Citizen Promaster Mechanical Diver Review: True Diving Tool

The Citizen Promaster Mechanical Diver 200M “Fujitsubo” is a timepiece that perfectly embodies the spirit of professional diving. Crafted by Citizen, a renowned watch manufacturer known for its commitment to precision and quality, the Fujitsubo model combines advanced technology with elegant design to create a diving watch that excels both underwater and on land.

In this review, we will explore the key features, design elements, and performance of the Promaster Mechanical Diver 200M “Fujitsubo” and understand why it stands out among its competitors.

The Story Behind the Name “Fujitsubo”

The release of the Citizen Promaster Mechanical Diver “Fujitsubo” in 2022 brings back the story of the brand’s legendary timepiece. Watch enthusiasts were so excited to hear more about the story and how Citizen made the reissue. In 1977, the Citizen Challenge Diver was lost underwater when worn for swimming at Long Reef Beach in Australia.

The Citizen Promaster Mechanical Diver 200M “Fujitsubo” Black

Miraculously, the watch still worked just fine when it was retrieved from the water in 1983. The watch was nearly covered in barnacles and other sea life. With this phenomenon, Citizen indirectly proves its watches with the utmost durability and reliability – which becomes the primary ethos of making the Promaster Diver 200M “Fujitsubo” or “barnacle” in Japanese.

Bringing back the story, Citizen equipped the watch with a list of modern upgrades at a surprisingly affordable price. With that said Citizen has brought a reliable dive watch that combines modern materials and retro charm.

A Glimpse to Citizen Promaster Mechanical Diver 200M

The dial of Citizen Promaster Mechanical Diver 200M “Fujitsubo” Blue Ref. NB6021-68L

In terms of design, the Promaster Mechanical Diver 200M “Fujitsubo” takes inspiration from traditional dive watches. It evokes a nautical, old-school look and has dimensions alluding to the original 70s timepiece.

Further, the watch boasts a sturdy stainless steel case that exudes durability and functionality. The unidirectional rotating bezel features clear markings for timing dives, while the screw-down crown enhances the watch’s water resistance, adding an extra layer of protection.

Another practical feature of the “Fujitsubo” edition is its luminous markers and hands. Coated with a luminescent material, they offer excellent visibility in low-light or dark conditions.

This is particularly crucial for divers who need to read the time at greater depths or during nighttime dives, ensuring that the watch remains legible in various underwater scenarios.

Overall, the watch appears simple with only the necessary elements on the dial and robust with its bold-looking design. With a 41mm measurement diameter, the watch will surely make a strong presence on your wrist.

Citizen Promaster Mechanical Diver “Fujitsubo” Review

Let’s take a closer look at the Citizen Promaster Diver “Fujitsubo” and see how it would be a perfect companion on your wrist. Before starting, we have two versions of the watch: Promaster Mechanical Diver 200M “Fujitsubo” Blue and Promaster Mechanical Diver 200M “Fujitsubo” Black.

Design and Build Quality

A durable and rugged case construction made out of titanium featuring a unidirectional rotating bezel with a ceramic insert

The Promaster Mechanical Diver 200M “Fujitsubo” impresses with its robust build quality and sleek aesthetics. Crafted with stainless steel, the watch case exudes a durable and rugged charm, complemented by a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal that ensures optimal visibility in all conditions.

Citizen introduced the watch with tasteful dimensions for men’s wrists at 41mm in diameter, and 12.3mm thick. The unidirectional rotating bezel features a ceramic insert, which enhances the watch’s resistance to scratches and adds a touch of elegance to the overall design.

Topping it off, the use of titanium, a lightweight material compared to stainless steel and a durable one, makes the watch further lovable by watch enthusiasts. Not only that it provides durability but also a whole comfort when worn all day long.

Citizen’s attention to detail is evident in the dial of the “Fujitsubo” model, which displays a beautiful sunburst pattern, reminiscent of the sun’s rays reflecting on the ocean’s surface. Further, the dial features rectangular indices with luminous material in a retro green hue.

The rectangular indices glow in the dark with luminous material in a retro green hue.

It emits a stunning glow and is visible during the day and when charged by direct sunlight. The result is excellent legibility in low-light environments, making them suitable for diving adventures or everyday wear.

Additionally, the date window at 3 o’clock offers practicality without detracting from the watch’s overall aesthetics. Overall, the watch is ready to accompany your activity be it adventurous diving in the ocean or a dandy style for a company meeting.

Movement and Functionality

Looking back at the awe-inspiring story of the lost Citizen watch at Long Reef Beach, Australia, you might have known how reliable the watch is. From that phenomenon, Citizen is inspired to make a better version of the watch.

The result is the Citizen Promaster Mechanical Diver 200M “Fujitsubo”. The watch is driven by the Caliber 9051 automatic movement. It operates at a frequency of 28,800vph and uses 24 jewels.

With this movement, Citizen guarantees accurate timekeeping with -10 to +20 seconds of deviation per day. This self-winding movement offers a power reserve of approximately 42 hours, ensuring that the watch will keep ticking even during brief periods of inactivity.

Additionally, the smooth sweeping seconds hand, characteristic of mechanical movements, adds a touch of elegance to the watch’s overall appeal.

As a reliable dive watch, you should consider the water resistance ratings. The Promaster Mechanical Diver 200M “Fujitsubo” lives up to its name, boasting an impressive water resistance of 200 meters (660 feet).

The screw-down crown ensures optimal water resistance, enhancing the watch’s durability and sealing its inner mechanisms against potential water ingress.

Whether you’re exploring the depths of the ocean or simply enjoying water-based activities, this timepiece will accompany you reliably.

Comfort and Wearability

Despite its sturdy construction, the Citizen Promaster Mechanical Diver 200M “Fujitsubo” remains comfortable on the wrist. The 41mm case diameter strikes a perfect balance, making it suitable for a wide range of wrist sizes.

As for the strap, the one with a blue dial is available with a Super Titanium three-link bracelet with a folding clasp while the black dial comes with a black rubber band with a waffle-like embossing and titanium pin buckle.

Conclusion

The Citizen Promaster Mechanical Diver 200M “Fujitsubo” is a remarkable timepiece that seamlessly combines functionality with refined aesthetics. Its robust build quality, exceptional water resistance, and accurate automatic movement make it an ideal companion for diving enthusiasts and watch aficionados alike.