The Manual Wind: Citizen Eco-Drive Satellite Wave F100

By Ian Schwam January 14, 2015

manual wind citizen eco drive satellite wave f100 — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Quartz watches are often denoted as a lower end timepiece. Contrary to that belief, they are a segment all in their own. You simply cannot compare a quartz watch to a mechanical watch. Within this quartz watch part of the market, their in lies the GPS segment. This small grouping consists of the big three Japanese companies most known for quartz watches; Citizen, Seiko, and Casio. Each of the three have their version of the GPS watch. This is not a timepiece that offers directions, rather using satellites determines your timezone and adjusts the date and time for accuracy.

CITIZEN-Eco-Drive-SATELLITE-WAVE-F100-WATCHES-SATOVI-6 — Image used with permission by copyright holder

One of these GPS pieces caught my eye. The Citizen Eco-Drive Satellite Wave F100. Striking not only for its function, this 45mm quartz timepiece is versatile with a modern edge. Reminiscent of an IWC Aquatimer case and bracelet, this design incorporates sharp edges of polished and brushed titanium elements to create exceptional watch ergonomics. Large enough for good wrist presence without being overpowering, the Wave F100 offers comfort and durability to a timepiece that looks as if it was pulled from the future.

CITIZEN-Eco-Drive-SATELLITE-WAVE-F100-WATCHES-SATOVI-2 — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Under the hood lies the Eco-Drive F100. Although simple in dial design, this watch is far from simple. Offering a perpetual calendar, power reserve, and day/date all with the ability to be set via satellite, the 12.5mm thick timepiece really packs it in. Charging the movement by sunlight, as Eco-Drive technology is known to do, Citizen has built upon this to create one of the most versatile quartz watches to date. The only downside to this piece is its complexity to learn to set. With so many functions and such a clean look, it is no surprise you might want to carry around the manual for your first week or two.

Not all watches are created equal, but at least compare apples to apples. When taking a look at the quartz GPS segment of this vast watch world, The Citizen Eco-Drive Satellite Wave F100 certainly stands out. From its ultra light futuristic case and bracelet, and hidden functionality, technology truly defines this timepiece. At a very affordable $1,800, if you had to own one quartz watch in your collection, this should be a serious contender.

Topics

Watches

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Contributing writer and watch enthusiast Ian Schwam dons an expert knowledge of all things watches. Having spent a decade in…

Fashion & Style

Best G-Shock Prime Day deals: As low as $50

G-SHOCK MTG-B3000PRB1 'Aurora Oval' Limited Edition

Prime Day is over for another year, but there are still some excellent watch deals around if you haven't got round to buying yourself a new watch yet. Right now, we're focusing on the best G-Shock Prime Day deals which remain. There are some great discounts around on the already highly affordable brand so you can enjoy some deep discounts in no time. These deals could end at any moment given Prime Day is over so don't delay if you see one that you love. These G-Shock deals won't be around forever so take a look at what's there and read up on our buying advice below.
The best G-Shock Prime Day deal
Casio G-Shock GWM5610 -- $103, was $150

Casio's G-Shock is a brand that's known for its durability, and the Casio G-Shock GWM5610 is an excellent example of what you can expect from its digital watches. It's an extremely tough watch because its shock-resistant design provides protection against all sorts of impact and vibration, and it also has 20-bar water resistance so you can wear it during swimming, surfing, jet skiing -- even just while taking a shower. G-Shock EL Backlight is also present, allowing you to see the watch face even in complete darkness. The Casio G-Shock GWM5610 is solar-powered, allowing it to convert even the faintest of light into energy that will keep it running without the need to replace batteries.

Fashion & Style

Best Timex Prime Day deals: starting at $38

While Prime Day might officially be over, there are still some great watch deals going on right now. While the deals may be lowering in number, there's still a chance to save big on some awesome affordable watches from Timex. These Timex watch deals are varied and delightful. Besides rounding up all the best deals, we've also taken the time to think about what you should consider when choosing a Timex watch, so you know exactly what will be best for your needs and situation. Here's what's out there but be quick as deals will end soon!
Best Timex Prime Day Deal
Timex Men's Weekender 40mm -- $38, was $65

The Timex Weekender is a wristwatch with a classic design, featuring a 40mm brass case with mineral glass crystal and a silver-tone finish, and an adjustable genuine leather strap. The watch features the brand's Indiglo light-up dial, and it's water resistant to depths of up to 100 feet. The Timex Weekender isn't designed to be worn for swimming, but it will be able to withstand splashes of water or brief immersion, so it's an excellent watch for weekend trips to the beachfront or pool parties. It's also pretty durable, so you don't have to be extra careful with your movements while you're wearing this watch.

Fashion & Style

Best Casio Prime Day deals: Cheap digital watches for $30

Casio G Shock MRG-G2000GA Gassan

While Prime Day is now over for another year, there are still some great watch deals around if you missed out on the main sales events. Numbers may be waning but there are some sweet bargains to chase still. We've rounded up all the best Casio Prime Day deals so you can save even more on the already highly affordable watch brand. It's perfect for a first watch or something a little retro. Besides picking out all the deals, we've also spent some time offering up what to consider when choosing a Casio watch too. Here's all you need to know but be fast as these deals will end very soon.
Best Casio Prime Day deal
Casio AE1200WH Series digital watch -- $30, was $43

The Casio AE1200WH Series digital watch is relatively affordable, but it's packed with features that you would appreciate on your wrist watch. It has a world time function that will let you check the time in 48 cities across 31 time zones, which will be very helpful for those who are working with colleagues spread across the globe. The watch will let you set up to five alarms, either on a daily basis or a one-time alert, and you can also activate an hourly time signal if you need to know whenever a new hour starts. The Casio AE1200WH Series digital watch is also water resistant to depths of up to 100 meters, so it's fine to wear while swimming and it won't be damaged by sudden rainfall, and its battery can last up to 10 years before requiring a replacement.