The exhibition, which kicked off in Tokyo, has made its way to New York City and is set to continue its journey across Europe.
Founded in 1918 under the name Shokosha Watch Research Institute, Citizen rebranded to its current name in 1924 at the suggestion of the Tokyo mayor. According to Chief Operating Officer Yoshihisa Yajima, the name Citizen was chosen to reflect the brand’s commitment to producing watches that would be cherished by people from all walks of life. "Ever since, we’ve continuously made watches that all people will love and that will help them with everyday life," Yajima says.
The exhibition features a diverse range of models, from the brand’s inaugural hand-wound Caliber 16 pocket watch to iconic innovations such as the Eco-Drive One from 2016—the thinnest light-powered watch ever made. Visitors can also see striking and less conventional pieces like the vibrant Kinder Time from 1968, designed specifically for children. The collection is organized into twelve thematic categories, including “Simple Sophistication,” “Stellar Design,” and “Pioneering,” offering a comprehensive look at Citizen’s craftsmanship and evolution across different styles and functionalities.
“Our fully integrated system—from component production to assembly—reflects our commitment to innovation and improvement, aligned with our motto, ‘Better starts now,’” Yajima adds.
As much as the exhibition honors Citizen's past, it also looks to the future. Jeffrey Cohen, President of Citizen Watches America, emphasized the brand’s forward-thinking approach. “Today we start looking forward,” Cohen stated at the exhibition’s opening. “We listen to consumers but also our own perspective, incorporating extraordinary materials like Super Titanium and Duratect, and pioneering technologies such as atomic timekeeping and Satellite Wave.” Cohen notes the importance of attracting younger watch enthusiasts, as the brand adapts to a new generation of customers.
For those unable to attend the exhibition in person, Assouline has published a commemorative coffee table book titled Citizen: The Essence of Time. Authored by watch expert Jack Forster, the 239-page volume offers an in-depth look at Citizen’s rich history and significant achievements.
Citizen’s centennial celebration not only highlights the brand’s legacy but also underscores its ongoing dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction.
