The Citizen Nighthawk is an affordable pilot watch that has more complications than my previous relationships, well-suited to a professional aviator or a trusty companion in daily life.
While looking extremely tactical and cool, the Citizen Nighthawk is extremely practical. Featuring Citizen’s proprietary Eco-Drive movement, one of their most innovative horological achievements, the Nighthawk is solar-powered and will keep running for hours at a time after it is exposed to light for just a few minutes. Further, the unique slide-rule bezel allows you to perform quick math calculations on the fly, and the watch also has a 24h and GMT complication for additional practicality in day-to-day use.
Overall, the Citizen Promaster Nighthawk has an extremely distinct look, a great movement with a variety of features, and is extremely affordable, often coming in under $250.
Table of Contents
Specifications
- Dimensions
- Diameter: 41mm
- Thickness: 12.5mm
- Lug to lug: 46.5mm
- Lug width: 22mm
- Weight: 141g including stainless steel bracelet
- Water Resistance Rating: 200m
- Movement: Citizen Eco-Drive GMT Solar
- Crystal: Mineral
- Check Price on Amazon
Case & Finish
The case is rather geometric with sharp and distinct edges that are machine beveled rather accurately. They come to aesthetically pleasing sharp edges on all sides of the case but are smoothed off just enough to not be sharp or irritating to the touch. The watch has a thin polished bezel that does little but emphasizes the nearly all-dial design of the watch. After all, the extremely complicated dial and all of its tools are the stars of the show; not the case.
Little attention has been paid to the overall finish of the watch’s case, with a mediocre brushing across almost its entirety. Oddly, it appears there are just two tiny slivers of polish applied to each tip of the four lugs. You’ll often hear me say I am a fan of the contrast of brushed and polished finishes, and how they complement each other so well. But when 99% of the watch is brushed, I don’t believe this extra bit of polish really adds anything to the design, other than a bit of confusion. Regardless, as a tool watch that I expect to wear often and beat up, I am not extremely bothered by this design choice (or lack thereof). The brushed finish will help mask scratches and dings under most lighting conditions and can be re-brushed with just a brillo pad and a little bit of elbow grease. This finish extends throughout the entirety of the bracelet and has a nice continuity flowing into it from the case.
The watch has two crowns that sit at 3:00 and 8:00 to set the time, and adjust the inner-rotating slide-rule bezel, respectively. One thing I love about these crowns is how large they are, along with their knurled texture that allows for easy gripping and comfortable adjustments. I’d not be opposed to almost literally every tool watch incorporating such functional knurled crowns, as well-executed as they are. The time-setting crown at 3:00 is signed with a logo, a nice little attention to detail, but the slide-rule crown is simply brushed off.
Dial & Design
Considering the dial of the Nighthawk spans across 90% of the watch’s 41.5mm diameter, I’m glad it’s an interesting and pleasing design. The dial is undoubtedly a bit complicated and busy, and may not be everybody’s cup of tea. But if you’re into the militaristic + aviation aesthetic, or just grew up playing lots of Call of Duty or recently, Escape from Tarkov, you might immediately gravitate towards the bold, legible hour markers, chunky white-painted sword hands, or the airplane accented GMT and 24h hands, a mighty cool touch. Speaking of which, the 24h function on the left of the dial is off-center and does make the watch a bit asymmetrical, which might drive one mad, but its counterbalance of the citizen logo, Nighthawk branding, and date wheel on the right is done well.
The slide rule bezel is under the crystal, lifted off the dial, where the chapter ring usually lies, and rotates internally when turning the 8:00 crown. This slide-rule bezel allows you to perform math and distance calculations on the fly/
Overall, the watch is extremely busy, and I enjoy Citizen’s unapologetic design choices that fit well with the function and aesthetic of such an honest and capable aviation watch.
