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Citizen Eco-Drive watches use the simplest, yet most technically advanced power generating and storage system in the Watch Manufacturing Industry. A Solar conversion panel and energy cell are the power provider for these Quartz Watches. Eco-Drive's ability to use light from any source to generate electrical power means that the supply is limitless and free. The absence of any added complex power generating machinery that would require additional upkeep is another big advantage.

What Is A Solar Panel?

The Eco-Drive watch uses a microns thin disc of amorphus Silicon under the dial to convert light energy into electrical energy through the photovoltaic process. The electrical energy is then stored in a special energy storage cell . The charging is done in a more efficient manner than was ever before thought possible. Because of this newly developed technology, it is now practical to use a wide variety of attractive dials.

How Is Energy Stored In MyEco-Drive?

A special Eco-Drive energy storage cell is used to store the electricity from the converted light energy. The high quality of the cell precludes it from being affected from the regular charge/discharge cycle as with an ordinary battery. With normal care and exposure to light, the owner can be assured of a lifetime of reliable and trouble free power. As an added benefit to the environment, the energy cell contains none of the chemicals used in ordinary watch batteries.

My Instruction Booklet Refers To A "Secondary Battery"; I thought My Eco-Drive Didn't Have A Battery?

No, there is only one energy storage cell in your Eco-Drive watch. The Energy Cell is referred to as a "secondary battery" as the primary power is from light that is converted to electricity. Unlike Eco-Drive watches, most quartz watches use a silver oxide battery technically referred to as a primary power source or battery which is used until depleted and then discarded.

How Long Will The Energy Storage Cell Last in My Watch?

The Eco-Drive Energy Cell will last a lifetime of use.

What Does It Mean When The Second Hand On My Watch Jumps 2 Seconds At A Time?

It means that the reserve power is getting low and the energy cell needs to be fully recharged by exposing it to light for a period of time outlined in your owners manual. This may also occur after fully recharging your watch after a complete discharge of the energy cell. If you have fully charged your watch and the second hand continues to move in two second intervals, you need to do an all reset of the watch. For simple analog models, pull the crown out to the time setting postion for 30 seconds, then return the crown to the closed position next to the case, then set the time. For multi-function models, please refer to your owners manual..
How Can I Tell If The Watch Is Getting Enough Light? In normal use, the watch displays the time and the sweep-second hand moves in one second intervals. A very important feature of Eco-Drive is the Low Charge Warning Mode which as a result of low energy cell voltage, causes the second hand to jump two seconds at a time (while still keeping correct time). When this signal is seen, the watch should be exposed to bright light following the recharging guidelines shown in its instruction manual. There are two exceptions to this signal: the Eco-Drive two hand models and the Chronograph models.

Two Hand Models
In The Two Hand models, the minute hand which normally moves at 1/3 minute intervals, begins moving once every full minute to indicate that it is in a Low Charge State.

Chronograph Models
In the Chronograph Models, the second hand moves to the 'Charge' position on the dial and remains there until it is sufficiently recharged or stops.

The Low Charge Warnings appear if the watch has not received sufficient light to maintain its power reserve and is a reminder that the watch should be exposed to bright light until it is charged up again. After it is sufficiently charged, the second hand will go back to the normal one second jump by itself, this includes the Chronograph models. The Two Hand models will resume normal operation.

What Does It Mean When My Second Hand Jumps Alternately In One Then Two Second Intervals?

It means that your watch has stopped and it needs to be charged up and set to the correct time. See Time Reset Advisory following.

My Watch Is Running, But It Appears To Have Lost Time?

A second important feature, Time Reset Advisory, warns that the watch has stopped completely and then been exposed to enough light to start running again. The time shown would likely be incorrect and need to be reset after recharging the watch sufficiently. To indicate this warning, the sweep second hand movement alternates between two, one second jumps and a two second jump (hitch movement) with the following two exceptions: the Eco-Drive two hand models and the Eco-Drive Chronograph.

Two Hand Models
Time Reset Mode in the two hand models is indicated when the minute hand moves distinctly and quickly in three 1/3 minute increments at the end of each full minute.

