I’d like to start this article by giving props to Citizen. I’ve always seen them as a brand for the people. They’re not quite high-end (although their performance would suggest otherwise), yet they don’t try to be. They seem to be quite content in providing seriously decent watches (I’m talking vintage impressive) at an uber-affordable price point.
You deserve to know what the best Citizen watch is. You can also enjoy them the same way I have.
Keep reading for my top seven styles that’ll improve your wrist game and have you coming back for more. Whether you’re the kind of guy who likes to follow watch trends or just appreciate the workings of a quality timepiece, good news is, there’s something for everyone.
The Key Takeaways
Join me as we embark on an adventure to discover the perfect Citizen watch for you. Just kidding, I’ve already done the leg work for you by researching too many models to count. Among our esteemed guests of horological honor are the ever-impressive Eco-Drive watch and the budget-friendly leather strap style that’s a testament to affordability without compromise.
These two remarkable watches, among others, will be our guiding stars as I navigate the constellation of Citizen’s finest offerings. I’ll be offering a glimpse into the craftsmanship, technology, and timeless design that has made the brand a true icon in the watchmaking world.
Why it’s great: This classic watch offers everything you could possibly need. Its striking stainless steel case is 43mm in diameter, its bold black face and dial has three hands. It’s a classic watch with a modern twist. It’s water-resistant up to 100 meters and powered by Citizen’s sustainable Eco-Drive The technology that uses light to run.
When to wear: One of the main reasons I consider this one of the best Citizen watches for men is because it’s so versatile. You can wear it with formalwear (especially for work or weddings) but it’ll look just as good with a T-shirt and jeans when you’re heading to the bar.
There are some flaws in the design, but these are not major problems. It’s hard to pick any faults, but the case size may be slightly too large for wrists that are particularly small or skinny.
Case Size 43mm | Movement: Quartz Eco | Thickness: 10mm | Water Resistant: | Material: Stainless Steel
Why it’s great: The brown strap with croc pattern and the gold-toned case make this watch look like an heirloom. It looks like it would cost a bomb, but it’s actually the cheapest option on this list. Complete with a date indicator and powered by a Quartz movement, it’s a stylish and affordable choice for any well-dressed guy.
When to wear: You’ll want to show this off at social events, but it’ll make a lasting impression if you rock it in the office too. It looks especially great when worn with wardrobe staples like an Oxford Shirt, khakis and loafers.
Flaws are not a deal-breaker: You can get it wet but you shouldn’t really wear it swimming or in the bath.
Case Size 42mm | Movement: Quartz | Thickness: 10.6mm | Water Resistant: | Material: Stainless Steel
Why it’s great: This lightweight titanium structure is super strong and durable. Eco-Drive Promaster looks like something you’d find in a flight deck. Funny that, as it was made as a tribute to the United States Navy’s elite flight demonstration squadron—taking inspiration from The Blue Angels’ In the air, precision and grace are in the air.
It is the ultimate travel companion. It offers atomic clocks in 43 cities as well as a perpetual calendar and dual time. There are also alarms and a rotating slide-rule bezel. It’s powered by light and secured with a fold-over clasp complete with hidden push buttons.
When to wear: Realistically, you can wear it whenever you want, but I feel it’s one for those special occasions. Or at least when you’re making an effort to dress up.
There are flaws, but they’re not fatal. You’ll need a slightly bigger budget to afford this one (plus a decent-sized wrist). That being said, it’s still considerably cheaper than many of the other luxury watches on the market.
Case Size 45mm | Movement: Quartz Eco | Thickness: 15mm | Water Resistant: | Material: Stainless Steel
Why it’s great: Citizen’s classic watch in stainless steel is affordable, versatile, and timeless. The dial features a striking blue sunray and a foldover clasp. There’s a day/date window, while it’ll survive brief immersion in water.
When to wear: This option is the perfect addition to your smart-casual outfits, whether you’re wearing it to the office or after-work drinks. If you’d like to dress up the look, you can. Don’t be afraid to wear it with a suit and shirt for weddings and important business events.
All products have flaws. It’s water-resistant but not suitable for swimming. Be careful if you’re taking it on holiday and don’t forget to take it off before jumping into the pool.
Case Size 40mm | Movement: Quartz | Thickness: 9mm | Water Resistant: | Material: Stainless Steel
Why it’s great: The silver-toned stainless steel case features a striking blue dial. Addysen Watches are the ideal everyday companion. You can wear it with pretty much anything and it’s powered by light (so never needs a new battery). Better yet, should you want to jump in the sea or paddle in the pool, it’s water-resistant up to 100 meters.
