I bought this watch after seeing this review, in blue with the OEM bracelet as my first serious watch and after a year of wear, I wanted to mention one thing that I don't think you highlighted enough. The legibility. I wear glasses and with those big chunky hands, I can read the time with no glasses when I wake up groggily at 4am with ease, yet the needle points also give the accuracy that you want in full sunlight with glasses on. The lume is out of this world. I live in NZ so this was actually a pretty pricey watch for me, US$338 all told with the bracelet. If the base price was anything but affordable I wouldn't have been able to justify it. I have received many compliments on this watch from my dentist to a prison guard. You've got to be a real snob to ho hum this watch. Thanks for the recommendation.
A note on the water resistance, the presence of the word "divers" before the number means it is ISO 6425 certified (also noted on the Citizen website in the description). Which means each individual watch with the rating has been tested against the standard. Does it matter for me, where the bodies of water I live by are frozen half the year? No. But it makes me feel better, and has a certain cool factor.
I own this watch and I absolutely love it. It's my everyday timepiece ( working, gardening, exercise ). I own an omega seamaster however, I actually wear this a little more...
The orange minute hand is for underwater visibility, the best colour for that... Probably has something to do with the ISO dive certification that the watch meets. I mean, it is likely that most divers will use a dive computer, but some people do dive with it. Some divers like the old school element of an analog watch. PS... the style grew on me as I owned it... There is something cool about the bottlecap type look. Looks best on a bracelet or NATO. The strap... kinda made it look cheap.
Orange/red is actually pretty bad for visibility underwater. Anything red or orange tends to appear brown once you get to moderate depths because of how the water filters out the red wavelengths first. For underwater visibility bright yellows and greens retain their natural colour better.
As far as color underwater is concerned, colors with the longest wavelengths, with the lowest energy, are absorbed first. Red is the first to be absorbed, followed by orange & yellow. The colors disappear underwater in the same order as they appear in the color spectrum. Even water at 5ft depth will have a noticeable loss of red. Underwater the lume is more important than the color of the hand and most lumes use green or blue which are visible to depths of 200 and 250 ft. respectively. But the orange hand is pretty cool when out on a date.
TheMasonator777 as a former cop search and rescue diver for my sheriffs office I would wear both a dive computer and this watch on the other side as a backup Incase the computer failed that’s why it’s good to study the old ways with the new ways
I love the fact that you talk about quartz watches. This watch does come on a bracelet, a pretty good bracelet. I’ll find the # for you. It really completes this watch. I have one that I will never flip. Thanks again Nick, quartz watches have their place in every collection.
Bought the blue one about a year ago and threw it on a 2 tone blue Barton bands nato. Total gem 💎 never had a single issue and it’s good enough for my humble taste.
I've been wearing my blue one everyday for about three years now. It has some scratches and I'm about to replace the cracking strap, but I would highly recommend it. I've considered a protough, but this watch is still too nice to replace. Love it.
I have the automatic version of this watch (no longer available in the USA) and I am going to get one of these Eco-drives soon. I love the Citizen build quality and attention to detail. I believe that you hit the nail on the head regarding the functionality of these watches. I do dive and snorkel a bit, so I can attest to how Citizen has built a diver that is first of all useful and secondly gorgeous to wear. Does a diver need 120 clicks on the bezel? No, but we do need great lume! How a bout sapphire? Nope, just give us an instantly readable face and distinctive hands. Is a metal bracelet a must? Not really, but ISO rated 200 meter water resistance is. Then add in the convenience and accuracy of the Eco-drive and you've got a real winner. Lastly, I disagree about the strap. It is perfectly functional and I use mine in the water. But I did buy a leather Nato to use when I wear it casually and also have a great SS bracelet that gets swapped around with my other 20 mm lug watches. IMO learning to change watch straps is a must for anyone with a decent variety of watches. Great review and a dead on recommendation for the Citizen diver. An unbeatable value at under $150.00
I've owned this watch for a few years now. Honestly it is a fine watch, but I don't wear it much. Why, oh why Citizen did you have to put stubby little hands on this watch? I like the case size and bezel. The lume is excellent and accuracy is spot on when worn. If you aren't insane or have lots of other watches, this watch will work great. Some people consider acrylic and mineral crystals to be a negative. I don't. I've had sapphire crystals shatter from impacts at work and it will damage a watch dial/hands/movement. I'll live with nicks and scratches. Excellent review as always.
If you search for long enough, you can find one that comes with the rubber band and the bracelet as well (which doesn't have micro adjustment but has a very nice diver's extension with 5 levels).
I just recently found the BN0151 (blue) model and I asked my mother for it for my birthday. The metal bracelet version is the Citizen Promaster BN0150-61E Steel Man
Have a blue version of this, bought about 1 1/2 years ago to use when my Citizen Stars and Stripes (also blue) is in the shop for battery replacement and/or movement replacement. I'm on my 3rd movement but I have had the S&S for almost 20 years. With 4 analog dials and 3 LCD's, batteries last 1 to 1 1/2 years. Lately the S&S just sits there, awaiting a new battery. Solar charging is the greatest. I do dive occasionally, like the N.D. table. Thank you for the great review. Awaiting my Spyderco Smock!
