The simplicity, good looks, high accuracy, and utility of eco-drive Citizen divers makes their watches the best at their price range. I also own Seiko, G shock watches and other brands and I find myself wearing my eco-drive Citizen Promaster dive a lot more than my other watches. I love wearing my Citizen the only watch I enjoy more wearing is a lot more expensive and that is a sports Grand seiko quartz.
I have now owned this watch for about a year. I bought it from a dive store for about 150 euro (!) It is fantastic value for money. Highly accurate, never needs a battery change, takes just about anything you throw at it and is beautiful to look at. Fit and finish is great. The rubber strap is not uncomfortable at all, just a little stiff in the beginning. The crystal is not sapphire so scratches do occur but I find they actually add character to the watch, showing that it is a capable tool and not a closet queen. ISO certified diver to 200 meters, which is a lot more than most of us will ever need. Oh, and the second hand hits the markers spot on, which cannot be said from a lot of quartz watches out there. Came packaged in a miniature oxygen tank too, which was a really nice touch at this price point. In all, this is a watch that puts a lot of its more expensive brethren to shame. Well done Citizen, I'm a fan.
Perfect watch. I have had mine since 2016 and it's never left my wrist. It still looks good as new. It has exceptional accuracy... it gains around 1 second per MONTH. Great lume too - glows like a torch.
I have had this watch for almost a year and it went beyond expectations. I used this watch to replace a Seiko SKX as a daily beater and it is far better because the accuracy of quartz cannot be beaten. I used to be an "automatic snob" but Citizen Eco-drive technology put that to rest because you do not have to worry about the battery dying out while traveling. I swim with it in both a pool and the ocean with no leakage though I cannot testify to diving. Even the strap is far better than Seiko, and I do not understand the complaints about it being stiff. I even sleep with the watch on and it is very comfortable both from the band and the lightweight of the watch. Keepers on the band are fine too, keeping the strap in place most of the time. Size and wrist presence are very good as I have slightly less than medium size wrists but the 44mm does not overwhelm the wrist. The next one is the gold version of this same model.
The same with me, before was always but it's not automatic, and now I have three g-schocks, some solar or battery-powered, now it's much better, they're always accurate and I don't have to worry about magnetization.
They must have changed the strap because the one I got in September doesn’t have the dive table on the strap. The one on mine is a bit stiff but it also feels like it would take an explosion to damage it.
The mineral crystal is pathetic tho. I have about 10 little hairline scratches on mine. That really bothers me. I put mine on a nato strap and that really feels nice and looks great.
I paid $123 in 2/2019. They're now $265-$300! Rocking it with a Zulu or NATO. Have the scuba tank with OG strap put up. Not a scratch on her. Precise timekeeping. Don't work with it on but I have banged it on doorknob or seatbelt buckles now and then. No scratches. Erry Sunday that's sunny I set it in the window for a solid charge in winter. Exceptional watch!
I love that watch. A Citizen Pro-master is the best watch you can get for the money. I have a eco-drive Pro-master diver that is now over 20 years old. One of the original divers with the depth gauge. It's still ticking strong. By far, it has more wrist time than all of my other watches combined. Still running strong and looks wonderfully worn.
@ktownkanak808 If I may answer ? My dad said to my watchmaker he'd had his eco drive ( he just said 'watch') for 26 years & no battery change(!) I was simultaneously proud & embarrassed but more annoyed- I'd spent 1000s on a couple of automatic watches in a short space of time.
I have the same watch, and I've had it about the same length of time you've had yours. I put mine on a NATO strap, and honestly, it's one of the greatest watches I've ever owned.
An excellent and honest review of a fantastic-looking watch (no affiliate links too, which is a bonus). I have the auto version but I'm seriously considering one of these now purely on your review. Many thanks!
Ive had this watch for 5 years and worn it everyday. Ive probably had it off for a combined 6 days worth of time. I work with my hands and this watch is a by far the best quality, masculine tool watch Ive seen. Ive acquired 1 scratch in year 3 working with sheet metal, but other then that, it still looks awesome. The rounded bezel wont snag clothes and the watch fits close to the wrist. It beats the heck out of the seiko skx007 as an everyday wearable watch. Bezel, seconds, minutes and hour hands all align perfect. I have a 6.75” wrist and it fits great. Get this watch, you will love it. Edit: Additionally, Ive had the stock band on the entire time. The writing has worn off and one loop broke, but it’s still very comfortable. Strap break-in period is about 2 weeks. Like the video said, the stock strap really is worth wearing.
Great watch review!! Yes, my Eco Drive just hit 20 years old this year and still no issues just a lot of wear marks from seeing many seasons. I’m picking up the pro master Diver 37 tomorrow. 🙌 keep up the channel & Cheers!
I have this same watch. I put a NATO strap on it. I love it - super bright lum that lasts. If I know I am entering into a prolonged dark situation, I give it a blast with my flashlight and I am set for hours. I alternate between a dive watch and a field watch. I gravitate towards these two types of watches because I love the history behind them and the functionality of them in low-light environments.
My first Citizen was the Night Hawk flieger watch. It was my one and only watch for over 10 years. As the bracelet got a little loose and the when got into automatic watches I gift it to a friend of mine (with a new leather band). Even though I still needed a Citizen, solar powered watch in my collection, so I got this perfect, robust diver about 4 years ago. When ever I travel anywhere, this one is on board. I am currently diving in the philippines and even though I like my GSHOCK’s, When it’s time to hit the water- this Diver on my wrist! I trust this watch 100%. The bezel is easy to turn even under water. For the money you won’t get a better real tool watch. Currently I have it on a softer Seiko rubber band.
