@@Tom_H327yeah, these days almost all divers use dive computers, but we respect these watches a lot! Also there are watch style dive computers but many divers prefer to have bog screens of dedicated dive computers, those pieces will look ridiculous dressed so a diver might want another watch and because he is near to the water most of the time the watch might end up in the bottom of the sea, accidentally or in purpose as a backup instrument. Also dressed even with a tuxedo someone may be recognized as a diver throughout diver community, simply by his watch! So diver watches will follow us for a long long time!
“Entry level” is such a bullshit term; a marketing hook to get consumers to always strive for something subjectively better but always more expensive. This watch may be the only dive watch some people ever need...and that is a good thing.
Exactly right! Some people wear a $50 Casio Duro as their main watch and wear it for life. And also, this is a $300 watch. Not "entry level" if you ask me. To most people that is a lot of money to spend on a watch. For others who buy Omegas and Rolexes, this is peanuts. But in the end, it's all subjective.
I couldn’t agree more! I hate the term ENTRY LEVEL! Makes a person almost feel like their watch isn’t good enough or that that watch is good but you need to upgrade until you can get an omega or something comparable. Unless I hit the lottery I’ll never see a omega and my wife and I together have 3 good incomes I just can’t see myself saving thousands of dollars and letting it all go on a watch lol
Entry Level was with regard to dive watch collectors, not Entry Level to the world of actual diving. I think the intent here is to say that you don't need to spend $1,000 dollars for a competent dive watch, or $10,000 dollars on a Rolex to get a good, reliable, accurate, fully capable dive watch.
Entry-level? Personally, this Promaster divers is my ultimate level. 200m depth capability? (Tested to 10% over that in a pressure tank). It’s bombproof, quartz accuracy, full charge in direct sunlight in 20 minutes (which lasts for three months in total darkness of the sock drawer). It looks great, feels great, brilliant engineered finish, excellent lume. I am four years in with mine and out of the three divers I have, it’s the best, and despite frequent manual labour, in and out of water, not a single scratch on the glass 😎 PS: I replaced the silicon strap from the word go with a NATO, which not only looks good and feels good but if one of the spring bars on the watch breaks, you won’t lose it, as it will be safely hanging on by the other spring bar. PPS: thanks for the great review!
I own the blue one with the rubber strap . I dive ( my hobby ) and this one is my diving companion after having taken a very close look at a lot of dive watches . I love your simple , unbiased reviews . Thanks , Guy .
Question. I dive a bit and do underwater photography. For watches like these how often do they recommend they get sent for maintenance and gaskets replaced?
@@Mixedpuppyi saw another reviewer say he had worn it for about 15 months with frequent submergings into to saltwater. He didn't rinse it off and no special care, and the watch takes it in stride, no corrosion issues anywhere on the watch. He was pretty happy with it. I would guess 3 years for a hard use case like that.
Same. My Promaster glows all night. I think that when people say mediocre, they're confusing longevity for brightness. Mine glows super bright from the onset, and it glows fairly bright all night.
The lume on my 5 yr old ProMaster still lasts all night and outshines the lume on my black Seiko turtle. My first real ISO rated dive watch was the 38mm, 5 yr battery ProMaster. And, it's still ticking strong after 21 years of use and abuse & 4 battery changes. Citizen is respected the world over, just not as much in the US. Good build quality and no chapter ring askew issues makes the Citizen ProMaster a reliable, affordable diver's watch.
It’s also obviously a deliberate design choice for the Lume on the hands to be brighter, you can tell because the brightness is totally consistent in brightness and colour in both uses.
I agree completely with your comments about the case size. I have a 6 1/4" wrist, and I had to measure my Promaster when I got home, because I couldn't believe it was 44mm. It fits me beautifully!
I picked up a citizen promaster in 2019 with the diver tank case and rubber strap. 200 m eco drive. I wear a zulu on it. Got it for $123! It's now $255! Watch is phenomenal! Never looses time. Takes a few door frame hits without a scratch. No battery change needed. Stylish. Even at today's inflation it's worth $255. I won't mess with other watches anymore
I just got one of the Promasters with the depth meter function. It has the same clasp as this and agree, it's the best designed clasp I've ever come across.
I have Omega, Girard-Perregaux and Hamilton watches but this Citizen divers - which I've had for a year now - is excellent. On the wrist wears neat and handy. Keeps great time. Mineral glass is tough, no scratches so far and I am clumsy and bang it on door frames and desks repeatedly. I've used it for sea and pool swimming. For less than 200 quid or dollars this watch takes some beating. Goes well with different bracelets and straps but especially silicon rubber.
For my experience, the mechanical watches perfect for formal occasions, you can wear an old Rolex, Tudor or Seiko, people will get interested about the history of the watches more than to find the watches it may looks fade away or being inaccurate . But for the daily watches is different , because you need something that for yourself, like this Citizen promaster, accurately, tough, reliability with the eco drive technology that offer less maintenance for your convenience , and with that 200m water resistant ,you can wear it as for work or play, indoor or outdoor, and I am sure you will get more confident to wear it than any other mechanical or normal quartz watches .
I have a Citizen EcoDrive about 15 years old. Was my daily wear for about 7 out of those years. Never serviced. It still runs great. They indeed appear to be quite reliable.
#me too! I reckon my Eco-drive is going to outlive me, but then again, I’m 72 years old! My Promaster Eco-Drive is without a doubt the best I’ve ever owned. Nearly 5 years in and still going strong!
I have the one with the rubber strap, and like you said it's hard to find it on the bracelet, but I was able to find the original bracelet and I love it even more, that bracelet made a huge change.
Excellent review. Pragmatic, informative, and insightful. I very much agree with your opinion on quartz watches. For daily wear and accurate timekeeping, quartz watches are great, and Citizen does it right.
Great review, Guy. I own this watch and the Seiko SKX. I love the Citizen! It looks great, is +:05 per month, is comfortable, and I like the 60 click bezel. My only negative for the BN0150 is the crystal. I like my SKX, the crystal is superior to the citizen, but accuracy is poor. Keep up the great work; cheers!
I love your videos man. Maybe it is the voice or just that you go straight to the point and no not talk BS. I don´t know bro, but I love your videos. I bought the Citizen BN0150 in Blue Dial with the rubber strap. I love it. I love the fact that I can leave it for a week and pick it back up again and just put it on my wrist. Automatic is a pain in the butt because I always need to take 10 minutes to set it up agian if I want to use it.This watch is simple but beautiful and I just put it on the wrist on the fly. I love it. Thanks for your videos my friend.