I had my eye on the blue version of this watch for months, but never liked the aesthetic of the rubber band. So when I eventually pulled the trigger I also ordered the steel bracelet that Citizen makes for it: part # 59-S06105. It's a great bracelet, really improves the look of the watch and has a quick adjust feature I use every day as my wrist expands/contracts. I sized it myself, taking out 3 links for my 7.5" wrist, but it was my first bracelet re-sizing and I didn't realize the bracelet uses pin & collar. So I lost one of the tiny collars before I caught on. DOH. The collar seats in the inner link end of each connection, making it easier to miss FYI.
This watch is amazing for a daily beater and is deadly accurate, I set the time and check it 3 - 4 weeks later, and at most, it is off by 1-2 seconds. I love the watch but HATE that plastic or silicone watch band. I changed out the watchband as soon as I got it to a metal bracelet. I have a lot of more expensive automatic divers, but this one gets the most wrist time.
There is a bracelet version of the 0150/0151. The stock plastic strap sucks. The rest of the watch rocks. I have owned it more than once. Great review Nick.
100% agree with you on this one. That is one damn cheap but reliable tool watch. I would have gone for this if I haven't paid for the Seiko turtle. I even have an Omega Seamaster Professional. It's a cool, good looking, functional and you don't have to wind it up every few days. An awesome watch from Citizen.
This is great! Funnily enough, I bought this watch for myself to use while I get my diving certification. A week later my wife bought me a Seiko Turtle Prospex. Holy cow! I might have to two strap these. 😂
I've been looking at this watch for a while now. Everything about it I just love. Such a good looking piece. FINALLY ORDERED AND IT'S ARRIVING TOMORROW!!
I love that you reviewed my humble daily carry watch! Although mine doesn't have a quick set date. Otherwise it looks exactly the same. You are spot on with just about everything. The strap is a little stiff when new, but after a year of wear it's quite comfortable. The goofy depth chart slowly wears off too. So if you use the watch heavily, it gets better! It really looks nice in the outdoors too. It's certainly not polished all over or anything, but it's got enough to catch the sun and show off a bit. I would eventually like to own a luxury watch, I've got eyes for a Grand Seiko or Planet Ocean, but this watch will be just fine for a long while yet.
I'm currently deciding between this and the BN0191-55L. I prefer the look of the newer one slightly more, but for my 6.25 inch wrists, it just looks slightly too big for my liking. That's not to say this model is not good looking, it really is! I actually think it has a more unique design compared to the newer one, which looks a bit samey as the other divers out there on the market. I really wish they did the newer one in a 43mm also as opposed to 45mm it comes in. In addition, I have heard people say that this watch wears more like a 41mm because of its styling, and that would suit my wrist size a lot more. A Frankenstein version of the 2 would be perfect lol
Yes this is my everyday watch, tremendous value, super quality. It takes a beating and looks great. Yes I have Seikos I also love but this watch is in a class by itself. A gotta have.
This is my go-to and has been for about 1.5 yrs. Great value, but great watch. I love the AR coating on the crystal. My only complaint is the bezel insert - I'm looking for a replacement with an SKX mod that will fit. Love the fact that it's solar - this on a nato is ready to go any time.
You forgot that at this price point, that's actually an ISO-certified dive watch. TBH, I wish they just did away with the date complication, because I hate adjusting the date on watches (that's why my watch has a perpetual calendar).
I have this in blue. Great watch! It's been on vacation with me a couple times. Iso certified so it's tough. A couple gripes... Citizen date windows/ numbers are a bit small. This watch would also benefit from the added stability of a 22mm strap width. My watch is currently on a Borealis rubber dive strap. It's a substantial strap so it keeps the watch from moving around. I like nato's, but again the watch moves around too much on a 20mm nato.
Not for nothing Nick but the Promaster Fugo Limited Edition brand is a must have and possibly a collectors item given the fact that there are a few of them made. A win win situation in collecting IMHO of course. Something to hand down to the kids & possibly help them in their college fund or their next whatever.
Mine has just arrived, £150 paid - dont know where your getting all these deals from, cant find them for less than this, not in UK anyway, and that was through a German supplier. Anyway, the watch just rocks! Such a great daily beater, like mentioned the rubber strap is abit of a downer in terms of build quality - but the watch is superb, why spend ££££ on a another diver, this is a proper tool/utility watch, which has got to give it more kudos. Stick on a nice proper leather strap, its a proper looker (if thats your thing). Also, I love the packaging it came in - A big yellow dive canister, very quirky - Citizen really are on top of their game currently (very under appreciated company I think), and nice they are still doing their own thing and not doing chessy homages.
Man, I bought this watch after your review. I think it’s second only to the promaster tough on bracelet. I found one local with a sapphire crystal and a ceramic bezel. Is it as good as a few of the seikos I have? Well it’s more accurate, grab and go etc. Maybe not as attractive but it’s a great everyday, knock around watch. No complaints about it whatsoever. Great review. Oh and I through it on a nato. The strap is crap.