I bought this watch in 2018, best watch I've had for a daily driver... got rid of the rubber strap and bought a steel bracelet for it. It wears better with the bracelet for sure. Im a diver (all over the world) and it has been flawless. I dive mostly in remote areas, sketchy at times... so if I ever get mugged, I'd easily hand over the watch since it is a fairly cheap watch. My only gripe with it is that it doesn't have a way to change the date quickly. Only way I know is to keep spinning it till the correct date shows. However, I don't look at the date so it's pointless for me anyways. BTW, in 2018 it cost me $145 dollars on Amazon and is now selling $230... lol.
Great review as always! I also own this watch and love it. I have three Citizens and each one is built so solidly. You get outstanding build quality, exceptional accuracy and a rechargeable quartz. What more could you want sub 250 bucks? I feel like Citizen as a brand is a bit underrated overall. Oh well. More for us! Keep up the great work. I purchased my PM2 because of your review.
2 года назад+1
i just found it on sale for $149. after watching this review - instant buy :)
I owe one of these watches and I highly recommend getting one Tuff time piece and very practical I've been in the water time after time know problem ! Thanks for your review
I bought one of these today. In Value for the money (within the group of solar quartz divers), I don't see any other brands can touch this. I looked at a lot of Seikos, and they're not as well finished but cost more. Also looked at a lot of non-solar quartz Paganis, and they feel cheaper than a Casio Duro. Nothing lines up. (the strong point of those Paganis is that they're available in the small case size (38mm) with a fully classic design - whereas I think the only matching design from a big brand is that Seiko with an MSRP of $500. I will try to remember to be careful not to scratch the crystal on my new Citizen, as I'd rather not deal with having someone open the case for hopefully a long time
The fact that there is no sapphire crystal on the watch is nothing to be sad about. Sapphire is much more likely to shatter in rough conditions even though it's more scratch resistant. That's not great if you want to dive with it. Therefore, I actually prefer mineral crystal over sapphire. You could put on a screen protector, it's hard to find one that fits the watch but maybe worth the time to search for it.
Also, mineral crystal leads to better visibility underwater making the dial more legible. Sapphire crystal is more reflective than mineral crystal due to its higher index of refraction.
I just got this watch recently. One of my favorite watches so far. I own several Seiko automatics, and long Island watches. This one is getting the most wrist time so far. 👍
I completely agree. Out of all of the watches I've owned, I always find myself putting my ultimate dad watch back on for my everyday wear. Something about the size is just completely comfortable
Great review sir. I am going to pick one of these up for my every day work watch, instead of my quartz battery Lumi Nox. I need a solar piece, where I don’t have to worry about it stopping on me. Thanks for the review- I’m definitely sold on this rugged time piece! Cheers, Matt👍👍✌️
There are two watches i would consider if i was gonna be marooned on an island. BN0150/51 or Seiko SNE498/499. Both are bullet proof. Good video. Thanks
You covered all the points beautifully I appreciate it. This is great for people interested and watching a review before the purchase I’ll have mine soon
I learned to dive in my twenties. My buddy and me even found one in the murky Dutch waters. It did die maybe 10 years later. I regret not repairing it but instead buying a dive computer.
I bought one of these when they first came along,as I was and am a fan of the automatic lefty citizen promaster. It's been great as you point out, and I love the stock straps and wouldn't even consider changing it out! I've had seiko skx and even their solar version but nobody does solar light Citizen?
I have this watch for around 10+ years now. Still working great. I wear it every single day. Even play sports with it. Original strap no signs of wear, crystal bit scratched. Movement is great . I haven't noticed the time keeping going off. If it is +-15 sec a month, that's like 5 min a year, who would notice that. Citizen claims the capacitor will run for about 10 years, but i think it will go more. Don't hesitate to buy this work horse if u are into buying something that will last.
@@logicgates7732 I haven't touched nothing on this watch. It has never been opened. Probably when the battery(capacitor) runs out i will take it to service, replace the battery and change the gaskets. Untill then I'm not touching anything. I take shower with it every day, no problem so far. The good thing also is that the casing i soo good that the salt water does not eat the metal. I had before Guess, fossil, kenneth cole. And they are also waterproof but the metal on the casing has been eaten by salt water.
I own a different model , but housing the same e168 movement and it is accurate to +/- 1 sec per month. It has not been subjected to harsh environments so i can't testify as to accuracy outside of ordinary casual use.
I have a 30yr old Promaster, wore it every day, working in a marine/construction environment. Dust, Vibration, Salt Water, Heat, Cold…and never lost time between battery changes. With the exception of the odd scratches, It’s absolutely Bomb Proof, beyond G-Shock even!
Beyond g shock is a bold claim, I dropped my 5610 off a 6th floor balcony in Greece and it didn't even leave a mark on it, still looks brand new. agreed that these promasters are absolute tanks for a dive watch though, good price too for what they are
@@mattsmith1705agreed,they're the only thing I can think of that's close to being as tough as a g-shock,on the wrist I'd say they're arguably as tough,they just cat take a drop from height like a G
Great update.. Answered all my questions and more, as currently wear my automatic divers in similar daily functions as yourself, and looking for a now reasonably priced replacement. As personally finding having to adjust the minutes every couple of days for accuracy, the watch always seems to catch putting on a rain jacket or backpack strap. With the rubber divers strap along with the crown being at the 4pm position is a must for me now knowing the reliability with the eco-drive and accurate time keeping..
Thinking of getting one to replace my seiko skx007. It’s automatic and loses 3-5minutes over 7 days. I’m not as active as I used to be so this might be a good option.
I live 500m far from the Adriatic Sea. I enjoy the sea all year long fishing from the boat, from the beach, spearfishing, freediving, swimming in the sea and at the swimming pool etc….plus mtb, hiking, skiing etc….plus office work and production work. I’m wearing the blue version with blue strap now for 6 years. Never ever had a problem. Never. Never opened it or get paranoic for the solar charge. It is still beating +3 sec every 4 months. I love automatics…..but….sorry there is no story.
