The CITIZEN unveils one-of-a-kind Eco-Drive watches using Tosa washi and dyeing techniques

CITIZEN is celebrating 50 years of its Eco-Drive technology with three limited-edition The CITIZEN watches that combine light-powered movements with traditional Japanese paper craftsmanship.

The dials use Tosa washi, a handmade paper from Kochi known for its long, intertwined fibers and thin but durable structure. CITIZEN worked with Watanabe's workshop in Tokushima to apply different dyeing methods to the paper.

The green AQ4091-56W draws on the color of evergreen pine trees. Yellow and indigo dyes create its deep chitosen green, with 650 pieces available worldwide and three in Taiwan, priced at NT$118,000 each. The indigo AQ4094-58L undergoes repeated dyeing, drying and washing to produce a shade associated with Japanese samurai. It is limited to 400 worldwide and three in Taiwan, at NT$138,000 each.

The AQ4090-08A uses tube tie-dyeing. Artisans wrinkle the white washi around a tube, press it by hand to create the pattern, and then apply indigo dye. Each dial therefore has a unique texture. The model is limited to 200 worldwide and three in Taiwan, priced at NT$108,000 each.

All three watches use CITIZEN's lightweight, scratch-resistant Super Titanium for their cases and bracelets. Their A060 movements provide perpetual-calendar functions and annual accuracy of plus or minus five seconds. The case backs carry The CITIZEN eagle emblem.