Citizen Cosmotron Electronic – Ref. 4-790162Y, February 1975

This Citizen Cosmotron Electronic dates from February 1975 and was manufactured in one of the last production phases of the legendary Cosmotron series. It therefore belongs to the final generation of electromechanical transitional models between mechanical and quartz technology – a fascinating chapter in Japanese watchmaking history.

Historical background

The Citizen Cosmotron series was introduced in 1966 and was Japan's first electronically controlled mechanical watch . It combined a classic balance wheel escapement with an electronic transistor control system – a technical masterpiece that paved the way for the later quartz revolution.

While Seiko was experimenting with the "Electronic" (Cal. 3302/3702) at the same time, Citizen succeeded in developing a robust, mass-market concept with the Cosmotron. Millions of units were produced from 1968 onwards, initially for the Japanese market, and later also for export. The subsequent "Cosmotron X8" line marked the culmination of this development.

The model shown here , Ref. 4-790162Y, belongs to the so-called “Super Electronic” versions with transistor control and automatic date switching – a link between the mechanical tradition and the emerging quartz era.

Design and features

The case features the solid, angular design typical of the 1970s, with integrated lugs and brushed surfaces. The watch is fitted with the original, finely crafted Citizen stainless steel bracelet with a signed folding clasp.

The dial captivates with its extraordinary vertical gradient of gold and silver – from deep gray at the sides to warm sunburst gold in the center. The bold, faceted hour markers reflect the light in an intense interplay typical of this era.

The watch features a five-faceted mineral crystal , which adds depth and brilliance. The crystal shows signs of wear and some impacts, but these do not detract from its authentic vintage character.

Technical data

• Caliber: Citizen 7803 (Electronic Balance System)
• Frequency: 21,600 A/h, electronically controlled
• Date/Day: bilingual (English/Japanese)
• Reference number: 4-790162Y
• Serial number: 502xxxxx → February 1975
• Housing: Stainless steel, brushed/polished
• Diameter: approx. 39.3 mm
• Lug-to-lug: approx. 42 mm
• Height: 14 mm
• Glass: five-faceted mineral glass (with scratches and impact marks)
• Strap: original Citizen stainless steel strap with signed clasp
• Condition: good overall condition with age-related wear and tear on the glass

Significance and collector value

The Citizen Cosmotron represents a brief but pivotal transitional phase in watchmaking – the first time electronics and mechanics were fused. Collectors today value these watches for their technical originality, distinctive design, and high manufacturing quality.

The gold-grey dial shown here is one of the most aesthetically pleasing variants of this series and is significantly rarer than the standard silver or dark blue versions.

Warranty (used)
This is a used item. The limitation period for claims based on defects (statutory warranty) is 12 months from delivery.

Notice
As this is a pre-owned watch, water resistance cannot be guaranteed. To protect the movement, the watch should not come into contact with water or moisture.