Citizen’s star wars duel 2.0: a pixelated showdown for the wrist

The Force is strong with this one. Citizen, notorious for its collaborations with pop culture behemoths, has unleashed the Star Wars Duel 2.0 – a chronograph that’s less a watch and more a miniature recreation of a legendary battle.

A duel on the dial

Forget subtle nods; this timepiece throws you headfirst into the Cloud City showdown between Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader from The Empire Strikes Back. The dial is the star, showcasing the iconic confrontation with a meticulously detailed graphic. A smaller, white silhouette of Skywalker sits above 6 o’clock, a defiant counterpoint to the imposing, helmeted Vader who dominates the 12 o’clock position.

It’s a deliberate, almost aggressive statement. Citizen hasn’t shied away from visual impact; they've built the entire design around this single, arresting image.

Tech under the hood

Beneath the dramatic aesthetic lies the dependable Citizen Eco-Drive. The J800 movement, drawing power from ambient light, ensures perpetual operation – no battery changes required. The 42mm stainless steel case offers a robust 100 meters of water resistance, suggesting this isn’t a delicate collector’s piece; it’s built for daily wear. And let’s be blunt: it’s substantial.

The blue and red hands, mirroring the lightsabers of the two protagonists, are a small but effective detail. Equally noteworthy are the corresponding strap keepers, adding another layer of thematic cohesion.

Availability and price

Currently available for £249 in the UK, the Duel 2.0’s anticipated U.S. release for Father’s Day is generating considerable buzz. While official confirmation remains elusive, whispers suggest a May the Fourth debut – a strategic move, undoubtedly. But the real question isn’t when it arrives, but whether it can truly capture the epic scale of the Star Wars universe on your wrist. Frankly, it’s a bold attempt, and one that’s likely to divide opinion – but it’s undeniably eye-catching.