The Citizen Parawater, released in 1959, is Japan’s first water-resistant watch. Powered by the Citizen Cal. 920/2B and developed after years of rigorous research, it marked a groundbreaking moment in Japanese watchmaking history. Its completely waterproof design, including innovative O-ring seals, earned it legendary status and positioned it as the forefather of all modern Citizen dive watches.
Highly regarded by vintage watch enthusiasts, the Parawater remains an iconic timepiece for its engineering, durability, and historical significance.In this blog, we’ll explore the rich history of the Vintage Citizen Parawater, examine the reasons behind its popularity, compare Citizen and Seiko watches, and highlight the key features that set this classic model apart.
History of the Citizen Parawaters
Citizen launched the Parawater in 1959., the Citizen Parawater was Japan’s first water-resistant wristwatch. While Citizen didn’t originally design it for diving., it proved capable of withstanding swimming and other water-related activities, laying the foundation for Citizen’s future line of dive watches.
The Parawater marked a major breakthrough in Japanese watchmaking, introducing water-resistance technology at a time when such innovation was rare. Its use of strong and durable O-rings helped achieve complete waterproofing, a remarkable feat for the era. Built with Citizen Deluxe movements, Citizen produced it using 19, 22, and 23 jewels. jewels, demonstrating a focus on precision and durability.
The Parawater underwent and successfully completed multiple rigorous tests, including two trans-Pacific crossings and a trial in the Sea of Japan, all of which confirmed its reliability under extreme conditions. By the early 1970s, Watchmakers gradually phased out the term Parawater, and replaced it with the now universally recognized term “water-resistant,” aligning with global industry standards.
Its Popularity and Why Enthusiasts Still Love It
The vintage Citizen Parawater continues to capture the admiration of watch collectors and enthusiasts around the world. Its enduring popularity is rooted in its pioneering history as Japan’s first water-resistant watch and the foundation it laid for the development of modern diving watches.
Collectors value the Parawater for its impressive durability and mechanical reliability, which have stood the test of time. Its unique vintage design, combined with the precision of its jewelled movements, adds to its appeal. Despite its iconic status, it remains relatively affordable, making it an accessible yet meaningful addition to any vintage watch collection.
Comparisons With Other Watches of the Era
During the golden age of Japanese watchmaking, Citizen and Seiko emerged as two of the most prominent and competitive brands in the industry. Both companies produced highly respected timepieces with features such as 200-meter water resistance, vibrant dial colours, and the use of durable pin-based designs.
However, notable differences set the Citizen Parawater apart. In terms of durability, Citizen watches are reported to be over five times more resilient than their Seiko counterparts. Citizen models also tend to be slightly wider yet lighter—tipping the scale at approximately 75.9g compared to Seiko’s 180g, making them more comfortable for extended wear.
While Seiko watches shine with brighter indices and feature a 70-hour power reserve along with a 120-click bezel, they generally require longer service intervals and are more prone to scratches. Seiko movements also beat at a slower rate and exhibit half the durability of Citizen models, especially under demanding conditions.
These distinctions have contributed to the lasting admiration of the Citizen Parawater among collectors who value performance, toughness, and historical significance.
Final thoughts
While neither Citizen nor Seiko watches from this era are perfect, both stand as excellent representations of Japanese innovation and craftsmanship. Choosing between them ultimately comes down to personal preference, there’s no universal “perfect fit.” Go for the one that feels right on your wrist and resonates with your style and appreciation for horological history.
The Citizen Parawater still matters today because it was a trailblazer, the very first Japanese water-resistant watch. It laid the groundwork for modern dive watches and showcased the reliability and resilience that continue to define Citizen timepieces. Collectors and enthusiasts who value historical significance, vintage design, and mechanical reliability should absolutely consider adding a Citizen Parawater to their collection. It’s a timeless piece that tells a story not just of watchmaking, but of progress and persistence.
Personally, I see the vintage Citizen Parawater as more than just a watch; it’s a legacy on the wrist. Its contribution to the evolution of Japanese watches secures its place as a must-have for anyone passionate about vintage timepieces.
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