Watch is doing awesome. That big scratch in. The video was still the only scratch I have on it. It’s 100% still my daily driver I’ll have to film an update video. Seems like a lot of people want to know. Thanks for watching and reaching out!!
E168 is the movement, the model is the BN0150. Swap that strap either for the OEM bracelet or a MAX FKM waffle rubber one from Amazon. Mine is 6 years old and going strong.
@crunchers9 since my original comment, mine is now on an Islander Wat he's, BRAC 36 Jubilee style strap. Excellent quality and REALLY elevates the watch.
Would this be a good durable watch for a marine? I’m looking for a Christmas present for a friend. He doesn’t like the look of g shocks. This seems like a good marine/ bug out watch.
Absolutely. It’s extremely durable! If he doesn’t like the look of g shocks this is the perfect watch. Definitely a bug out watch with that 20 year solar power. 10/10. It’s light and slim as well. Doesn’t get in the way very bad or hung up on a uniform or other gear anywhere near as bad as a g shock.
I have 3 of these watches .blue"black,and the gold. Not only are these watches a set and forget watch, they are tough as nails. I wear them at work and beat the hell out of them and never ever had any issues..it will make an awesome gift for anyone that appreciates a good well made tough watch. .citizen is so underrated
If he is sure he doesn't want a G-shock or some other digital display watch, yeah this would be good. If he would not use the bezel for timing - he also might like a field watch - especially with a fully traditional military spec dial. But if he'll be in the water a significant amount, or if he just likes divers, this is a great one.
great watch... promasters in general are well build.. i have also the automatic model since nearly 11 years. took some scratches here and there but still runs and runs and runs...
Great review. ! Thank you. My job is also hands on at times and I have my fare share of automatic divers, but I've been in the same mindset lately about having a solar grab and go watch.
My first dive watch was the Duro. Everyone who treasures a tough, no nonsense watch should own an MDV106 at some point. I recently bought a second Duro from Amazon to keep on the shelf. Last year they reissued the Duro without the Marlin logo, but there’s still some new-old stock left. This Citizen is the most expensive watch I’ve ever bought for myself. Didn’t want an automatic version (which costs more) but I knew I wanted the Promaster Eco-Drive. I don’t plan to get rough and tumble with it, but if the movement truly does last 20 years, it will be something to pass down to my kid. I’ve got mine on a Bond style NATO strap so it kind looks like a Submariner if you squint really hard.
At 6:58 you mention this watch being "a minute or two, off" over a couple of months. This seems highly unlikely, so i assume you meant seconds instead of minutes? Each of my five eco-drives i own, run between +4 to +7 seconds on a 30 day period.
Hey howdy! Yeah when I said a couple of months I meant 3 to 4 months, and yes maybe only a minute-ish. So you are very not bad but that was also far from a scientific measurement ha ha! Live the watch. Just a testament to its set it and forget it personality. Thanks for watching!
2 года назад+1
I have the NY0040-09E automatic version of this watch with the crown on the left side which I bought back in the 90's. I also have a couple of Promaster Aqualand Eco Drives (BJ2000-09E & BN2036-14E). I prefer my Eco Drives over my automatic. I'm currently trying to decide in getting the blue version BN0151-09L or the Pepsi version BN0168-06L of this watch. I'm slowly leaning towards the Pepsi version.
Great watch, I've been wanting one of these for a long time,, interesting to hear what you think about the plastic strap,, that was the only thing putting me off getting one,, Great review,, thanks.
Hey John i Love the strap now. After trying a few other options I came back to the stock strap and have been much happier with it than the others. Thanks for watching!
I was going to replace the band, and then I remembered I'm using this on the boat and in the water. Salt water easily rinses off and it's sturdy while swimming and snorkeling around. I wore it all day long in Key West for a week straight and it was extremely comfortable. And the dive table? Non-divers will think you're the real deal!!
Long Island watch makes stainless steel bracelets for this watch ( BNO150 ). He has two models. They really dress up the watch beautifully. I'll be ordering one soon $59.00.
thank you for your good Review. Its truly a Beast and a Beauty same time. Wear it often outside in nature and its just as good you tell. also the Band is real sturdy and nice to wear after a while, when its soften a bit up. (i get the new version with the yellow bottle, where the band dont get anymore the diver decompressions: what i like) Kudos
I bought one in blue and I love it, I don’t want to take it off. But on day two it started squeaking really bad from the rubber straps. I thinking of returning it. I’m pretty bummed out about.
Looks like a nice upgrade for my Casio duro, how would you compare the size? since the duro's dimensions are on the limit for my 7.2 inch wrist size, thx for the video 👍
Hi Peter, I have both as well. The Duro is slightly larger. The Citizen diver has smaller lugs and it wears smaller than the dimensions would have you to believe. This watch is outstanding and is easily within your wrist limits.
They raised the price a lot... and then put it on sale for the old, regular price of $280. But I don't think there's a better one out there. Mine's much older, probably 7 years or more, and the depth numbers on the band have almost completely faded off. But I use it surfing and snorkeling all the time. The crystal is all scratched up. Do they replace those?
i can see a mark in the glass at 9 o'clock :XD Jokes a side, i'm told mineral crystal is more suited for divers watches since sapphire would shatter more easily! PS: could the marks and scratches be removed at all?
I would love citizen to make a high end version of this with metal bracelet and the super accurate Eco drive movement they put in their The citizen models that are rated + or - 5 a year and sell it in the United States I think it would sell like hot cakes and get rid of the perception of Citizen being a mall watch in the states
Hi RangerJon, What is the difference between Promaster Diver 200 Meters Eco-Drive Black Dial Men's Watch BN0150-28E And Eco-Drive Promaster Black Dial Men's Watch BN0150-10E
Rock solid everything. Absolutely amazing for the price. Especially regarding how great the available bracelet for it is as well. The only things that put me slightly of is the mineral crystal and the second hand not hitting the markers. But I guess the mineral crystal is more shock resistant, and somewhat justified for a diver at this pricepoint maybe. As for the second hand not hitting its markers, that's to be expected as well. I might be getting this one
Just received this watch from amazon sold by citizen watches Canada. Love it but why wouldn’t my strap have the printed NDL on the band? Older stock model maybe?
