A new limited-edition timepiece from Citizen has transitioned from its initial unveiling to an active preorder phase. The highly restricted model, designated AQ4090-08A under the premium "The Citizen" collection, is now available for reservation directly through the company’s official US website. Collectors can secure one of the 200 individually numbered pieces for $2,995, with confirmed shipping timelines pointing toward delivery as early as July 22.
Pricing and Availability
The final preorder price settles just below the originally estimated $3,000 figure, an adjustment likely reflecting definitive US market positioning rather than a change in product specification. For those who act now, the expected arrival date marks a slight improvement over the previously communicated "sometime in August" window, ensuring that early adopters will receive their watches before the end of this month.
Artisanal Dial Craftsmanship
At the heart of the AQ4090-08A lies a hand-dyed washi paper dial, crafted through a traditional pole-wrap shibori method. White washi paper is carefully wrapped around a tube, cinched with string to produce delicate wrinkles, and then repeatedly submerged in natural indigo dye derived from fermented leaves. Because each step is performed entirely by hand, every dial achieves a distinct micro-texture and depth of color, making no two examples identical.
Movement and Material Engineering
Powering the watch is Citizen’s proprietary Caliber A060 Eco-Drive movement, which delivers an exceptional accuracy rating of ±5 seconds per year and can run for up to 1.5 years on a full charge when set to power-save mode. The case is constructed from the brand’s lightweight Super Titanium, further enhanced with a Duratect Platinum coating for superior scratch resistance. A dual-curved sapphire crystal with anti-reflective Clarity Coating protects the unique dial below. With dimensions of 40 mm in diameter and 12.2 mm in thickness, this edition forgoes the metal bracelet found on earlier blue and green washi paper variants in favor of a black crocodile leather strap.
The watch maintains a full suite of practical features expected of the line, including 10 ATM water resistance, luminous hands and markers for low-light legibility, a gold-colored eagle emblem on the dial, and an individually numbered caseback designating its place within the 200-piece run. With preorders officially open and delivery dates confirmed, this marks the final stage before the models begin reaching collectors’ wrists.
Source: www.citizenwatch.com