Citizen - Leopard - No reserve price - 4-720016Y - Men - 1969

This watch is an early first-generation example of the Citizen Leopard series, a high-end automatic watch line developed by Citizen in the late 1960s.

The Leopard series was positioned clearly above Citizen’s standard automatic models of the time.
It featured higher jewel counts, more refined movement construction, and a level of finishing intended to compete directly with high-grade domestic watches in Japan.

The late 1960s represented a critical turning point in Japanese watchmaking history, just before the widespread adoption of quartz technology.
During this period, manufacturers pushed mechanical watchmaking to its practical limits.
The first-generation Citizen Leopard embodies Citizen’s serious commitment to producing a true luxury automatic watch during this transitional era.

Based on the serial number engraved on the case back, this watch is believed to have been manufactured in January 1969, placing it firmly among the earliest generation of the Citizen Leopard series.

Early Leopard models were produced in relatively limited numbers, and today they are considered rare and highly collectible in the Japanese market, where well-preserved examples are often traded at premium prices.
This model is not merely a vintage Citizen, but an important piece in the history of high-grade Japanese automatic watchmaking.

Movement and functions

The watch is powered by a Citizen automatic movement with 26 jewels.

Automatic winding

Date quickset via crown at first position

Day change by rotating the hands

Day-Date display

Case and dial

Stainless steel case

Case reference: 4-720016Y

Silver dial

Applied baton indices

Citizen Leopard logo

“26 JEWELS” marking

Day-Date window

The dial design reflects the restrained, functional elegance characteristic of late-1960s Japanese watch design, balancing clarity, refinement, and purpose.

Strap

The watch is fitted with a new leather strap.

Condition and operation

The watch is running at the time of listing.
When gently shaken, a rattling sound can be heard from inside the case.
The crown operates slightly firm, but functions correctly for time and calendar adjustment.
As a vintage automatic watch, accuracy, long-term stability, and water resistance are not guaranteed.

The watch will be carefully packed and shipped with tracking to ensure safe delivery.