I just bought it and honestly I wanted to send it back the next day, because it wears so uncomfortable out of the box with this "diver strap". But I gave it a 2nd try and before sending it back I ordered a leather strap for it. And what shall I say... I absolutely love it now! :-)
After a month of ownership, this watch is really something. It's my first actual nice watch. I tried one of the fancier, more flexible, thinner rubber straps and I ended up going back to the original strap. The shape of the watch really benefits from the larger presence of the strap. It's super stiff but will change shape if you place it under a heavy book or two overnight. The only gripe I have is the second hand doesn't hit all the marks. Wasn't expecting to care about that. But since it does what it does so well, and (to me) looks awesome, I am very happy with the purchase. Posting this review here because this video influenced my decision the most.
I have a Citizen Ecodrive dive watch - not this model - on a rubber strap. I have worn it for diving. However, I don’t refer to the strap tables. If it is any consolation to you, the numbers wear off over time. Mine only shows the top two rows now.
@@NickShabazz She ain't no baby but.....Lug to Lug.....48 mm. 14 mm thick...22 mm strap..It's deceptive. Get one and lets see it next to that Planet Ocean. ;-)))
Hey I like my invicta grand diver at about the same size and is perfect for diving I’ve tested out the depths and pressures and she held up beautifully!and it cost under a hundred bucks now that I trust it it’s worthy in my books!
Just got this on the recent Citizen Gold Box at Amazon for $105 in blue. Like it a lot. Kind of wish it had a 22mm strap, though. BTW, there are bracelet variants of this watch. You can even buy those, although I think they're $120, which is more than I paid for the watch. Reportedly a nice bracelet, though.
I've had an INOX for many years. Maybe 6-7 years. Great watch. It's my bang around watch. I jump in water with it with no issues. Been as dependable as can be. Looks good too.
This is why Citizen makes up 90% of my watch collection. They run & run & run. My absolute favorite brand (althogh I have about 20 pcs- 15 acually running- I dont consider myself a collector. Mild, mild enthusiest at best. ) gr8 reveiw Nick. I might have to check into this diver for that money.
Sold! Or rather, bought second hand/ as new condition from Amazon, complete with the limited edition dive bottle box. From me, thanks for the heads up on a great watch. From my wife, she knows nothing! Keep it that way 😉
Can someone guide me? I am a G shock user and also learning diving. Now, I want a proper diving watch. I am aware quartz is pretty reliable under water but I do not remember when I last changed the battery of my G shock. So that doubt always exists when I take it under water. I go with a group so someone is there for support if my watch stops for any reason. Is there a reason why Citizen uses Eco drive for dive watches? Is this more reliable than an automatic dive watch? Please help me with the correct information.
It is more reliable and less maintenance involved because there aren’t as many gears as a mechanical watch. It is also more reliable than a non-solar quartz watch because you don’t need to change the batteries every couple years. They use it because it isn’t so costly to produce and it helps with their eco-friendly mission. All in all, the solar quartz makes it a win-win for any diving situation. And it looks sharp too on a Bond NATO strap :)
Hear me out....I was gifted a Citizen Promaster Eco-drive Calibre 2100 Titanium Sapphire a few years ago. As far as I know it it was a Japanese exclusive model....Sapphire crystal, all titanium, deeply etched case. AV0020-55H. I have called Citizen and they say that it is ultra rare. Anybody know about this model? It is potentially for sale. :) Thanks Nick!!!
Out of curiosity, why's amazon no a good place for buying watches? I mean of course it's not for expensive mechanicals, that makes sense, but not even for inexpensive citizens?
It’s garbage. If yours keeps great time, consider yourself one of the few. I fell for the skx hype, and it’s complete crap. No winding, no hacking, keeps awful time... my turtle replaced it a year ago and it’s a much better watch. I own the blue version of this citizen as well... great timepiece.
Thanks Nick, great review, I too have that exact same Omega, and I'm looking for a beater watch to wear, for rough occasions,, (ie, looking after the grandkids, lol). After seeing you praise this one so much,, it's now on my (very) shortlist,,, thanks again,, John...
Good review, only that your complaints are not really real for the price you pay (watch only). For the strap I agree with you, but there is a variant with a bracelet (a good one). After all I am super satisfied with my blue one, after two years, great value and quality. The watch is ISO certified, which means that every single unit is tested thoroughly. Thanks for the review, it is always nice and entertaining to watch.
Just a FYI: I just received one of these watches from Amzn; strap has changed: 1) more matt finish than the one in the video, 2) no printing )N.D. Limits" stuff) on the strap.
I'm not a diver but I do like that the minute hand is different color yet it would be nice if minute hand had different color lume also. I have Citizen watches for many years I like them. I have an Echo Drive I have had almost twenty years I found in a box. I put on dashboard of my car for a day and started right up. Now it is under a light in my room with my other Citizens. Still going strong.
