How to Use a Citizen Watch: Your Ultimate Guide

Imagine this: You're in the middle of an important meeting, glance down at your wrist, and—bam! Your Citizen watch has a blank screen. You've had this watch for a while, but you realize you don’t really know how to use all its functions. Whether you're wearing an Eco-Drive, Promaster, or a Satellite Wave, knowing how to use a Citizen watch properly can transform your experience.

Let’s dive into some exciting things you probably didn’t know your Citizen watch could do. But first, let’s address the elephant in the room: Why aren't you using all these features?

Why you might not be using your Citizen Watch to its full potential: Many Citizen watch owners are unaware of the advanced features because of a simple reason: it’s easy to assume that a watch is just for telling time. However, Citizen watches—especially the Eco-Drive models—are far from basic. With features like solar charging, world-time settings, atomic timekeeping, and water resistance, your Citizen is more like a high-tech gadget than a simple timepiece.

But it doesn’t stop there! I’ll explain how to unlock these features, and by the end of this guide, you’ll be a master of your Citizen watch.

Key Features of Citizen Watches

Here’s a sneak peek of what’s coming:

• Eco-Drive Technology: Say goodbye to battery changes forever.
• Atomic Timekeeping: Get precise time no matter where you are on the planet.
• World Time Function: Traveling between time zones has never been easier.
• Water Resistance: The ultimate diving companion.

Eco-Drive: The Power of Light
Let’s kick off with Eco-Drive, one of Citizen’s signature technologies. It sounds like magic, but it's just brilliant engineering. Your watch charges itself by harnessing any light source—sunlight, indoor lighting, you name it. The more light, the better, but you can rest assured that even dim lighting will get the job done.

How to use it:
Tip: Just make sure your watch gets about 5-6 hours of sunlight once every month to maintain optimal charge. You don't have to worry about overcharging—it’s smart enough to stop when it’s full.

The Eco-Drive models have a power reserve indicator, typically shown by the seconds hand. If it’s moving in two-second intervals, the watch is low on power and needs more light exposure. Some models also come with a power reserve gauge that displays exactly how much charge you’ve got left.

Pro Tip: If your Eco-Drive has stopped functioning, place it under direct sunlight for about 12 to 20 hours, and it should start ticking again.

Atomic Timekeeping: Always Accurate

If you’ve ever been frustrated by having to adjust your watch when traveling, the atomic timekeeping feature in some Citizen models will be a game-changer for you. Your watch syncs with radio signals from atomic clocks to ensure it always displays the correct time. This is a massive advantage if you're frequently flying between different time zones.

How it works:
When you’re in range of an atomic clock signal, your watch will automatically sync at a set time (usually 2 or 3 a.m.). Some models even allow you to trigger the sync manually.

How to sync manually:

• Press and hold the button at the 2 o’clock position until the second hand moves to 12.
• Release the button and wait for the second hand to move.
• The watch will begin syncing.

Quick Note: Not all Citizen watches have this feature, so check your specific model.

World Time Feature: Perfect for Travelers

This feature is essential for jet-setters and frequent business travelers. If you own a Citizen watch with a world-time function, you can quickly change time zones without messing up the time on your watch.

How to switch time zones:

1. Pull out the crown to the second position.
2. Rotate the crown to select your desired time zone (this will usually be indicated by major cities).
3. Push the crown back in, and the watch will automatically adjust to the selected time zone.

Pro Tip: Some advanced models, like the Satellite Wave GPS, don’t even need you to do this. They automatically adjust based on GPS signals to determine your location.

Water Resistance: Dive Without Worry

Many Citizen watches, especially the Promaster models, come with impressive water resistance ratings. For example, some models are rated up to 200 meters, making them suitable for diving.

However, it’s important to understand the nuances of water resistance:

• 30 meters: Resistant to splashes, but not suitable for swimming.
• 50 meters: Safe for swimming in shallow water, but not for diving or snorkeling.
• 100 meters or more: Suitable for recreational swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

Note: Even if your watch is water-resistant, you should avoid exposing it to hot water (like in a hot tub) because heat can cause the gaskets to expand, compromising the watch’s water resistance.

Setting the Date and Time: The Basics

Sometimes the simplest tasks can be the most confusing. Setting the time and date on a Citizen watch can vary depending on the model, but here’s a general guide for most models:

1. Pull the crown out to the first position to set the date. Turn the crown to adjust.
2. Pull the crown out to the second position to set the time. Rotate the crown until you reach the correct time.
3. Push the crown back in, and you’re good to go.

Pro Tip: Some models have perpetual calendars that automatically adjust for months with fewer than 31 days, as well as leap years.

Caring for Your Citizen Watch

Proper maintenance will keep your Citizen watch ticking for years. Here are some tips:

• Keep it clean: Use a soft cloth to clean your watch regularly, especially if it’s exposed to saltwater, sweat, or dust.
• Check seals and gaskets: If your watch is water-resistant, have the seals and gaskets checked periodically to ensure they haven’t worn out.
• Light exposure for Eco-Drive models: Remember to expose your Eco-Drive watch to light every now and then, especially if you store it in a drawer or a place without much light.

Final Thoughts

Using a Citizen watch is all about tapping into its full potential. Whether you have an Eco-Drive, a Promaster, or a Satellite Wave, each model offers unique features that can enhance your experience. Keep your watch exposed to light, familiarize yourself with its functions, and enjoy the precision and craftsmanship that Citizen is known for.

Your Citizen watch is more than just a tool for telling time—it's a statement of reliability and innovation. Now that you know how to unlock its full potential, you’ll not only enjoy using it more, but you’ll also get the most out of this incredible piece of technology.