Citizen Maki-e Kimono Watch – mechanical – Japanese lacquer decoration – Kumihimo silk strap

Japanese Watchmaking Meets Traditional Craftsmanship.

This small Citizen is not simply a pocket watch, but rather designed as a pendant or kimono watch.

On the front, it features an understated champagne-colored dial with fine stick indices. However, turning the watch over reveals the true design highlight: a black lacquered cover with gold and silver floral Maki-e decor.

The green braided silk strap further emphasizes this distinctly Japanese character.

Maki-e – Lacquer Art as Watch Decor

Maki-e is one of the most traditional Japanese lacquer techniques.

The basic principle involves applying fine gold, silver, or other metal dust onto still-wet Urushi lacquer, creating decorative motifs with characteristic depth and metallic luster.

Citizen has indeed cultivated this connection between watches and lacquer art for decades. According to their own statements, Citizen has been collaborating with the lacquer house Urushi Sakamoto since 1991; this collaboration has also produced luxurious pocket watches with Maki-e-decorated case backs, specifically for wearing with kimonos.

Even today, small Citizen pocket watches with artisanal Maki-e decor and silk cords are offered in Japan – explicitly as a combination of watch, jewelry object, and traditional Japanese clothing.

A Watch for the Kimono

The small size of only 29 mm and the long green Kumihimo-style silk strap are no coincidence.

Such watches can be worn as a pendant or used in conjunction with traditional Japanese clothing. The textile strap itself becomes part of the design.

Thus, the watch is to be understood less as a conventional pocket watch and more as a Japanese accessory that bridges the gap between a timepiece and a piece of jewelry.

Design

The dial is extremely minimalist.

On a champagne-colored background are slim applied stick indices and fine gold-colored hands. The CITIZEN signature is discreetly placed on the left half of the dial.

The reverse side forms a complete contrast: black lacquer and large floral ornaments in gold and silver tones.

This combination is particularly appealing because the decorative side is initially hidden when worn and only becomes visible when the watch is turned over.

Condition

The watch is in used vintage condition.

The dial, case, and lacquer cover show age-appropriate signs of wear. The original or period-appropriate green silk strap also shows visible aging and fraying.

A recent service is not documented.

The condition is shown unretouched in the product photos.

Technical Data

Brand: Citizen
Model: Pendant / Pocket Watch with Maki-e Decor
Movement: mechanical, exact caliber assignment not documented
Functions: hour, minute, central second
Case diameter: 29 mm without crown/bow
Height: 9.9 mm
Weight incl. strap: 23 g
Dial: Champagne
Reverse: black lacquer decor with floral Maki-e motifs
Strap: green braided silk strap / Kumihimo style
Origin: Japan

Warranty (used)

This is a used item. The limitation period for claims for defects under the statutory warranty is 12 months from delivery.

Note on Water Resistance

No water resistance is guaranteed for this vintage pendant watch. It should not come into contact with water or moisture; this applies in particular to the lacquer decor and the textile strap.