Chronograph Models

In the Chronograph models, the second hand moves to the 'Set' indication on the dial.

How Do I Get My Watch To Return To Normal Operation?

After the watch has stopped and been restarted by exposure to bright light, it will remain in the Time Reset Warning (hitch movement) mode until one or the other of two things happen:

First, if the watch is set to the correct time after partial recharging, the hitch movement will change to a two step movement indicating that more charging is needed. While charging is continued, the watch will keep correct time and after sufficient charging, will go back to the regular one second step by itself.

Second, if the watch is not set until after it is charged up to a sufficient level where the circuit signals the watch to start the one second step again, it will stay in the Time Reset Advisory (hitch) mode. However, after it has reached the above charge level, and the time on the watch is set, it will go back to the normal one second step movement.

The amount of charging time, under varying light conditions, to go from a stopped watch to a one second step is shown in each instruction book.

When the watch has received the charging time recommended in its instruction book, the all reset has been performed and the time has been set , the irregular movement of the hands will stop The sweep second hand on the Three Hand models and on the Chronograph will then return to the one second step and the minute hand on the Two Hand models will return to the normal 1/3 minute stepping operation. Reminder: the recharging time, shown in each instruction book will differ depending on the caliber number.

The ALL RESET procedure varies by model. For simple analog models, pull the crown out to the time setting position, leave for 30 seconds, then return to the closed position next to the case. For multifunction and perpetual calendar models, refer to your owners manual for appropriate procedures.

I Did Not Get An Instruction Booklet. How Can I Get An Instruction Set?

Go to Citzen Watch Co., instruction book viewing and download page

What Is The Quick Start Feature?

Many Eco-Drive watches are equipped with a Quick Start Feature. This feature activates after your watch has become completely discharged then exposed to light sufficient for charging. It takes only several seconds of exposure to bright light to start it running. The instant the watch starts running, it enters into the Time Reset Advisory mode. This is indicated by the irregular movement of the second or minute hand (described previously under the Time Reset Advisory section). Be sure to fully charge your watch as outlined in your instruction booklet otherwise your watch may stop once removed from the light. Once your watch has been completely charged, be sure to perform the 'all reset' and set the time (and other features your watch may have) to restore regular operation.

How Long Will My Watch Run After It Is Fully Charged?

Your watch is designed to run continuously and will do so if it is regularly exposed to bright light. Your watch uses very little energy and that is easily replenished during normal use. If your watch is put away where no light is available to it while in a fully charged state, depending on the model, it will run for from 45 days to 5 years (for models with power save feature). Most models have a 180 day power reserve. .

My Watch Doesn't Seem To Be Charging. What Could Be Wrong?

The predominant reason for failure to charge is that the watch is not getting sufficient light. Influencing this are the short cloudy days and long nights of Winter. It is advisable that the watch be used normally, but exposed to bright light on a regular basis in order to enjoy its carefree use.

How Can I Be Sure That The Watch Is Not Malfunctioning?

Follow the guidelines in the instruction manual that came with your watch to fully recharge, perform the "all reset" and set the correct time on your watch. After that is done, if the watch still does not operate normally, you should send your watch to your nearest Authorized Service Center for review.
NOTE: The vast majority of the Eco-Drive watches returned to us for service only need recharging to restore proper operation. Be sure to try fully charging your watch and perform the all reset before sending for service.

After My Watch Stopped, I Had The Energy Cell Replaced, But It Still Doesn't Run, What Should I Do?

An occasional repair request received by our Repair Department is due to Eco Drive watches that have had ordinary silver oxide batteries substituted for the original Eco Drive energy cell. In some instances, the movements have been damaged as the special cells which feature soldered contacts have been pried out of the movement causing physical damage. In almost every case, all that was needed was a full recharge of the watch.

A warning label, placed on the inside caseback of each Eco-Drive model, states, "do not put other than the energy cell designated" and the part number for the rechargeable energy cell, 295-XX, appears prominently on the movement cover.