I own and love this watch. I actually went with the rubber strap because I like better the color contrast and it also makes the watch somewhat lighter and more comfortable.
I bought this watch on vacation in Orlando not realizing that it was one of those watchs that are hard to find. The quality and value of this watch is amazing.
I never regret buying this Citizen. I immediately removed the rubber strap,even if it's comfortable,and put on a Beige Nato strap.It's one of my most used watches now. Very accurate,superb lume and one of the best bezel movements around.Great vid as usual. Thank you.
Fully agree! I fitted a NATO on mine from the word go. Security is enhanced by virtue of the fact that if a spring bar breaks, you are still going to have the watch hanging from the other spring bar, Which is a healthy alternative to saying goodbye to the thing forever 😎
i bought one today. the watch looks in personal watch better as on fotos or videos. this watch looks such massive build and much more expensive, as she is.
Nice review. I’ve got the blue version on a Zulu strap. It keeps time as well as my Seiko Tuna 033, which has an exceptional quartz movement, and costs a fair bit more. The Citizen is within a second within three months. Well built, no excuses timepiece. Bezel is amazingly well done. Had a few SKXs, and wore one for over 15 years, but sick of inaccuracy. I’ve bought/sold too many misaligned Seiko Q to buy another. I recommend the Citizen to everyone who inquires.
A year later and im commenting again. For this watch i did purchase the otster style stainless bracelet from Island Watch. It has fitted end links and it has exact brushing matching the the watch perfectly, it really dresses up the watch nicely. Its been on my wrist 7 days a week for 13 months....i love it.
These Citizen Promasters with Ecodrive are great for everyday use - and less likely to need servicing. I've had one for over a decade, gave it to my dad for its legibility, and it came back to me still going strong. You're totally correct that cheap automatics have a problematic accuracy, and with service costs less likely to get needed attention to keep them going - my SKX after 6 years had issues and it now sits in a draw.
To those who don't really do Quartz movement watches, I used to be you until I got my first solar powered watch, they're eminently practical, especially for a dive watch, accuracy that automatics can't get close to, and if you keep it charged with regular exposure to light, you might get 20 years or more without having to open the case. A watch that you only unscrew the crown when the date requires adjusting (it'll probably be +/-5 seconds or less at that point) after the constant adjusting of your automatics you might just find that refreshing, yes I still prefer an automatic movement and still peer down my nose disapprovingly at battery quartz movements but I found a small corner where I have some appreciation for the solar powered movement.
I bought mine in 2019. It's been fantastic!! I've read that accuracy can vary with the quality of the quartz crystal and it's a bit of a lottery. I was surprised when you said it's +/- 15 sec per month. Mine has been running at around +15 sec per YEAR!! I like the look and comfort of it with a beefy shark mesh bracelet.
My Citizens Pro Diver BN0191keeps exact time to the second since setting it to Greenwich Mean Time, also you were right about Rolex watches and flaws I've seen a Rolex video here on RUclips with two nines
I have this watch on the black strap and i love it I've been in the swimming pool the ocean quite a number of times it's bullet proof i believe i bought it on Ebay for just under two hundred dollars i plan to try to find the Citizens bracket the exact one you show this watch on your video coverage on this watch! Good job thanks.
Outstanding review, I have both watches and I could care less about the automatic vs quartz movement. What I love about my Citizens eco drives is that I don't have to worry to put them on a winder machine, it can go on ticking for months without worrying to wind them. I rotate my watches depending of my daily activities. Best regards from San Juan, Puerto Rico, stay safe.
Estoy totalmente de acuerdo! My Eco-Drive Promaster diver charges up fully in direct sunshine in 20 minutes, and has lasted three months total darkness in the sock drawer! Five years in and still working perfectly (which is more than I do!) Best wishes from England 😈🇬🇧
I received the promaster citizen automatic today the one with crown at 8 o’clock , love it more than the skx ,, have one of those plus various others , infact I think it’s gonna be my favourite diver I own , thanks Shane uk 🇬🇧
#metoo! I have onetoo, and it’s a lovely bonus that you can see the thing working through the rear glass. But for total accuracy, my usual daily timepiece is my Promaster Evo-Drive divers. Vive la differance!
I've spent 2 months figuring out a new beater to wear while surfing, climbing, and biking. It's been a toss-up between the Ray II, sk013, and this watch. I finally picked up the citizen, and here is why.... -The eco drive movement is more accurate, I'll rarely have to adjust the time/date. -The eco drive doesn't need to be on my wrist every day or two to keep ticking. My daily watch is a seamaster that only comes off in bed. -This is a small personal thing, but I own an abundance of 20mm nato straps. -(the biggest reason) The eco drive quartz movement is just flat out more durable and shock resistant than any low end automatic movement. My citizen will get thrashed before I ever need to replace a battery or think about servicing it. I got it for $139 +tax on amazon, I'll just get a new one. Let me add that seiko is more expensive, and their quality control has gotten pretty bad. If anyone has to get an automatic, either go for the automatic version of this watch or the Orient Ray II, it's a beautiful watch if not a little submariner-y
Citizen is so underrated. Their QC is miles ahead of Seikos at this price point. I have the BN0151-09L and a SKX009 and I can categorically say the Promaster has better workmanship all round. It's just a better watch for the money
I've got a Citizen Calibre 8700 perpetual calendar in my entry-level collection, and it has a ridiculously comfortable bracelet. Definitely something Citizen does right. Great review, Guy.
Good review.... Entirely agree about the strap, I have the Excalibur model on that strap and love it. My SKX sits in a draw with stripped crown threads Seiko want silly money to fix it, it was never very accurate from day one perhaps one day I will have it repaired and regulated, but for now the Excalibur Citizen is my wear most days... The second hand hits the markers perfectly more than I can say for my Longings Conquest...
I have a Promaster and I am most impressed with it. Definitely worth the purchase price and then some. With regard to the bezel, I prefer 60 click. It is much more precise.
brian buchert - I have to admit that I also like the precise 60 click, which typifies the overall excellent construction of this item. And bearing in mind there are 60 minutes to the hour, why not? I don’t go scuba all that often, but it’s also handy for timing things above water 😊
Excellent watch! I bought it with the stainless steel bracelet for around 280 USD and am very impressed with both the watch itself and its bracelet. I also sold the diving tank watch box that came with it for 120 USD, so I basically got the watch for only 160 USD!