I own much nicer and much more expensive watches yet I keep returning to the humble Promaster simply because it is exactly what it says on the package: a somewhat bulky, somewhat generic yet perfectly functional, perfectly finished, perfectly luminous, perfectly accurate, perfectly believable, perfectly affordable, aesthetically sound dive watch. It is a diver and nothing else. Just looking at it is total piece of mind. I love it!
I have the watch you mentioned in blue and I echo the same sentiments as you do! That watch is an absolute legend and keeps me me returning to it, a super competent diver that will never let you down.
The strap is a bit annoying. I am wondering if Citizen should produce a silicone strap like Seiko. I put a blue silicone strap on my Blue Turtle and it is very comfortable. Maybe a 20mm Seiko strap might fit.
I literally bought this watch 48 hours ago. 125 bucks, plus a $10 orange nato to replace that godforsaken rubber strap. Comonnnn you've got to be kidding me.
I have a ny0040 and ny0080 with the exact strap. About to but the bn0150 over a few others, because it has the same strap and i love this river strap!! I guess not everyone hates it. Its solid and comfy. Bit stiff. But i love it. Plus the bracelet version is around 100usd extra in australia.
Anthony Ogle comfy? That’s a word a man should never use especially when talking about a dive watch! Lol say it out load a cpl times and you’ll see !! COMFY! Lol
I was Seiko boy until by impulse I bought Citizen Excalibur.. And..boy..the lume satisfied my heart So I always look for Citizen eversince just because of the lume quality.
I was debating between the blue version of this watch and the MUCH more expensive Seiko King Turtle watch. I ended up going with this watch. May get the Seiko later, may not. This watch seems like it'll get me by just fine.
Just bought the black model today $119 couldn’t pass that deal absolutely a nice watch the band is to stiff for me luckily I had a soft silicone band that fits, great review
I wish the dial was a nice deep black as the NY0040, they say it's because the eco drive movt, but seiko solars have a deep black dial too. So the black washed out dial was probably thought that way
I bought this watch after seeing this review, in blue with the OEM bracelet as my first serious watch and after a year of wear, I wanted to mention one thing that I don't think you highlighted enough. The legibility. I wear glasses and with those big chunky hands, I can read the time with no glasses when I wake up groggily at 4am with ease, yet the needle points also give the accuracy that you want in full sunlight with glasses on. The lume is out of this world. I live in NZ so this was actually a pretty pricey watch for me, US$338 all told with the bracelet. If the base price was anything but affordable I wouldn't have been able to justify it. I have received many compliments on this watch from my dentist to a prison guard. You've got to be a real snob to ho hum this watch. Thanks for the recommendation.
A note on the water resistance, the presence of the word "divers" before the number means it is ISO 6425 certified (also noted on the Citizen website in the description). Which means each individual watch with the rating has been tested against the standard. Does it matter for me, where the bodies of water I live by are frozen half the year? No. But it makes me feel better, and has a certain cool factor.
I own this watch and I absolutely love it. It's my everyday timepiece ( working, gardening, exercise ). I own an omega seamaster however, I actually wear this a little more...
I have the Blue version, I am amazed on the value. I love wearing it and looks great on many strap options. Just buy it.
Love my blue version
I bought both 😎👍🏽👍🏽
The voice of Jay Leno! Loved the review so much that I purchased one! Thanks for your help.
The orange minute hand is for underwater visibility, the best colour for that... Probably has something to do with the ISO dive certification that the watch meets. I mean, it is likely that most divers will use a dive computer, but some people do dive with it.
Some divers like the old school element of an analog watch. PS... the style grew on me as I owned it... There is something cool about the bottlecap type look. Looks best on a bracelet or NATO. The strap... kinda made it look cheap.
Orange/red is actually pretty bad for visibility underwater. Anything red or orange tends to appear brown once you get to moderate depths because of how the water filters out the red wavelengths first. For underwater visibility bright yellows and greens retain their natural colour better.
As far as color underwater is concerned, colors with the longest wavelengths, with the lowest energy, are absorbed first. Red is the first to be absorbed, followed by orange & yellow. The colors disappear underwater in the same order as they appear in the color spectrum. Even water at 5ft depth will have a noticeable loss of red.
Underwater the lume is more important than the color of the hand and most lumes use green or blue which are visible to depths of 200 and 250 ft. respectively.
But the orange hand is pretty cool when out on a date.
TheMasonator777 as a former cop search and rescue diver for my sheriffs office I would wear both a dive computer and this watch on the other side as a backup Incase the computer failed that’s why it’s good to study the old ways with the new ways
I love the fact that you talk about quartz watches.
This watch does come on a bracelet, a pretty good bracelet. I’ll find the # for you. It really completes this watch. I have one that I will never flip.
Thanks again Nick, quartz watches have their place in every collection.
Citizen Promaster BN0150-61E Steel Man
Where can I just buy the bracelet please?
@Jon Caseley thank you for this
Bought the blue one about a year ago and threw it on a 2 tone blue Barton bands nato. Total gem 💎 never had a single issue and it’s good enough for my humble taste.