I understand that this watch has a mineral crystal because, if used for its intended application, the mineral crystal holds up better to pressure than the sapphire crystal does.
These have thick crystals, and at that sort of thickness the sapphire strength is on par with mineral. At this price point they usually use mineral to keep costs down. The proof of that is all the higher end divers which use sapphire. Sapphire is somewhat more reflective and since visibility can be more of an issue underwater, they need to have an AR coating which in turn pushes the price up a bit more.
How is that seconds hand hitting the markers? I have an eco-drive flieger and it's all over the place, which makes me hesitant to get another eco-drive.
My first citizen ecodrive I bought during my doctoral studies in Hamburg. I did with watch everything. I scratched it during manual work in lab. I scrached its mineral glass. Finally I destroyed integrated rubber strap. I own travelling citizen watch gps sattelite wave, but it is quite expensive. Now I bought citizen diver in pepsi color. I hope it will last. I am only afraid of mineral glass. Sapphire would be better. But nowadays I am more careful with my watches. When I manually work in lab I put them on the table.
i simply cannot like the 0150, i dont understand why the screwback ends where the back edges of the watch end, it gives me the impression that the case is made from 3-4 pieces instead of one and that's a big deal for me since i cannot get that 'robust' feeling with it
Sorry but I think the Casio duro is quite a bit better looking. That's subjective I know but to me the Eco drive divers all look kind of odd while the duro just has the classy styling. I don't see the battery as a disadvantage either. It's an easy 5 minute 2 or 3 dollar DIY
I agree that the Duro looks better because it has more classic styling but the lume sucks and it's a bit too big, if it was 42mm max it would be better. Duro battery is easy and cheap to change but that's no help if it dies while you are out somewhere.
If you have to reset this watch every month and it’s one to two minutes out. Either yr off your head on something or you don’t really know what your talking about because most eco-drive are like only 1 to two minutes out per year NOT per month. So that’s not quite right champ. Not for this watch. I have a e eco-drive it’s got the older caliber which is a E-168 movement in it. And it’s like 13 to 30 seconds PER YEAR OUT.
You lost all credibility when you said the stock band was comfortable. It’s a piece of 💩. First thing I did was pull it off and toss it and put a good silicone strap and now a really good metal bracelet. Great watch, 💩strap!
The simplicity, good looks, high accuracy, and utility of eco-drive Citizen divers makes their watches the best at their price range. I also own Seiko, G shock watches and other brands and I find myself wearing my eco-drive Citizen Promaster dive a lot more than my other watches. I love wearing my Citizen the only watch I enjoy more wearing is a lot more expensive and that is a sports Grand seiko quartz.
I have now owned this watch for about a year. I bought it from a dive store for about 150 euro (!) It is fantastic value for money. Highly accurate, never needs a battery change, takes just about anything you throw at it and is beautiful to look at. Fit and finish is great. The rubber strap is not uncomfortable at all, just a little stiff in the beginning. The crystal is not sapphire so scratches do occur but I find they actually add character to the watch, showing that it is a capable tool and not a closet queen. ISO certified diver to 200 meters, which is a lot more than most of us will ever need. Oh, and the second hand hits the markers spot on, which cannot be said from a lot of quartz watches out there. Came packaged in a miniature oxygen tank too, which was a really nice touch at this price point. In all, this is a watch that puts a lot of its more expensive brethren to shame. Well done Citizen, I'm a fan.
Perfect watch. I have had mine since 2016 and it's never left my wrist. It still looks good as new. It has exceptional accuracy... it gains around 1 second per MONTH. Great lume too - glows like a torch.
I have had this watch for almost a year and it went beyond expectations. I used this watch to replace a Seiko SKX as a daily beater and it is far better because the accuracy of quartz cannot be beaten. I used to be an "automatic snob" but Citizen Eco-drive technology put that to rest because you do not have to worry about the battery dying out while traveling. I swim with it in both a pool and the ocean with no leakage though I cannot testify to diving. Even the strap is far better than Seiko, and I do not understand the complaints about it being stiff. I even sleep with the watch on and it is very comfortable both from the band and the lightweight of the watch. Keepers on the band are fine too, keeping the strap in place most of the time. Size and wrist presence are very good as I have slightly less than medium size wrists but the 44mm does not overwhelm the wrist. The next one is the gold version of this same model.
The same with me, before was always but it's not automatic, and now I have three g-schocks, some solar or battery-powered, now it's much better, they're always accurate and I don't have to worry about magnetization.
They must have changed the strap because the one I got in September doesn’t have the dive table on the strap. The one on mine is a bit stiff but it also feels like it would take an explosion to damage it.
The mineral crystal is pathetic tho. I have about 10 little hairline scratches on mine. That really bothers me. I put mine on a nato strap and that really feels nice and looks great.
@@AS-vq3wt Have not had issues yet with the crystal. Would be nice if Citizen offered an upgraded version with sapphire.
@@webskis you will have issues. Believe me.
I paid $123 in 2/2019. They're now $265-$300!
Rocking it with a Zulu or NATO. Have the scuba tank with OG strap put up. Not a scratch on her. Precise timekeeping. Don't work with it on but I have banged it on doorknob or seatbelt buckles now and then. No scratches. Erry Sunday that's sunny I set it in the window for a solid charge in winter. Exceptional watch!
I love that watch. A Citizen Pro-master is the best watch you can get for the money. I have a eco-drive Pro-master diver that is now over 20 years old. One of the original divers with the depth gauge. It's still ticking strong. By far, it has more wrist time than all of my other watches combined. Still running strong and looks wonderfully worn.
