Model: Citizen AQ4042-01P Chronomaster Anniversary Edition
Year: 2020
Limited Edition: 500 Pieces
Features:
The Tech. Eco-Drive is Citizen’s proprietary solar-powered technology, capable of running a watch for up to six months on less than a day of sunlight. They’re a danger to collectors who enjoy rotating watches throughout the week, as their permanently powered, permanently accurate state makes them too easy to grab and go. Stylistically, however, Eco-Drives have often been uninspiring. In order for light to reach the solar cell, the dial needs to be translucent, which has historically limited design possibilities.
The Dial. That all changed in 2017 when a Citizen engineer realised that Tosa Washi paper - one of the thinnest yet strongest papers in the world - could serve as a textured, translucent dial material. Washi paper has a wide range of applications, but if you’ve ever been to Japan, you’ll likely have seen it in shoji frames, which function as doors, windows, and room dividers. In fact, Washi is so integral to Japan’s culture that it has even been recognised on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
The Gold. Due to its prevalence in Japanese architecture, shoji are often decorated - and one of the most traditional methods of decoration is sunakomaki. The technique involves powdering and scattering gold leaf through bamboo, and it’s only fitting that Citizen chose to elevate this classically Japanese Washi dial with sunakomaki. The result? A unique, shimmering texture where no two dials are ever the same.
The Finish. The indices and dial markers sit atop a thin glass layer above the washi and gold leaf. This allows shadows to form beneath them, creating the illusion that they’re floating in mid-air. Unsurprisingly, Zaratsu* polishing has been applied to every possible surface, including the hour markers and logo.
The Precision. Beyond aesthetics, the AQ4042 is also accurate. Really accurate. It’s good for ±5 seconds per year, which should immediately pique your interest if you’re familiar with the 9F Calibre as it’s typically only accurate to ±10 seconds per year. Using “only” when describing ±10 seconds a year might seem harsh, but given the AQ4042 is twice as accurate as most 9F calibres, I’m not really left with a choice.
The Utility. You might be surprised to learn it also houses a Perpetual Calendar and Power Reserve Indicator - the operation of both is hidden behind the small button above the crown. Thanks to the combination of its precision and perpetual calendar, you’ll only need to adjust this watch when the capacitor is replaced every 15-20 years.
The Case. The eagle on the dial and caseback is Citizen’s symbol of confidence and pride, reserved exclusively for their finest timepieces. The case itself is crafted from gold Duratect-coated Super Titanium, making it remarkably lightweight and five times harder than stainless steel.
The Anniversary. Released to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of The Citizen collection, only 500 examples of the AQ4042 were produced. While the name "The Citizen" might not be the most inspired, the collection was built in 1995 around the concept of watches that effortlessly become “an integral part of your life”, with an emphasis on comfort and accuracy. For this anniversary edition, Citizen successfully added beauty to that list.
Specifications:
Condition: In very good condition overall. Some small marks can be seen on the bezel and case. Original strap and buckle.
Scope: No box and papers.
Movement: Citizen A060 Solar HAQ
Dimensions:
- Case Width: 38.3mm
- Lug to Lug: 44.2mm
- Case Thickness: 12.2mm
