Citizen Unveils Attesa Radio-Controlled Chronographs With Direct Flight and World Time Bezel

Citizen Attesa adds two new Super Titanium radio-controlled chronographs for effortless world time travel

Citizen has expanded its popular Attesa collection with two new radio-controlled chronographs designed for frequent travelers, watch enthusiasts, and anyone who wants a highly practical timepiece with a premium finish. The new Citizen Attesa AT8296-53A and AT8297-51L combine world time functionality, solar-powered Eco-Drive technology, and lightweight Super Titanium construction in a sleek 42mm case.

While these models are not positioned as limited-edition anniversary pieces, they bring much of the Attesa line’s signature technology at a more accessible price. Both watches are scheduled to launch in Japan on October 8, with broader international availability expected afterward.

The two new Attesa chronographs share the same foundation: a 42mm Super Titanium case measuring 10.7mm thick, a sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating, a sapphire world time bezel, and Citizen’s H800 Eco-Drive movement. The case and bracelet use Citizen’s Duratect Titanium Carbide surface-hardening treatment, helping improve scratch resistance while keeping the watch lightweight at around 95g.

The AT8296-53A offers a crisp and clean look with a bright white dial. Its molded scallop-style texture adds depth without making the design feel busy. The dark blue vapor-deposited sapphire world time bezel gives the watch a sporty travel-ready character, making it a strong choice for those who prefer a fresh, modern design.

The AT8297-51L takes a more elegant approach. It features a deep navy dial paired with rose-gold-colored accents, giving the chronograph a warmer and more refined appearance. The rose-gold tone appears on the subdial rings and the city codes around the black sapphire bezel, while the silver Super Titanium case, black pushers, and black crown complete the sophisticated two-tone look.

Travel functionality is a major highlight of both models. The world time bezel displays city names for 26 time zones, and Citizen’s Direct Flight function allows the wearer to switch to a different local time zone quickly. This makes the watch especially useful for international travelers who frequently move between regions.

The H800 movement also supports radio-controlled timekeeping in Japan, China, Europe, and the United States. When a compatible radio signal is available, the watch automatically adjusts the time and calendar for improved accuracy. When no signal is received, the movement has an accuracy rating of approximately ±15 seconds per month.

As expected from Citizen, both watches run on Eco-Drive technology, meaning they are powered by light and do not require regular battery replacements. On a full charge, the watches can operate for around 10 months when power-saving mode is activated.

The chronograph function can measure elapsed time in 1/20-second increments and includes a 60-minute counter. Other practical features include a perpetual calendar, day and date display, 24-hour display, charge-level indicator, magnetic resistance to JIS Class 1 standards, and Citizen’s Perfex Multi 3000 technology for improved reliability and precision.

The Citizen Attesa AT8296-53A and AT8297-51L will be priced at ¥198,000 in Japan. International pricing has not yet been confirmed, but the models are expected to arrive in additional markets after the Japanese release.

Key specifications include:

Model: Citizen Attesa AT8296-53A and AT8297-51L

Movement: Citizen H800 Eco-Drive

Power source: Solar-powered Eco-Drive

Accuracy: ±15 seconds per month when not receiving radio signals

Power reserve: Approximately 10 months with power-saving mode

Case size: 42mm diameter, 10.7mm thickness

Case material: Super Titanium

Case finish: Duratect Titanium Carbide

Crystal: Sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating

Bezel: Sapphire glass world time ring

Bracelet: Super Titanium with three-fold push-button clasp

Bracelet width: 21mm

Water resistance: 10 ATM

Weight: Approximately 95g

World time: 26 time zones

Radio reception: Japan, China, Europe, and the Americas

Chronograph: 1/20-second measurement with 60-minute counter

Functions: Direct Flight, perpetual calendar, day/date display, 24-hour display, power-saving mode, charge-level indicator

Magnetic resistance: JIS Class 1

Technology: Perfex Multi 3000

Country of origin: Japan

With their lightweight titanium build, radio-controlled precision, solar charging, and convenient world time features, the new Citizen Attesa AT8296-53A and AT8297-51L offer a compelling blend of everyday usability and travel-focused performance. For buyers looking for a refined Japanese chronograph that can handle changing time zones with ease, these two new Attesa models are worth watching.