Citizen will hold a two-day event commemorating the 50th anniversary of “Eco-Drive” on Saturday, June 13, and Sunday, June 14, 2026, at Space O on the B3F of the Main Building at Omotesando Hills.
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The technology Citizen pioneered as the world’s first celebrates its 50th anniversaryCitizen’s proprietary “Eco-Drive” technology: 50 years of evolution
Citizen launched the world’s first analog light-powered wristwatch (now known as Eco-Drive) in 1976, marking its 50th anniversary this year.Citizen’s proprietary “Eco-Drive” technology converts not only sunlight but even the faintest indoor light into electricity to power the watch. Continuing to pioneer the future and possibilities of timepieces, the technology is now available in over 140 countries and regions worldwide.
To celebrate this special 50th anniversary milestone, Citizen is hosting a commemorative event to share the evolutionary journey and appeal of Eco-Drive with a wide audience. At this event, visitors can explore the background and history of Eco-Drive’s development while learning about its design and technological advancements through interactive exhibits.Just as “Eco-Drive” watches, based on the concept of “Powered by Any Light,” continue to keep time by converting all forms of light into energy, we invite you to experience through various exhibits the message that the unique radiance of each wearer has the power to illuminate the future and society and propel them forward.
Immersive presentation at the ‘Eco-Drive 50th Anniversary Event’Japan’s first public display of models and over 50 archival pieces all in one place! A space tracing the history of ‘Eco-Drive’
In the section showcasing the origins of emotionally resonant designs alongside the stories of the engineers and designers behind them, the “Eco-Drive PHOTON”—a limited-edition model celebrating the 50th anniversary of Eco-Drive scheduled for release this fall—will make its Japan debut, and visitors will be able to hold and try it on.The exhibition features an interactive wall-mounted family tree illustrating the evolution and lineage of “Eco-Drive,” as well as over 50 rare archive models symbolizing its 50-year history, all displayed together in one place.
In the interactive “Eco-Drive” experience, visitors can intuitively understand the relationship between light and “Eco-Drive” watches through hands-on activities. This allows them to deepen their understanding of “Eco-Drive” technology, which converts light into energy to power the watch.”Powered by Any Light Challenge” is an interactive experience that allows participants to intuitively feel how any light source can power “Eco-Drive.”Additionally, the “Eco-Drive Mechanism Experience” is a fun, game-like activity where visitors can learn about the inner workings of “Eco-Drive,” which converts light into time. Furthermore, a capsule toy corner is set up where visitors who complete a survey can win original pins and stickers.
”Eco-Drive 50th Anniversary Event” Overview
Date and Time: Saturday, June 13, 2026, 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Last entry at 7:30 PM),June 14 (Sun) 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Last entry at 5:30 PM)
Location: Omotesando Hills Main Building B3F Space O
Admission: Free / Advance reservations prioritized *Depending on reservation status, walk-in slots may be available on the day of the event
Click here to make a reservation