@@justin1218 I sold it on the Swedish version of eBay - Tradera. Can't believe some moron paid 120 USD for it. I would normally expect around 50-60 USD for it. Maybe even less. Good luck!
I have an quartz Omega Constellation that I have never had serviced once. It's 28 years old, I wear it 5 days a week and it runs 16 seconds fast per month.
I looked in several places to find this watch with bracelet and they are very scarce. IMO after looking and looking I’ve found that the most cost effective way to get this watch is to buy it with the rubber strap then track down the correct bracelet. I purchased the watch brand new from a reputable watch seller on eBay for right around $135.00 shipped knowing I would buy the bracelet separate I was patient and found one brand new for around $105.00 plus shipping. So all together I’ve paid less than the going price for this watch brand new on bracelet and I have the option to go back and forth if I choose. It may take a little longer to find both for a good price but if you’re patient you can get this setup for a steal. I’m Very happy with the watch incredible quality for the price. My only complaint is the size it wears very small for a 44mm watch but all in all happy to have this in my collection! Like you said though I completely agree that the bracelet is the star It’s the main reason I wanted this watch, to have a skeletonized clasp And a tooless adjustment bracelet is something you just don’t see at this price I’ve bough 5,6,700$ seikos that have flimsy stamped clasp and spring bars for micro adjustments. Or you get an ugly ratchet extension this thing is just seamless all around the extension looks good and blends into the watch
This review has been really helpful! I’ve been thinking about getting a Promaster, going back and forth on models, but that clasp is the deal maker. Thank you from a new subscriber!
I agree 100% with your review. I had been wearing Seiko Black Monster on bracelet for years, until I just could not deal with the inaccuracy + 25 secs / day. By the end of every week or so, the watch had to be reset. Finally, tried to adjust the watch, but that did not go well. I sold it for parts $40. Started wearing Citizen EcoZilla Promaster 300m on rubber. First thoughts were that the watch was enormous, that I was selling out to the quartz solar mvt, and that the rubber strap was impossible to adjust. The watch is incredibly accurate, never needs to be reset, except spring & fall time changes. Took a while to break in the rubber strap which is not quite as easy on off as bracelet, but the rubber strap has advantages of flex and absorbing shock, particularly when working with hand tools, or lifting and moving materials.
I own this watch which I've had for over 5 years. It is a worthy stand in for my Omega Planet Ocean whose service cost would buy me two new Citizens. I am not a fan of the silicone strap and it has a Bond NATO on for the moment but I've been considering the bracelet for a long time. You're detailed review, and the focus on the bracelet has convinced me to order one. Great review and it's nice to see Citizen getting some support. I've just bought the PCAT which is a hell of a lot of Technology and features including, an anti reflective sapphire crystal, alarm, 200 metre WR and Atomic time sync for £300. All this AND a six year warranty. Show me an auto with those specs for that money.
I watched this video with much interest and curiosity. The reason being is that since my typical budget for a watch is around $200 to $300. I have a small collection, with a Citizen Eco Drive, Perpetual, Atomic, 200 meter WR, with amazing accuracy. A recent acquisition is an Orient Blue Ray 11, automatic with manual wind and hacking; which I really enjoy except for it running on average 45 seconds fast/per day. I am new to the Hobby and love the look of a smooth second hand sweeping around the dial. I struggle with finding the balance between price point, complications which I enjoy and compromising with timepieces which run inordinately slow or fast. Thus, it was extremely refreshing to listen to your perspective on these issues. I’m on the Fence as to what my next acquisition will be. At the moment, I vacillate between a Seiko Presage Cocktail Watch with the Power Reserve Complication, (which I believe can be hand wound and it hacks), or a minimalistic quartz movement such as a Sternglas Naos Quartz movement. I’d be curious as to your thoughts on these two watches. Thanks. Nice job on the video. Keep up the good work!
I think a 60 click bezel is better than 120. I'm not timing anything in increments of half a second (or minute), and the bezel movement feels really good
My Citizen NY0040 also has a ratcheting adjustment and it's great. I have it to where I can make it bigger or smaller. This bracelet is much nicer of course but it's still great to have.
True! I have a Citizen Eco - Drive that has been one of my edc watches since 2003 and it keeps running without any service at all. Even the capacitator is the original. On the other hand, I also have a Seiko 5 from the same year approximately, that to my knowledge hasn't been serviced and still runs perfectly. But in general, under $400-$500 I think that the best choice is a solar quartz watch from the 3 Japanese companies (specially Citizen and Casio).
Great review. Will never understand the 'charm' of having to set the time constantly on an automatic watch. My experience with Citizen eco drive has been great, have one that is going on 10 years and never been serviced, still runs like new.
Another great review Guy. I'm not a huge quartz watch fan any more, but for the price, this might be a good beater. And it being solar powered is a plus. Thanks guy!
The solar facility is terrific. Initially charged up in ditect sunshine for 20 minutes, and it can last three months in the darkness of the sock draw! When it’s running out of puff, the second hand clicks over every two seconds, just to let you know that it needs its Sun lounger. It will, however, charge perfectly well in artificial lighting.
I sold mine because the bezel was a little loose and the short, almost square hour hand made it difficult to read the precise time at a glance. I now wear one of the older citizen tough models and absolutely love it.
I was going to buy the SKX007 then I saw the Citizen NY0040 (automatic diver) ... and there was really no comparison between the 2. The Citizen has a MUCH better bracelet, a toolless adjustable clasp, better movement, I like the bezel and the dial more, it's also way cheaper!!! (i found a new one for less than 180€) I think that ppl who fall for the SKX frenzy (consider I'm a Seiko lover) just never saw the citizen divers... and too few "influencers" talk about citizen. It doesn't drive audience :)
I also have the NY0040 Auto and it is just the best watch for all the reasons you mention. It is also kind of the fore bearer of this Eco-drive model in looks and features. Citizen makes great watches with outstanding value for the price. I would highly recommend this watch as a great 'daily diver'.
Citizen is such an undervalued brand by wrist watch nerds. Great looking watch by the way. Unfortunately, the seconds hand does not perfectly line up on the second markers. But then again, at this price point everything is awesome on this watch.
Own one. To me it's the perfect utility watch, reasonably sized, awesome quality and finish, super affordable, only surpassed by its auto ancestor NY0040.
