Citizen Newmaster 1964 Peripheral Rotor

G99 · 2013-06-11T05:51:52Z

Explore the 1964 Citizen Newmaster, an early Japanese watch with a peripheral rotor, challenging modern perceptions of this winding innovation. Discover its history and technical details.

G99

WPS member · Horological Meandering forum

22 replies6189 views6 photos

G99's discovery of a 1964 Citizen Newmaster with a peripheral rotor challenges common perceptions about the origins of this innovative automatic winding system. His post highlights how this vintage Japanese timepiece predates more contemporary examples, prompting a fascinating discussion among collectors about its historical significance and technical merits. This piece offers a unique look at early horological innovation often overlooked in mainstream narratives.

i remember vividly when Carl.F.Bucherer released their peripheral rotor automatic. i thought it was a great way to design a rotor and still appreciate the movement. i dont think they ever said they were the first to produce such a movement and this is probably why. 3 months ago i picked up this very nice piece. the watch in question is a Citizen Newmaster. a 21 jewelled automatic with date and peripheral rotor and waterproof case. for its year it is a decent size at 36mm and is just a nice looking watch of the period. nothing special, but just nice. i appreciate the rotor system isnt as attractive as the Bucherer, but it does have a simple clutch mechanism for bi directional winding so is quite ahead of its time. the price? well it was less than the light lunch i had on saturday(you really must visit 69 in Palmerston road Southsea if you are ever in portsmouth) I'll let the pics do the talking.

i hope you enjoy this bargain basement, yet quite innovative piece. i know i do. Graham.

Key Points from the Discussion

The peripheral rotor design, while visually appealing for showcasing the movement, may not be as efficient as a traditional central rotor, potentially affecting winding for sedentary wearers.
Patek Philippe also utilized a peripheral rotor in their I-350 caliber, which was later replaced by the more conventional Caliber 240, suggesting challenges with the design's long-term viability or user experience.
The original author, G99, previously owned a 1965 Citizen Superjet with a peripheral rotor, noting its distinctive, somewhat noisy operation compared to the quieter 1964 Newmaster.
The concept of a caseback crown, sometimes associated with movements designed to maximize dial aesthetics or accommodate unique winding systems, can be a practical compromise that not all collectors appreciate.
G99 found the winding mechanism of Romain Gauthier's watches, which utilize a caseback 'thing,' to be cumbersome, requiring significant effort to wind, similar to the winding experience of a Ulysse Nardin Freak.

The Discussion

KIH

Jun 11, 2013

... via my contact at Citizen and get back to you..... Great find, by the way! Ken

G99

Jun 11, 2013

i didnt mean it as a question Ken, just a way of opening the thread. i know its possible as i have one, but others may not know it was possible. best Graham. On 11 Jun 2013 14:30, "www watchprosite" *Alert from:* www:watchprosite > *Posted By:* KIH (registered) on June 11th, 2013 - 06:30 > > *Title: I will try to get the answer... > * > > *

KIH

Jun 11, 2013

... I meant to try to find out more info and background, if possible, on that model :-) Ken

G99

Jun 11, 2013

lol :) On 11 Jun 2013 14:55, "www watchprosite" *Alert from:* www:watchprosite > *Posted By:* KIH (registered) on June 11th, 2013 - 06:55 > > *Title: Hahaha... > * > > *

Marcus Hanke

Jun 11, 2013

I remember a post of yours, nearly four years ago: the rotor goes all the way round the top of the movement with 1 weighted side. my guess is that it was intended to equalise the weight of the rotors 'weight' on the movement. its called the superjet. i've seen another model like it but cant remember who made it. the problem with it is it makes an awful sound when it rotates which is normal. i actually sold it 2 days ago. a weird design. best Graham Apparently, you rediscovered your interest in

G99

Jun 11, 2013

you are quite right Marcus, i had a gold plated one with black dial, but it was pre my 64 collection and dated 65. this new one is much quieter, but still no hush puppy. quite a clever idea, just slightly flawed in its use. G On 11 Jun 2013 15:01, "www watchprosite" *Alert from:* www:watchprosite > *Posted By:* Marcus Hanke (registered) on June 11th, 2013 - 07:01 > > *Title: Old love rediscovered, Graham? > * > > *

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