Citizen's 2026 Watch Lineup: 4 Mechanicals and 2 Eco-Drive Chronographs Debut

Citizen Vietnam has expanded its 2026 catalog with six new timepieces that showcase the brand's dual expertise in mechanical and solar-powered watchmaking. The collection introduces two Eco-Drive chronographs alongside four automatic dress watches, offering enthusiasts options across different styles and price points.

The Eco-Drive Chronograph Duo: AT2137-50E and AT2137-50F

The first segment of this February 2026 release consists of the AT2137-50E and AT2137-50F, a pair of sports chronographs built on a black-cased stainless steel architecture. These units are powered by the Citizen H500 Eco-Drive calibre, which harnesses light to eliminate the need for battery replacements.

Both models feature a standard 1-second chronograph function with a 60-minute capacity, supplemented by a 24-hour sub-dial and a date aperture at the 4 o'clock position. The 43 mm case width is balanced by a relatively slim 11.2 mm profile, making these potentially viable daily drivers for those requiring a lower-profile chronograph.

The primary differentiation between the two models is purely aesthetic. The AT2137-50E uses gold-plated hands and indices for a high-contrast look that stands out against the black dial, while the AT2137-50F employs red dial accents for a more traditional "racing" palette that evokes classic motorsport-inspired timepieces. Both models feature a tachymeter scale on the inner bezel and are rated for 100-meter water resistance, providing functionality for swimming and snorkeling.

The Mechanical Quartet: NJ0240/NJ0242 Series

The second half of the launch introduces four mechanical models that embrace a more traditional dress watch silhouette. These watches house the 8210 automatic calibre, a 21-jewel movement visible through an exhibition case back. The movement operates at 21,600 vibrations per hour and offers a power reserve of approximately 40 to 43 hours.

NJ0240 Series: Stainless Steel Elegance

The NJ0240-55A (white dial), NJ0240-55E (black dial), and NJ0240-55X (salmon dial) are all executed in brushed and polished stainless steel with matching multi-link bracelets. These models adhere to a 40 mm diameter and 11.6 mm thickness, positioning them as versatile dress watches suitable for both formal occasions and everyday wear.

The dial finishes demonstrate careful attention to detail, with applied indices and Roman numerals at the 12 and 6 o'clock positions adding classical refinement. The salmon dial variant (NJ0240-55X) offers a particularly distinctive aesthetic that's currently trending in the watch community, providing a warmer alternative to traditional white or black dials.

NJ0242-50E: The Gold-Toned Flagship

The NJ0242-50E stands as the flagship of this mechanical sub-series, featuring a full gold-toned PVD coating on both the case and bracelet, paired with a matte black dial. This model represents Citizen's interpretation of the luxury dress watch aesthetic at a more accessible price point.

The gold PVD treatment provides the appearance of precious metal without the associated cost or maintenance concerns of solid gold. The matte black dial creates a sophisticated contrast with the gold case, while maintaining excellent legibility through applied indices and polished hands.

Technical Specifications and Movement Details

Eco-Drive H500 Calibre

The H500 Eco-Drive movement represents Citizen's continued innovation in light-powered technology. Key features include:

• Power Source: Light-powered through solar cells beneath the dial
• Accuracy: ±15 seconds per month
• Power Reserve: Approximately 6 months when fully charged
• Functions: 1/1-second chronograph, 24-hour hand, date display
• Water Resistance: 100 meters (10 bar)
• Case Material: Stainless steel with black ion plating
• Crystal: Mineral crystal

8210 Automatic Movement

The 8210 automatic calibre demonstrates Citizen's mechanical watchmaking capabilities:

• Jewels: 21 jewels
• Frequency: 21,600 vibrations per hour (3 Hz)
• Power Reserve: 40-43 hours
• Winding: Automatic with manual winding capability
• Hacking: Yes (seconds hand stops when crown is pulled)
• Water Resistance: 50 meters (5 bar)
• Case Material: Stainless steel (NJ0240 series) or PVD gold-plated (NJ0242-50E)
• Crystal: Mineral crystal

Market Positioning and Target Audience

This six-piece launch demonstrates Citizen's strategy to appeal to multiple segments of the watch market simultaneously. The Eco-Drive chronographs target active individuals who appreciate the convenience of solar power combined with chronograph functionality. The 100-meter water resistance rating makes these suitable for water sports enthusiasts who don't require professional diving specifications.

The mechanical collection caters to traditional watch enthusiasts who value the craftsmanship and heritage associated with automatic movements. The variety of dial colors and case finishes provides options for different tastes, from conservative white dials to trend-forward salmon variants.

The price positioning appears strategically placed between entry-level offerings and premium mechanical watches, potentially making these attractive options for first-time mechanical watch buyers or those looking to expand their collections without significant investment.

Design Philosophy and Aesthetic Choices

Citizen's design approach for this collection balances contemporary styling with classic watchmaking elements. The chronographs incorporate modern proportions with their 43 mm cases while maintaining reasonable thickness for comfort. The tachymeter scales and chronograph pushers provide functional sportiness without overwhelming the overall design. The mechanical models embrace a more restrained aesthetic, with clean dial layouts and traditional case shapes. The use of Roman numerals at key positions adds a touch of formality, while the exhibition case backs invite appreciation of the mechanical movement.

The salmon dial option in the NJ0240 series reflects current market trends, as this color has gained popularity among collectors for its vintage appeal and versatility. The gold PVD treatment on the NJ0242-50E offers luxury aesthetics at a more accessible price point, potentially attracting buyers who desire the look of precious metal without the associated cost.

Availability and Pricing

While specific pricing details weren't provided in the initial announcement, Citizen's typical pricing strategy suggests these models will occupy the mid-range segment of the watch market. The Eco-Drive chronographs will likely be priced higher than the mechanical models due to their more complex movement and chronograph functionality.

These watches are expected to be available through Citizen's authorized dealer network and select online retailers in the coming months. Given Citizen's distribution strategy, these models should see widespread availability across North America, Europe, and Asia.

Conclusion

Citizen's 2026 lineup expansion demonstrates the brand's commitment to offering diverse options across both solar and mechanical watch technologies. The combination of two feature-rich chronographs and four elegantly designed automatic watches provides something for nearly every type of watch enthusiast.

The collection successfully bridges the gap between modern convenience (Eco-Drive technology) and traditional craftsmanship (mechanical movements), while offering aesthetic choices that range from sporty to formal. For consumers seeking reliable, well-designed timepieces with proven technology, this launch represents a compelling set of options from a brand with decades of watchmaking expertise.

Whether you're drawn to the maintenance-free convenience of solar power or the mechanical artistry of automatic movements, Citizen's latest offerings provide accessible entry points into both worlds without compromising on design or functionality.