Staying with the ‘Custom’ models, this week is one of Citizen’s first black coated models to reach the market in 1970. Nicknamed ‘Blackie’ models, the new coating was used over a light alloy case to reduce weight and improve scratch and wear resistance.

The 7290 ‘hacking’ automatic 23 jewel movement is used, running at 21,600 beats per hour, this one originally retailed at JPY13,500:

The main hands on my example are probably not original – I believe they should be black with orange lume – and the day wheel should also be black. It also has the wrong case back, so this is not my best buy! (it was an early purchase, before I acquired greater knowledge ;))

But for now it is my only example of this particular model – so here’s a closer look at the dial with it’s rather neat raised hour markers and ‘tail-less’ second hand:

The 7290 movement, typically marked:

The movement number clearly stamped:

And finally here’s how it was in 1970!:

(image courtesy of Citizen Japan)