Dimensions, Comfort & Wearability
The watch wears near perfectly on my 7″ wrists, and its lug to lug measurement of 46.5mm just barely hugs either end of my wrist. If the lug to lug was just a little bit longer, this watch may have worn uncomfortably, so those of you with smaller wrists than mine might want to beware that the Nighthawk may or may not be too large for your taste. I can confidently recommend it to anybody with a wrist larger than mine, however. The watch, while solid-feeling, doesn’t feel overly heavy or chunky, and is a joy to wear for long periods of time throughout the day.
A 41.5mm diameter and 12.5mm thickness isn’t obscene, though the watch does wear a bit larger than its dimensions would suggest, thanks to its dial-heavy design, and 22mm lug width and bracelet.
Solid Stainless Steel Stock Bracelet
The Citizen Nighthawk’s included bracelet is one of its surprisingly standout features.
Although the watch’s 22mm lug width and bracelet might seem like it would wear a tad large, on paper, considering the watch’s rather compact diameter, I find the extreme bracelet taper (to 18mm) greatly helps the watch sit comfortably, and balanced near perfectly on the wrist. It’s truly one of the more comfortable all-stainless watches I own.
Take a closer look at the fit and finish of the bracelet itself: the bracelet feels solid throughout and even has solid end links and a well machined, Citizen stamped, push-button deployment clasp that clicks into place and deploys effortlessly. I’m very rarely happy with stock bracelets on watches this affordable, as this is where companies (looking at you, Seiko) will often cut corners to keep production costs, and prices, lower.
Complications & Features
There’s a reason this watch has such a following, and it’s not just because it looks like it came out of a Call of Duty game. Its solar Citizen Eco-Drive GMT movement is extremely robust and is known for the longevity of its power reserve which is able to keep the watch running for up to 6 months on a full charge.
Further, the slide rule is extremely functional. It allows you to calculate various math and distance equations; which might encourage anybody who uses a calculator often enough to pick one up. This slide-rule bezel is intended for aviators to measure distances on the fly, however, I’ve used it to calculate the tips on a bill on a night out. 
The watch also has a GMT function to track a 2nd-time zone, and a 24h display to distinguish between AM and PM. All of these features are bolstered by the watch’s extremely capable 200m water resistance rating that competes with many dive watches, which should comfort you when it’s time to take a dip in the pool, so long as you remember to screw down the crown. I’d also suggest avoiding operating the slide-rule bezel while the watch is submerged, or even wet, as the slide-rule crown doesn’t screw down, and operating it when wet may allow water to leak in. Regardless, it’s always a good idea to get your watches pressure tested by a reputable watchmaker before taking it in the water and do so at your own discretion (Chronometer Check is not responsible for water damage to your watch, and other legal jargon… Yadda yadda).
Citizen Nighthawk vs Seiko Flightmaster SNA411
There is one clear competitor to the Citizen Nighthawk; the Seiko Flightmaster. Both are true, professionally-capable aviation pieces with slide rule bezels and more complications than one will likely need (but want for the cool factor) on a daily basis.
Both are extremely reliable and come from reputable Japanese brands. Both come in around $200, feature slide-rule bezels, and extremely technical designs that may appeal to specific watch collectors.
Key Differences
Citizen Nighthawk
- Better, solid stainless steel bracelet that is brushed and tapers well.
- 24h GMT
- Slightly less busy; each individual complication is more readable and usable.
See price on Amazon.
Seiko Flightmaster SNA411
- Wears slightly smaller thanks to its bezel
- Bracelet is brushed and polished; not as solid, and doesn’t taper
- Aesthetically busier
- Has more functions, such as a tachymeter, that crowds the dial and makes each individual complication more difficult to use.
- Chronograph function
Conclusion
The Citizen Nighthawk Promaster is a unique-looking and well-designed aviation watch that packs a ton of features, all for under $300. Although the overall design might be a bit too busy for some, those who are into the aesthetic will immediately gravitate towards it and should pick one up.
