Citizen - Chronometer - No reserve price - Men - 1900-1949

Offered in this auction by Second Vintage A captivating piece of Japanese horological history, this early Citizen Chronometer exudes an undeniable vintage charm that speaks directly to the discerning collector. Originating from an era when Citizen was cementing its reputation for precision and durability, this timepiece showcases a beautiful synthesis of elegant design and robust mechanical craftsmanship. The warm, patinated tones of the case paired with an exceptionally preserved dial make this classic vintage piece a rare and highly appealing find. Brand: Citizen Model: Chronometer Movement: Manual wind Dial: Eggshell white with printed gold-tone Arabic numerals, concentric sub-seconds register, and minor age-consistent specks Case Size: 30 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Base metal with stainless steel caseback Production Year: 1940s Condition: Good vintage condition with heavily patinated case and remarkably clean dial Dial and Hands The dial is a masterclass in mid-century restraint and elegance, presenting an eggshell white canvas that has been remarkably preserved. Printed gold-tone Arabic numerals provide excellent contrast and a touch of warmth, complementing the elegant gold-tone leaf hands. At the six o'clock position sits a finely detailed sub-seconds register, featuring a concentric circular guilloché texture that catches the light beautifully, swept by a matching diminutive hand. The black serif typography reading CHRONOMETER CITIZEN remains crisp and fully intact. A careful inspection reveals only very minor, age-consistent specks across the surface, with no significant staining, moisture damage, or print loss, leaving the dial in stunning overall condition. Case and Crystal The 30 mm case exhibits a rich, unpolished patina that can only be achieved through decades of honest wear. The original finish has aged to a deep brassy hue, offering a striking, rugged aesthetic that contrasts beautifully with the pristine dial. The sweeping lugs retain their classic profile, while the smooth bezel frames the face perfectly. The watch is fitted with a domed acrylic crystal that sits proud of the bezel, remaining clear and free of any major deep scratches or fractures. Turning the watch over reveals a stainless steel snap-on caseback, clearly engraved with CENTER SECOND STAR EVERBRIGHT BACK, showing typical light surface scratches consistent with its vintage pedigree. Movement Inside beats a classic Citizen manual-wind caliber, proudly signed CITIZEN WATCH across the elegantly shaped bridge. The movement architecture is traditional and robust, featuring a large mainspring barrel with visible sunburst brushing on the winding wheel. The components present cleanly, with the regulator and balance assembly well-preserved. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. The timegrapher results reflect an impressive +10 to +15 seconds per day, indicating outstanding health and reliability for a watch of this era. Strap The watch is paired with a period-correct dark brown leather strap. The strap features matching tonal stitching and a smooth, supple texture that complements the warm, patinated tones of the vintage case. It is secured with a standard gold-tone pin buckle that integrates seamlessly with the overall aesthetic. Condition This timepiece is presented in good vintage condition, offering a highly desirable mix of an aged case and a remarkably clean dial. The dial stands out as the highlight, remaining exceptionally crisp with only the faintest signs of historical aging. The case displays heavy, honest patina and finish wear, revealing the base metal in a way that adds immense character rather than detracting from its appeal. The movement is clean and fully operational, and the crystal remains highly legible. Dimensions The case measures a classic 30 mm in diameter, excluding the crown. The proportions are inherently vintage, offering a refined and understated presence on the wrist that remains true to mid-century sizing standards. Remarks This early Citizen Chronometer is a testament to the enduring quality of mid-century Japanese watchmaking. The juxtaposition of the heavily patinated case against the impeccably preserved dial creates a unique visual dynamic that is highly sought after by vintage purists. It is a rare opportunity to acquire a mechanically strong and aesthetically captivating piece of Citizen heritage. History Citizen Watch Co. was founded with the vision of creating high-quality, precise timepieces accessible to the public. During the mid-twentieth century, the brand pushed boundaries in domestic watchmaking, focusing on reliability and chronometric performance. Early models bearing the Chronometer designation were proud declarations of the brand's mechanical competence and dedication to accuracy. Pieces from this era laid the foundational engineering and design language that would propel Citizen to become one of the most prolific and respected watch manufacturers in the world. / Second Vintage SKU: CIT-CXD-0001