Great review Guy 👍 I have the blue version on rubber. I couldn't find it on the bracelet in the UK. Its very comfortable I use it as my daily work watch.
These Citizen Promasters are excellent watches. I bought three (two blue, one black) on Amazon for prices between $106 and $142 and regard them as great values. I immediately replaced the OEM plastic bands with BluShark straps.
Absolutely good price! This month (December 2019) they are £164 GBP Amazon. Five years ago when I got mine, it was £144. Still excellent value, seeing that it’s going to outlive me!
Even though this vids a few years old, there's some good information buddy! Citizen are my without doubt favorite brand, and I think they are highly underrated! which is good as we get them at decent prices. I just bought a citizen Promaster ca0711-80h proper ISO 6425 200M diver for just $320! Anway it arrived today so im stocked and watching all Citizen videos lol. Anyway just subbed mate...
I own the Citizen NY0040 Automatic and it is just the best watch for all the reasons you mention. It is also kind of the fore bearer of this Eco-drive model in looks and features. Also, you are correct in urging people to seek out the Stainless steel bracelet to enhance the wearing experience. Citizen makes great watches with outstanding value for the price. I would highly recommend this watch as a great 'daily diver'. Also, you are correct in urging people to seek out the Stainless steel bracelet
I just purchased a Citizen Pormaster, BJ7111-86L, Eco-Drive GMT, 200M, 120 click blue dial, titanium, + - 1/2 sd, to add to my collection, it is a great watch for the money. The Citizen Promaster keeps better time by far than the Seiko Sumo...If you are looking for a dive watch check out the Citizen BJ7111-86L...
I've got to say , the rubber band is probably the only plastic band I'll ever love (for a long while) and the 60 click bezel, although disappointing at first, feels really satisfying.
I have been fiddling with my Promaster bezel - probably several times a day as a kind of Tourette’s habit for the past five years and I think I’ve just about run it in! Most excellent engineering all the way round.
You get yourself a new subscriber. I think I made a mistake buying the Seiko turtle dive watch, but it doesn't really matter at this moment, since I bought the Omega Seamaster too. But I am contemplating to buy this watch as a tool watch for everything, I mean everything except for dining with my wife that I will be using the Omega or a dress watch. Great and excellent review. Love the accuracy of the Quartz couple with the solar tech. 👍
I have just the two Pro Masters: One is automatic, the other Eco-Drive. Oh, and a 20 bar Eco military. I have no idea how many watches I have owned in my 72 years, but these must be the best. Really, what on earth is the point of spending several thousands on a Rolex when you have something that does exactly the same thing but better for the price? Hmm... tricky 🤔
Great watches! I've had a couple, but always flipped them to go after an auto of some sort. I will own another and try to keep it next time. You can find them from some of the grey market dealers for under $150 on the rubber strap. The E168 Eco-Drive is a rock-solid solar movement that should last for decades.
These days I'd take a Citizen, Tissot or a Hamilton over a Seiko. But to each their own. Thank you for the typically in depth review and showcase Guy. Keep the content coming 👍
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That Citizen is criminally underrated. It’s a complete watch. No modding/upgrades needed. It’ll serve you a lifetime with zero maintenance.
I have several diver friends who recommend this watch, but the reality is they all use a dive computer, not a wrist watch.
@@Tom_H327yeah, these days almost all divers use dive computers, but we respect these watches a lot!
Also there are watch style dive computers but many divers prefer to have bog screens of dedicated dive computers, those pieces will look ridiculous dressed so a diver might want another watch and because he is near to the water most of the time the watch might end up in the bottom of the sea, accidentally or in purpose as a backup instrument.
Also dressed even with a tuxedo someone may be recognized as a diver throughout diver community, simply by his watch!
So diver watches will follow us for a long long time!
“Entry level” is such a bullshit term; a marketing hook to get consumers to always strive for something subjectively better but always more expensive. This watch may be the only dive watch some people ever need...and that is a good thing.
Exactly right! Some people wear a $50 Casio Duro as their main watch and wear it for life. And also, this is a $300 watch. Not "entry level" if you ask me. To most people that is a lot of money to spend on a watch. For others who buy Omegas and Rolexes, this is peanuts. But in the end, it's all subjective.
I couldn’t agree more! I hate the term ENTRY LEVEL! Makes a person almost feel like their watch isn’t good enough or that that watch is good but you need to upgrade until you can get an omega or something comparable. Unless I hit the lottery I’ll never see a omega and my wife and I together have 3 good incomes I just can’t see myself saving thousands of dollars and letting it all go on a watch lol
I totally agree!!! You commentsry deserves more view!!!!
Entry Level was with regard to dive watch collectors, not Entry Level to the world of actual diving. I think the intent here is to say that you don't need to spend $1,000 dollars for a competent dive watch, or $10,000 dollars on a Rolex to get a good, reliable, accurate, fully capable dive watch.
I agree as I interpret 'Entry level' as paired down, no nonsense and fit for purpose.
It's my favorite watch,and the watch I wear when i want a survival tool ...
and it has... soul,because it needs the sun to live :)
Value for dollar, Citizen is significantly underrated. They were also the pioneer in solar charging technology for watches.
Very true
Entry-level? Personally, this Promaster divers is my ultimate level. 200m depth capability? (Tested to 10% over that in a pressure tank). It’s bombproof, quartz accuracy, full charge in direct sunlight in 20 minutes (which lasts for three months in total darkness of the sock drawer). It looks great, feels great, brilliant engineered finish, excellent lume. I am four years in with mine and out of the three divers I have, it’s the best, and despite frequent manual labour, in and out of water, not a single scratch on the glass 😎 PS: I replaced the silicon strap from the word go with a NATO, which not only looks good and feels good but if one of the spring bars on the watch breaks, you won’t lose it, as it will be safely hanging on by the other spring bar. PPS: thanks for the great review!
@@Johnny-sj9sj dude you just convince me to get one. Thanks
I own the blue one with the rubber strap . I dive ( my hobby ) and this one is my diving companion after having taken a very close look at a lot of dive watches . I love your simple , unbiased reviews . Thanks , Guy .
Question. I dive a bit and do underwater photography. For watches like these how often do they recommend they get sent for maintenance and gaskets replaced?
