Citizen Caliber 9600: Compact Digital Movement with LCD Analog Display

The Citizen Cal. 9600 is a precision-engineered digital quartz movement known for its compact size, digital timekeeping, and a unique analog simulation via LCD. Built for slim, modern digital watches, this movement reflects Citizen’s advanced micro-electronics and quartz timekeeping technology with a clever display layout and essential features.

Main Features

The 9600 combines quartz accuracy with a digital interface designed to simulate traditional analog watch visuals. This is accomplished through Citizen’s "3-hands method" LCD analog display, where the hours, minutes, and seconds are digitally presented in the form of moving hand indicators on a screen.

Primary features include:

• Digital time display (hours, minutes, seconds)

• Analog-style display via LCD

• Chime (hourly)

• Daily alarm

• Quartz crystal oscillator regulation

• Battery-powered (low consumption)

Dimensions and Design

• Size: 18.0 mm × 17.0 mm × 2.1 mm

• Power Cell: Part No. 280-53

• Weight: ~3.9 grams (with power cell)

Despite its functionality, the 9600 is extremely slim, making it ideal for sleek digital dress watches. It balances minimalism with essential functionality.

Construction and Display

The LC display panel is the core visual element of this movement. While it is digital, the analog simulation of three hands is what makes this movement particularly unique. The visual layout is enhanced by optional reflecting plates, available in both silver (Part No. 211-123) and gold (Part No. 211-124) versions. These plates improve contrast and allow the display to appear more traditional or luxurious, depending on the model.

The buzzer function provides an audible signal for the alarm and hourly chime, enabled through the buzzer contact spring (Part No. 902-172).

Key Components and Their Part Numbers

Here are some of the most important parts used in this caliber:

• Power Cell: 280-53

• LC Display Panel: 281-797

• Connection Rubber for LCD: 258-082

• Power Cell Connector Spring: 231-116

• Insulator Sheet: 233-181

• Power Cell Insulator: 233-179

• Plate Supporter: 228-073

• Reflecting Plates:

  • Silver: 211-123

  • Gold: 211-124

• Switch Wheel: 213-022

• Setting Stem: 065-309

• LC Display Holder: 176-079

The part modularity and clear component separation make this movement easy to service. The supporter for plate complete ensures mechanical integrity when accessing or replacing the power cell or display elements.

Applications

The 9600 is a great fit for:

• Slim digital watches with a traditional aesthetic

• Unisex models requiring basic alarm and time functions

• Entry-level luxury digital pieces with a refined LCD layout

• Low-profile wristwear emphasizing clarity and simplicity

Its analog LCD simulation adds a visual sophistication that appeals to users who prefer the look of traditional watches without mechanical movement complexity.

Maintenance and Longevity

Like most Citizen digital quartz movements, the 9600 is designed for low-maintenance operation. The battery life is extended by the low-power LCD and the absence of energy-hungry backlight systems. Typical service involves:

• Battery replacement

• Cleaning or replacement of the LCD panel

• Inspecting buzzer and contact rubbers for corrosion or aging

The inclusion of replaceable parts like insulators and rubber connectors makes this movement cost-effective to repair and reliable over the years.

Conclusion

The Citizen Caliber 9600 delivers quartz precision in a slim digital movement with visually satisfying analog simulation. Compact, efficient, and stylish, it’s a versatile module that balances innovation with simplicity. Ideal for fashion-forward or classic-inspired digital watches, the 9600 showcases Citizen's unique ability to blend tradition and technology.