If you spend some time learning how to use the slide-rule bezel, its functionality will serve you well in your daily life and may give you a break from using certain phone apps that you’ve previously found essential, like the calculator when calculating a tip at a restaurant.
Despite the Nighthawk being around for years, it’s a watch that continues to distinguish itself amongst the large variety of watches on the market, and even others in my ever-growing collection.
FAQs
Do citizen make good watches? ›
Yes, Citizen watches offer an excellent balance of value and quality. The watches have top-rate quality control, build quality, and use solid materials.
How do I set the time on my Nighthawk citizen eco drive? ›■ Setting the Time
(1) Pull the crown out to the time correction position (2nd click position) to stop the second hand at 0. (The second hand stops when the crown is pulled out.) (2) Turn the crown to set the 24 hour hand and minute hand to the current time.
To reset the chronograph after stopping time measurement, press and release the lower right button Ⓐ. Pressing and releasing the lower right button Ⓐ during chronograph operation will cause timing to stop and the chronograph to reset. The chronograph does not function if the crown is pulled out to position 2.
Is citizens better than Seiko? ›Both companies are prestigious, and they deliver high-quality watches. However, Citizen watches lean more toward quartz watches. It's hard to find a mechanical watch in Citizen's brand. Despite being the quartz revolution's driving force, Seiko still produces some mechanical watches.
Can Citizen watch last a lifetime? ›According to our data, both solar and rechargeable cells will last more than 10 years. It is speculated that initial capacities may wane up to 20 per cent over 20 years; however, we do not expect this to interfere with the use of the watch.
Why is my Citizen Eco Drive watch not keeping time? ›If the second hand starts to jump instead of ticking every second, it is normally a sign that your timepiece needs to be recharged. If you wear your new Citizen Eco-Drive timepiece on a regular basis, recharging will be virtually automatic as regular exposure to light will keep your power reserve unending.
How do I keep my citizen eco drive running? ›This watch has a rechargeable cell which is charged by exposing the dial to light. Expose the dial to direct sunlight regularly to charge the watch.
Why is my Citizen Eco Drive watch losing time? ›Eco-Drive timepieces feature a variety of functions and specifications. For optimal performance, we recom- mend the watch be exposed to light each and every day. In most instances, your watch has stopped or appears to operate erratically it is simply in need of full recharging. Charge rates and run times vary by model.
How long will citizen eco-drive last? ›According to reports from Citizen Watches, the solar cells and secondary battery used in Eco-Drive watches will last for up to 10 years. They further stated that the lubricants used in constructing these watches are built to assist with longevity, as the oil will not harden or evaporate, even over 20 years.
How do you charge a dead Eco-Drive watch? ›Charge the watch by exposing it to direct sunlight for five to six hours at least once a month. Avoid leaving the watch in a dark place for long periods of time.
How accurate are Citizen Eco-Drive watches? ›
This watch promises to do two things: To tell the time with a deviation of less than one second per year. And to express each and every second with true purity and beauty. We refined all the elements of the watch in this crystallisation of CITIZEN technology. with annual accuracy of ±1 second.
Is a Seiko as good as a Rolex? ›Grand Seiko and Rolex both offer different value propositions to their buyers. Rolex rules when it comes to brand awareness, while Grand Seiko takes the crown in craftsmanship, so the Grand Seiko vs Rolex debate becomes difficult to crown a winner. Having a Rolex watch goes beyond just wearing a luxurious watch.
Is Citizen made in China? ›Features similar to the Eco-Drive have been developed by other manufacturers like Casio and Junghans. All Citizen Eco-Drive movements are made in Japan but the case or the bracelet may also be made in China.
Which is better Seiko Citizen or Bulova? ›Seiko provides traditional, stylish, functional, and innovative timepieces that all come from its revolutionary mindset. Bulova has unique and loud designs, and the brand stands out for its style and accuracy. However, Seiko's sleek and classy design earns more respect than any other in the competitive market.
