Citizen Super Ace A51507081, 14K Gold-Plated, 38mm Oversized Case, 23 Jewels, Manual Wind, Overhauled, Made in 1963 (Showa 38)

This is a Citizen Super Ace from 1963.
The Citizen Super Ace is a high-grade model that inherits the design philosophy of the "Deluxe"—the bestseller of its time—while achieving even greater precision and an increased jewel count (23 jewels).

■ A Rare Model with a Large 38mm Case

A major appeal of this timepiece is its large 38mm diameter case, which is exceptional for a vintage watch. Significantly larger than the mainstream sizes of the era (33–35mm) and featuring thick, powerful lugs, this design projects an overwhelming presence that remains timeless in modern attire.

■ A Testament to an Era: The "80 Microns" Engraving

The case back clearly bears the engraving "14K GOLD FILLED 80 MICRONS." This specification boasts a gold layer approximately four times thicker than standard gold plating (about 20 microns) of that time.
During this transitional period when domestic watches were moving toward luxury, such a proud declaration of specific thickness serves as "evidence of an era that spared no cost in craftsmanship" before subsequent cost-cutting measures became common. The fact that the base metal is not exposed, even on the edges of the lugs after more than half a century, eloquently speaks to its high quality.

■ A Special Movement and the Pride of the Three Stars

Inside, it features a 23-jewel movement with a beautiful red-gold plating. The movement bears the "SPECIALLY ADJUSTED" engraving, indicating it has undergone strict adjustment in five positions, and the dial features the three-star mark, a symbol of high precision.
Even among the Super Ace models, which had a short production run of only about a year, this piece is highly valuable in terms of documentation due to its exceptionally high-end specifications for both the exterior and interior.

■ Refined Details

The sunburst dial, which changes its appearance depending on the angle of light, is accented by the elegant cursive "Citizen Super Ace" logo. The combination of imposing multifaceted bar indices and dauphine hands creates a look that is classic yet modern and bold. This is an exceptional piece for those seeking a special watch that balances dressiness with a sophisticated presence.

Condition

This watch has been overhauled.

The leather strap has been replaced with a new CASSIS (Mules) strap, ready for comfortable wear.

The crystal has been replaced with a new aftermarket part (it maintains clear visibility, with only minor scuffs from storage).
The dial retains the luster of its sunburst finish, though it shows light scuffs due to age, as well as a small dent and minor staining near the 9 o'clock position.

As this is a vintage watch, it is not waterproof. Do not use it in environments with moisture (such as on rainy days, while washing your face, or on hot, sweaty days).
As it is a precision instrument, please be careful to avoid drops, strong shocks, and magnetism (smartphones, PCs, etc.).

Operating Instructions

How to pull the crown: Insert a fingernail between the case and the crown and use a levering motion.

Pulling the crown too forcefully may cause it to come out. Please pull it gently.
To prevent bending the crown, remove the watch from your wrist before operating.
Gentle handling reduces the strain on the crown.

Hand-winding: Rotate upward while the crown is in the normal position.

Time setting: Pull the crown out and rotate downward.

The second hand does not hack (stop).