The Citizen Chronograph Challenge Timer 67-9038 is a standout from the golden age of mechanical chronographs. Released in the mid-1970s, it features Citizen’s in-house Caliber 8110A, a high-beat, 23-jewel automatic movement with a rare flyback chronograph function, originally built for pilots. With just one push, the chronograph hand resets and restarts, offering seamless timing precision that few vintage chronos can match.
Design-wise, the watch makes an immediate impression. Its reverse panda dial, deep blue with contrasting silver sub-dials, sets a bold yet refined tone. Orange accents on the chronograph hands and a subtle cyan detail on the hour counter inject just enough color to stand out without overpowering. The white tachymeter ring around the edge reinforces its sporty character, while the day-date window (often in English and Kanji) nods to its Japanese Domestic Market roots.
The case is a polished stainless steel body with a black coated bezel, giving it a solid, grounded presence on the wrist. Measuring around 38mm in diameter and 42mm lug-to-lug, it wears comfortably and confidently. The signed CTZ crown, smooth pushers, and original solid link bracelet complete the look, making this timepiece not only a technical achievement but also a timeless piece of design.
