Citizen Homer – Caliber HO 150801 (November 1961)

This Citizen Homer first captivates with its exceptionally finely crafted dial, which clearly surpasses the standard of the early 1960s. The shimmering silver dial is multi-faceted and features quadrant-arranged, radial cuts. Depending on the light, different reflections are created, giving the watch remarkable depth and dynamism – a detail rarely found in Citizen models of this era.

The applied, faceted hour markers are precisely set and harmonize perfectly with the gold-plated Dauphine hands, whose sharp edges also catch the light. The central second hand is slender, emphasizing the elegant, instrumental character of the watch.

Particularly characteristic are the two inscriptions in the lower half-circle of the dial:

• "Parashock" refers to the shock-protected balance,
• "Phynox" to the anti-magnetic balance spring made of a nickel-based alloy.

Both were by no means standard in the early 1960s and clearly positioned this watch as a technically high-quality everyday watch. The signature "Citizen Homer – 17 Jewels" is finely and subtly executed, fitting harmoniously into the overall picture. Overall, it is a rare, very well-balanced dial that collectors particularly appreciate.

Case, Proportions and Wearing Comfort

The gold-plated case is exceptionally flat with a height of only 9 mm, making it very elegant under a cuff. With a diameter of 35 mm and a lug-to-lug of 43 mm, the watch has classic proportions that work excellently on both slender and average wrists.

The stainless steel back is correctly signed (20 Microns C.G.P., Stainless Steel Back) and bears the reference HO 150801. The total weight of only 34 g including the strap makes the watch exceptionally comfortable to wear – a typical feature of high-quality Japanese dress watches of this era.

It is fitted with a high-quality, handcrafted Italian leather strap with quick-release fasteners, which is not only practical but also further enhances the elegant appearance of the watch.

Movement and Dating

Inside works the Citizen hand-wound caliber HO 150801 with 17 jewels. The movement is robust, easy to service, and designed for long-term precision.

The serial number 111xxxxx can be plausibly dated to November 1961, which fits very well with the design and technical classification of the watch. This example therefore dates from a phase in which Citizen continuously improved its mechanical movements to remain competitive with both Seiko and Swiss imports.

Citizen and the Homer Series – Historical Context

Citizen Watch Co. is one of the most important players in Japanese watchmaking history. While Citizen is now known for mass production and modern technologies, the 1950s and early 1960s were a period of intense mechanical innovation.

The Homer series played a central role in this. It was designed as a reliable, precise, and at the same time elegant everyday watch and was used in both civilian and institutional contexts. Homer models were considered durable, easily adjustable, and technically advanced – qualities that Citizen actively promoted.

Early Homer references like this example from 1961 are significantly rarer today than later series. In particular, watches with elaborately designed dials, flat cases, and early HO calibers are highly regarded by collectors.

Collectibility

This Citizen Homer combines several collector-relevant criteria:

• early production phase (1961)
• rare, high-quality structured dial
• flat case with classic proportions
• technically sophisticated features (Parashock, Phynox)
• very good condition

Thus, it is not only a stylish vintage dress watch but also a historically significant document of Japanese watchmaking art from the early 1960s.

Technical Data (Overview)

• Movement: Citizen Caliber HO 150801, hand-wound
• Jewels: 17 Jewels
• Diameter: approx. 35 mm (without crown)
• Lug-to-Lug: approx. 43 mm
• Height: approx. 9 mm
• Lug width: 18 mm
• Weight: approx. 34 g (incl. strap)
• Dating: approx. November 1961
• Strap: handcrafted Italian leather strap with quick-release fasteners

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

Note
As this is a used watch, no water resistance can be guaranteed. To protect the movement, the watch should not come into contact with water or moisture.