I've been wearing my blue one everyday for about three years now. It has some scratches and I'm about to replace the cracking strap, but I would highly recommend it. I've considered a protough, but this watch is still too nice to replace. Love it.
The JDM version has a REALLY nice bracelet. With a really nice clasp, a tool-less divers extension, and solid end links.
I have the automatic version of this watch (no longer available in the USA) and I am going to get one of these Eco-drives soon. I love the Citizen build quality and attention to detail. I believe that you hit the nail on the head regarding the functionality of these watches. I do dive and snorkel a bit, so I can attest to how Citizen has built a diver that is first of all useful and secondly gorgeous to wear. Does a diver need 120 clicks on the bezel? No, but we do need great lume! How a bout sapphire? Nope, just give us an instantly readable face and distinctive hands. Is a metal bracelet a must? Not really, but ISO rated 200 meter water resistance is. Then add in the convenience and accuracy of the Eco-drive and you've got a real winner.
Lastly, I disagree about the strap. It is perfectly functional and I use mine in the water. But I did buy a leather Nato to use when I wear it casually and also have a great SS bracelet that gets swapped around with my other 20 mm lug watches. IMO learning to change watch straps is a must for anyone with a decent variety of watches.
Great review and a dead on recommendation for the Citizen diver. An unbeatable value at under $150.00
I just picked up the blue auto. I instantly love it. Is this the BN0150-10E or BN0150-28E? I'm sure someone will tell be the difference.
@@anonanon2160 i just got the black one BN0150-28E I think the only difference between this one's is the color
I've owned this watch for a few years now. Honestly it is a fine watch, but I don't wear it much. Why, oh why Citizen did you have to put stubby little hands on this watch? I like the case size and bezel. The lume is excellent and accuracy is spot on when worn. If you aren't insane or have lots of other watches, this watch will work great. Some people consider acrylic and mineral crystals to be a negative. I don't. I've had sapphire crystals shatter from impacts at work and it will damage a watch dial/hands/movement. I'll live with nicks and scratches. Excellent review as always.
Theres a sapphire domed kit for this.
@@quattro4468 where abouts? going to be getting one but with the metal bracelet
If you search for long enough, you can find one that comes with the rubber band and the bracelet as well (which doesn't have micro adjustment but has a very nice diver's extension with 5 levels).
I just recently found the BN0151 (blue) model and I asked my mother for it for my birthday.
The metal bracelet version is the Citizen Promaster BN0150-61E Steel Man
What a great review. I love that you talk fast. Everything you need. Nothing you don't. Very entertaining and interesting. Love the review style!
Have a blue version of this, bought about 1 1/2 years ago to use when my Citizen Stars and Stripes (also blue) is in the shop for battery replacement and/or movement replacement. I'm on my 3rd movement but I have had the S&S for almost 20 years. With 4 analog dials and 3 LCD's, batteries last 1 to 1 1/2 years. Lately the S&S just sits there, awaiting a new battery. Solar charging is the greatest.
I do dive occasionally, like the N.D. table.
Thank you for the great review. Awaiting my Spyderco Smock!
I had my eye on the blue version of this watch for months, but never liked the aesthetic of the rubber band. So when I eventually pulled the trigger I also ordered the steel bracelet that Citizen makes for it: part # 59-S06105. It's a great bracelet, really improves the look of the watch and has a quick adjust feature I use every day as my wrist expands/contracts. I sized it myself, taking out 3 links for my 7.5" wrist, but it was my first bracelet re-sizing and I didn't realize the bracelet uses pin & collar. So I lost one of the tiny collars before I caught on. DOH. The collar seats in the inner link end of each connection, making it easier to miss FYI.
Forgot to mention the bracelet costs almost as much as the watch :(
This watch is amazing for a daily beater and is deadly accurate, I set the time and check it 3 - 4 weeks later, and at most, it is off by 1-2 seconds. I love the watch but HATE that plastic or silicone watch band. I changed out the watchband as soon as I got it to a metal bracelet. I have a lot of more expensive automatic divers, but this one gets the most wrist time.
There is a bracelet version of the 0150/0151. The stock plastic strap sucks. The rest of the watch rocks. I have owned it more than once. Great review Nick.
Link?
100% agree with you on this one. That is one damn cheap but reliable tool watch. I would have gone for this if I haven't paid for the Seiko turtle. I even have an Omega Seamaster Professional.
It's a cool, good looking, functional and you don't have to wind it up every few days. An awesome watch from Citizen.
This is great! Funnily enough, I bought this watch for myself to use while I get my diving certification. A week later my wife bought me a Seiko Turtle Prospex. Holy cow! I might have to two strap these. 😂
I've been looking at this watch for a while now. Everything about it I just love. Such a good looking piece. FINALLY ORDERED AND IT'S ARRIVING TOMORROW!!
How is the watch so far? Have you tried diving with it?
@@elliotbeerline1286 I haven't tried diving with it, but it is very robust and comfortable. No scratched glass or anything.
I love that you reviewed my humble daily carry watch! Although mine doesn't have a quick set date. Otherwise it looks exactly the same. You are spot on with just about everything. The strap is a little stiff when new, but after a year of wear it's quite comfortable. The goofy depth chart slowly wears off too. So if you use the watch heavily, it gets better!