How much does it cost to replace a citizen eco drive battery? ›Starting at $74.95 and up! 100% Genuine Citizen Parts
Free estimate.
Servicing prices range from £70 to £130 depending on what is required.
Do Citizen watches need servicing? ›Citizen watches are sophisticated pieces of machinery. If you wear the watch regularly, you should give your watch a complete overhaul every three to five years. This is done by a professional who will check the watch thoroughly and make sure there are no problems.
Can you overcharge a Citizen Eco-Drive? ›Once fully charged, the two-hand model will continue to run for about 5 months, while the three-hand model will continue to run for about 2 months, without further charging. watch is always recharged before it stops. There is no risk of overcharging this watch.
Do Eco-Drive watches need maintenance? ›Despite not having a battery, we've learned that whether it is by running out of charge, the movement needing replacing, or the solar cell finally timing out, Eco-Drive watches will need occasional servicing to ensure that the “lifelong watch” really lives up to its reputation.
What is special about a Citizen Eco-Drive watch? ›Powered by Light
We named the technology Eco-Drive in acknowledgement of its eco-friendly origins. It converts any kind of light into energy to power a watch and stores the surplus on a power cell. On a full charge, an Eco-Drive watch runs for months even in darkness with no need for regular battery replacement.
How long does a fully charged Eco-Drive watch last? ›
When fully charged, your Eco-Drive will continue running - even in total darkness - for at least six (6) months. If you plan to store your Citizen Eco-Drive in the dark, you should do this for no more than six (6) months.
How long does it take to charge a dead Eco-Drive watch? ›General charging requirements for basic analog Eco-Drive timepieces: Outdoors on a sunny day (100,000 illuminance/lux): 2 minutes for 1 day use; 11 hours to full charge. Outdoors on a cloudy day (10,000 illuminance/lux): 12 minutes for 1 day use; 40 hours to full charge.
Will LED lights charge Citizen Eco-Drive? ›Charging your watch in artificial light
You may think that you should always charge an Eco-Drive in sunlight, but you don't have to. It is perfectly possible to charge a Citizen watch in everyday light sources such as LED lamps, fluorescent tubes, etc.
A beautiful Blue Face Citizen Eco-Drive Endeavor watch. Displays hour, minute and second with date calendar. Anti-Reflective Crystal face, glow in dark hours, metal band.
Do Citizen Eco watches have a lifetime warranty? ›Every Citizen Watch purchased in the United States from an Authorized Dealer, Citizen Company Store, or Citizenwatch.com is accompanied by a Five-Year Limited Warranty, giving you superior protection and peace of mind.
How much time does an automatic watch lose per day? ›A 99.9 percent accurate watch would be off by 1 minute and 27 seconds per day. A 99.99 percent accurate watch will be off by at least 1 second per day.
Does driving in Eco mode drain battery? ›Eco Mode will not drain the battery. The system is designed to regulate the power output of certain functions of your vehicle, which does not create huge demands on the vehicle's battery.
Can Eco-Drive watches be repaired? ›Our repairs can be as simple as a capacitor change, pin replacement, or band replacement, and can be as complicated as a dial refinish, a band/case polish, movement clean and overhaul and even a complete restoration.
Can solar watches last forever? ›In many cases, you can expect upwards of 7 years of usage with a solar watch; though online there are many reports of such pieces lasting well over 20 years without a battery change. Unfortunately, the batteries within solar watches will not last forever.
Do Citizen Eco watches need a battery? ›The best thing about Citizen Watches Eco-Drive is that it is powered by light energy, so you don't need to worry about battery replacement or winding it. It comes with some amazing features like solar power, world time, water resistance up to 100 meters, chronograph, date display, and many more.
How long does it take to charge a dead I watch? ›
About 2.5 hours to 100%
Charge times are from 0–80% and 0–100% using the included Apple Watch Magnetic Charging Cable.