Did you have to change the battery once so far?
@ktownkanak808 If I may answer ? My dad said to my watchmaker he'd had his eco drive ( he just said 'watch') for 26 years & no battery change(!)
I was simultaneously proud & embarrassed but more annoyed- I'd spent 1000s on a couple of automatic watches in a short space of time.
I've never changed any eco-drive battery. Not once. ...yet. @@ktownkanak808
thats crazy. is it still going?
Excellent vid. Thanks for the honest, unbiased, non-sponsored review. It’s very hard to find quality watch reviews these days.
I have the same watch, and I've had it about the same length of time you've had yours. I put mine on a NATO strap, and honestly, it's one of the greatest watches I've ever owned.
An excellent and honest review of a fantastic-looking watch (no affiliate links too, which is a bonus). I have the auto version but I'm seriously considering one of these now purely on your review. Many thanks!
Ive had this watch for 5 years and worn it everyday. Ive probably had it off for a combined 6 days worth of time. I work with my hands and this watch is a by far the best quality, masculine tool watch Ive seen. Ive acquired 1 scratch in year 3 working with sheet metal, but other then that, it still looks awesome. The rounded bezel wont snag clothes and the watch fits close to the wrist. It beats the heck out of the seiko skx007 as an everyday wearable watch. Bezel, seconds, minutes and hour hands all align perfect. I have a 6.75” wrist and it fits great.
Get this watch, you will love it.
Edit: Additionally, Ive had the stock band on the entire time. The writing has worn off and one loop broke, but it’s still very comfortable. Strap break-in period is about 2 weeks. Like the video said, the stock strap really is worth wearing.
Great watch review!! Yes, my Eco Drive just hit 20 years old this year and still no issues just a lot of wear marks from seeing many seasons. I’m picking up the pro master Diver 37 tomorrow. 🙌 keep up the channel & Cheers!
I have this same watch. I put a NATO strap on it. I love it - super bright lum that lasts. If I know I am entering into a prolonged dark situation, I give it a blast with my flashlight and I am set for hours. I alternate between a dive watch and a field watch. I gravitate towards these two types of watches because I love the history behind them and the functionality of them in low-light environments.
I have the blue one for 6 years. Still love it.
My first Citizen was the Night Hawk flieger watch. It was my one and only watch for over 10 years. As the bracelet got a little loose and the when got into automatic watches I gift it to a friend of mine (with a new leather band). Even though I still needed a Citizen, solar powered watch in my collection, so I got this perfect, robust diver about 4 years ago. When ever I travel anywhere, this one is on board. I am currently diving in the philippines and even though I like my GSHOCK’s, When it’s time to hit the water- this Diver on my wrist! I trust this watch 100%. The bezel is easy to turn even under water. For the money you won’t get a better real tool watch. Currently I have it on a softer Seiko rubber band.
I liked my 0150 so much, I bought the blue face 0151 as well. I wear that on an oyster bracelet. The 0150 is on a Bond NATO.
They are essentially "analog" G shocks, and will not stop ever (unless you leave it in a drawer for a long time)!
This Citizen pro master is the best watch I’ve ever had.
I prefer the stock rubber strap. It isn't as stiff as other videos have reported. I agree it softens up after wearing a bit. I'm keeping it on.
Best diver for this price.
The Eco-Drive is great.
Thanks for this review.
I own two of them. One in the gold and black and one in the traditional silver with black dial. Built like a tank. I thoroughly enjoy them.
I bought this watch in 2018, best watch I've had for a daily driver... got rid of the rubber strap and bought a steel bracelet for it. It wears better with the bracelet for sure. Im a diver (all over the world) and it has been flawless. I dive mostly in remote areas, sketchy at times... so if I ever get mugged, I'd easily hand over the watch since it is a fairly cheap watch. My only gripe with it is that it doesn't have a way to change the date quickly. Only way I know is to keep spinning it till the correct date shows. However, I don't look at the date so it's pointless for me anyways. BTW, in 2018 it cost me $145 dollars on Amazon and is now selling $230... lol.
There is a quick set date but it is a bit fiddly. I have the blue one and its a great watch for the money.
Great review as always! I also own this watch and love it. I have three Citizens and each one is built so solidly. You get outstanding build quality, exceptional accuracy and a rechargeable quartz. What more could you want sub 250 bucks?
I feel like Citizen as a brand is a bit underrated overall. Oh well. More for us!
Keep up the great work. I purchased my PM2 because of your review.
i just found it on sale for $149. after watching this review - instant buy :)
@ that’s a fantastic deal indeed! Great job!
Shhh! We don't want citizen to do the same as seiko did once they started getting popular
Been waiting for your opinion on the Promaster Diver for a while. Glad to see you're back!
Thanks AJ! Hopefully it all came across ok I just knocked it out in one take lol. Thanks for watching!!
@@rangerjonoutdoors6429 Oh yeah! You've sold me on one
I owe one of these watches and I highly recommend getting one Tuff time piece and very practical I've been in the water time after time know problem ! Thanks for your review
your job sounds like a dream
I bought one of these today. In Value for the money (within the group of solar quartz divers), I don't see any other brands can touch this. I looked at a lot of Seikos, and they're not as well finished but cost more. Also looked at a lot of non-solar quartz Paganis, and they feel cheaper than a Casio Duro. Nothing lines up. (the strong point of those Paganis is that they're available in the small case size (38mm) with a fully classic design - whereas I think the only matching design from a big brand is that Seiko with an MSRP of $500. I will try to remember to be careful not to scratch the crystal on my new Citizen, as I'd rather not deal with having someone open the case for hopefully a long time
Do a yearly review on that exact watch
The fact that there is no sapphire crystal on the watch is nothing to be sad about. Sapphire is much more likely to shatter in rough conditions even though it's more scratch resistant. That's not great if you want to dive with it. Therefore, I actually prefer mineral crystal over sapphire. You could put on a screen protector, it's hard to find one that fits the watch but maybe worth the time to search for it.
