Citizen Unveils 'Ghost in the Shell' Inspired Retro '80s-Style Watches

Citizen Watch has partnered with Ghost in the Shell to unveil two new collector wristwatches specifically tailored for Japanese cyberpunk enthusiasts and fans of bold vintage designs.

Preorders are now open for these limited-edition watches, catered to Ghost in the Shell fans and inspired by the latest release in the Ghost in the Shell SAC_2045 series. Notably, Citizen Watch Company has introduced a pair of timepieces that incorporate their distinctive Ana-Digi Temp interface. This interface showcases two analog watch panels and three digital displays, providing convenient access to functions such as time and date toggling, thermometer readings, and alarms. The watch face is adorned with a circuit board design overlay, drawing inspiration from cyborgs and cyberspace, resulting in a futuristic gadget-like appearance.

Preorders for the watch, priced at US$300 (¥45,000), include a special bonus - an acrylic stand featuring Motoko Kusanagi wearing the collaborative timepiece. These watches are tailor-made and offer a choice between a green or blue watch face design, each adorned with corresponding engravings on the back case. The green JG2155-61W showcases a shadow profile of Major Kusanagi, while the blue JG2155-61L displays a Tachikoma silhouette. Shipping will be done in collector boxes adorned with hologram foil and captivating artwork. Preorders will be accepted until December 24th, with fulfillment expected as early as June 2024.

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The watch weighs 69g and is only available in one size, measuring 32.5mm x 40.6mm x 8mm. According to the product specifications, it may deviate by 15 seconds per month, but still maintains accuracy within a two-year battery life. The watch is designed to be waterproof for everyday use, with a durable crystal glass face and a stainless steel casing and wristband. Citizen, a reputable watchmaker with over 90 years of experience, has been competing directly with brands like Casio and Seiko. While their primary focus is on quartz watches, they have also introduced mechanical timepieces under their brand.

Similar collaborations have also been seen in the world of anime fandom. For instance, Seiko partnered with One Piece to release their Gear 5 watch, featuring anime references on the watch face's auxiliary dials. Additionally, Seiko launched premium collaborative timepieces inspired by Studio Ghibli's Porco Rosso, incorporating designs and inscriptions related to the franchise on the rear case and watch face. Citizen's Ghost in the Shell collaborative watch is a must-have for fans of the popular franchise, which has expanded from manga to various forms of media, including toys, video games, anime, and even a live-action film.

Ghost in the Shell SAC_2045: The Last Human will bring together Season 2 episodes from the SAC_2045 series, along with exciting new scenes. This highly anticipated film will make its theatrical debut on Nov. 23.

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z fan, I am excited about the release of Citizen's latest limited-edition timepieces, inspired by the futuristic film Ghost in the Shell SAC_2045. The watches perfectly blend style and technology, with a retro '80s design that is sure to appeal to fans of the franchise. I appreciate that Citizen Watch has incorporated their distinctive Ana-Digi Temp interface into the watches, providing convenient access to functions such as time and date toggling, thermometer readings, and alarms. The watch face is adorned with a circuit board design overlay, drawing inspiration from cyborgs and cyberspace, resulting in a futuristic gadget-like appearance.

I also appreciate that Citizen Watch has included special bonuses with the preorders, such as an acrylic stand featuring Motoko Kusanagi wearing the collaborative timepiece. The watches are tailor-made and offer a choice between a green or blue watch face design, each adorned with corresponding engravings on the back case. The green JG2155-61W showcases a shadow profile of Major Kusanagi, while the blue JG2155-61L displays a Tachikoma silhouette. These details add to the overall appeal of the watches and make them a must-have for fans of the Ghost in the Shell franchise.