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v7.2 (A.I. Watch & Collection Reviews)
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Model Name:
Reference:
The Citizen Eco-Drive Tosa Washi
AQ4091-56A
Country
Japan
Current Rating
1654
Rating Implied Value ($)
$
2635
Expected Rating Based on Price
1664
Rating Alpha
-10
Price ($)
$
2700
Date Added:
Sep 19, 2024
# Times Rated
3
Watch Description
A watch that aims to be an integral part of the user’s life should be an object that people are eager to use every day and never tire of looking at. That is the philosophy that inspires The CITIZEN’s attitude to aesthetics and usability. We use all the latest technologies as a matter of course, but staying flexible and open to new ideas (such as adopting traditional Japanese washi paper for dials), enables us to keep on pursuing and crafting the next ideal.
Eco-Drive is a CITIZEN proprietary technology that powers a watch using light the sole energy source. Because all Eco-Drive watches are equipped with a solar cell that sits beneath the dial, CITIZEN has conducted extensive R&D into different materials for dials. Our research finally led us to traditional Japanese washi paper. For hundreds of years, washi paper has been used as a light diffuser in paper sliding doors, floor lanterns and hanging lanterns.
We opted to use the washi paper noted for its long fibres and its combination of great thinness with great durability. At the same time as admitting the light needed to power Eco-Drive through the gaps between the fibres, the paper itself changes appearance depending on the angle at which it catches the light. To maximise the visual impact of the washi paper, we devised a double-layered structure with a transparent top plate, printing on that rather than directly on the paper itself. As well as making the product more robust, this two-layered structure enabled us to introduce a characterful sunray pattern for the whole dial, achieve excellent print quality and apply metal indexes.
We chose to use the washi paper, which weighs just 1.6 grammes per square metre and, at 0.02 millimetres, is so thin you can actually see through it. (This gossamer quality accounts for the paper’s nickname of “mayfly wings.”) The washi paper used for The CITIZEN watches is famous for its glorious whiteness and for its strength. Despite giving the impression of being handmade, it is in fact made by machines. It is widely used in the art world in the restoration of paintings, calligraphy scrolls and Buddhist statuary.
Scratch resistant. Lightweight. Gentle on the skin. Resistant to corrosion. Super Titanium™ is a CITIZEN proprietary material with all the qualities you could possibly want in a watch that sits directly up against your skin. Created by combining CITIZEN’s titanium-processing technologies with its surface-hardening technology Duratect, Super Titanium™ retains titanium’s original qualities of lightness and suitability for sensitive skin, but also looks beautiful and is more than five times as hard as stainless steel. Super Titanium™ feels and looks so good, you’ll never want to take your watch off! It’s another appealing feature to make The CITIZEN into an integral part of your life.
38
47
12.2
100
Titanium - Grade 5
Round
Sapphire
Push-Pull
Solar
Eco-Drive A060
0
Silver
A.I. WatchMetrics Review:
8.5
# Citizen Eco-Drive Tosa Washi AQ4091-56A Review by A.I. WatchMetrics Overall Watch Rating: 8.5/10.0 - Brand (8.5), History & Innovation (8.0), Rarity (7.5), Material (8.5), Movement (9.0), Versatility (8.0), Complications (7.0), Functions (9.0), Dials & Design (8.5), Cohesiveness (8.0) ## Summary The Citizen Eco-Drive Tosa Washi AQ4091-56A is a sophisticated timepiece that showcases a unique blend of traditional Japanese craftsmanship and modern technology. This watch is designed for individuals who appreciate elegance and functionality, making it suitable for both formal and casual occasions. Its standout feature is the use of washi paper in the dial, which adds a distinctive aesthetic appeal. The watch is powered by Citizen's Eco-Drive movement, which harnesses light energy, ensuring it remains functional without the need for battery replacements. ### Movement Type and Power Reserve - **Movement Type**: Quartz (Eco-Drive) - **Power Reserve**: Approximately 6 months when fully charged. ## Metric Breakdown with Weightings - **Brand (10% Weight): 8.5/10** - Explanation: Citizen is a well-respected brand known for its innovative technology and quality craftsmanship, particularly in the realm of quartz watches. - **History & Innovation (10% Weight): 8.0/10** - Explanation: Citizen has a rich history of watchmaking and is recognized for pioneering the Eco-Drive technology, which revolutionized the quartz watch market. - **Rarity (10% Weight): 7.5/10** - Explanation: While the AQ4091-56A is not a limited edition, its unique design and materials make it less common than standard quartz watches. - **Material (10% Weight): 8.5/10** - Explanation: The watch features high-quality materials, including stainless steel and washi paper, which enhance its overall aesthetic and durability. - **Movement (10% Weight): 9.0/10** - Explanation: The Eco-Drive movement is a reliable and innovative quartz mechanism that offers excellent accuracy and convenience, eliminating the need for battery changes. - **Versatility (10% Weight): 8.0/10** - Explanation: The elegant design allows it to transition seamlessly from formal to casual settings, making it a versatile addition to any collection. - **Complications (10% Weight): 7.0/10** - Explanation: The watch features basic complications such as date display, but lacks more advanced features like chronographs or moon phases. - **Functions (10% Weight): 9.0/10** - Explanation: The Eco-Drive technology ensures the watch is always charged and ready to wear, with a long power reserve and reliable accuracy. - **Dials & Design (10% Weight): 8.5/10** - Explanation: The washi paper dial is a unique and attractive feature, showcasing traditional Japanese craftsmanship that sets it apart from other watches. - **Cohesiveness (10% Weight): 8.0/10** - Explanation: The design elements of the watch work well together, creating a cohesive look that reflects both modern and traditional influences. ## Conclusion The Citizen Eco-Drive Tosa Washi AQ4091-56A is a remarkable watch that combines innovative technology with traditional craftsmanship. Its unique design and reliable movement make it an excellent choice for those who appreciate both style and functionality. This watch is ideal for anyone looking to add a touch of elegance to their collection while enjoying the benefits of modern watchmaking technology. --- *A.I. WatchMetrics Review v. 6.20*