It seems hard to believe, but it’s been over a year since we first caught wind of the Citizen Series8 880 GMT (you can see that here). It was released last fall, and recently, we got to spend some time with a review loaner. Read on to see what we thought.
Citizen Series8 880 GMT: all the angles
By now, you should be quite aware of the fact that I am a fan of a GMT complication, even if I’m not jaunting around the globe. I also like when you can get the style and functionality in a little bit different look. Of course, the Citizen Series8 880 GMT – as we reviewed – has the classic Pepsi look. So, how do you mix things up?
First off, you put all sorts of angles on things. The two-part case has angled lugs that bevel down to the integrated bracelet. Then, that H-link bracelet? You’ve got more straight edges and bevels. The bezel, then, has a more pronounced (read: longer and flatter) grip pattern to it, that keeps it functional and gives some more texture.
The dial
Speaking of texture – the dial of the Citizen Series8 880 GMT has a texture rather unlike any you’ve seen. This dial is supposed to evoke Tokyo’s evening sky, while the pattern itself is supposed to mean prosperity. To me, it almost feels like you’re getting a very microscopic view of a woven pattern. At first glance, you don’t see it, but when you take a closer look, the dial definitely plays with the light.
Wrapping things up
In other words, there’s a lot to like – visually – about the Citizen Series8 880 GMT. From a technical perspective, there’s a lot to like as well. The Caliber 9054 not only provides a traveller’s GMT complication (where you set the main hour hand independently), it also provides a 50-hour power reserve. Map in a 100m WR rating, and you’ve got a watch that’s ready to travel with you.
While we took a look at the classic Pepsi color scheme, the Citizen Series8 880 GMT is also available in a Batman (black/blue bezel with black dial) and a very golden rootbeer scheme. If you want to get yours, they’re $1,495 (the golden one is $1,795); you can check them out at citizenwatch.com
Citizen Series8 880 GMT Tech Specs
- Caliber 9054
- Accuracy: +20 / -10 seconds per day
- Power reserve: 50 hours
- Frequency: 28,800 v/h
- Anti-magnetic: 16,000 A/m
- 24 Jewels
- WR: 100m (10 bar)
- 41mm case diameter
- GMT function
- Stainless steel bracelet
- Sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating
