Citizen Eco-Drive Watch Instruction Manual

Thank you for purchasing this Citizen watch. Please read this instruction manual carefully to ensure correct use. After reading, store it in a safe place for future reference.

Visit the Citizen website (www.citizenwatch-global.com) for visual guides on operating your watch. Some models may have external features (e.g., calculation scale, tachymeter), and visual guides for these can also be found on the website.

To check the movement number

A case number, consisting of 4 alphanumeric characters and 6 or more alphanumeric characters, is engraved on the case back. The first 4 characters of the case number represent the movement number of the watch. For example, "AAAA" is the movement number.

Engraving position example:

The engraving position may differ depending on the watch model.

Safety precautions — IMPORTANT

This manual contains safety advisories. Use your watch in accordance with these advisories to ensure optimal enjoyment and prevent injury or damage to property. Understand the meaning of the following symbols and refer to pages 20 to 33.

SymbolMeaning
! DANGERHighly likely to cause death or serious injury
! WARNINGCan cause serious injury or death
! CAUTIONCan or will cause minor or moderate injury or damage
SymbolMeaning
Warning (caution) symbol followed by instructions that should be followed or precautions that should be observed.
Warning (caution) symbol followed by prohibited matters.

Before using this watch

After unpacking, ensure the following before using the watch:

  • Checking whether the second hand moves normally: When the second hand moves once every two seconds, charge your watch (See page 10).

This watch has a rechargeable cell charged by exposing the dial to light, such as direct sunlight or fluorescent lamps. Expose the dial to direct sunlight regularly to charge the watch. For charging details, see pages 10 to 13.

Diagram: A watch dial is exposed to sunlight from a sun icon. An arrow indicates light hitting the dial. A battery icon shows a happy face on the left (charged) and a sad face on the right (discharged), with arrows indicating the flow of light to charge the battery.

Band adjustment

Citizen recommends seeking assistance from an experienced watch technician for sizing your watch. Incorrect adjustment may cause the bracelet to detach unexpectedly, leading to loss of the watch or injury. Consult your nearest authorized service center.

Protective stickers

Remove any stickers covering metal parts (back cover, band, clasp) or the watch glass before use. Otherwise, perspiration or moisture may enter the gaps between the protective stickers and parts, potentially causing skin rash and/or corrosion of the metal parts.

How to use a specially designed crown/button

Some models are equipped with a specially designed crown and/or push button to prevent accidental operation.

Screw down crown and screw down push button

Unlock the crown/button prior to operating your watch.

ActionUnlockLock
Screw down crownRotate the crown counterclockwise until it releases from the case.Push the crown into the case. With gentle pressure towards the case, rotate the crown clockwise to secure it. Ensure it is tightened firmly.
Screw down push buttonRotate the locking screw counterclockwise and loosen until it stops.Rotate the locking screw clockwise and tighten firmly.

Table of contents

  • Component identification: page 8
  • Charging your watch: page 10
  • Adjusting the time: page 14
  • Adjusting the date: page 16
  • Troubleshooting: page 19
  • Eco-Drive watch handling precautions: page 20
  • Water resistance: page 24
  • Precautionary items and usage limitations: page 27
  • Specifications: page 34

Component identification

Model with date/24-hour indicator

Equipped with a date hand at the 12 o'clock position and a 24-hour hand at the 6 o'clock position.

Diagram: Watch face showing numbered indicators and hands. Movement number: 8723

Model with date/day indicator

Equipped with a date hand at the 3 o'clock position and a day hand at the 9 o'clock position.

Diagram: Watch face showing numbered indicators and hands. Movement number: 8725

Model with date/day/24-hour indicator

Equipped with a date hand at the 3 o'clock position, a 24-hour hand at the 6 o'clock position, and a day hand at the 9 o'clock position.

Diagram: Watch face showing numbered indicators and hands. Movement number: 8729

Component Key:

  1. Hour hand
  2. Minute hand
  3. Second hand
  4. Crown
  5. Day hand
  6. Date hand
  7. 24-hour hand

Note: The illustrations in this instruction manual may differ from the actual appearance of your watch.

Charging your watch

This watch has a rechargeable cell charged by exposing the dial to light, such as direct sunlight or fluorescent lamps. After taking off the watch, place it in a location where the dial is exposed to bright light, such as by a window.

For optimal performance, ensure:

  • Expose the watch to direct sunlight for five or six hours at least once a month.
  • Avoid leaving the watch in dark places for long periods.

Caution:

  • Do not charge the watch at high temperatures (about 60°C/140°F or higher), as this may cause the movement to malfunction.
  • If the watch is frequently obscured from light by long sleeves, supplemental charging may be needed to ensure continual operation.

When the watch reaches a low charge state (insufficient charge warning function)

When the power reserve becomes low, the second hand moves once every two seconds. This is the insufficient charge warning function. Fully charge your watch.

  • When the watch is sufficiently charged, the second hand will move normally.
  • If you do not charge the watch for four days or longer after the insufficient charge warning movement begins, the watch will deplete all power and stop.

Caution: Even when the second hand moves once every two seconds, the current time and date are indicated.

Charging time by environment

Below are approximate charging times when exposing the watch dial to light continuously. Use this table as a reference only.

EnvironmentIlluminance (lx)To work for one dayTo start working normally when the cell is dischargedTo become fully charged when the cell is discharged
Outdoors (sunny)100,00019 minutes7.5 hours90 hours
Outdoors (cloudy)10,00035 minutes15 hours180 hours
20 cm away from a fluorescent lamp (30 W)3,0001.5 hours30 hours320 hours
Interior lighting5005 hours160 hours

To charge your watch, it is recommended to expose the dial to direct sunlight. A fluorescent lamp or interior lighting does not provide sufficient illumination to efficiently charge the rechargeable cell.

Run time

From fully charged without extra charging: 6 months (at normal use)

About Quick Start function

The watch operates immediately when charging starts, even if all hands are stopped due to lack of power. Ensure your watch is fully charged when using this feature. Adjust the time and calendar after fully charging (See page 14).

Adjusting the time

  1. Pull the crown out to position 2 when the second hand points to 0 second. All hands will stop.
  2. Rotate the crown to the right (clockwise) to set the day (for models with a day indicator only).
    • The day hand moves when the hour hand indicates between 0 a.m. and 5 a.m.
    • As the day hand moves with the hour/minute hand, adjust the day first, then the time.
    • The day hand can only be moved by rotating the crown clockwise; it cannot be adjusted independently.
  3. Rotate the crown to adjust the time.
    • Pay attention to the date hand to ensure AM or PM is set correctly.
    • For more accurate adjustment, set the minute hand forward by five minutes and then return it to the correct time.
  4. Push the crown in to position 0 in accordance with a reliable time source to finish the procedure.
    • The date indicator begins to change at about 22:30 and finishes changing by about 0:00.
    • The day indicator begins to change at about 0:00 and finishes changing by about 5:00 (for models with a day indicator only).

Adjusting the date

Adjust the date indication on the first days of March, May, July, October, and December.

When the time on the watch is between 21:00 and 0:00, do not perform the adjustment, as it may cause the date indication to change improperly.

  1. Pull the crown out to position 1.
  2. Rotate the crown counterclockwise to adjust the date.
  3. Push the crown in to position 0 to finish the procedure.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your watch, consult the following table:

SymptomsRemediesPage
Movement of a hand seems strange
The second hand moves once every two seconds.Fully charge the watch.10 to 13
The second hand does not move.Push the crown in to position 0.
Fully charge the watch.
15
10 to 13
The date indicator or day indicator is incorrect
The date indicator is incorrect.Adjust the date.
Check that AM or PM time is set properly.
Check that the time is not during the date changing period (from 21:00 to 0:00).
16 to 18
15
16
The day indicator is incorrect.Adjust the day.14

Eco-Drive watch handling precautions

  • For optimal performance, your watch should remain fully charged.
  • Long sleeves may inhibit light transmission to your watch, potentially causing it to lose charge. Supplemental charging may be necessary in such cases.
  • When you take off the watch, place it in a bright location to ensure optimal performance.

Recharging Precautions

  • Do not charge the watch at high temperatures (about 60°C/140°F or higher), as this may cause the movement to malfunction.

Examples:

  • Charging the watch too close to a light source that generates significant heat, such as an incandescent lamp or halogen lamp.
  • When charging under an incandescent lamp, maintain a distance of 50 cm (20 inches) or more between the lamp and the watch to avoid excessive heat.
  • Charging the watch in locations where the temperature can become extremely high, such as on a vehicle's dashboard.

  • This watch uses a special rechargeable cell that does not require periodic replacement. However, power consumption may increase over the years due to wear of internal components and oil deterioration, causing stored power to deplete faster. For optimal performance, it is recommended to have your watch inspected every 2-3 years for proper operation and condition checks.

Handling of Rechargeable Cell

  • The rechargeable cell should never be removed from the watch. If removal is necessary, keep it out of reach of children to prevent accidental swallowing. If swallowed, consult a doctor immediately.
  • Do not dispose of the rechargeable cell with ordinary garbage. Follow your municipality's guidelines for battery collection to prevent fire or environmental contamination.

Use Only the Specified Battery

  • Never use a battery other than the rechargeable cell specified for this watch. Although the watch is designed not to operate with other battery types, installing a conventional battery and recharging it carries the risk of overcharging, which could cause the battery to rupture, damaging the watch and injuring the wearer. Always use the designated rechargeable cell when replacing it.

Water resistance

Water Resistance

  • Refer to the watch dial and/or case back for water resistance indications. The following chart provides examples of use to ensure proper watch usage. (1 bar is roughly equal to 1 atmosphere.)
  • WATER RESIST(ANT) ××bar may also be indicated as W.R. ×× bar.
NameIndication (Dial or Case back)Specification
Non-water resistantNon-water resistant
Everyday-use water resistant watchWATER RESISTWater resistant to 3 atmospheres
Upgraded everyday use water resistant watchW.R. 5 barWater resistant to 5 atmospheres
W.R. 10/20 barWater resistant to 10 or 20 atmospheres

Water-related use

ActivityMinor exposure to water (washing face, rain, etc.)Swimming and general washing workSkin diving, marine sportsScuba diving using an air tankOperate the crown or button when the watch is wet
Non-water resistantNONONONONO
Everyday-use water resistant watchOKNONONONO
Upgraded everyday use water resistant watchOKOKNONONO
OKOKOKNONO

Non-water resistant models are not designed for contact with moisture. Avoid exposing watches with this rating to any moisture.

Water resistance for daily use (to 3 atmospheres) means the watch is water resistant for occasional accidental splashing.

Upgraded water resistance for daily use (to 5 atmospheres) means the watch may be worn while swimming, but not while skin diving.

Upgraded water resistance for daily use (to 10/20 atmospheres) means the watch may be worn while skin diving, but not while scuba diving or saturated diving using helium gas.

Precautionary items and usage limitations

To Avoid Injury

  • Be particularly careful when holding a small child while wearing your watch to avoid injury.
  • Be particularly careful during strenuous exercise or work to avoid injury to yourself and others.
  • Do not wear your watch in a sauna or other locations where it may become excessively hot, as there is a risk of burns.
  • Be careful when putting on and taking off your watch, as there is a risk of damaging your fingernails, depending on how the band is fastened.
  • Take off your watch before going to bed.

Precautions

  • Always use the watch with the crown pushed in (normal position). If the crown is a screw-lock type, ensure it is securely locked.
  • Do not operate the crown or push buttons when the watch is wet, as water may enter and damage vital components.
  • If water enters the watch or it fogs up and does not clear even after a long time, consult your dealer or an authorized service center for inspection and/or repair.
  • Even with high water resistance, exercise caution:
    • If immersed in seawater, rinse thoroughly with fresh water and wipe with a dry cloth.
    • Do not pour tap water directly onto your watch.
    • Take off your watch before bathing.
    • If seawater enters the watch, place it in a box or plastic bag and take it for repair immediately. Otherwise, internal pressure may increase, causing parts (crystal, crown, push button, etc.) to detach.

When Wearing Your Watch

  • Leather and rubber (urethane) bands can deteriorate over time due to perspiration and dirt. Natural materials may wear, deform, and discolor. Periodic band replacement is recommended.
  • The durability of a leather band can be affected when wet (fading, peeling adhesive), due to material properties. Wet leather may also cause a rash.
  • Do not stain leather bands with volatile substances, bleach, alcohol (including cosmetics). Discoloration and premature aging may occur. Ultraviolet light, such as direct sunlight, can cause discoloration or deformation.
  • It is recommended to remove the watch if it gets wet, even if it is water resistant.
  • Do not wear the band too tightly. Leave enough space between the band and your skin for adequate ventilation.
  • Rubber (urethane) bands may stain from dyes or soil in clothing or accessories. As these stains may not be removable, be cautious when wearing your watch with items that transfer color easily (clothing, purses, etc.). Bands may also deteriorate from solvents or moisture. Replace the band if it loses elasticity or becomes cracked.
  • Request adjustment or repair of the band in the following cases:
    • Abnormality with the band due to corrosion.
    • The pin of the band is protruding.
    We recommend seeking assistance from an experienced watch technician for sizing. Incorrect adjustment may cause the bracelet to detach unexpectedly, leading to loss of the watch or injury. Consult an authorized service center.

The watch's operation or function may be impaired in extremely high or low temperatures. Do not use the watch in temperatures outside the specified operating range.

Analog quartz watches use a step motor powered by a magnet. Strong external magnetism can cause the motor to operate improperly, preventing accurate timekeeping. Avoid close proximity to magnetic health devices (necklaces, elastic bands, etc.), magnets in refrigerator door latches, handbag clasps, cell phone speakers, electromagnetic cooking devices, and similar items.

Avoid dropping the watch or subjecting it to strong impact, as this may cause malfunctions, performance deterioration, or damage to the case and bracelet.

The integrated circuits (IC) in quartz watches are sensitive to static electricity. The watch may operate erratically or not at all if exposed to intense static electricity.

Contact with solvents like paint thinner, benzene, or products containing them (gasoline, nail-polish remover, cresol, bathroom cleaners, adhesives, water repellents, etc.) may discolor, dissolve, or crack the watch materials. Handle these chemicals with care. Contact with mercury, such as in thermometers, can also discolor the band and case.

Ensure any protective stickers on the watch (case back, band, clasp, etc.) are removed. Otherwise, perspiration or moisture may enter the gaps, potentially causing skin rash and/or corrosion of metal parts.

Always Keep Your Watch Clean

  • Periodically rotate the crown while pressed in and press the buttons to prevent them from becoming stuck due to foreign matter accumulation.
  • The watch case and band are in direct contact with the skin. Corrosion of metal or accumulated foreign matter may result in black residue from the bracelet when exposed to moisture or perspiration. Keep your watch clean at all times.
  • Periodically clean the bracelet and case to remove accumulated dirt and foreign matter. In rare cases, this may cause skin irritation. If noticed, discontinue wearing the watch and consult a physician.
  • Periodically clean foreign matter and accumulated materials from metal bands, synthetic rubber straps (polyurethane), and metal cases using a soft brush and mild soap. Be careful not to let moisture contact the case if your watch is not water resistant.
  • Leather bands may discolor from perspiration or dirt. Always keep leather bands clean by wiping with a dry cloth.

Caring for Your Watch

  • Wipe any dirt or moisture, such as perspiration, from the case and crystal with a soft cloth.
  • For metallic, plastic, or synthetic rubber (polyurethane) bands, clean with soap and a soft toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly after cleaning to remove soap residue.
  • For leather bands, wipe off dirt with a dry cloth.
  • If not using the watch for an extended period, carefully wipe off perspiration, dirt, or moisture. Store in a proper location, avoiding areas with excessively high or low temperatures and high humidity.

The paint on the dial and hands helps in reading the time in dark places. The luminous paint stores light (daylight or artificial light) and glows in the dark. It is free from radioactive substances or any other material harmful to humans or the environment.

  • The light emission appears bright initially and then diminishes over time.
  • The duration of the glow varies depending on brightness, light source type and distance, exposure time, and the amount of paint.
  • The paint may not glow or may dissipate quickly if exposure to light was insufficient.

Specifications

ModelType
8723/8725/8729Analog solar-powered watch
Timekeeping accuracy (without reception)Within ±15 seconds per month when worn at normal operation temperatures (between +5°C/41°F and +35°C/95°F)
Operating temperature range-10°C/14°F to +60°C/140°F
Display functions
  • Time: Hours, minutes, seconds, 24-hour (24-hour indicator: 8723/8729 only)
  • Calendar: Date, day (Day indicator: 8725/8729 only)
Maximum run time from full charge
  • Fully charged to fully discharged: Approximately 6 months
  • Power reserve upon insufficient charge warning function: Approximately 4 days
BatteryRechargeable cell (lithium button cell), 1 pc.
Additional functions
  • Solar power function
  • Calendar function
  • Overcharging prevention function
  • Insufficient charge warning function (two-second interval movement)
  • Quick Start function

Specifications and contents of this booklet are subject to change without prior notice.

CE

Model No. BU2* • BU3* • BU4*
FD2* • FD3* • FD4*
Cal.8723 • 8725 • 8729
CTZ-B8179

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