A New, Bold Limited Edition Citizen Series 8 Mechanical GMT

Launched about 15 years ago but for a long time reserved exclusively for the Japanese market, the Citizen Series 8 made its entrance to the world back in 2021 with the 870, 830 and 831 models. A range of modern, daily oriented sports watches with a trendy angular style, the collection has grown with seriously cool models, such as the diver-like Mechanical 890 or the highly functional and stylish Mechanical GMT 880. While not on the same level as the “The Citizen” range, the range has strong arguments in its mid-range category. And with its latest limited edition model, released in the frame of the 100th-anniversary celebrations, Citizen also demonstrates that it can take risks when it comes to looks, materials and colours. 

This new limited edition is based on the classic Citizen Series 8 880 Mechanical GMT that we reviewed here. While rather impressive regarding the specs and the quality/price ratio, these standard models are already quite striking regarding their looks and visual presence. But the new version here pushed things even further, with a bold combination of materials and colours – which won’t fly under the radar.

This new NB6036-52N retains the same case, with its modern, rather original shape with multiple angles and alternating brushed and polished sections – including a trendy barrel-shaped case with an integrated design. New are the colours, as the case alternates between dark grey and blue coatings, while the 24-hour insert on the bi-directional bezel, printed under a crystal surface, is black and blue. Proportions haven’t changed: 41mm diameter, 13.4mm height and about 47mm length (yet with a fixed central link that makes it longer). Water resistance is rated at a comfortable 100m, and the dial is protected by a sapphire crystal.

Another major difference with the classic versions is that the dial is made in blue, gradient mother-of-pearl, almost like it was made out of water… It’s a bold and unconventional choice, specifically for a men’s sports watch. The dial is paired with dark-coated hardware, and both the applied markers and the hands are filled with lume. For the occasion, the additional 24-hour hand is coloured in blue, just like GMT mention on the dial.

Mechanically, this Series 8 880 Mechanical GMT Limited Edition relies on the same in-house calibre 9054, an automatic movement with true GMT function (rare in this price range), making it a great option for travellers. Beating at 4Hz, it stores up to 50 hours of power reserve with a reported minimum accuracy of -10/+20 seconds per day. As for the bracelet, the design and execution are the same, but then again, we have dark grey coating on the main links and dark blue coating on the mid-links for a striking look.

A limited edition of 2,200 pieces worldwide, the Citizen Series 8 880 Mechanical GMT reference NB6036-52N is now available and priced at EUR 1,295 or USD 1,995 – as always with Citizen, there’s a huge difference in price between Europe and America… For more details, please visit CitizenWatch-Global.com.