Every year around this time of year, I'm drawn to watches with cherry blossom motifs.If you're a watch lover, you'll probably agree. But this year is a little different. Citizen Cross Sea celebrated its 30th anniversary, and the SAKURA limited model "ES9498-77N", which was born at this milestone, has a level of perfection that sets it apart from its predecessors. The white mother-of-pearl dial, cherry blossom etching, and lab-grown diamonds all combine to give you the feeling of wearing a jewelry box on your wrist.
Limited to 2,200 pieces worldwide. If you are interested, please read to the end.
Special specification with a flower box motif.
A 27mm case that fits comfortably on thin arms.
A trio of white pearl shell x cherry blossom etching x diamond.
The elegant shine of Duratect Sakura Pink.
■ Cross Sea's 30th anniversary, the weight of a limited edition born at a turning point
It has been 30 years since Cross Sea was born. One of the SAKURA limited models planned for this memorable turning point is this "ES9498-77N." This is not just an anniversary model; it is a condensed work of craftsmanship, with cherry blossoms and buds etched onto the white pearl dial and studded with four lab-grown diamonds.
The design motif is a "flower box". The tightly packed cherry blossoms are about to bloom on the dial. The desire to celebrate a new start is embedded in this approach, which is typical of Cross Sea, which has been supporting women for 30 years.
■ The dial is the result of "craftsmanship"
The core of this watch is the dial. It has an elaborate finish with layers of white pearl shell base, cherry blossom etching, and 4 points of lab-grown diamonds.
Lab-grown diamonds are stones that have the same chemical composition and physical properties as natural diamonds, but are produced using methods that reduce environmental impact. It's a modern choice because it doesn't compromise on shine and is sustainable. The face of the dial changes depending on how the light hits it, and it brings a little luxury into everyday life.
■ Add practicality to beauty with Eco Drive radio waves and Perfectex
I've only talked about the appearance, but the inside is also authentic. Equipped with Caliber H060, the Eco Drive radio-controlled solar requires no battery replacement as long as there is light. It supports radio wave reception in four areas around the world: Japan, China, America, and Europe, so you don't have to worry about setting the time when traveling domestically or overseas.
What I would like to draw your attention to is a unique technology called "Perfex". It integrates JIS Class 1 magnetic resistance, shock detection function, and automatic hand correction function to protect your watch from smartphone magnetism and accidental shocks. Although it looks delicate, it continues to move tough in all everyday situations - it has such reliability.
It also has a world time function (24 hour difference), and the accuracy is ±15 seconds per month on average when not receiving data. It has a generous design that allows for approximately 3 years of continuous operation when power save is activated.
■ “Lightness x Strength” created by Super Titanium + Duratect
The case and band are made of super titanium. Citizen's proprietary material is approximately 40% lighter than stainless steel and has a surface hardness more than 5 times. It weighs about 34g, which is surprisingly light, so you won't feel any strain on your wrist even if you wear it for a long time. It's slim, about 8.5mm thick, and fits neatly into your cuff.
The surface treatment is Duratect Sakura Pink. The delicate cherry blossom pink color can be maintained beautifully for a long time - this is possible only with super titanium. It is also water resistant to 5 ATM, so you can continue to wear it without worrying about getting it wet.
■ The reality is limited to 2,200 pieces worldwide.
If you're thinking, "Maybe I should buy one someday," stop and think about it for a moment. Limited to 2,200 pieces worldwide - considering the number allocated to Japan, the number you can actually get is quite limited. This is a planned model unique to the 30th anniversary, and there is no guarantee that similar specifications will be released next time.
As a reward for yourself or as a present for a loved one. The limited edition box that comes with the watch is specially designed in pink and white, and the cushion with cherry blossom embroidery gently envelops the watch, making it the perfect gift. The moment you see one is your chance to get it.