@@Mixedpuppy the instruction manual recommends every few years
@@Mixedpuppyi saw another reviewer say he had worn it for about 15 months with frequent submergings into to saltwater. He didn't rinse it off and no special care, and the watch takes it in stride, no corrosion issues anywhere on the watch. He was pretty happy with it. I would guess 3 years for a hard use case like that.
Great watch for what you pay,don't have to worry about knocking about while diving,strap extension is perfect for compression on dive suit.
The lume on my Promaster lasts all night if it's charged it's definitely not mediocre.
Exactly. Far from disappointing, it is as good as my luminox
Same. My Promaster glows all night. I think that when people say mediocre, they're confusing longevity for brightness. Mine glows super bright from the onset, and it glows fairly bright all night.
The lume on my 5 yr old ProMaster still lasts all night and outshines the lume on my black Seiko turtle. My first real ISO rated dive watch was the 38mm, 5 yr battery ProMaster. And, it's still ticking strong after 21 years of use and abuse & 4 battery changes. Citizen is respected the world over, just not as much in the US. Good build quality and no chapter ring askew issues makes the Citizen ProMaster a reliable, affordable diver's watch.
It’s also obviously a deliberate design choice for the Lume on the hands to be brighter, you can tell because the brightness is totally consistent in brightness and colour in both uses.
Completely agree with the review. Citizen is too often overlooked and absolutely underrated. Great and thorough review as always
Thank you!
My daily. All my Seikos and Tissots and Fifty Fathoms stay in a case. Love it!
I agree completely with your comments about the case size. I have a 6 1/4" wrist, and I had to measure my Promaster when I got home, because I couldn't believe it was 44mm. It fits me beautifully!
Yea same here, it's fits great. Love the bevel in the bezel
I picked up a citizen promaster in 2019 with the diver tank case and rubber strap. 200 m eco drive. I wear a zulu on it. Got it for $123! It's now $255!
Watch is phenomenal! Never looses time. Takes a few door frame hits without a scratch. No battery change needed. Stylish. Even at today's inflation it's worth $255. I won't mess with other watches anymore
Citizen is a lot of bang for the buck. Great finishing and fit for the money also .
Agreed
I just got one of the Promasters with the depth meter function. It has the same clasp as this and agree, it's the best designed clasp I've ever come across.
I have Omega, Girard-Perregaux and Hamilton watches but this Citizen divers - which I've had for a year now - is excellent. On the wrist wears neat and handy. Keeps great time. Mineral glass is tough, no scratches so far and I am clumsy and bang it on door frames and desks repeatedly. I've used it for sea and pool swimming. For less than 200 quid or dollars this watch takes some beating. Goes well with different bracelets and straps but especially silicon rubber.
For my experience, the mechanical watches perfect for formal occasions, you can wear an old Rolex, Tudor or Seiko, people will get interested about the history of the watches more than to find the watches it may looks fade away or being inaccurate .
But for the daily watches is different , because you need something that for yourself, like this Citizen promaster, accurately, tough, reliability with the eco drive technology that offer less maintenance for your convenience , and with that 200m water resistant ,you can wear it as for work or play, indoor or outdoor, and I am sure you will get more confident to wear it than any other mechanical or normal quartz watches .
I have a Citizen EcoDrive about 15 years old. Was my daily wear for about 7 out of those years. Never serviced. It still runs great.
They indeed appear to be quite reliable.
#me too! I reckon my Eco-drive is going to outlive me, but then again, I’m 72 years old! My Promaster Eco-Drive is without a doubt the best I’ve ever owned. Nearly 5 years in and still going strong!
The best 4 o'clock date integration I've ever seen (lines up with a crown)!
I JUST noticed that myself :)
I have the one with the rubber strap, and like you said it's hard to find it on the bracelet, but I was able to find the original bracelet and I love it even more, that bracelet made a huge change.
Where did you find the bracelet?
@@SwoleHippo on Amazon but they been sold out ever since.
Own one and love it!
Best bracelet of all my watches.
Excellent review. Pragmatic, informative, and insightful. I very much agree with your opinion on quartz watches. For daily wear and accurate timekeeping, quartz watches are great, and Citizen does it right.
Great review, Guy. I own this watch and the Seiko SKX.
I love the Citizen! It looks great, is +:05 per month, is comfortable, and I like the 60 click bezel. My only negative for the BN0150 is the crystal. I like my SKX, the crystal is superior to the citizen, but accuracy is poor. Keep up the great work; cheers!
Thanks Bob!
I want this so much over a Seiko because it is Eco Drive! I don't need to wind it up every time I wanna wear it.
I love your videos man. Maybe it is the voice or just that you go straight to the point and no not talk BS. I don´t know bro, but I love your videos. I bought the Citizen BN0150 in Blue Dial with the rubber strap. I love it. I love the fact that I can leave it for a week and pick it back up again and just put it on my wrist. Automatic is a pain in the butt because I always need to take 10 minutes to set it up agian if I want to use it.This watch is simple but beautiful and I just put it on the wrist on the fly. I love it. Thanks for your videos my friend.
Thanks appreciate it.
Got one in bracelet. Bought in Don Quixote, Fukuoka. Super proud owner of this superb watch!
I own and love this watch. I actually went with the rubber strap because I like better the color contrast and it also makes the watch somewhat lighter and more comfortable.
I just bought one... can wait!!!!!
I bought this watch on vacation in Orlando not realizing that it was one of those watchs that are hard to find. The quality and value of this watch is amazing.
Nice find, they are hard to track down.
One of the best Divers made by Citizen.
I never regret buying this Citizen. I immediately removed the rubber strap,even if it's comfortable,and put on a Beige Nato strap.It's one of my most used watches now. Very accurate,superb lume and one of the best bezel movements around.Great vid as usual. Thank you.
Fully agree! I fitted a NATO on mine from the word go. Security is enhanced by virtue of the fact that if a spring bar breaks, you are still going to have the watch hanging from the other spring bar, Which is a healthy alternative to saying goodbye to the thing forever 😎
i bought one today. the watch looks in personal watch better as on fotos or videos. this watch looks such massive build and much more expensive, as she is.
congrats. chain or rubber strap?
i bought the blue version and purchased the bracelet from citizen seperate great watch
Nice review. I’ve got the blue version on a Zulu strap. It keeps time as well as my Seiko Tuna 033, which has an exceptional quartz movement, and costs a fair bit more. The Citizen is within a second within three months. Well built, no excuses timepiece. Bezel is amazingly well done. Had a few SKXs, and wore one for over 15 years, but sick of inaccuracy. I’ve bought/sold too many misaligned Seiko Q to buy another. I recommend the Citizen to everyone who inquires.