Additionally, the correct energy cell may feature a spotwelded gold colored connecting strap which is necessary to make contact with the circuit of the watch. There is no such connector on a silver oxide substitute so no connection can be made to the circuit, consequently the watch will not run. In some watches, the original energy cell has been pried out, damaging the circuit and displacing parts, which may result in the need to replace the entire movement.

As replacement of the original energy cell is not the result of a manufacturing defect, correction is not covered by the warranty. We recommend that you send your timepiece to your nearest Authorized center for review and estimation for the cost of correcting this issue.

While Charging My Eco-Drive Watch, It Was Damaged By Excessive Heat. How Did This Happen?

Although not a frequently occurring problem, the Repair Department receives Eco-Drive watches which are damaged due to excessive heat during recharging. Warning is given in the instruction books not to subject the watch to conditions where the temperature may exceed 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Examples given are: charging the watch on the dashboard of a car, using an incandescent lamp (regular light bulb) closer than 20" or using a Halogen lamp.

How Can I Recharge My Eco-Drive In A Safe Manner?

Once your watch has been fully charged, exposing it daily to ambient light is sufficient to keep it charged. If you find your watch needs supplemental charging, it can be safely charged with a fluorescent desk lamp by placing the watch with the dial (face) up and within about 8 inches or an incandescent lamp (regular light bulb) no closer than 20 inches. Be sure to refer to your owners manual for recharge times for your model.
Never use a halogen lamp since the heat generated by it can cause damage to your watch. If your watch has become fully discharged, the most efficient and the quickest is in direct bright sunlight (not a window sill as glass windows filter light frequencies and never on the dashboard of a car.)

How Can We Keep The Eco-Drive Watches In Our Display Case Properly Charged?

The most important thing is to always make sure that the watches are 'face up' in bright light. The best position in the display case for your Eco Drive watches is in the middle on the top shelf. It is equally important that they not be displayed on the second or third shelf down or in a wall case where there is insufficient light to keep them charged.

Battery life is dependant on a variety of things including features of your watch such as alarms, age of your watch and how the watch is used. The average life of a battery is two years.

My First Battery Lasted 4 Years, Why Didn't The Replacement Battery Last As Long?

As the watch ages, battery changes may become more frequent due to the oils in the movement drying out or dirt entering the watch through aged gaskets. This causes more friction increasing the electrical demands of the step motor.

I Lost My Operating Manual. How Can I Get A Replacement?

Citzen Downloadable instructions can be found at Setting Instruction area of web site.

Why do I have to have a Water Test?

Regular maintenance is required to preserve the water resistant quality of any timepiece. The only way to ensure the gaskets are in a condition to protect your watch against the intrusion of moisture is to put your watch under pressure equivelent the water resistant rating of the watch. All water-resistant models should have the gaskets changed every 18 months to two years. If the watch is used in daily showering, a chlorinated pool or salt water, the gaskets should be changed on a yearly basis.
Define Water Resistance
A product may be classified as "Water Resistant" if it is sufficiently impervious to water or moisture when it is immersed completely in water for five minutes under atmospheric pressure of 15 pounds per square inch and for at least another five minutes under an additional pressure of at least 35 pounds per square inch without the entrance of moisture.

How Do I Know If My Watch Is Water Resistant.

If your watch is water is water resistant, there will be clear markings on the back such as Water Resist, WR, or Water Resistant. If there is no indication, then your watch is NOT water resistant and you should take great care not to get your watch wet. For more information, click here to view our Water Resistance Guidelines Page

Why Is The Plating Of My Watch Coming Off ?

The plating on a Citizen watch does not rub off in the sense that you can remove it by rubbing your thumb or finger over the surface. However, if the finger or thumb is soiled with any abrasive material, damage to the finish will occur. During daily use, the watch may come in contact with a variety of abrasive materials which over time may abrade the plating away.

Anything that is harder than the plating, such as metal, glass or even dust or grit on the working surface of a desk can cause excessive wear. Proper care in avoiding contact between the watch and hard or abrasive materials and frequent cleaning to remove any accumulation of dust or soil will extend the life of the finish.

My Eco-Drive Watch Has Stopped. How Do I Get It Going Again?

