Citizen Deluxe Parashock 815088 (1961)

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This striking Citizen Deluxe Parashock Phynox captures the bold design spirit of mid-century Japanese horology. Featuring a spectacular sunburst red dial that shifts dramatically depending on the light, this timepiece is a standout example of Citizen's innovative approach during the era. The Deluxe line was known for its reliable movements and elegant aesthetics, and this particular example, with its vibrant colorway and sharp faceted indices, offers a compelling mix of dress watch refinement and striking visual presence. It is a fantastic opportunity for collectors seeking a character-rich vintage piece with undeniable wrist appeal. Brand: Citizen Model: Deluxe Parashock Reference Number: 815088 Serial Number: 1407060 Movement: Manual wind, 21 jewels, adjusted to 3 positions Dial: Vibrant sunburst red, clean with crisp white printed text and applied faceted indices Case Size: 34 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: April 1961 Condition: Excellent vintage condition with a beautifully preserved dial and sharp case lines. Dial and Hands The dial is undoubtedly the centerpiece of this watch, featuring a stunning sunburst red finish that radiates outward from the center. The color is deep and vibrant, shifting in tone from bright cherry to a darker, almost burgundy hue depending on the angle of the light. The dial is in excellent condition, appearing remarkably clean and free from any significant spots, stains, or moisture damage. The white printed text, reading "Citizen Deluxe," "21 JEWELS," "PARA SHOCK," and "PHYNOX," remains crisp and fully legible. The applied silver-tone faceted indices provide a sharp contrast against the red backdrop, catching the light beautifully. The dauphine-style hands are well-preserved, complementing the indices and completing the elegant mid-century aesthetic. Case and Crystal The 34mm stainless steel case presents in very good vintage condition, retaining sharp, well-defined lug profiles and clean lines throughout. The transition between the polished surfaces is smooth, showing honest, light handling marks consistent with its age, but no deep scratches or significant dings. The original "C" signed crown is present and clearly defined. The snap-on caseback features crisp, legible engravings including the "Citizen Deluxe" script, "STAINLESS STEEL," and the serial number "1407060," indicating careful preservation over the decades. The domed crystal is clear and free of major scratches, allowing an unobstructed view of the vibrant dial beneath. Movement Powering this Citizen is a robust manual-wind caliber, visibly marked "CITIZEN," "3 ADJ," "21 JEWELS," and "191." The movement displays attractive finishing, including distinct striping on the bridges and a beautifully engine-turned inner caseback. The components appear clean and well-maintained. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. The timegrapher results reflect a deviation of -9 to -16 seconds per day. Strap The watch is fitted with a new, high-quality black leather strap featuring contrasting white vintage-style side stitching. The strap is supple and complements the stainless steel case and striking red dial perfectly, securing with a simple steel pin buckle. Condition This Citizen Deluxe Parashock is in excellent vintage condition. The dial is exceptionally well-preserved, showcasing its original sunburst finish with no notable flaws. The case retains its structural integrity with sharp lines and only minor, age-appropriate surface wear. The movement is clean and fully operational, and the newly fitted strap ensures it is ready for immediate wear. Dimensions Case Size: 34 mm (excluding the crown) Remarks This vibrant Citizen Deluxe is a testament to the brand's mid-century design prowess. The combination of the brilliant red dial, sharp applied indices, and reliable 21-jewel movement makes it a highly desirable piece for collectors of vintage Japanese horology. Its striking appearance and excellent state of preservation ensure it will be a standout addition to any collection. History Introduced in the late 1950s, the Citizen Deluxe line was a cornerstone of the brand's strategy to offer high-quality, reliable timepieces to a growing domestic and international market. The inclusion of features like "Parashock" (Citizen's proprietary shock resistance system) and "Phynox" (a durable mainspring alloy) underscored their commitment to durability and precision. The Deluxe models were available in a wide variety of dial designs and case shapes, reflecting the optimistic and experimental design trends of the era, and remain highly regarded among vintage watch enthusiasts today. / Second Vintage SKU: CIT-CDP-0001