A year later and im commenting again.
For this watch i did purchase the otster style stainless bracelet from Island Watch.
It has fitted end links and it has exact brushing matching the the watch perfectly, it really dresses up the watch nicely.
Its been on my wrist 7 days a week for 13 months....i love it.
Thanks for the update!
Thanks for your unbiased, objective and straight forward reviews.
It's greatly appreciated.
Happy holidays...
These Citizen Promasters with Ecodrive are great for everyday use - and less likely to need servicing. I've had one for over a decade, gave it to my dad for its legibility, and it came back to me still going strong. You're totally correct that cheap automatics have a problematic accuracy, and with service costs less likely to get needed attention to keep them going - my SKX after 6 years had issues and it now sits in a draw.
To those who don't really do Quartz movement watches, I used to be you until I got my first solar powered watch, they're eminently practical, especially for a dive watch, accuracy that automatics can't get close to, and if you keep it charged with regular exposure to light, you might get 20 years or more without having to open the case. A watch that you only unscrew the crown when the date requires adjusting (it'll probably be +/-5 seconds or less at that point) after the constant adjusting of your automatics you might just find that refreshing, yes I still prefer an automatic movement and still peer down my nose disapprovingly at battery quartz movements but I found a small corner where I have some appreciation for the solar powered movement.
I bought mine in 2019. It's been fantastic!! I've read that accuracy can vary with the quality of the quartz crystal and it's a bit of a lottery. I was surprised when you said it's +/- 15 sec per month. Mine has been running at around +15 sec per YEAR!! I like the look and comfort of it with a beefy shark mesh bracelet.
I have the exact same watch on the Video and it is a Beautiful piece.........lovely
My Citizens Pro Diver BN0191keeps exact time to the second since setting it to Greenwich Mean Time, also you were right about Rolex watches and flaws I've seen a Rolex video here on RUclips with two nines
I have this watch on the black strap and i love it I've been in the swimming pool the ocean quite a number of times it's bullet proof i believe i bought it on Ebay for just under two hundred dollars i plan to try to find the Citizens bracket the exact one you show this watch on your video coverage on this watch! Good job thanks.
Outstanding review, I have both watches and I could care less about the automatic vs quartz movement. What I love about my Citizens eco drives is that I don't have to worry to put them on a winder machine, it can go on ticking for months without worrying to wind them. I rotate my watches depending of my daily activities. Best regards from San Juan, Puerto Rico, stay safe.
Estoy totalmente de acuerdo! My Eco-Drive Promaster diver charges up fully in direct sunshine in 20 minutes, and has lasted three months total darkness in the sock drawer! Five years in and still working perfectly (which is more than I do!) Best wishes from England 😈🇬🇧
The initial brightness fades fairly quick, but it’s readable for 7-8 hours in a dark room.
I have awoken about an hour before daylight and its still very legible. I have no doubt it would last a 12 hour night. Lume is excellent.
Awesome a true diver's watch with the extensible bracelet for gloves., im searching for a one right now.
I agree with what you're saying on this price point that the quartz is perfectly fine and in most cases the better choice.
I received the promaster citizen automatic today the one with crown at 8 o’clock , love it more than the skx ,, have one of those plus various others , infact I think it’s gonna be my favourite diver I own , thanks Shane uk 🇬🇧
#metoo! I have onetoo, and it’s a lovely bonus that you can see the thing working through the rear glass. But for total accuracy, my usual daily timepiece is my Promaster Evo-Drive divers. Vive la differance!
I've spent 2 months figuring out a new beater to wear while surfing, climbing, and biking. It's been a toss-up between the Ray II, sk013, and this watch.
I finally picked up the citizen, and here is why....
-The eco drive movement is more accurate, I'll rarely have to adjust the time/date.
-The eco drive doesn't need to be on my wrist every day or two to keep ticking. My daily watch is a seamaster that only comes off in bed.
-This is a small personal thing, but I own an abundance of 20mm nato straps.
-(the biggest reason) The eco drive quartz movement is just flat out more durable and shock resistant than any low end automatic movement.
My citizen will get thrashed before I ever need to replace a battery or think about servicing it. I got it for $139 +tax on amazon, I'll just get a new one.
Let me add that seiko is more expensive, and their quality control has gotten pretty bad. If anyone has to get an automatic, either go for the automatic version of this watch or the Orient Ray II, it's a beautiful watch if not a little submariner-y
Spot on mate! Couldn’t agree with you more on all points 😈🇬🇧
Agreed. And Eco drive is reliable and a great choice for a beater. I've had an Eco drive with over ten years and it runs no problems.
The lume is excellent, it won Just One More Watch Lume Wars Episode 4 beating a Rolex DeepSea & a Seiko PADI, so there
Did citizen really won rolex and Padi in lumination ??
@@darkpixel_1 yea
@@darkpixel_1 check out the video lume wars 4
Looks beautiful on that bracelet.
Couldnt agree more, nailed it sir. My promaster GMT has this same clasp and it is fantastic!
Citizen is so underrated. Their QC is miles ahead of Seikos at this price point. I have the BN0151-09L and a SKX009 and I can categorically say the Promaster has better workmanship all round. It's just a better watch for the money
Thanks for watching and for sharing your experience with them.
I've got a Citizen Calibre 8700 perpetual calendar in my entry-level collection, and it has a ridiculously comfortable bracelet. Definitely something Citizen does right. Great review, Guy.
Thanks Jason
That’s a great watch. I had one 16 years ago and I think of it often.
Good review.... Entirely agree about the strap, I have the Excalibur model on that strap and love it. My SKX sits in a draw with stripped crown threads Seiko want silly money to fix it, it was never very accurate from day one perhaps one day I will have it repaired and regulated, but for now the Excalibur Citizen is my wear most days... The second hand hits the markers perfectly more than I can say for my Longings Conquest...
I have a Promaster and I am most impressed with it. Definitely worth the purchase price and then some. With regard to the bezel, I prefer 60 click. It is much more precise.
Thanks for watching
Would you care to elaborate on why you don’t like it?
brian buchert - I have to admit that I also like the precise 60 click, which typifies the overall excellent construction of this item. And bearing in mind there are 60 minutes to the hour, why not?