Also, mineral crystal leads to better visibility underwater making the dial more legible. Sapphire crystal is more reflective than mineral crystal due to its higher index of refraction.
I just got this watch recently. One of my favorite watches so far. I own several Seiko automatics, and long Island watches. This one is getting the most wrist time so far. 👍
I've hardly taken mine off for 5 years. What a great value. I could kinda use a new bezel insert, however.
I have this one...there are no negatives...and the lume is super!
I completely agree. Out of all of the watches I've owned, I always find myself putting my ultimate dad watch back on for my everyday wear. Something about the size is just completely comfortable
Great review sir. I am going to pick one of these up for my every day work watch, instead of my quartz battery Lumi Nox. I need a solar piece, where I don’t have to worry about it stopping on me. Thanks for the review- I’m definitely sold on this rugged time piece! Cheers, Matt👍👍✌️
There are two watches i would consider if i was gonna be marooned on an island. BN0150/51 or Seiko SNE498/499. Both are bullet proof. Good video. Thanks
You covered all the points beautifully I appreciate it. This is great for people interested and watching a review before the purchase I’ll have mine soon
Great review. I've had the watch for 2 months now. Love it!
I learned to dive in my twenties. My buddy and me even found one in the murky Dutch waters. It did die maybe 10 years later. I regret not repairing it but instead buying a dive computer.
I have the blue one and I love it too! 🙌❤️👍
I bought one of these when they first came along,as I was and am a fan of the automatic lefty citizen promaster. It's been great as you point out, and I love the stock straps and wouldn't even consider changing it out! I've had seiko skx and even their solar version but nobody does solar light Citizen?
I have this watch for around 10+ years now. Still working great. I wear it every single day. Even play sports with it. Original strap no signs of wear, crystal bit scratched. Movement is great . I haven't noticed the time keeping going off. If it is +-15 sec a month, that's like 5 min a year, who would notice that. Citizen claims the capacitor will run for about 10 years, but i think it will go more. Don't hesitate to buy this work horse if u are into buying something that will last.
Ah yes. Salt water cant harm this baby. Not diving, mostly snorkeling i have been under maybe 4 meters in depth multiple times, no problem.
Did you ever service the gaskets? Mine is coming up on 5 years old. Worn everyday, absolutely love this thing.
@@logicgates7732 I haven't touched nothing on this watch. It has never been opened. Probably when the battery(capacitor) runs out i will take it to service, replace the battery and change the gaskets. Untill then I'm not touching anything. I take shower with it every day, no problem so far. The good thing also is that the casing i soo good that the salt water does not eat the metal. I had before Guess, fossil, kenneth cole. And they are also waterproof but the metal on the casing has been eaten by salt water.
I own a different model , but housing the same e168 movement and it is accurate to +/- 1 sec per month.
It has not been subjected to harsh environments so i can't testify as to accuracy outside of ordinary casual use.
They no longer use capacitors,they switched to rechargeable solar batteries to make them easier to maintain
I have a 30yr old Promaster, wore it every day, working in a marine/construction environment. Dust, Vibration, Salt Water, Heat, Cold…and never lost time between battery changes.
With the exception of the odd scratches, It’s absolutely Bomb Proof, beyond G-Shock even!
Beyond g shock is a bold claim, I dropped my 5610 off a 6th floor balcony in Greece and it didn't even leave a mark on it, still looks brand new. agreed that these promasters are absolute tanks for a dive watch though, good price too for what they are
@@mattsmith1705agreed,they're the only thing I can think of that's close to being as tough as a g-shock,on the wrist I'd say they're arguably as tough,they just cat take a drop from height like a G
Great update.. Answered all my questions and more, as currently wear my automatic divers in similar daily functions as yourself, and looking for a now reasonably priced replacement. As personally finding having to adjust the minutes every couple of days for accuracy, the watch always seems to catch putting on a rain jacket or backpack strap.
With the rubber divers strap along with the crown being at the 4pm position is a must for me now knowing the reliability with the eco-drive and accurate time keeping..
Thinking of getting one to replace my seiko skx007. It’s automatic and loses 3-5minutes over 7 days. I’m not as active as I used to be so this might be a good option.
Get it serviced or pop the back and adjust it
I live 500m far from the Adriatic Sea. I enjoy the sea all year long fishing from the boat, from the beach, spearfishing, freediving, swimming in the sea and at the swimming pool etc….plus mtb, hiking, skiing etc….plus office work and production work.
I’m wearing the blue version with blue strap now for 6 years.
Never ever had a problem. Never.
Never opened it or get paranoic for the solar charge.
It is still beating +3 sec every 4 months.
I love automatics…..but….sorry there is no story.
E168 is the movement, I believe the model is BN-0150-28E
I have the blue version (BN-151). Great watch for money; especially when they were $140ish!
Ranger Jon, would love to hear an update. How is this watch doing two years later? Still rocking it as your daily driver? Awesome video - loved it!
Watch is doing awesome. That big scratch in. The video was still the only scratch I have on it. It’s 100% still my daily driver I’ll have to film an update video. Seems like a lot of people want to know. Thanks for watching and reaching out!!
E168 is the movement, the model is the BN0150. Swap that strap either for the OEM bracelet or a MAX FKM waffle rubber one from Amazon. Mine is 6 years old and going strong.
Yes, I saw this watch with a silver metal bracelet and it looked awesome!
@crunchers9 since my original comment, mine is now on an Islander Wat he's, BRAC 36 Jubilee style strap. Excellent quality and REALLY elevates the watch.
Would this be a good durable watch for a marine? I’m looking for a Christmas present for a friend. He doesn’t like the look of g shocks. This seems like a good marine/ bug out watch.
