Citizen Caliber 0855: Slim Quartz Analog Movement with Date Display for Elegant Compact Watches

The Citizen Caliber 0855 is a battery-powered quartz analog movement, designed for watches that prioritize slim cases, lightweight construction, and daily reliability. This movement powers many of Citizen’s classic, dress, and minimalist watches, especially models tailored to smaller wrists. With a clean design and just the essential features—three hands and a date—the 0855 offers timeless utility in an ultra-compact form.

Core Features

The 0855 is a time-and-date quartz movement, featuring the following:

• Three-hand analog display: Hour, minute, and central seconds

• Date display: Quick-set window, usually positioned at 3 o’clock

• Quartz-regulated accuracy: ±20 seconds per month

• Battery powered: Standard silver oxide cell

• Battery life: ~2 to 3 years under normal usage

• Non-hacking seconds: Second hand does not stop when setting time

• Simple crown operation: No extra complications

• Slim movement thickness: Ideal for watches with elegant, flat profiles

• No chronograph, alarm, or digital display

• No solar (Eco-Drive) or radio-controlled sync

This movement is made for users who want basic timekeeping with a classic look, without extra features or distractions.

Time and Date Setting

The 0855 operates with a standard two-position crown, easy to use for anyone:

• Position 0 (pushed in): Normal operation

• Position 1 (half pulled): Rotate crown to quick-set the date

• Position 2 (fully pulled): Rotate to adjust hour and minute hands

⚠️ Important: Avoid changing the date between 9:00 PM and 3:00 AM, as the date-change gear may be engaged during this period. Doing so can cause mechanical wear or misalignment.

The second hand continues to run during setting, which is typical for non-hacking quartz movements.

Battery and Power Management

• Battery type: SR626SW or equivalent (1.55V silver oxide)

• Battery life: Around 2–3 years depending on usage and conditions

• Low battery signs:

  • Second hand stops or ticks irregularly

  • Timekeeping becomes unreliable

  • Date function may lag or stop

Battery replacement is quick and inexpensive. It is recommended to have it done by a professional to maintain water resistance and ensure proper hand alignment.

Movement Architecture

The 0855 is designed with durability and compactness in mind:

• Movement diameter: Suited for 22–30 mm watch cases

• Slim profile: Enables ultra-thin case designs

• Plastic baseplate for light weight

• Metal gear train for long-term performance

• Date mechanism integrated directly onto the main plate

This architecture makes the movement highly adaptable for fashion watches, jewelry-style watches, and minimalist wristwear.

Watch Integration and Design

Watches using the 0855 movement typically feature:

• Case size: 26–32 mm (mostly in women’s or unisex collections)

• Dial style: Clean, classic layouts with baton markers or Roman numerals

• Case materials: Stainless steel, gold-tone, titanium, or alloy

• Strap options: Leather bands, slim bracelets, or mesh straps

• Crystal: Mineral glass (occasionally sapphire in higher-end models)

• Water resistance: Typically 30M to 50M

These watches are built to be lightweight, stylish, and perfect for daily or dress wear.

Maintenance and Longevity

The 0855 is designed for ease of ownership:

• Replace the battery every 2–3 years

• No lubrication or internal service required under normal conditions

• Clean exterior and strap occasionally

• Have the gaskets checked during battery changes to preserve water resistance

With minimal maintenance, the 0855 can run smoothly for decades, offering excellent long-term value.

Ideal Users

The Citizen 0855 movement is ideal for:

• Women seeking elegant, everyday watches

• Users who prefer minimalist designs with date functionality

• Gift buyers looking for reliable, attractive timepieces

• Professionals or students who need a no-hassle watch

• Watch collectors focused on slim, vintage, or quartz dress models

Its reliable accuracy and discreet size make it a go-to movement in the compact analog category.

Summary

The Citizen Caliber 0855 is a slim, battery-powered analog quartz movement offering hour, minute, second, and date functions in a clean and compact layout. Perfect for smaller watches, especially for women’s and minimalist models, the 0855 combines accuracy, simplicity, and low maintenance in one reliable package. If you’re seeking a no-fuss timekeeper that performs year after year, this movement is an ideal choice.