The Citizen Club La Mer Watch: A Vintage Gem for Urban Professionals
The Citizen Club La Mer is a distinctive line of watches from the renowned Japanese watchmaker Citizen, blending classic design with a touch of exclusivity. Launched in 1984, it quickly gained popularity in the late 1980s and early 1990s, sparking a mechanical watch boom among younger professionals before going dormant as market trends shifted toward metal-banded quartz models. The name "Club La Mer" (French for "Club of the Sea") evokes a sense of timeless elegance, while the dial inscription "Urban Traditional for Exciting Professionals" positions it as a sophisticated accessory for dynamic city dwellers.
History and Revival of the Citizen Club La Mer
Citizen introduced Club La Mer as an affordable entry into mechanical watchmaking, emphasizing Japanese craftsmanship at a time when Swiss brands dominated the luxury segment. The original line featured a variety of movements, including hand-winding and quartz options, often housed in sterling silver (925) cases for a premium feel without the high cost. After a 20-year hiatus, the series was revived around 2004 with a focus on making mechanical watches accessible. The revival was inspired by a young Citizen employee's passion for mechanical timepieces, leading to models with domed dials, precisely bent hands, and durable construction that withstands daily wear. Some pieces even feature Latin inscriptions like "Noli Metuere" ("Do not fear") on the case back, adding a motivational flair.
Today, vintage Club La Mer watches from the 1980s are sought after by collectors for their nostalgic appeal. They represent Citizen's innovative spirit, combining reliability with quirky, professional-oriented branding that stands out in a sea of minimalist designs.
Citizen Club La Mer (Model 3480-341128-Y)
This is a rare full set fully original and NOS example from the Citizen La Mer line from 1980s. The round case has a polished silver finish, with a smaller dressy size at 31mm. The dial is a silver outer ring with pearl colour like inner circle. The small seconds subdial at the 6 o'clock position comes with the third silver sunburst texture. It is unique for a watch in the 80s to come with 3 different texture on a same dial, giving it a modern look. The hour marker is also using a modern font type. The watch does not look like it is almost 50 years old. Being able to find an example with all original packaging even with the original paper wrap to the box is extremely rare. We are proud to be able to offer this example.
Specification:
Maker: Citizen Club La Mer Line
Model: Club La Mer Line 3480-341128
Era: Circa 1980
Case Diameter: 31mm diameter; 34mm with crown
Case Condition: The watch is preserved in NOS condition with no usage mark on the case. The case comes with a matt silver finishing with all the original brush finish on the case.
Dial Condition: The dial is a silver outer ring with pearl colour like inner circle. The small seconds subdial at the 6 o'clock position comes with the third silver sunburst texture.
Crystal Condition: Original Crystal
Movement: Quartz Movement from Citizen
Straps: The watch comes with its original blue leather strap and La Mer buckle like it comes out of factory. The watch have not been worn.
It is a rare find to have a watch from this era with all original paper warp, box, tag and strap together with the watch. If you are a collector of vintage Citizen this is it!