I don’t go scuba all that often, but it’s also handy for timing things above water 😊
You understated the Lume. Mine lasts all through the night and is very legible in pitch black.
The lume is very impressive.
Excellent watch! I bought it with the stainless steel bracelet for around 280 USD and am very impressed with both the watch itself and its bracelet. I also sold the diving tank watch box that came with it for 120 USD, so I basically got the watch for only 160 USD!
Where did you sell it at? I just got one and have no use for the tank
@@justin1218 I sold it on the Swedish version of eBay - Tradera. Can't believe some moron paid 120 USD for it. I would normally expect around 50-60 USD for it. Maybe even less. Good luck!
Lume lasts all night on my B0150. I think it has excellent lume for the price.
Agreed. My eyesight is pretty crap, but I can still read the lume on my citizen diver’s at 04:00 hours.
I have an quartz Omega Constellation that I have never had serviced once. It's 28 years old, I wear it 5 days a week and it runs 16 seconds fast per month.
Yes, Omega have produced excellent quartz movements, but gotta give credit to the Eco Drive not needing a battery replacement.
I looked in several places to find this watch with bracelet and they are very scarce. IMO after looking and looking I’ve found that the most cost effective way to get this watch is to buy it with the rubber strap then track down the correct bracelet. I purchased the watch brand new from a reputable watch seller on eBay for right around $135.00 shipped knowing I would buy the bracelet separate I was patient and found one brand new for around $105.00 plus shipping. So all together I’ve paid less than the going price for this watch brand new on bracelet and I have the option to go back and forth if I choose. It may take a little longer to find both for a good price but if you’re patient you can get this setup for a steal. I’m Very happy with the watch incredible quality for the price. My only complaint is the size it wears very small for a 44mm watch but all in all happy to have this in my collection! Like you said though I completely agree that the bracelet is the star
It’s the main reason I wanted this watch, to have a skeletonized clasp
And a tooless adjustment bracelet is something you just don’t see at this price I’ve bough 5,6,700$ seikos that have flimsy stamped clasp and spring bars for micro adjustments. Or you get an ugly ratchet extension this thing is just seamless all around the extension looks good and blends into the watch
This review has been really helpful! I’ve been thinking about getting a Promaster, going back and forth on models, but that clasp is the deal maker. Thank you from a new subscriber!
I agree 100% with your review. I had been wearing Seiko Black Monster on bracelet for years, until I just could not deal with the inaccuracy + 25 secs / day. By the end of every week or so, the watch had to be reset. Finally, tried to adjust the watch, but that did not go well. I sold it for parts $40. Started wearing Citizen EcoZilla Promaster 300m on rubber. First thoughts were that the watch was enormous, that I was selling out to the quartz solar mvt, and that the rubber strap was impossible to adjust. The watch is incredibly accurate, never needs to be reset, except spring & fall time changes. Took a while to break in the rubber strap which is not quite as easy on off as bracelet, but the rubber strap has advantages of flex and absorbing shock, particularly when working with hand tools, or lifting and moving materials.
I own this watch which I've had for over 5 years. It is a worthy stand in for my Omega Planet Ocean whose service cost would buy me two new Citizens. I am not a fan of the silicone strap and it has a Bond NATO on for the moment but I've been considering the bracelet for a long time. You're detailed review, and the focus on the bracelet has convinced me to order one. Great review and it's nice to see Citizen getting some support. I've just bought the PCAT which is a hell of a lot of Technology and features including, an anti reflective sapphire crystal, alarm, 200 metre WR and Atomic time sync for £300. All this AND a six year warranty. Show me an auto with those specs for that money.
I watched this video with much interest and curiosity. The reason being is that since my typical budget for a watch is around $200 to $300. I have a small collection, with a Citizen Eco Drive, Perpetual, Atomic, 200 meter WR, with amazing accuracy. A recent acquisition is an Orient Blue Ray 11, automatic with manual wind and hacking; which I really enjoy except for it running on average 45 seconds fast/per day. I am new to the Hobby and love the look of a smooth second hand sweeping around the dial. I struggle with finding the balance between price point, complications which I enjoy and compromising with timepieces which run inordinately slow or fast. Thus, it was extremely refreshing to listen to your perspective on these issues. I’m on the Fence as to what my next acquisition will be. At the moment, I vacillate between a Seiko Presage Cocktail Watch with the Power Reserve Complication, (which I believe can be hand wound and it hacks), or a minimalistic quartz movement such as a Sternglas Naos Quartz movement. I’d be curious as to your thoughts on these two watches. Thanks. Nice job on the video. Keep up the good work!
Great review thanks for the video. Ordered mine, should be here next week! Cheers from New Zealand
Best value and The blue dial bn0151-09l with the bracelet is simply beautiful.
I’d like to see the blue.
Good job, Sir! Today I ordered this watch, but the version with the rubber band. Like you, I owned such two Seiko watches and other automatics.
For anybody curious, the crystal on the Citizen Prime is 30.8mm if you want to pop in a sapphire.
Good info thanks
Great review man!! Got yourself a new subscriber!
Thanks!
I think a 60 click bezel is better than 120. I'm not timing anything in increments of half a second (or minute), and the bezel movement feels really good
Just got the blue version of this watch with rubber band this week..good deal on Amazon right now
Nice good pickup, but think about tracking down an OEM bracelet, it’s great.
@@JustBlueFish looking for it. Havent found OEM yet. Although there are a few stainless steel options on ebay and amazon for the 20mm width
Just got a metal bracelet on the watch today .not OEM but something I got from Amazon for 15$..it's good for now .
My Citizen NY0040 also has a ratcheting adjustment and it's great. I have it to where I can make it bigger or smaller. This bracelet is much nicer of course but it's still great to have.
I have the same model with a pepsi bezel. Absolutely love it. The lume is insane.
Citizen makes superb divers if you are a quartz person
Great watch, top quality, underrated.
Got mine on rubber strap for $88 Amazon on black Friday. Now on a NATO. Great watch.
just bought an 0151 (blue face) about a month ago. Mine's on a blue/orange NATO. It's affordable. It's accurate. It's a good value for the money.
I liked the 0151 so much, I bought a 0150 (black face) as well. They are my grab and go watches.
Excellente vidéo, longue mais très pointue et bravo pour ta clairvoyance !
