Citizen NB1050: Stunning JDM at Budget-Friendly Prices

Citizen is one of the big names in the Japanese watchmaking industry. Since the creation of its pocket watch in 1924, Citizen has continued to uphold the legacy of Japanese domestic watches on the world stage with numerous stunning pieces. 

Among the sea of Citizen’s best, Citizen NB1050 captures the attention of watch enthusiasts. True to its vows, Citizen NB1050 offers JDM excellence at an affordable price. This series encapsulates the brand’s high-quality craftsmanship and Japan’s exclusivity.

To see how good Citizen NB1050 is, whether for wear or collection, read through this article as we uncover all the things to know about the popular JDM watch series.

Citizen NB1050 Series at a Glance

What comes to mind when Citizen NB1050 is brought into the conversation is its sleek design. Such a defining character can be seen in all four of the variations available in the series. NB1050 has four models: NB1050-59A, NB1050-59E, NB1050-59H, and NB1050-59L.

Citizen NB1050 gives off a sense of balance in the design, finishing, and overall specs. All in all, the Citizen NB1050 is a fitting choice for everyday wear. Regular watch wearers can wear the watch for sports activities to formal, dressy events. But what about watch collectors?

Collectors may relish in the fact that Citizen NB1050 has remarkable quality in its material choices. The NB1050 uses 316L stainless steel in every single one of its collections. To add to that, the surface is coated with the Duratect technology, which can strengthen steel and give it a scratch-resistant quality.

Citizen applies the Duratect technology to watches that use stainless steel and titanium. Specifically, the NB1050 series utilizes the Duratect Platinum that offers an exceptional abrasion resistance, helping the stainless steel keep its shine for a long time. With the Duratect Platinum, Citizen NB1050 watches get an almost transparent appearance, which results in stunning finishing details.

What Defines Citizen NB1050

Even though widely known as budget-friendly watches, the Citizen NB1050 series doesn’t lose in quality, durability, and versatility compared to JDM pieces from other brands, like Seiko. Design-wise, the NB1050 may not look overly formal. The 38 mm diameter and the bold curve of the case give a definite identity to every watch in the NB1050 series.

As a modern dress watch collection, the NB1050 fits formal to sporty looks because of the three-link oyster-style stainless steel bracelet. Beyond the dressy look, Citizen NB1050 watches are also equipped with 100 m water resistance, making them safe when worn during swimming activities.

Collectors can marvel at the excellent craftsmanship in the Citizen NB1050 bracelet. The details reveal the hairline brushed finish, executed to the highest degree of finesse. Such quality is also seen in the finishing and dial, down to the movement.

Compared to the Citizen NB1060, the NB1050 is thicker in bezel while smaller in diameter. Instead of curved, the 1060 features a squared-off shape at the end of the lugs. Despite these differences, both series have a 38 mm case size and a similar lug-to-lug measurement. 

One thing is clear about the Citizen NB1050: it’s only available in Japan. Even so, the exclusive watch series can still be found on online stores. However, a markup will be charged to the buyers. In other words, despite not living in Japan, anyone can purchase a Citizen NB1050 if they find the right store.

Read also: Are The Citizen Watches Considered Luxurious? Find Out Here! 

Citizen NB1050 Reviews by Gnomon Watches

Following the extensive Citizen watches that came before, Citizen NB1050 carries the legacy of one of the most renowned Japanese brands in the world with its exceptional quality. The rich traditional history of Japanese watchmaking is ever present in the creation of four Citizen NB1050 watches.

For regular watch wearers and avid collectors who wish to start a JDM watch collection, Citizen NB1050 serves as a solid choice. Without having to travel to Japan, all four Citizen NB1050 watches can be found on Gnomon Watches. Here are glimpses of them:

1. Citizen Automatic White Ref. NB1050-59A

All the NB1050 models feature 316L stainless steel cases with a case diameter of 38 mm. The NB1050-59A measures 10.5 mm in height and 47 mm in lug-to-lug distance. Given this size, the watch can comfortably sit on small- to medium-sized wrists.

For modern watch wearers, the Citizen Automatic White NB1050-59A offers a stunning accessory to complement a dressy look. Beneath the exterior, the white dial watch securely houses an in-house Citizen caliber 9011 automatic movement with 28,800 beats per hour (BPH) and features a 42-hour power reserve. The intricate machinery of the movement can be seen through the exhibition case back, tastefully decorated by the semi-skeletonized rotor and Côtes de Genève finishes.

Price: $680.00 USD

2. Citizen Automatic Black Ref. NB1050-59E

Black dial watch enthusiasts can consider adding the Citizen Automatic Black NB1050-59E to their collection. At less than $1,000, the minimalist design effortlessly exudes elegance with its deep black dial. Just like the other Citizen NB1050 models, the black stunner features luminous hands and hour indices, which give a strong blue glow in the dark.

The hands and hour indices are not the only shining features in the Citizen NB1050. Under the daylight or any artificial light source, the mirror-like polishing on the bezel and chamfered edge shows their brilliant gleam.

Powered by the Citizen caliber 9011 automatic movement, the black dial watch has a 42-hour power reserve. As seen in the white-dial counterpart, the movement of this black-dial watch can also be seen through the exhibition caseback.

For outdoor activity enthusiasts, this watch can be an easy companion as it snugs around the wrist smoothly. Besides comfort wear, it also offers a reliable 100 m water resistance, which guarantees safety against accidental splashes from water activities.

Price: $680.00 USD

Read also: Facts about Who Makes Citizen Watches and Its History 

3. Citizen Automatic Grey Ref. NB1050-59H

Sometimes, a different dial color can bring a significant change to the entire look. Instead of a sleek black or a striking blue dial watch, try a sunray grey dial watch. The Citizen Automatic Grey NB1050-59H can be an excellent choice in this. Though featuring similar specifications to all the other NB1050s that came before, the grey dial watch gives a distinct look with its signature muted color.

Grey is often associated with the color of steel. It rings true because the Citizen NB1050-59H receives the Duratect Platinum treatment, allowing its surface to achieve another level of strength. This strengthened surface adds protection to the exquisite finishes, which ensure the watch keeps its shine in every condition.

A stunning grey watch adorning the wrist may also give a definitive fashion statement. Unlike a deep black dial watch that emphasizes sleekness, a grey dial watch is more subdued in its appearance. However, it can stand out when paired with the right attire, like a beige suit or a navy shirt with white pants.

Price: $680.00 USD

4. Citizen Automatic Blue Ref. NB1050-59L

At 38 mm in diameter, the Citizen Automatic Blue NB1050-59L marvels with its brilliant blue dial. It immediately contrasts with the grey dial of the NB1050-59H. The radiant color of the dial shines through the scratch-resistant sapphire crystal.

Like the other Citizen NB1050 watches, the NB1050-59L also features the luminous hands and hour indices that glow a strong blue in the dark. When worn under the sunlight, the striking blue dial shines radiantly and complements the 316L stainless steel beautifully.

Whether in formal events or nature, the blue Citizen watch that bears the in-house caliber 9011 can be a reliable companion. It can stand against raindrops or splashes from the pool, as it’s equipped with 100 m water resistance. Active wearers can also rely on the 42-hour power reserve, guaranteeing the timepiece to keep operating when not worn around the wrist.

Price: $680.00 USD

Conclusion

Long-time watch enthusiasts may already be familiar with Citizen NB1050. It’s a budget-friendly watch collection that tackles the dressy sport design for modern people. The 316L stainless steel body offers solid durability without reducing comfort.

The balance of stylishness and quality is a testament to Citizen’s renowned craftsmanship. As a JDM collection, it also cements the value of exclusivity of Japanese watchmaking excellence. That being said, the Citizen NB1050 is a worthy addition to a collection of dressy or sport watches for those who seek a reliable timepiece for a long-term companion.

Read also: The Citizen Watch Review: Is Citizen Automatic Black Good Enough?