It really looks nice in the outdoors too. It's certainly not polished all over or anything, but it's got enough to catch the sun and show off a bit.
I would eventually like to own a luxury watch, I've got eyes for a Grand Seiko or Planet Ocean, but this watch will be just fine for a long while yet.
I'm currently deciding between this and the BN0191-55L. I prefer the look of the newer one slightly more, but for my 6.25 inch wrists, it just looks slightly too big for my liking. That's not to say this model is not good looking, it really is! I actually think it has a more unique design compared to the newer one, which looks a bit samey as the other divers out there on the market.
I really wish they did the newer one in a 43mm also as opposed to 45mm it comes in. In addition, I have heard people say that this watch wears more like a 41mm because of its styling, and that would suit my wrist size a lot more.
A Frankenstein version of the 2 would be perfect lol
Yes this is my everyday watch, tremendous value, super quality. It takes a beating and looks great. Yes I have Seikos I also love but this watch is in a class by itself. A gotta have.
This is my go-to and has been for about 1.5 yrs. Great value, but great watch. I love the AR coating on the crystal. My only complaint is the bezel insert - I'm looking for a replacement with an SKX mod that will fit. Love the fact that it's solar - this on a nato is ready to go any time.
You forgot that at this price point, that's actually an ISO-certified dive watch. TBH, I wish they just did away with the date complication, because I hate adjusting the date on watches (that's why my watch has a perpetual calendar).
great watch, got over 100 dives on it, the dive limit numbers wear off eventually.
You just saved me some money as I was about to get an SKX. Thanks!
I have this in blue. Great watch! It's been on vacation with me a couple times. Iso certified so it's tough.
A couple gripes... Citizen date windows/ numbers are a bit small. This watch would also benefit from the added stability of a 22mm strap width. My watch is currently on a Borealis rubber dive strap. It's a substantial strap so it keeps the watch from moving around. I like nato's, but again the watch moves around too much on a 20mm nato.
Not for nothing Nick but the Promaster Fugo Limited Edition brand is a must have and possibly a collectors item given the fact that there are a few of them made. A win win situation in collecting IMHO of course. Something to hand down to the kids & possibly help them in their college fund or their next whatever.
I have a fugu full lume and I'm about to buy the bn0150 after this great review.
Mine has just arrived, £150 paid - dont know where your getting all these deals from, cant find them for less than this, not in UK anyway, and that was through a German supplier.
Anyway, the watch just rocks! Such a great daily beater, like mentioned the rubber strap is abit of a downer in terms of build quality - but the watch is superb, why spend ££££ on a another diver, this is a proper tool/utility watch, which has got to give it more kudos.
Stick on a nice proper leather strap, its a proper looker (if thats your thing).
Also, I love the packaging it came in - A big yellow dive canister, very quirky - Citizen really are on top of their game currently (very under appreciated company I think), and nice they are still doing their own thing and not doing chessy homages.
Man, I bought this watch after your review. I think it’s second only to the promaster tough on bracelet. I found one local with a sapphire crystal and a ceramic bezel. Is it as good as a few of the seikos I have? Well it’s more accurate, grab and go etc. Maybe not as attractive but it’s a great everyday, knock around watch. No complaints about it whatsoever. Great review. Oh and I through it on a nato. The strap is crap.
I just bought it and honestly I wanted to send it back the next day, because it wears so uncomfortable out of the box with this "diver strap". But I gave it a 2nd try and before sending it back I ordered a leather strap for it. And what shall I say... I absolutely love it now! :-)
I bought a cheap fitted bracelet on ebay for around $30 for this watch but love it even without it
After a month of ownership, this watch is really something. It's my first actual nice watch. I tried one of the fancier, more flexible, thinner rubber straps and I ended up going back to the original strap. The shape of the watch really benefits from the larger presence of the strap. It's super stiff but will change shape if you place it under a heavy book or two overnight. The only gripe I have is the second hand doesn't hit all the marks. Wasn't expecting to care about that. But since it does what it does so well, and (to me) looks awesome, I am very happy with the purchase. Posting this review here because this video influenced my decision the most.
I have a Citizen Ecodrive dive watch - not this model - on a rubber strap. I have worn it for diving. However, I don’t refer to the strap tables. If it is any consolation to you, the numbers wear off over time. Mine only shows the top two rows now.
Nick, off topic but still on divers. I'd love to see you go high end quartz diver and review a SEIKO Marine Master Professional 300M.
If only the MMP300 wasn't HUGE.
@@NickShabazz She ain't no baby but.....Lug to Lug.....48 mm. 14 mm thick...22 mm strap..It's deceptive. Get one and lets see it next to that Planet Ocean. ;-)))
Hey I like my invicta grand diver at about the same size and is perfect for diving I’ve tested out the depths and pressures and she held up beautifully!and it cost under a hundred bucks now that I trust it it’s worthy in my books!
nice review.
i wish Citizen would go to 22mm straps,i prefer the look of the slightly wider strap,especially a NATO
My main problem with this watch
Just got this on the recent Citizen Gold Box at Amazon for $105 in blue. Like it a lot. Kind of wish it had a 22mm strap, though. BTW, there are bracelet variants of this watch. You can even buy those, although I think they're $120, which is more than I paid for the watch. Reportedly a nice bracelet, though.
