Here is one of our favourite new watches, the Citizen AW1715-86X Seaplane. This may be an underrated 2023 release, but this is a great mid-priced watch.
The Seaplane line blends a classic diving watch feel with a pilot’s watch aesthetic, and that’s key because this timepiece is very much about looks. It has just 100m water resistance, and its aviation features are for fun more than anything. But, on the 86X, there are a lot of small details to fall in love with.
Citizen Eco-Drive watches are known for their incredible solar technology, and this timepiece, like many others by the Japanese manufacturer, is very reliable.
Overview:
Dial & Bezel
One of my favourite characteristics is bezel, which is designed with a green and black colourway. I love the semicircle effect, and thematically, this inset works well with the rest of the design.
The dial is painted with an Attitude Indicator, and these are used on aircraft to display the position of the plane and horizon. Without a gyroscope, it’s not much use, but this artificial horizon adds visual intrigue in a light blue design.
It’s paired with a matte pine green dial, which is almost a clash. But it’s not, and that’s what makes it great. Citizen has also added an orange second hand and arrow at the 12 o’clock marker, which gives off a GMT feel and matches the pilot’s watch aesthetic.
Despite the funny colourway, I think the white indices and hands temper the palette nicely.
Citizen Seaplane AW1715-86X Specs
One of the signatures of the Seaplane line is the crown which cuts in the top right lug. Its texture is pleasing to the eye and makes for easy time changing.
Now this stainless steel watch has some bulk. It’s 43mm in diameter which isn’t too big for a diving watch aesthetic, but the thickness of this case can really be felt on the wrist. I do the chunkiness of this watch, and it’s certainly not a flimsy feel.
Much of that thickness is due to the J810 calibre, which is another Eco-Drive solar-powered quartz. Pretty solid, and the 8-month power reserve is on par with similar Citizen movements.
The movement also includes a date window, which is a helpful touch.
The Verdict
This is by no means an extravagant watch, but it is a fun one. The hybrid pilot and diver look is a great theme, and the interesting colourways come together nicely.
I've always been a fan of green watches so this Seaplane instantly caught my eye. For the price, it's a great pickup, and one of my favourite new Citizen watches.
I’m digging this new Citizen Seaplane, and I’d recommend it to anyone after a Citizen Eco-Drive for their collection.
Citizen AW1715-86X Eco-Drive Stainless Steel Mens Watch
$299.00
$499.00
Citizen AW1715-86X Eco-Drive Stainless Steel Mens Watch… read more
