Japan · since 1918

Citizen

Citizen traces its origins to the Shokosha Watch Research Institute, set up in Tokyo in 1918 by Kamekichi Yamazaki; the Citizen name first appeared on a pocket watch in 1924. The company is best known for Eco-Drive, its light-powered quartz technology marketed under that name since 1995, which removes the need for routine battery changes. Its range includes everyday analogue watches, the Promaster sports and diving line, and radio-controlled and satellite-synchronised models. The Citizen group also owns other watch brands, including Bulova, Frédérique Constant and Alpina.