The Solid Citizen - Basic Citizen Watches for Men

When it comes to watches for men, sometimes basic models are best.  They have a simple, functionality, that can be refreshing.  The trend towards basic models that sometimes invoke the classic watches of the 1960s and 1970s, has been called the classical revival.  I just think basic watches are good for readability, reliability, and focus on the essential task of telling the time.  I recently spotted two excellent examples of basic watches from Citizen at my local Belk department store.

Citizen Men's Silver-Tone Stainless Steel Watch

The first watch I sighted is this Citizen Silver-Tone Stainless Steel Watch (Model BF0580-57L).  It has a brilliant blue dial, a stainless steel band, and a pair of classic Citizen batons at 12 o'clock.  It has a 40 millimeter diameter case, and a day and date window in the 3 o'clock position.  It's the kind of no nonsense wristwatch that lets potential employers know that you are ready for business.  The crown is protected with bump-outs from the case.  Water resistance is only 30 meters so you'll have to leave it in your shoes when you go to the beach.

Citizen Stainless Steel Watch

Watches like this Citizen Stainless Watch go on sale regularly and can bring customers into a department store.  Updating this post in July of 2025, the price of these watches on Amazon is still quite reasonable.  Here is the similar Citizen (Model BF0580-06E). As of this update in 2025, it is 29% off and comes in at just less than $100. You can see this watch here on Amazon.

Citizen Quartz Day-Date Watch (Model BF0580-06E)

Citizen Men's Stainless Steel Bracelet Watch

This Citizen Men's Stainless Steel Bracelet Watch (Model BI1030-53A) is another no-nonsense watch that is perfect for job interviews.  It has a 42 millimeter diameter case with a date window at the 6 o'clock position.

Citizen Silver Tone Three Hand Watch (Basic)

In 2016, Belk called this watch the Silver Tone Three Hand Watch (Basic) and sold it for around $90.  It was a good deal. In 2025, you can still find similar watches (the Citizen BI5010-059E) with a price of around $140.  However, it is now available in black and, as of July 2025, was selling at 29% off.  With that 2025 deal price, you can find it here on Amazon for less than $100.  

Citizen Quartz Watch (BI5010-59E)

As simple as these watches seem, it's tempting to simply buy a generic watch.  There are plenty of them around.  However, you notice the fit, finish, and quality of materials simply aren't up to the levels set by the mainstream powerhouse brands like Citizen, Seiko, or Pulsar.  It's worth it to get into the respected brands.  Otherwise, a watch might get noticed for all the wrong reasons.

[This post was updated in July 2025 to provide new comparison watches and links.]