True! I have a Citizen Eco - Drive that has been one of my edc watches since 2003 and it keeps running without any service at all. Even the capacitator is the original. On the other hand, I also have a Seiko 5 from the same year approximately, that to my knowledge hasn't been serviced and still runs perfectly. But in general, under $400-$500 I think that the best choice is a solar quartz watch from the 3 Japanese companies (specially Citizen and Casio).
Great review. Will never understand the 'charm' of having to set the time constantly on an automatic watch. My experience with Citizen eco drive has been great, have one that is going on 10 years and never been serviced, still runs like new.
I bought the Pepsi Bezel with Blue Strap version yesterday I’m loving it!
Another great review Guy. I'm not a huge quartz watch fan any more, but for the price, this might be a good beater. And it being solar powered is a plus. Thanks guy!
Thanks buddy
The solar facility is terrific. Initially charged up in ditect sunshine for 20 minutes, and it can last three months in the darkness of the sock draw! When it’s running out of puff, the second hand clicks over every two seconds, just to let you know that it needs its Sun lounger. It will, however, charge perfectly well in artificial lighting.
I sold mine because the bezel was a little loose and the short, almost square hour hand made it difficult to read the precise time at a glance. I now wear one of the older citizen tough models and absolutely love it.
I've had this Citizen 168 movement in another watch. It's running at +7 seconds a year. Yes, +1 second every 52 days!
I was going to buy the SKX007 then I saw the Citizen NY0040 (automatic diver) ... and there was really no comparison between the 2. The Citizen has a MUCH better bracelet, a toolless adjustable clasp, better movement, I like the bezel and the dial more, it's also way cheaper!!! (i found a new one for less than 180€) I think that ppl who fall for the SKX frenzy (consider I'm a Seiko lover) just never saw the citizen divers... and too few "influencers" talk about citizen. It doesn't drive audience :)
I also have the NY0040 Auto and it is just the best watch for all the reasons you mention. It is also kind of the fore bearer of this Eco-drive model in looks and features. Citizen makes great watches with outstanding value for the price. I would highly recommend this watch as a great 'daily diver'.
I have a blue NY0040. It's amazing. Just ordered this one to balance my collection (or an excuse to buy ANOTHER watch!)
The adjustable clasp true purpose is to go over a wet suit sleeve
@@dnationapocalypsewe know this.
@@ElJibaro718 ,... Everyone doesn't though
Citizen is such an undervalued brand by wrist watch nerds. Great looking watch by the way. Unfortunately, the seconds hand does not perfectly line up on the second markers. But then again, at this price point everything is awesome on this watch.
Own one. To me it's the perfect utility watch, reasonably sized, awesome quality and finish, super affordable, only surpassed by its auto ancestor NY0040.
Yes the bracelet is that watch's selling point ... Maybe I will buy one. 👌
Great review Guy 👍 I have the blue version on rubber. I couldn't find it on the bracelet in the UK. Its very comfortable I use it as my daily work watch.
Thanks Ben
These Citizen Promasters are excellent watches. I bought three (two blue, one black) on Amazon for prices between $106 and $142 and regard them as great values. I immediately replaced the OEM plastic bands with BluShark straps.
Great prices!
Absolutely good price! This month (December 2019) they are £164 GBP Amazon. Five years ago when I got mine, it was £144. Still excellent value, seeing that it’s going to outlive me!
Cool looking watch for sure!
Thanks for watching.
Even though this vids a few years old, there's some good information buddy! Citizen are my without doubt favorite brand, and I think they are highly underrated! which is good as we get them at decent prices. I just bought a citizen Promaster ca0711-80h proper ISO 6425 200M diver for just $320! Anway it arrived today so im stocked and watching all Citizen videos lol. Anyway just subbed mate...
I own the Citizen NY0040 Automatic and it is just the best watch for all the reasons you mention. It is also kind of the fore bearer of this Eco-drive model in looks and features. Also, you are correct in urging people to seek out the Stainless steel bracelet to enhance the wearing experience.
Citizen makes great watches with outstanding value for the price. I would highly recommend this watch as a great 'daily diver'.
Also, you are correct in urging people to seek out the Stainless steel bracelet
I just purchased a Citizen Pormaster, BJ7111-86L, Eco-Drive GMT, 200M, 120 click blue dial, titanium, + - 1/2 sd, to add to my collection, it is a great watch for the money. The Citizen Promaster keeps better time by far than the Seiko Sumo...If you are looking for a dive watch check out the Citizen BJ7111-86L...
I've got to say , the rubber band is probably the only plastic band I'll ever love (for a long while) and the 60 click bezel, although disappointing at first, feels really satisfying.
I have been fiddling with my Promaster bezel - probably several times a day as a kind of Tourette’s habit for the past five years and I think I’ve just about run it in! Most excellent engineering all the way round.
You get yourself a new subscriber. I think I made a mistake buying the Seiko turtle dive watch, but it doesn't really matter at this moment, since I bought the Omega Seamaster too. But I am contemplating to buy this watch as a tool watch for everything, I mean everything except for dining with my wife that I will be using the Omega or a dress watch.
Great and excellent review. Love the accuracy of the Quartz couple with the solar tech. 👍
Thanks I appreciate it!
Super nice review! Wow, cheers from Italy :)
Eco Drive is just so nice and convenient for an "entry level" watch.
I have 3 Promasters and they can compete with all the great brands in the same price point. Good informative video Guy, thanks for sharing 👍
Thanks for watching buddy
I have just the two Pro Masters: One is automatic, the other Eco-Drive. Oh, and a 20 bar Eco military. I have no idea how many watches I have owned in my 72 years, but these must be the best. Really, what on earth is the point of spending several thousands on a Rolex when you have something that does exactly the same thing but better for the price? Hmm... tricky 🤔
Excellent presentation with lots of important info. I am convinced and my next watch will be this one Model # BN0150-61E. Thanks.
Great watches! I've had a couple, but always flipped them to go after an auto of some sort. I will own another and try to keep it next time. You can find them from some of the grey market dealers for under $150 on the rubber strap. The E168 Eco-Drive is a rock-solid solar movement that should last for decades.
These days I'd take a Citizen, Tissot or a Hamilton over a Seiko. But to each their own. Thank you for the typically in depth review and showcase Guy. Keep the content coming 👍
I’m came to the same conclusion some time ago.
You used to be able say Seiko was cheaper than all those companies. Can you say that now? No.
Just ordered this watch, looking fwd to getting it.