The Citizen Series8: A Versatile Canvas that has Something for Everyone

In general, you can think of a single collection or line from a watch brand as a family based on a similar canvas. This anchors a collection’s overall look-and-feel and visual message, giving the models included in it some shared DNA.

However, with the right “canvas,” some watchmakers push those genetic limits to produce an astounding variety of options. A prime example of this is Citizen’s Series8 line, which started life as a Japan-only offering in 2008; however, since 2021, it has been globally available, proving its universal appeal.

More to the point, four recent Citizen Series8 timepieces are an apt object lesson in the range of a flexible canvas. Yes, all four are from a single collection, but aside from the “Series8” badging on the dials, they are all surprisingly divergent, offering multiple points of appeal for multiple stripes of watch fans.

There are many reasons why this $1,395 Series8 890 special. First, it is limited to 1,700 numbered pieces. Second, a sharply angular octagonal bezel instantly sets it apart from its siblings and harkens to more heritage Series8 designs.
 

It is also rated to a dive-friendly 20 bars of water resistance. In fact, the crown at 2 o’clock functions as the control knob for the bi-directional bezel located inside the dial. Plus, its indices are lumed and are a combination of bars and circles like, you guessed it, a dive watch.
 

But let’s talk about that dial a bit, shall we? The bronzy-salmon textured dial is inspired by the Japanese sakura (cherry) blossom, symbolizing new life and vitality. However, interestingly, the dimensional execution on the Series8 890 almost appears like pressed metal, providing abundant light-catching shimmer across the dial real estate.
 

A visible Calibre 9051 movement is used, and silver-toned stainless steel makes up the 42.6mm case and H-Link bracelet.

Despite also being a limited edition model with even fewer pieces available (only 1,000), the Series8 880 GMT departs from the Series8 collection’s formula the most of this quartet.
 

Obviously, the first difference is its movement, as the addition of a travel-ready second time-zone GMT function with an independent hour hand requires a different calibre. In this case, the high-precision dual-time Calibre 9054 automatic (which, like the rest of this quartet, is visible through a transparent caseback) replaces the Calibre 9051.
 

Moreover, while most of the Series8 models have a more purely metallic theme of silver-tone steel, the 880 GMT, although still crafted from steel, is presented in a black-and-blue colorway worthy of attention. The 41mm case, bi-color bezel, and bi-color bracelet weave a bold, two-tone design that is dramatic on the wrist.
 

The design then peaks at the exceptionally beautiful blue mother-of-pearl dial. Think of it as an elegant cloud-filled sky (perhaps an ode to the aviation origins of the GMT function?).

Priced at $1,995, the Citizen Series8 880 GMT really pushes the possibilities of the Series8 canvas in terms of both looks and functionality.

It should be no surprise to hear that bi-colored gold-and-steel-hued watches are making a comeback. However, with the Series8 870’s flow of gold tone from the hands and indices, to the date window frame, to the case bezel, and across to the outer case edges and crown, that bi-color appeal has never been “wider.”
 

The 870’s case is 40.8mm, making it 0.8mm wider than the Series8 831, and Citizen has really put that extra 0.8mm to use: The design of the gold-toned details almost gives the wristwatch a bigger impact. Plus, on a sober grid-patterned grey dial, the sophistication veers into a decidedly elegant arena.
 

Powered by the Calibre 0950 automatic movement (visible through the caseback) and offering the most accuracy of the four models, the $1,595 Citizen Series8 870 is presented on a gleaming H-Link steel bracelet and makes a golden statement, atypical from most bi-color timepieces.

Powered by a 42-hour-power-reserve Calibre 9051 automatic movement (visible through a transparent case back), the Series8 831 bridges the divide between sporty style and elevated sophistication.
 

The 40mm silver-toned stainless steel case carries some top-notch polished and brushed finishing (especially for the price). Ditto for the integrated H-link stainless bracelet that continues the gleaming story across your wrist.
 

But the 831’s real eye-catcher is the textured emerald-green dial. Its almost architectural grid design plays with the available light, adding depth and visual interest. A protected crown, 3 o’clock date window, and its $1,095 price tag round out the Series 8 831’s appeal.