The center second hand was born in an era when the small second was mainstream. The glass, dial, and hands are rounded at the outer edge and drop downwards, making the center appear thinner, which gives a precise and refined impression. By curving the tips of the hands to match the arc of the curved dial, the distance between the dial and the hands is reduced, improving legibility. The domed case back fits comfortably on the wrist, and the domed crown is gently shaped to rest against the back of the hand. The logo, 'C Citizen Junior,' composed of arcs, still gives a stylish impression today.
The round shapes seen throughout the design are made with the user in mind, and the rounded, endearing form never fails to capture the heart.
With a thin bezel, slender lugs, curved dial, box-shaped glass, and a large crown, this model is a classic example of a traditional watch. Its plump, rounded shape gives a simple yet warm and charming impression.
The domed shape of the case back minimizes contact with the wrist, providing a pleasant feel against the skin. The glass also rarely catches on sleeves, and the glass and domed case back create a nearly symmetrical, beautifully balanced design.
The crown is a plump sphere, matching the design of the case side surface.
By curving the tips of the hands to match the arc of the curved dial, the distance between the dial and the hands is reduced, improving legibility. By shaping the outer edges of the glass, dial, and hands into arcs, the center appears thinner, giving a precise and refined impression.
The logo is composed of arcs, and the script font of CITIZEN Junior gives a stylish impression.
ENGINEER'S EYE
Pleasing Composition
Junior is a youth-oriented product that follows the design of Cal. S (the movement called “new generation direct second”). In fact, Cal. S itself was the movement that symbolized CITIZEN’s revival and progress. It was released at a time when mechanical engineers who joined the company after the war were sequentially optimizing the balance wheel and the escapement, and this is the very movement that was used in the performance where a watch was dropped from a helicopter 30 meters above ground as a live demonstration of Parashock, Japan’s first shock-resistant device.
Among them, the “Specially Adjusted S, 19 jewels” boasts an impressive appearance with red plating and a balance wheel fitted with timing screws. Being based on such a high-grade piece, even this cost-reduced version is a watch with many noteworthy points.
What’s distinctive is the third and fourth wheels boldly placed above the ratchet wheel. In later three-hand structures with the fourth wheel centered on the main plate—for example, in models like the CITIZEN Homer where the fourth wheel is positioned under the ratchet wheel—the presence of the gears tends to feel subdued. While that smart look has its merits, the more mechanical, three-dimensional design seen in the Junior is, if anything, all the more appealing.