Absolutely. It’s extremely durable! If he doesn’t like the look of g shocks this is the perfect watch. Definitely a bug out watch with that 20 year solar power. 10/10. It’s light and slim as well. Doesn’t get in the way very bad or hung up on a uniform or other gear anywhere near as bad as a g shock.
@@rangerjonoutdoors6429
thanks for the reply. I do shooting sports myself.... I may have to buy myself one 😁.
Thanks again ranger Jon.
I have 3 of these watches .blue"black,and the gold. Not only are these watches a set and forget watch, they are tough as nails. I wear them at work and beat the hell out of them and never ever had any issues..it will make an awesome gift for anyone that appreciates a good well made tough watch. .citizen is so underrated
If he is sure he doesn't want a G-shock or some other digital display watch, yeah this would be good. If he would not use the bezel for timing - he also might like a field watch - especially with a fully traditional military spec dial. But if he'll be in the water a significant amount, or if he just likes divers, this is a great one.
@@JumpingWatermelons The Citizen Promaster Tough is another good option.
great watch...
promasters in general are well build..
i have also the automatic model since nearly 11 years.
took some scratches here and there but still runs and runs and runs...
Amazon is messing around with one of my deliveries, seeing this makes me want to cancel delivery,......I'm looking into this. 😊
Thank you !
Great review. ! Thank you. My job is also hands on at times and I have my fare share of automatic divers, but I've been in the same mindset lately about having a solar grab and go watch.
My first dive watch was the Duro. Everyone who treasures a tough, no nonsense watch should own an MDV106 at some point. I recently bought a second Duro from Amazon to keep on the shelf. Last year they reissued the Duro without the Marlin logo, but there’s still some new-old stock left.
This Citizen is the most expensive watch I’ve ever bought for myself. Didn’t want an automatic version (which costs more) but I knew I wanted the Promaster Eco-Drive. I don’t plan to get rough and tumble with it, but if the movement truly does last 20 years, it will be something to pass down to my kid. I’ve got mine on a Bond style NATO strap so it kind looks like a Submariner if you squint really hard.
Did you say that that band came with the watch?
good watch. I´ve got the same in green.
At 6:58 you mention this watch being "a minute or two, off" over a couple of months.
This seems highly unlikely, so i assume you meant seconds instead of minutes?
Each of my five eco-drives i own, run between +4 to +7 seconds on a 30 day period.
Hey howdy! Yeah when I said a couple of months I meant 3 to 4 months, and yes maybe only a minute-ish. So you are very not bad but that was also far from a scientific measurement ha ha! Live the watch. Just a testament to its set it and forget it personality. Thanks for watching!
I have the NY0040-09E automatic version of this watch with the crown on the left side which I bought back in the 90's. I also have a couple of Promaster Aqualand Eco Drives (BJ2000-09E & BN2036-14E). I prefer my Eco Drives over my automatic. I'm currently trying to decide in getting the blue version BN0151-09L or the Pepsi version BN0168-06L of this watch. I'm slowly leaning towards the Pepsi version.
I would go for the Pepsi. It'll be interesting to have this watch in that color scheme for sure. 😁🤙
Great watch, I've been wanting one of these for a long time,, interesting to hear what you think about the plastic strap,, that was the only thing putting me off getting one,,
Great review,, thanks.
Hey John i Love the strap now. After trying a few other options I came back to the stock strap and have been much happier with it than the others. Thanks for watching!
@@rangerjonoutdoors6429
As an afterthought, would you know how easy it is to remove the printing on the strap, ???
I was going to replace the band, and then I remembered I'm using this on the boat and in the water. Salt water easily rinses off and it's sturdy while swimming and snorkeling around. I wore it all day long in Key West for a week straight and it was extremely comfortable. And the dive table? Non-divers will think you're the real deal!!
@@John..18 I've read that it's easily removed with alcohol on a Q-tip.
Long Island watch makes stainless steel bracelets for this watch ( BNO150 ). He has two models. They really dress up the watch beautifully. I'll be ordering one soon $59.00.
thank you for your good Review.
Its truly a Beast and a Beauty same time.
Wear it often outside in nature and its just as good you tell.
also the Band is real sturdy and nice to wear after a while, when its soften a bit up.
(i get the new version with the yellow bottle, where the band dont get anymore the diver decompressions: what i like)
Kudos
I bought one in blue and I love it, I don’t want to take it off. But on day two it started squeaking really bad from the rubber straps. I thinking of returning it. I’m pretty bummed out about.
Long island watch makes stainless steel bracelets for this watch.
Two models.
Dresses up the watch quite a bit. Check that out.
Looks like a nice upgrade for my Casio duro, how would you compare the size? since the duro's dimensions are on the limit for my 7.2 inch wrist size, thx for the video 👍
Hi Peter, I have both as well. The Duro is slightly larger. The Citizen diver has smaller lugs and it wears smaller than the dimensions would have you to believe. This watch is outstanding and is easily within your wrist limits.
I just got a Duro. Love it, but this watch looks nice, too. It would be great if it kept atomic time, but solar is awesome.
Aaaand I just bought the Eco-Drive. 🤦🏻♂️
@@FiremanFrach I have both too.
@@folksurvival Excellent. 👍🏻
They raised the price a lot... and then put it on sale for the old, regular price of $280. But I don't think there's a better one out there. Mine's much older, probably 7 years or more, and the depth numbers on the band have almost completely faded off. But I use it surfing and snorkeling all the time. The crystal is all scratched up. Do they replace those?
i can see a mark in the glass at 9 o'clock :XD Jokes a side, i'm told mineral crystal is more suited for divers watches since sapphire would shatter more easily! PS: could the marks and scratches be removed at all?
