Citizen - Jet Auto Dater - No reserve price - AD1507051 - Men - 1963

Presented for auction by Second Vintage The Citizen Jet Auto Dater represents a fascinating chapter in Japanese horology, celebrated for its unique geared outer-rotor automatic movement and striking mid-century design. This particular example showcases the elegant aesthetic of the 1960s, combining a brilliantly executed sunburst dial with sharp, faceted furniture. It is a sophisticated dress watch that captures the innovative spirit of Citizen during a highly competitive era of watchmaking, offering collectors a beautifully preserved piece of mechanical history. Brand: Citizen Model: Jet Auto Dater Reference Number: AD1507051 Serial Number: 31111130 Movement: Automatic Dial: Silver sunburst dial with applied faceted indices, exceptionally clean with minimal signs of aging Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless steel Production Year: 1963 Condition: Stunning vintage condition with outstanding dial preservation Dial and Hands The silver sunburst dial is a masterclass in understated elegance, catching the light beautifully across its brushed surface. It features applied faceted baton indices with a prominent double baton at the twelve o'clock position, adding depth and visual interest. The typography is crisp, showcasing the iconic airplane logo above the stylized Citizen Jet Auto Dater script, complemented by the blue text of the forty-meter water resistance rating. A sharply framed date aperture sits cleanly at three o'clock. The classic dauphine hands are well-preserved, maintaining their sharp polished angles. The dial remains remarkably clean, free from significant spotting, moisture marks, or discoloration, presenting an incredibly fresh appearance that is rarely seen in watches of this vintage. Case and Crystal The thirty-five millimeter stainless steel case features a classic round profile with a smooth polished bezel and elegant sweeping lugs. The transition between the polished surfaces and the case flanks remains well-defined, showing honest, light handling marks consistent with careful wear over the decades. The snap-on caseback displays the original factory engravings, including the crisp serial number, though some of the central text has softened gracefully with time. A domed acrylic crystal protects the dial, offering a warm vintage distortion at the edges while remaining clear and free of deep scratches or visual obstructions. The unsigned knurled crown operates smoothly and suits the case proportions perfectly. Movement Housed within is Citizen's renowned automatic movement, famously known for its distinctive jet-rotor winding mechanism. While the movement is securely enclosed beneath the snap-on caseback, its performance speaks to its enduring quality. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. The timegrapher results indicate a highly capable performance of +13 to +15 seconds per day, underscoring the enduring mechanical health and robust engineering of this classic Japanese caliber. Strap The watch is fitted with a handsome black leather strap featuring a textured reptile grain pattern. The contrasting white perimeter stitching adds a touch of casual sophistication, making it highly versatile for both formal and everyday wear. It is secured by a classic polished stainless steel pin buckle that complements the case finish flawlessly. Condition This timepiece is presented in stunning vintage condition. The dial is the undeniable highlight, remaining exceptionally clean and free of the heavy patina or damage often found on watches from this era. The case retains strong lines with only light, superficial marks indicative of normal, respectful use. The caseback engravings are legible, and the overall presentation is highly attractive for the discerning collector. Dimensions The case measures thirty-five millimeters in diameter excluding the crown, offering a classic and refined presence on the wrist. The lug-to-lug distance and slim profile ensure a comfortable fit that slides easily under a tailored cuff. Remarks The Citizen Jet Auto Dater is highly sought after for its unique mechanical architecture and pure 1960s design language. Finding an example with such a pristine dial and sharp overall aesthetic is a rare opportunity. It stands as a testament to Citizen's mid-century craftsmanship and remains an incredibly stylish companion for the modern collector. History Introduced in the early 1960s, the Citizen Jet line was a bold technological statement. It featured a proprietary geared outer-rotor automatic movement, which allowed for a thinner profile and produced a distinctive winding sound. This innovation was Citizen's answer to the escalating automatic watch race in Japan, combining mechanical ingenuity with elegant, timeless design. The Jet series remains a celebrated milestone in the brand's rich history, beloved by enthusiasts for its unique character and historical significance. / Second Vintage SKU: CIT-FAD-0001