When to wear: This is one of the most popular Citizen watches available for men. Its classic design will go with both formal and casual attire, so you can wear it anywhere.
There are flaws, but they’re not fatal. It barely glows in the dark, so I wouldn’t count on telling the time if you’re locked inside a cupboard.
Case Size 41mm | Movement: Quartz | Thickness: 10mm | Water Resistant: | Material: Stainless Steel
Why it’s great: The newest and most advanced submarine in the world, the Promaster Dive This watch is ideal for adventurers. It offers the perfect combination of safety, durability and functionality. As tough as it is pretty, it’s powered by the light around you and features glow in the dark hands and markers—plus an aluminum ring on the bezel and a screw-back case.
When to wear: Make sure you’re wearing it for your outdoor adventures, but you can keep it on when you head out for lunch with friends. It’ll look just as good with your hiking gear or swim shorts as it will with shirts and jeans.
There are flaws, but they’re not fatal. This watch is on the larger side. It has a 44mm diameter and a thickness of 12mm. This watch may be too large for wrists with very small dimensions.
Case Size 44mm | Movement: Quartz | Thickness: 12mm | Water Resistant: | Material: Stainless Steel
Why it’s great: You can also find out more about this by clicking here. Promaster might be designed for the sea (it’ll go with you to depths of 200m), but it’ll feel just at home on land. Boasting a striking 44m case with anti-reflective sapphire crystal, it’s finished with a pufferfish-inspired serrated bezel and black polyurethane strap that makes it ideal for every day. Should you find yourself out in the dark, the luminous hands and markers ensure you’ll still be able to tell the time.
When to wear: This watch is not only a great diving companion, but it’s also a good choice for weekends spent exploring the outdoors or office days. It looks best with smart-casual attire, but it won’t look out of place with a shirt and slacks.
No need to worry about flaws. The polyurethane wristband makes it a little more casual. It’s versatile enough to wear with casual and formalwear, but a dress watch would be better suited to tailoring.
Case Size 44mm | Movement: Automatic| Thickness: 13.2mm | Water Resistant: | Material: Stainless Steel
Buy the Best Citizen Watches
Budget
You need to know your budget before you can find the best Citizen watch. The popular watchmaker provides a variety of timepieces ranging from affordable to high-end models. Knowing your budget can help you narrow your choices and make an informed decision.
Style
Citizen offers a wide range of watches, including classic chronographs, dive watches, and dressy styles. Consider your personal style and the occasions you’ll be wearing the watch for. Think about whether you prefer a stainless steel bracelet or a leather strap and make sure the watch’s style aligns with your preferences and matches your wardrobe.
You can find out more about this by clicking here.
You should make a list of what you are looking for in a watch. Citizen offers a wide range of watches. Eco-Drive Technology, water resistance, luminous markers and hands, as well as various complications, such a chronograph and date display. You should consider what functions you need most, since they will enhance the functionality of your watch.
Why You Should Be Trusted
Not only have I owned my fair share of Citizen watches, I’ve spent over a decade writing about men’s clothing and accessories—giving me somewhat of an upper hand when it comes to knowing where to find the best gear.
To be sure that I was only sharing the best Citizen watch for men available, I reduced the list from over 50 options down to just seven. How did I do it? I looked at the price, the quality, the versatility and features. Then, I read hundreds of customer reviews to see which products have the best reputation.
Final Verdict
In a market brimming with options (from Casio’s digital designs to Rolex’s luxury tickers), Citizen stands out as a brand that offers quality, affordability, and innovation—earning its place at the table of iconic watchmakers.
Whether you’re after a reliable daily companion or a stylish statement, Citizen has something to suit your wrist. My favorite remains the Eco-Drive watch—proving to be an excellent everyday timepiece that’s sustainable and seriously versatile.
You can find out more about this by clicking here.
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Citizen watches may not be considered to be high-end but are known for quality, durability and innovative technology. They are mostly affordable and midrange watches.
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Regular servicing is not mandatory, but it will ensure that your Citizen watch continues to function accurately and reliably. Service frequency can vary depending on the model and usage of your Citizen. However, a general recommendation would be to service it every 3 to 5 years.
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This answer varies depending on factors such as the model, how well it’s maintained, and how frequently it’s used. The best Citizen watches will last several decades, or longer, with regular maintenance and care. Citizen watches are known to be durable and reliable. Many owners report that their watches have lasted for more than 20 years.
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