Frequently Asked Questions
Citizen Eco-Drive watches do not need regular battery changes like a standard quartz watch. They are powered by light, so everyday exposure to sunlight or indoor light keeps the watch charged. There is still a rechargeable power cell inside, but it is designed to store energy rather than be replaced all the time.
If you leave an Eco-Drive watch in the dark for a long time, it may eventually stop because it is not getting any light. In many cases, you can bring it back by placing it in strong light and letting it recharge. It is best to store it somewhere it can receive some light rather than keeping it shut away for months. Different Eco-Drive watches have different power reserves so make a note of that while selecting your watch. Some Eco-Drive models have a power reserve of upto 18 months after they are fully charged. Other Eco-Drive models have a hibernation mode where the watch shuts down in case of non-use and wakes up as soon as it is exposed to light. A quick method to reactivate the movement is to pop a small led-lenser or maglite like torch on the dial itself.
It depends on what you want. Eco-Drive is better if you want a watch that is accurate, practical and very low maintenance. An automatic watch is better if you enjoy the feel of a traditional mechanical movement. For most people who just want a reliable everyday watch that does not need winding or regular battery changes, Eco-Drive is the easier choice. While collectors tend to prefer a mechanical watch, the reality is that none of the other technologies come close to Quartz accuracy at the Eco-Drive price points.
Yes, a Citizen Eco-Drive watch is worth buying if you want a reliable watch that is easy to live with. You get the convenience of light-powered charging, no regular battery replacements, strong everyday accuracy and Citizen’s reputation for practical watchmaking. It is a smart choice for someone who wants a watch they can put on and trust without much fuss.
In a Citizen Eco-Drive watch, the “capacitor” is commonly used to describe the rechargeable storage cell inside the watch. Its job is to store the electrical energy created when light passes through the dial and is converted by the solar cell. That stored energy then powers the movement, even when the watch is not currently exposed to light. Citizen describes Eco-Drive as converting light into energy and storing surplus energy so the watch can keep running for months on a full charge. In very simple terms- the solar cell makes the power; the capacitor/rechargeable cell holds the power; the movement uses that power to keep time. It is not the same as a normal disposable watch battery. Eco-Drive watches use rechargeable cells that can be charged repeatedly and do not need regular replacement. Over a very long period, the cell or internal components can age, so servicing may eventually be needed, but routine battery changes are not part of normal Eco-Drive ownership.