■ Main features
- 30th Anniversary SAKURA limited model:Rare model limited to 2,200 pieces worldwide
- White pearl dial + cherry blossom etching:Delicate craftsman finish with flower box motif
- 4 Lab Grown Diamonds:Same quality as natural stone, sustainable shine
- Eco Drive Radio Solar:Reception in four areas: Japan, China, America and Europe, no need to replace batteries
- Perfect:Three functions integrated: JIS class 1 magnetic resistance, shock detection, and automatic needle correction
- Super titanium:40% lighter and 5 times more hard than stainless steel
- Duratect Sakura Pink:Scratch-resistant and beautiful cherry-colored surface treatment
- World time (24 hour difference):Practical functions that can be used overseas
- Direct flight:Smooth time adjustment with one-touch operation
- Approximately 34g:Made of full titanium, lightweight for all-day comfort
- 5 ATM waterproof:Responsive to everyday water exposure
- Made in Japan:Made in Japan
■Specs
| brand | CITIZEN |
|---|---|
| series | Cross Sea (xC) hikari collection |
| Product number | ES9498-77N |
| edition | 30th Anniversary SAKURA limited Model |
| Limited number | Limited to 2,200 pieces worldwide |
| Caliber No. | H060 |
| Drive method | Photovoltaic Eco Drive (H060-04M) |
| precision | Average monthly difference ±15 seconds (when not receiving) |
| duration | Approximately 3 years (when power save is activated) |
| Radio wave reception | China, China, America and Europe radio wave reception (4 areas around the world) |
| case material | Super Titanium/Duratect Sakura Pink (cherry blossom color) |
| band material | Super Titanium/Duratect Sakura Pink (Sakura color)/Simple adjustable type |
| glass | Spherical sapphire glass (non-reflective coating) |
| Dial color | Pink gold color (white lipped oyster) |
| belt color | pink gold color |
| case size | Approximately 35×27×8.5mm |
| belt width | Approximately 12mm |
| weight | Approximately 34g |
| belt around arm | Maximum approximately 18cm |
| waterproof | 5 ATM water resistant |
| resistance | Nickel allergy resistant/magnetic resistant type 1 |
| Other functions | Perfex (JIS class 1 magnetic resistance, shock detection function, automatic hand correction function) / World time 24 hour difference / Direct flight / Summer time function / Perpetual calendar / Date display / Remaining charge display / Charge warning / Overcharge prevention / Power save function |
| accessories | Warranty/Limited BOX (pink x white, with cherry blossom embroidered cushion) |
| Release date | Released in March 2026 |
| list price | 148,500 yen (tax included) |
| Guarantee | 3 years international warranty (5 years domestic warranty with MY CITIZEN registration) *Nanapure is currently running a 7-year warranty campaign. |
| Country of origin | Made in Japan |
■ Recommended for these people
- Those looking for the limited edition Cross Sea model or the SAKURA series
- Those who want an elegant ladies watch using white pearl shells and diamonds
- Eco-Drive Those who are looking for a hassle-free watch with radio solar control
- Those who want to get a special book for the 30th anniversary
- Those looking for a lightweight, thin dress watch that is easy to use on a daily basis
- Those who are thinking of a present or souvenir for a loved one
- For those who are particular about Japanese-made super titanium materials.
- Those who like cherry blossom/spring motif accessories
■ Buyer's comment
To be honest, at first I looked at it a little sideways, wondering if it was a limited edition model with a cherry blossom motif. However, the moment I held the actual product in my hands, that impression completely changed. The delicate etching of the cherry blossoms floating on the white pearl shell base, and the casual sparkle of the four diamonds, makes it feel like opening a real flower box. At 34g, it's also lighter than I expected, to the point where you forget you're carrying it on your arm. If you include the limited edition box that comes with it, it's the perfect choice as a gift. The number of 2,200 pieces worldwide is slowly coming to me.
■ Purchase at each mall
■ Related model (cross sea)
■ Consult on LINE