A: Yes, you can shower while wearing the watch. The Citizen website shows it's water resistance is acceptable for swimming, showering & snorkeling. Helpful?
How long does a Citizen watch capacitor last? ›As most watch batteries come to an end, so do the capacitors of Citizen's Eco-Drive Watch. The capacitor of the watch can last up to an average of 10 years, according to First Class Watches. The Eco-Drive watches capacitor is able to store all the energy which is used to power the watch.
What is special about Citizen watches? ›Atomic timekeeping. Citizen launched the world's first multi-band atomic timekeeping watch in 1993 and has remained a pioneer of this field. Synchronized to atomic clocks, these watches are accurate to within one second in one hundred thousand years. The Skyhawk A-T line features radio-controlled timekeeping.
Is Citizen made by Bulova? ›Bulova is headquartered in New York, NY – however it is owned by Citizen Watch Co, and has its watches manufactured in Japan, Switzerland, and Hong Kong.
Which brand of watch is best? ›- Best Overall Watch Brand: Omega.
- Best Expensive Watch Brand: Breguet.
- Best Affordable Watch Brand: Oris.
- Best Luxury Watch Brand: Rolex.
- Best Watch Brand For Men: Vacheron Constantin.
- Best Watch Brand For Women: Cartier.
They make all the components in-house in Japan. Contrary to what some may be led to believe, all movements (including movements sold to third party labelled Miyota) are manufactured in Japan, and they do not have any manufacturing facility outside the home country.
What is the lifespan of a Citizen Eco-Drive watch? ›According to reports from Citizen Watches, the solar cells and secondary battery used in Eco-Drive watches will last for up to 10 years.
How long should a Citizen Eco-Drive watch last? ›This solar cell, as highly specialized and efficient as it is, won't last forever. The solar cells in Eco-Drive watch last 20+ years before needing replacement, and can be replaced at an expert Watch Technician to get your watch working smoothly again.
How much does it cost to replace a Citizen Eco-Drive battery? ›Starting at $74.95 and up! 100% Genuine Citizen Parts
Testing of your watch's charging circuitry. Free estimate.
Is Citizen watch Made in Japan? ›
One Citizen subsidiary based in Switzerland produces a specific movement but, otherwise, every component used in the manufacture of a Citizen watch is made in state-of-the-art factories located exclusively in Japan.
Are there fake Citizen watches? ›All genuine Citizen watches come with official documentation along with a full manufacturer warranty, if the seller does not offer a stamped warranty they are selling knockoffs.
What is the #1 watch in the world? ›1. Rolex. If there's one watch brand out there that everybody knows, it's Rolex.
What kind of watches are in style 2022? ›- Sustainable Watches. One of the surprising consumer watch trends in the past five years is a shift in expectations, Alexander Thiel, a partner at the research firm McKinsey & Co., shared in a recent podcast. ...
- Smart Watches. ...
- Whimsical Watches. ...
- Colorful Watches. ...
- Nostalgic Watches.
Patek Philippe consistently tops the list of best watch brands in the world and is a status symbol like no other. Founded in 1839, the Swiss company is the last family-owned independent watch manufacturer in Geneva.
Do Citizen watches rust? ›Maintenance of the watch
If you keep using the band without cleaning, even a stainless band or gold-coating band may get rust. If you keep using it further without cleaning, rust and dirt may come out with sweat when you get sweaty and they may stain the cuff of your cloth or cause irritation with the weak skin.
The paint on the dial and hands helps you with reading the time in a dark place. The luminous paint stores light (daylight or artificial light) and glows in a dark place. It is free from any radioactive substance or any other material harmful to a human body or environment.
Why do Citizen watches never need a battery? ›Powered by Light
We named the technology Eco-Drive in acknowledgement of its eco-friendly origins. It converts any kind of light into energy to power a watch and stores the surplus on a power cell. On a full charge, an Eco-Drive watch runs for months even in darkness with no need for regular battery replacement.