Citizen Leopard 28800 光映 – Kōei 10900460 (1971)

Presented for auction by Second Vintage Here is a remarkable example of Japanese horological history, a 1971 Citizen Leopard High-Beat. The Leopard line was Citizen's direct answer to the high-frequency movement race of the late 1960s and 1970s, designed to offer superior precision and robust engineering. This specific example features a mesmerizing deep blue dial and the desirable 28,800 beats-per-hour movement, making it a sophisticated choice for collectors who appreciate both aesthetics and mechanical prowess. Brand: Citizen Model: Leopard Serial Number: 10900460 Movement: Automatic 26 Jewels High-Beat (28,800 bph) Dial: Midnight Blue Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1971 Condition: Stunning vintage condition. The watch appears exceptionally preserved with a sharp case and a flawless dial presentation. Timegrapher results indicate a daily deviation of -35s to -40s, showing a functioning movement running within vintage tolerances. Dial and Hands The dial is finished in a rich, matte midnight blue that provides exceptional contrast against the applied silver hour markers. The indices are multifaceted and catch the light beautifully, matching the sharp, baton-style hands which feature white inlays for legibility. The applied "Citizen" logo and the distinct "Leopard" script at 6 o'clock are crisp and intact. A framed day-date window is positioned at 3 o'clock, adding practical utility to the elegant design. The text "28800" prominently displayed on the dial proudly signifies the high-beat frequency of the movement. Case and Crystal The 37mm stainless steel case features the classic "C-shape" or cushion profile characteristic of the early 1970s. The case lines are strong and well-defined, suggesting the watch has been treated with great care over the decades. The surfaces show a high polish that gleams under light, with no significant dings or deep scratches visible. The original crown, signed with the "CTZ" logo, is present and sits flush against the case. The crystal is clean and clear, allowing for an unobstructed view of the stunning blue dial. Movement Inside beats a high-grade Citizen automatic caliber with 26 jewels. This is a 28,800 vibrations-per-hour (Hi-Beat) movement, a significant step up from standard movements of the era, designed for greater stability and accuracy. The rotor is signed "Citizen 26 Jewels." The movement is currently running and offering reliable vintage performance, with timegrapher readings showing approximately -35 to -40 seconds per day. Strap The watch is fitted with a new high-quality blue leather strap with a lizard-grain texture. The color of the strap perfectly complements the deep blue tones of the dial, creating a cohesive and dressy look. It is finished with a stainless steel pin buckle. Condition This timepiece is in stunning vintage condition. The dial is virtually flawless, free from the spotting or moisture damage often seen on vintage pieces. The stainless steel case retains its original geometry with sharp edges and minimal signs of wear. The movement is clean and operational. Dimensions With a case diameter of 37mm excluding the crown, the watch sits prominently on the wrist, offering a modern presence while retaining vintage charm. The lug-to-lug distance and cushion shape ensure a comfortable fit for a wide variety of wrist sizes. Remarks The Citizen Leopard is often undervalued compared to its Swiss counterparts, yet it offers comparable, if not superior, finishing and technical specifications. Finding one with a dark blue dial in this condition is becoming increasingly difficult. This is a collector-grade piece that combines 1970s funk with serious watchmaking engineering. History Introduced in the late 1960s, the Citizen Leopard series was created to showcase Citizen's ability to mass-produce high-frequency movements. Along with the "Seven Star" and "Chrono Master" lines, the Leopard represented the upper tier of Citizen's catalog. The 28,800 bph frequency was a point of pride, allowing for a smoother sweep of the seconds hand and better timekeeping stability. This model from September 1971 captures the peak of that innovative era. / Second Vintage SKU: CIT-CLJ-0001