Presented for auction by Second Vintage
This sought-after 33-jewel execution of the Citizen Crystal Seven commands attention with its distinctive Kanji day display positioned proudly at 12 o'clock. Retaining its original signed beads-of-rice bracelet and featuring a highly attractive silver sunburst dial, this 1967 example delivers the sophisticated charm and robust mechanics that define the best of mid-century Japanese watchmaking.
Brand: Citizen
Model: Crystal Seven
Reference Number: ACSS 51401-Y
Serial Number: 7062903
Movement: 33-Jewel Automatic
Dial: Silver sunburst with Kanji day at 12 and date at 3
Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown)
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Production Year: 1967
Condition: Good vintage condition.
Dial and Hands
The highly attractive silver sunburst dial is well preserved, reflecting light beautifully across its surface. Applied indices and crisp logos, including the applied shield, the number 7, and the 33-jewel designation, provide excellent depth and balance. The layout is defined by the prominently placed Kanji day wheel at the 12 o'clock position and a framed date window at 3 o'clock. A minor piece of debris or a tiny mark is visible near the date window. The original Dauphine style hands show age-appropriate patina, with minor surface oxidation and light wear visible under magnification.
Case and Crystal
The stainless steel case presents in honest vintage condition with normal signs of use. The flanks and lugs exhibit moderate scratches and scuffs consistent with regular wear over the decades. A smooth steel bezel surrounds the dial, showing light scratches that match the wear pattern of the case. The watch features an unsigned domed crown showing light wear. On the reverse, the caseback engravings remain clear and easily legible. The flat crystal is generally clear, displaying minor surface scratches and scattered dust.
Movement
The watch is powered by a Japanese automatic movement featuring the sought-after 33-jewel configuration. This higher-jewel count movement represents a premium tier within the Crystal Seven family, designed to offer refined performance and longevity.
Strap
The watch is fitted with its original signed beads-of-rice style stainless steel bracelet, a highly desirable component that completes the 1960s aesthetic. The clasp is signed CITIZEN on the exterior and marked 18-8 STAINLESS STEEL internally. The bracelet is in good wearable condition, showing moderate stretch and surface scratches from normal use, and accommodates a maximum wrist fit of 18cm.
Condition
Good vintage condition. The stainless steel case and smooth bezel present honest wear, with moderate scratches and scuffs throughout, while retaining clear caseback engravings. The silver sunburst dial is highly attractive and well-preserved, noting a tiny mark near the date window. The original hands display minor surface oxidation consistent with age. The original signed beads-of-rice bracelet remains in wearable condition, exhibiting moderate stretch and typical surface scratches.
Dimensions
The case measures 37 mm (excluding the crown).
Remarks
Finding a 33-jewel Crystal Seven with its original signed beads-of-rice bracelet intact is a rewarding discovery for vintage enthusiasts. The combination of the prominent Kanji day display, the crisp applied dial details, and the classic 1960s Japanese design language makes this a compelling addition to any focused collection.
History
Introduced in 1965, the Crystal Seven was a landmark release for Citizen. It earned its name by being the brand's first watch to utilize hardened mineral glass rather than traditional acrylic, a significant advancement in durability for the era. The model line was also notable for its impressively thin automatic movement featuring a day and date complication. Citizen produced the Crystal Seven in several jewel counts, with the 33-jewel variants standing out as premium offerings. Today, these models are highly regarded by collectors for their technical ambition, distinctive styling, and importance within the broader narrative of Japanese horology.
/ Second Vintage
SKU: CIT12DFHOP000












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Citizen - Crystal Seven - No reserve price - ACSS 51401-Y - Men - 1967
Citizen • 1967
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