 |
| The Citizen-Promaster NB6044-54L, pictured against a white background. |
Watch enthusiasts and aviation fans, take note: Citizen is adding a striking new model to its celebrated Promaster GMT line, and it’s dressed in the iconic colors of the U.S. Navy’s Blue Angels. The new reference NB6044-54L has surfaced through an online announcement, sparking immediate interest for its bold design and tool-watch functionality.
The reveal came via the popular horology Instagram account @plus9time, giving us our first clear look at what appears to be a more substantial and technically oriented take on the beloved Blue Angels theme.
You can see the initial announcement and leaked images for yourself right here.
A Design That Commands Attention
At first glance, the NB6044-54L makes a strong visual statement. It features a vibrant blue dial punctuated by strategic yellow accents—a direct homage to the Blue Angels' aircraft. The aviation DNA is further emphasized by a functional rotating yellow slide-rule chapter ring, a pilot’s tool used for in-flight calculations. This isn't just for show; it’s a nod to the watch's purpose-built heritage.
The layout is clean yet highly technical. Oversized applied markers anchor the dial at 12 and 6 o’clock, ensuring optimal legibility. A framed date window sits at three, while a vivid yellow GMT hand sweeps across the dial, offering practical tracking of a second time zone—a crucial feature for travelers and aviation professionals.
Built to Perform: Key Specifications
This new edition doesn’t shy away from a commanding presence on the wrist. Key specs include:
- Case: A 44.5mm stainless steel case, measuring 12.7mm thick, positioning it as one of the larger modern Promaster GMTs.
- Movement: Inside beats Citizen’s Caliber 9054, an automatic GMT movement. It features hacking seconds and a practical local hour hand that can be adjusted independently without disturbing the GMT or minute hands—perfect for crossing time zones.
- Details: A sapphire crystal protects the dial, while the caseback is solidly engraved with the Blue Angels logo, reference number, and a 200-meter water resistance rating.
- Bracelet: It comes on a stainless-steel bracelet with a push-button clasp, complete with engraved branding.
The knurled textures on the crown and the secondary GMT adjustment crown at 2 o’clock enhance both the tactile experience and the tool-watch aesthetic.
A Legacy of High-Flying Collaboration
This release is part of Citizen’s long-standing partnership with the U.S. Navy’s Blue Angels flight demonstration squadron. Over the years, this collaboration has yielded numerous Eco-Drive and mechanical models. The NB6044-54L, however, seems to be a step toward a more premium, mechanically focused offering compared to the commonly seen quartz editions, potentially catering to the discerning collector.
Availability and Expectations
As of now, official pricing and global market availability have not been confirmed. Given that the initial announcement was shared by Citizen Hong Kong, it is likely the first releases will occur in the Asian market before a wider rollout. Based on the history of Blue Angels-themed releases, demand is expected to be high among both aviation memorabilia collectors and dedicated Promaster fans.
More details, including the retail price and regional ordering information, should follow once Citizen makes an official update through its global channels.
For those intrigued by the Promaster line but seeking a different flavor, you might want to explore the popular *Citizen Promaster BN0151-09L diver on Amazon*, known for its robustness and classic design.
Stay tuned for updates as this high-flying timepiece prepares for takeoff.