In the world of diving watches, some stories transcend utility and become legend. This is also the case of a Citizen Challenge Diver watch, found in 1983 on an Australian beach, after being submerged for years in the merciless waters of the Pacific. Almost completely covered in crustaceans, it restarted as soon as it was recovered – a tribute to Japanese engineering. This event inspired the launch of the Promaster Mechanical Diver model, nicknamed Fujitsubo – the Japanese word for sea shell.
But perhaps more fascinating than the rescue story is the groundbreaking heritage that has made Citizen a benchmark name among professional diver’s watches. With the launch of the Professional Diver 1300m in 1982 – the first Citizen model with a titanium case – the brand laid the foundations for a unique aesthetic, defined by extreme functionality and radical design.
From Aqualand (1985) with electronic depth sensor, to the iconic Autozilla and Eco-Zilla models, Citizen has always been at the forefront of underwater performance. And in 2016, the Promaster 1000m Eco-Drive Professional was lowered attached to a submersible – symbolically exceeding its own limit of 1000 meters.
Deep Diver, a refined reinterpretation of the adventurous spirit of 1969
Citizen Promaster Dive Automatic “Fujitsubo”
In this context of engineering excellence and innovation, the new Fujitsubo Promaster Mechanical Diver 200m (Ref. NB6021-17E with black dial, NB6021-68L with blue dial) marks a return to pure, functional forms, but reinterpreted with modern technology: a state-of-the-art automatic caliber and a Super Titanium™ case, five times more resistant to scratches and 40% lighter than stainless steel.
At the heart of the watch beats the new Cal. 9051 – a precise mechanism (daily variation between -10/+20 seconds) that uses antimagnetic components to guarantee constant performance even near intense electromagnetic fields (up to 16,000 A/m). It is also ideal for use on board yachts equipped with magnetic compasses – an essential detail for modern sailors.
Fujitsubo complies with ISO standards for dives up to 200 meters and offers outstanding durability, complemented by a discreet yet sophisticated aesthetic. The 12.3mm case is smooth and sturdy, with a glossy bezel and carefully sanded sides. The aluminum insert frame, oversized markings and sapphire crystal with a flat profile on the top and domed on the inside add a subtly retro touch, without compromising functionality.
Although at first glance it may seem like a sober watch, Fujitsubo reveals fine details at a second glance: embossed indexes, a “lollipop” secondary and an iconic “Mercedes” tongue, all harmonized in a discreet and effective aesthetic language. The only questionable aspect would be the rubber strap, functional and comfortable, but visually perhaps too neutral. An alternative such as a Tropic strap or a textured NATO would have more elegantly complemented the personality of the watch.
Priced at $795 in the US, Fujitsubo is an invitation to connoisseurs who value discreet innovation and functional sophistication. Behind its reserved appearance lies an impressive heritage, and in a world where true luxury is measured by authenticity, this watch proves to be an ideal companion for contemporary explorers – at sea or on land.
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