I would love citizen to make a high end version of this with metal bracelet and the super accurate Eco drive movement they put in their The citizen models that are rated + or - 5 a year and sell it in the United States I think it would sell like hot cakes and get rid of the perception of Citizen being a mall watch in the states
Great watch I have four of them.
Different colors?
Best entry level diver watch on the market if your okay with quartz.
Couldn’t agree more mine has been bombproof aside from a few scratches on the crystal. Thanks for watching!
Great vid! I have the blue version, love it!
Hi Jon where did you get this awesome watch?
I just ordered this watch. Hopefully it's not too big for my wrist.
I had the same concern a year ago. It wears smaller than 44 mm suggests…
Hi RangerJon,
What is the difference between Promaster Diver 200 Meters Eco-Drive Black Dial Men's Watch BN0150-28E
And
Eco-Drive Promaster Black Dial Men's Watch BN0150-10E
Rock solid everything. Absolutely amazing for the price. Especially regarding how great the available bracelet for it is as well. The only things that put me slightly of is the mineral crystal and the second hand not hitting the markers. But I guess the mineral crystal is more shock resistant, and somewhat justified for a diver at this pricepoint maybe. As for the second hand not hitting its markers, that's to be expected as well. I might be getting this one
"As for the second hand not hitting its markers, that's to be expected as well."
Not on a Citizen (or Casio) and mine hits perfect.
Just ordered this watch from Amazon. This video was the clincher. Amazon has this watch at 41% off right now for those interested..
I love this watch
crystal times sells a sapphire for that watch. I just ordered mine.
How does that work? Can you send the watch and pay them to install it? I don't have the tools to do it my self.
Crystal Times - Low Double Dome Sapphire Crystal for Citizen Promaster BN0151-09L- item # CT115
Just received this watch from amazon sold by citizen watches Canada. Love it but why wouldn’t my strap have the printed NDL on the band? Older stock model maybe?
Newer I think. Mine doesn't have it either, I've had mine about 15 months. I think they got rid of it on the newer models (which I'm glad about).
@@folksurvival awesome, thanks for the info! Love this watch 🍻
Maybe you could buff that scratch out with some polywatch. It is an acrylic crystal iirc.
Is there a way to easily remove the text from the band?
Is it frowned on to buy a diver's watch and never go swimming? I just like the way these look.
Not at all!
Trying to decide between this and a Seiko turtle, Seiko has history, this has practicality.
Citizen also has history,this is objectively a better watch
I understand that this watch has a mineral crystal because, if used for its intended application, the mineral crystal holds up better to pressure than the sapphire crystal does.
These have thick crystals, and at that sort of thickness the sapphire strength is on par with mineral. At this price point they usually use mineral to keep costs down. The proof of that is all the higher end divers which use sapphire. Sapphire is somewhat more reflective and since visibility can be more of an issue underwater, they need to have an AR coating which in turn pushes the price up a bit more.
PROMASTER MARINE
BN0159-15X vsMECHANICAL MEN
NJ0170-83X I really don’t know what I take
44mm? I think is 42mm! Correct me if I'm wrong!
On the wrist this thing is g-shock tough hands down
I really want the new gold one.
Just tried it on, stunning. Will be getting it. Wears smaller.
How is that seconds hand hitting the markers? I have an eco-drive flieger and it's all over the place, which makes me hesitant to get another eco-drive.
Get a bottle of Polywatch. That will get the scratches out
My first citizen ecodrive I bought during my doctoral studies in Hamburg. I did with watch everything. I scratched it during manual work in lab. I scrached its mineral glass. Finally I destroyed integrated rubber strap. I own travelling citizen watch gps sattelite wave, but it is quite expensive. Now I bought citizen diver in pepsi color. I hope it will last. I am only afraid of mineral glass. Sapphire would be better. But nowadays I am more careful with my watches. When I manually work in lab I put them on the table.
i simply cannot like the 0150, i dont understand why the screwback ends where the back edges of the watch end, it gives me the impression that the case is made from 3-4 pieces instead of one and that's a big deal for me since i cannot get that 'robust' feeling with it
It feels very robust. It's a tank. Very solid feeling.
Ihave one
Killer watch lasts forever the ultimate beater
Sorry but I think the Casio duro is quite a bit better looking. That's subjective I know but to me the Eco drive divers all look kind of odd while the duro just has the classy styling. I don't see the battery as a disadvantage either. It's an easy 5 minute 2 or 3 dollar DIY
I agree that the Duro looks better because it has more classic styling but the lume sucks and it's a bit too big, if it was 42mm max it would be better.
Duro battery is easy and cheap to change but that's no help if it dies while you are out somewhere.
Bomb proof, huh? I'm gonna try blowing mine up with dynamite. I'll get back to you with the results.
I did. It did not end well. I want my money back.
Put a god damn saphire on this. I am so tired of mineral crystal getting scratched😅
For the price citizen of all companies CAN afford to make it sapphire!! I couldn’t agree more. Thanks for watching!
Ok ok I bought one lol
I cannot take my eyes off that scratch. 😢
A sratched crystal would ruin the watch for me. I'd pay $50 more for this watch if it had a sapphire crystal.
If you have to reset this watch every month and it’s one to two minutes out. Either yr off your head on something or you don’t really know what your talking about because most eco-drive are like only 1 to two minutes out per year NOT per month. So that’s not quite right champ. Not for this watch. I have a e eco-drive it’s got the older caliber which is a E-168 movement in it. And it’s like 13 to 30 seconds PER YEAR OUT.
You lost all credibility when you said the stock band was comfortable. It’s a piece of 💩. First thing I did was pull it off and toss it and put a good silicone strap and now a really good metal bracelet. Great watch, 💩strap!
Mine's good.
what is the best band replacement for this watch ? I would like to switch it to something else , any recommendations??
Is your stock band new?
@@logicgates7732 yes it is
the rubber band is not comfortable at all, I changed it to a metallic band