New Release
India Whiskey Charlie introduces a captivating limited-edition 'The CITIZEN' model, highlighting its unique indigo washi paper dial. This piece stands out not only for its aesthetic appeal, drawing on traditional Japanese 'victory colour' (kachi-iro), but also for its technical prowess, featuring a high-accuracy Eco-Drive movement. The post offers a detailed look into how Citizen blends cultural heritage with horological precision in this exclusive release.
Kachi-iro is a deep shade of indigo that is traditionally considered to be lucky because it is pronounced in the same way as the word for “victory colour.” The colour was often used on samurai armor and celebratory gifts due to its association with victory. The CITIZEN logo, Eagle Mark, and hands on the dial are finished in an eye-catching gold colour. The crown and the Eagle Mark on the case back also feature the same golden hue. These sophisticated accents are exclusive to this limited-edition model.
This model is equipped with a high-accuracy Eco-Drive*1 movement with annual accuracy of ± 5 seconds in a 40 mm case. The case and bracelet are made of lightweight, scratch resistant Super Titanium™*2 The eagle mark on the dial, crown, and case back symbolizes the twin ideals of The CITIZEN - foresight and dedication to the pursuit of ideals as well as the enduring connection between watch and wearer.
Deep indigo blue Tosa washi paper “victory colour” dial with gold-coloured accents.
Washi paper has long been used for paper screens in Japan to bring natural light into living spaces, making it the ideal material for Eco-Drive watch dials. Its distinctive appearance and texture reflect Japanese aesthetics that have been handed down over countless generations.
Kachi-iro is a traditional deep shade of indigo that is considered lucky because it is pronounced in the same way as the word for “victory colour.” The colour was often used on samurai armor and celebratory gifts due to its association with victory. The washi paper on the dial was hand-dyed using a traditional technique known as natural lye fermentation dyeing. The dye is fermented and applied multiple times, creating a shade of indigo with incredible depth. The appearance of the delicate washi paper changes subtly depending on the angle and intensity of the light striking the dial. The CITIZEN logo, Eagle Mark, and hands on the dial are finished in an eye-catching gold colour. The crown and the Eagle Mark on the case back also feature the same appealing gold hue. These sophisticated accents are exclusive to this limited-edition model.
■Movement with high annual accuracy of ± 5 seconds and a perpetual calendar*3
This new model is equipped with a high-accuracy light-powered Eco-Drive movement with annual accuracy of ±5 seconds, eliminating the need for regular battery changes. All The CITIZEN models with high annual accuracy also feature a perpetual calendar that automatically adjusts the end of each month, including in leap years, until February 28, 2100. This model is also equipped with CITIZEN’s proprietary impact detection and lock function to protect the watch mechanism, an automatic hand correction function in the event that the hands deviate from the correct time, as well as a calendar that changes instantly at the stroke of midnight.
■ Super Titanium™ case
CITIZEN’s proprietary Super Titanium™ is the ideal material for watches - it is lightweight (approx. 40% lighter than stainless steel) with superior hardness (approx. 5 times harder than stainless steel), as well as being corrosion resistant and gentle on the skin. The case and bracelet are treated with Duratect Platinum*4, giving the metal a gleaming, almost transparent silver hue that stays beautiful for longer. The lugs and the bezel feature a highly polished mirror finish while the bracelet has a brushed finish to create an attractive contrast.
■ The eagle mark - the symbol of The CITIZEN
The dial, crown, and case back feature eagle marks - the symbol of The CITIZEN. Eagles have incredible eyesight – they can clearly spot their prey from a distance of 1,000 meters or more. The eagle symbolises foresight, the ability to anticipate the future and act accordingly. Eagles have also formed bonds with humans since ancient times. The eagle mark symbolises the twin ideals of The CITIZEN - foresight and dedication to the pursuit of ideals as well as the enduring connection between watch and wearer.
| Brand | The CITIZEN / Eco-Drive model with high annual accuracy of ± 5 seconds Limited-edition model |
|---|---|
| Model | AQ4094-58L |
| Launch | Jun 2026 (Scheduled) |
| Price (projected) | USD 3100 |
| Limited quantity | 400 pieces worldwide |
| Case / Band | Super Titanium™（Duratect Platinum） |
| Glass | Dual Sphere Glass with Anti-Reflective Coating*5 |
| Dial | Hand-dyed indigo Tosa washi paper |
| Case diameter / thickness | 40.0mm／12.2mm（ design specification only ） |
| Specifications | Cal.A060 / Accuracy of ±5 seconds per year / Eco-Drive runs for 18 months on full charge (in power save mode) / Perpetual Calendar / Independently adjustable hour hand ■W.R. 10 BAR ■ Luminous (Hands+Indices) |
. . . to Coke. I drink 'em both.
..on The Citizen, so these are intended to be special. Of course, 50 years means 'golden' anniversary so this and the previous 50th LE AQ4091-56W both have touches of gold. I think the spotted washi paper will age well. It previously appeared in 2025's indigo-dyed AQ4100-65M LE of 550.
Not sure which dealer…
The online store is not up to date but here it is: https://www.citizenwatch.com/us/en/collection/the-citizen/ Alternately, you can contact their New York flagship store which should have everything: CITIZEN FLAGSHIP STORE NEW YORK 605 Fifth Avenue New York +1-212-658-1518
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