I have this watch in blue and it's a great watch that's comfortable to wear and it stays accurate and it looks more expensive than it is!
I'd like to hear your opinion on the Victorinox INOX.
I've had an INOX for many years. Maybe 6-7 years. Great watch. It's my bang around watch. I jump in water with it with no issues. Been as dependable as can be. Looks good too.
This is why Citizen makes up 90% of my watch collection. They run & run & run. My absolute favorite brand (althogh I have about 20 pcs- 15 acually running- I dont consider myself a collector. Mild, mild enthusiest at best. ) gr8 reveiw Nick. I might have to check into this diver for that money.
Black leather rally strap and this watch is a very cool beater
Sold! Or rather, bought second hand/ as new condition from Amazon, complete with the limited edition dive bottle box.
From me, thanks for the heads up on a great watch.
From my wife, she knows nothing! Keep it that way 😉
Update: I bought the steel bracelet from citizen and now this watch is stunning and feels like a tank! Love it!
Can someone guide me? I am a G shock user and also learning diving. Now, I want a proper diving watch. I am aware quartz is pretty reliable under water but I do not remember when I last changed the battery of my G shock. So that doubt always exists when I take it under water. I go with a group so someone is there for support if my watch stops for any reason. Is there a reason why Citizen uses Eco drive for dive watches? Is this more reliable than an automatic dive watch? Please help me with the correct information.
It is more reliable and less maintenance involved because there aren’t as many gears as a mechanical watch. It is also more reliable than a non-solar quartz watch because you don’t need to change the batteries every couple years. They use it because it isn’t so costly to produce and it helps with their eco-friendly mission.
All in all, the solar quartz makes it a win-win for any diving situation. And it looks sharp too on a Bond NATO strap :)
I love it when you like stuff. I wouldn't want you to always do it, but when you do, it's a nice twist.
Just got this in blue for $91.00 on Prime Day.
And what a deal it is! Arrives tomorrow.
Prime day ?
wasif Rahman Amazon annual sale for those that have a prime membership.
Just got for $105 on Amazon special. Can't wait
Just got this for 88.99 on Black Friday.
Hahaha love it! "SKX fanboys, no I'm not recommending it, no!" 😂👍🏻👏🏻 you sir, deserve a medal.
I LOVE the look of this thing just pulled the trigger on one on Amazon black Friday for 150
Hear me out....I was gifted a Citizen Promaster Eco-drive Calibre 2100 Titanium Sapphire a few years ago. As far as I know it it was a Japanese exclusive model....Sapphire crystal, all titanium, deeply etched case. AV0020-55H. I have called Citizen and they say that it is ultra rare. Anybody know about this model? It is potentially for sale. :) Thanks Nick!!!
Just got one today, the blue one. I'm in love.
The Promaster comes in a interesting box. The watch is in a small diving tank. Complete with valves, etc.
Charles Watson Mine didn’t :(
The seconds hand actually hits the markets
Rusty Scab Yeah. The one I’ve got is right on the money. It’s a really well made piece for the price.
That's standard for Citizen.
First time warching one of your reviews, i gotta say, very entertaining review. Kept me hooked. Nice review!!
I've been looking at a citizen eco drive chronograph as an every day beater. Nice and cheap but still great looks and functionality.
$88 today on Prime Black Friday 11-29-18
Did you once shine my shoes on second ave New York city , you sound familiar .
Out of curiosity, why's amazon no a good place for buying watches? I mean of course it's not for expensive mechanicals, that makes sense, but not even for inexpensive citizens?
Leon I got one in near new condition, half price, from Amazon.
Ive got the blue one and its the only watch you will ever need brilliant value for money highly recommended
What’s wrong with the 007, Nick? Mine keeps great time, fits on my wrist, has house-made works, and didn’t break the bank. Plus I like how it looks!
It’s garbage. If yours keeps great time, consider yourself one of the few. I fell for the skx hype, and it’s complete crap. No winding, no hacking, keeps awful time... my turtle replaced it a year ago and it’s a much better watch. I own the blue version of this citizen as well... great timepiece.
Hearing someone else calling the SXK garbage never gets old. Such an overrated watch.
Thanks Nick, great review, I too have that exact same Omega, and I'm looking for a beater watch to wear, for rough occasions,, (ie, looking after the grandkids, lol).
After seeing you praise this one so much,, it's now on my (very) shortlist,,, thanks again,, John...
Good review, only that your complaints are not really real for the price you pay (watch only). For the strap I agree with you, but there is a variant with a bracelet (a good one). After all I am super satisfied with my blue one, after two years, great value and quality. The watch is ISO certified, which means that every single unit is tested thoroughly. Thanks for the review, it is always nice and entertaining to watch.
