Citizen Alarm Date "Jumbo" ALDS 51301-Y (1965)

Now available at auction from Second Vintage This is a truly exceptional example of the highly collectible Citizen Alarm Date, colloquially known among collectors as the "Japanese Cricket" for its distinct mechanical buzzing alarm. This specific reference is a large-for-the-era 38mm timepiece that sits impressively on the wrist, combining practical utility with mid-century elegance. What sets this example apart is its remarkable state of preservation and the presence of the highly desirable, original Citizen "beads of rice" stainless steel bracelet, a rarity that significantly elevates its collectibility. Powered by the robust 4H manual wind movement, this watch represents the golden era of Citizen watchmaking, offering a mechanical alarm function that remains one of the most charming complications in vintage horology. Brand: Citizen Model: Alarm Date Reference Number: ALDS 51301-Y Serial Number: 50301728 Movement: Manual Wind 21 Jewels 4H Alarm Dial: Silver Sunburst Case Size: 38 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1965 Condition: Stunning vintage condition. The movement has been serviced and is running with excellent precision at +3 to +5 seconds per day, which indicates a very healthy movement. Dial and Hands The silver sunburst dial is preserved in remarkable condition, retaining a bright and flawless finish that catches the light beautifully. It features sharp, applied faceted baton indices that add depth to the face. The text is crisp and legible, displaying the applied "4H" logo which denotes the robust Homer movement family, along with the "Para 40M Water" designation. The hands are a classic Dauphine style, polished to a high shine, accompanied by a distinct arrow-tipped pointer hand used for setting the mechanical alarm. The date window at the 3 o'clock position is framed in steel, completing the balanced layout. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case is in exceptional condition, retaining its original sharp geometry and defined edges. At 38mm, it offers a substantial presence often lacking in watches from the 1960s. The dual crowns, positioned at 2 and 4 o'clock for winding and setting the alarm and time respectively, appear correct and function smoothly. The caseback is distinct and well-preserved, featuring deep and clear engravings of the reference number and the "Para Water" branding. The crystal is clean and clear, offering an unobstructed view of the dial. Movement Powering this timepiece is the celebrated Citizen manual wind 21-jewel movement based on the famous Homer architecture. The movement is clean and aesthetically pleasing, featuring the alarm hammer mechanism clearly visible in the movement photos. It has been serviced and is operating with impressive accuracy, showing a rate of +3 to +5 seconds per day on the timegrapher, ensuring reliable vintage performance. Strap The watch is fitted with its original and highly sought-after Citizen stainless steel "beads of rice" bracelet. This bracelet is incredibly comfortable and articulates smoothly, adding a layer of luxury and historical correctness to the piece. The clasp is signed "Citizen 18-8 Stainless Steel" and the bracelet will fit a wrist size of approximately 17.5cm. Condition This timepiece is in stunning vintage condition. The dial is virtually flawless, and the case shows only the most minimal signs of handling, retaining factory-like sharpness on the lugs and bezel. The movement is freshly serviced and strong. It is rare to find a mechanical alarm watch from the mid-1960s in such pristine and honest condition. Dimensions The case measures 38 mm in diameter excluding the crowns, making it a "Jumbo" size for its vintage. The presence on the wrist is commanding yet refined, suitable for modern tastes while retaining vintage charm. Remarks This Citizen Alarm Date is a collector-grade timepiece that checks every box: rare reference, stunning condition, serviced mechanics, and the original bracelet. It is a fantastic alternative to the more expensive Swiss alarm watches like the Memovox or Cricket, offering equal charm and robust engineering. History Introduced in the notable era of the 1960s, the Citizen Alarm Date was Japan's answer to the growing popularity of mechanical alarm watches. Utilizing the "4H" or Homer base caliber, Citizen engineered a movement that was not only accurate but durable enough to withstand the vibration of the alarm hammer. These watches played a significant role in establishing Citizen as a manufacture capable of producing complicated, high-quality timepieces that could compete on the global stage. / Second Vintage SKU: CIT-CAD-0003