duratect DLC and amber yellow, with a dial that also boasts a contrasting appearance.