The Citizen Store in San Marcos TX had this and the blue version on sale 65%off.
260 something for both out the door 130 something apiece.
The second hand alignment looks great. A lot better than some more expensive watches I have seen.
Second hand lines up perfectly with the marks..
I got it in blue two days ago..
I gave my Tag to my brother..
😂😂😂
Just a FYI: I just received one of these watches from Amzn; strap has changed: 1) more matt finish than the one in the video, 2) no printing )N.D. Limits" stuff) on the strap.
There’s a lot of good here, I’d put this and the orient mako as the best watches under 150 as far as divers go.
I'm not a diver but I do like that the minute hand is different color yet it would be nice if minute hand had different color lume also. I have Citizen watches for many years I like them. I have an Echo Drive I have had almost twenty years I found in a box. I put on dashboard of my car for a day and started right up. Now it is under a light in my room with my other Citizens. Still going strong.
I have to say that the bezel is difficult to turn but I’m not using it for anything other than some water resistance and definitely not diving.
I have one (blue) from months with bracelet ... very good watch and accurate and fantastic lume !
The moment I decided to stop buying new watches, Nick Shabazz releases a video about another Gem. Damnit...
DO NOT STAY INTO WATCHES
Good review Nick. I prefer my NY0040 to my Seamaster (quartz). In fact, purchasing the Omega has been one of my biggest watch regrets.
I own much nicer and much more expensive watches yet I keep returning to the humble Promaster simply because it is exactly what it says on the package: a somewhat bulky, somewhat generic yet perfectly functional, perfectly finished, perfectly luminous, perfectly accurate, perfectly believable, perfectly affordable, aesthetically sound dive watch. It is a diver and nothing else. Just looking at it is total piece of mind. I love it!
And that is a totally wonderful comment!
I have the watch you mentioned in blue and I echo the same sentiments as you do! That watch is an absolute legend and keeps me me returning to it, a super competent diver that will never let you down.
I got a black version that says "E168-s126126" on the back, is that an earlier version of the BN0150?
The strap is a bit annoying. I am wondering if Citizen should produce a silicone strap like Seiko. I put a blue silicone strap on my Blue Turtle and it is very comfortable. Maybe a 20mm Seiko strap might fit.
Ok Nick, just ordered one for $123.00. Thanks for twisting my arm.
I don't disagree with you on any of this but there's just something about the skx. I moved from this watch to the skx.
I literally bought this watch 48 hours ago. 125 bucks, plus a $10 orange nato to replace that godforsaken rubber strap. Comonnnn you've got to be kidding me.
I have a ny0040 and ny0080 with the exact strap. About to but the bn0150 over a few others, because it has the same strap and i love this river strap!! I guess not everyone hates it. Its solid and comfy. Bit stiff. But i love it. Plus the bracelet version is around 100usd extra in australia.
Anthony Ogle comfy? That’s a word a man should never use especially when talking about a dive watch! Lol say it out load a cpl times and you’ll see !! COMFY! Lol
Nick I LOVE LOVE LOVE your reviews, so funny and yet knowledgeable.
But...does it cut boxes?
It is a gem
Was my first watch on a long and slippery slope.
I was Seiko boy until by impulse I bought Citizen Excalibur.. And..boy..the lume satisfied my heart
So I always look for Citizen eversince just because of the lume quality.
Very good review i just ordered this watch off E-Bay really like this watch !
I was debating between the blue version of this watch and the MUCH more expensive Seiko King Turtle watch. I ended up going with this watch. May get the Seiko later, may not. This watch seems like it'll get me by just fine.
Nick , that’s a nice bracelet on the samurai. Not oem. Who makes it?
Just bought the black model today $119 couldn’t pass that deal absolutely a nice watch the band is to stiff for me luckily I had a soft silicone band that fits, great review
where ????
Nick, nice review! Unrelated, what do you think of the ZT 0801ti? I love your knife reviews and I’m considering this knife.
Does anyone know what is the difference between the Citizen Promasters BN0150-10E and BN0150-28E ???
You can get 5 crystal protectors for $9 that will fit this watch. Also Barton makes an excellent silicone dive strap
I am a little concerned.....this is Watch no.5, the interval between purchases is getting shorter.
I'd be interested in your side by side comparison of the BN-0151 and the BN-0191
I wish the dial was a nice deep black as the NY0040, they say it's because the eco drive movt, but seiko solars have a deep black dial too. So the black washed out dial was probably thought that way
Im buying both blue and black.
Hello Nick. Thank you for this full explanation.
I put a Geckota tropics trap on it. My daily. Great watch. Lots of other expensive watches in my case that I never wear now.
That man spoke more words in 15 minutes than my nearly 60 years of life. No offence intended if I caused offence.
😂😂😂
Now you can buy one on a steel band and the bracelet is amazing for a stock bracelet
Grear review. I have the blue version on a mesh strap and it is very good. I love it almost the most in my collection of 18+ watches....
piyush parekh mesh bracelet?? That’s what I want to do with mine! I bet it looks great on the blue and stainless steel!!