Your Eco-Drive needs light to operate correctly. Charging rates vary by model. Go to the Citzen Watch CO., Eco-Drive Recharging Chart page.

Where Can I Get Technical Information For My Watch?

Generally, thi technical information is for qualified watchmakers. If you are seeking setting instructions. If you need an instruction booklet which details operating specifications of your timepiece.

How Can I Get Replacement Parts Such As A Band?
Contact your nearest Authorized Service Center.

How do I Fill Out My Warranty Information?

Go to the Citzen Watch CO., warranty coupon information page

Where Do I Send My Watch For Service?

Go to the Citzen Watch Co., US Service Center Page

How Do I Send My Watch For Service?

Go to the Citzen Watch CO. ,Repair information page

What Is My Case And/Or Bracelet Made Of?

Citzen watches are manufactured with a variety of materials. Some are:

Base Metal - Non precious metal alloy
Stainless Steel - Steel alloy containing 4% Chromium to make it resistant to rust and attack from various chemicals.
Resin - Hardened plastic with fine mesh metal added to increase durability.
Titanium - Lightweight, ultra tough and hypo-allergenic metal (nickel free). Used in purest form to make watch cases or bracelets.

What Do The Functions In The Chronograph Do?

Simply stated, the chronograph is a feature to measure elapsed time, similar to the function of a stopwatch. There are a variety of types from 30 minute to 24 hour chronographs. Some models are quite complex incorporating other advanced features such as: calendar, alarms, multiple time zones, countdown timer, depth meter and others. Your owners manual will outline the features of your particular model.

My Watch Is Foggy. I thought It Was Water Resistant! What Is Wrong?

The clouding of the crystal is caused by the following two factors:

The temporary clouding of the crystal is due to a sudden change in temperature inside the watch, such as going from a warm environment to a cold environment or vice versa. If it disappears after a short time, it causes no deterioration to the performance of the watch and is not indicative of a problem with water resistance.

-OR-

Moisture enters the watch due to a breach in the case, such as a gasket that has failed. As a result, the clouding of the crystal remains constantly or occurs every time the watch is worn on the wrist. In such a case, the watch should be taken to a qualified watch repair person as soon as possible to minimize moisture damage.

My Watch Is Running Backwards. What Is Wrong?

A quartz watch can run backward only if the stator (a component of the movement) is damaged in such way as to change its relationship to the rotor (step motor in the movement). If this has happened, the watch movement will generally need to be replaced.

I bought my Dive watch on vacation and found it Measures In Feet. I Need It To Measure In Meters. How Can I Do This?

The factory manufactures two separate versions of the dive movements and other components for the standard (feet) and metric measurement systems. It is very important to ensure the correct version is purchased from the outset. Be especially careful when making purchases when on vacation in countries outside your home country or via the internet. The only way to change measurement systems in our dive watches is to change the entire movement, dive sensor as well as some other components of the watch. This is a chargeable procedure and can be very costly given these are speciality components, not to mention labor, water testing and shipping costs.
NOTE: Models such as the Cyber Aqualand and Cyber Aqualand NX are not candidates for such changes.

What Is A BAR Or ATM Of Pressure?

Water resistance is measured in BAR's or ATM's when the watch is in a static (motionless) state. One BAR or ATM is equivalent to the pressure at 33 feet under water. One thing to keep in mind is that we live at 1 atmosphere of pressure. This means that when a watch is water resistant to 3 "BAR or ATM", it is water resistant to 66 feet under water, not 99 feet as many people believe.

What Kind Of Crystal Is In My Watch?

Citzen Watch Co. utilizes a variety of crystals in timepieces. They range from plastic, which may easily scratch to synthetic sapphire that is difficult to scratch. The vast majority of our timepieces incorporate mineral crystals. Mineral crystal is a glass compound with mineral additives that is heat treated to give its hardness allowing it to be more resistant to scratching and marring than normal glass.

Are There Any Citizen Watches That Don't Contain Nickel?

YES ! Many Citizen Titanium watches, both mens and ladies models, contain no nickel and are hypoallergenic.

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