October DealsAmazon USOctober deal check: compare before you payAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsWindows FixRecommendedWindows errors stealing your time? Find the fix fastScan stability, cleanup and performance issues.Fix NowOctober DealsAmazon USDeal season is back - check today's better picksAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.See Picks×
Skip to content
WatchRanker
Search
For vendors
Challenge Diver

Citizen 62-6198 Challenge Diver: A Vintage Watch Review and Buying Guide

The Citizen 62-6198 is a 1970s automatic diver with wearable reported dimensions and a distinctive tool-watch design. Learn what varies between examples and what to inspect before buying.

By WatchRanker Team 5 min read
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

The Citizen 62-6198 Challenge Diver is a substantial, practical 1970s automatic diver with a distinctive dial and bezel—and enough variation between surviving examples that condition and originality matter more than matching one “correct” photograph. Fratello’s 2020 review reports a 40 mm case, 47 mm lug-to-lug, 13 mm thickness and 20 mm lugs. Its listed 150 m rating is historical, not evidence that an individual vintage watch is safe to swim with today.

What is the Citizen 62-6198 Challenge Diver?

The 62-6198 is a Citizen automatic dive watch from the early 1970s through approximately 1977, according to Michael Stockton’s January 17, 2020 Fratello review. The review describes a stainless-steel case, black dial with luminous indices, mineral crystal, screw-down caseback and bidirectional external dive bezel. Those details are useful reference points, not a manufacturer specification sheet: no official 62-6198 specification sheet was located.

It belongs to Citizen’s wider Challenge Diver story, but reference-specific facts should not be inferred from the family name alone. Citizen says the Challenge Diver debuted in 1977. Its heritage account describes a watch found barnacle-covered at Long Reef Beach in Australia in 1983, still working, but does not identify that watch as a 62-6198.

Dimensions and movement

Fratello reports these measurements and movement specifications for the watch:

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#1 Best Overall
Elebase USB to USB C Adapter for iPhone 18 Pro Max,USBC Car Charger Adapter
  • Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
  • Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
  • Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
  • Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
  • 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Item Reported specification
Case diameter 40 mm
Lug-to-lug 47 mm
Thickness 13 mm
Lug width 20 mm
Movement Automatic Citizen caliber 6000
Jewels and rate 21 jewels; 21,600 beats per hour
Functions Hand-winding and quick-set date
Historical water-resistance rating 150 m; not a current-condition test

The collector-maintained Sweephand Citizen diver guide associates reference 62-6198 with case number 4-600851Y and notes a movement stamp reading “6001,” alongside caliber 6000, 21 jewels and a 21,600 bph rate. It also records a date, short hands, a ball at the seconds-hand end and red date printing. The difference between the review’s caliber naming and the guide’s stamp is worth noting when inspecting a specific watch; neither source is a factory parts or specification document.

How it looks and wears

Dial, hands and bezel

Fratello describes rectangular hour markers, bright green lume, a Mercedes-style hour hand and a lollipop seconds hand. The bold bezel is bidirectional and friction-fit, with a luminous pip at 12 and minute markings over the first 15 minutes. That combination gives the watch a clear, tool-like appearance without making its dimensions unusually large by modern standards.

Rank #2
Anker USB-C Hub, 5-in-1 USB Hub for Laptops, 4K HDMI Multiport Adapter
  • 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
  • 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
  • Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
  • 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
  • What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.

Wrist presence and straps

At a reported 47 mm lug-to-lug and 13 mm thick, it has noticeable height and presence, while the 40 mm diameter keeps it within a wearable range for many wrists. Fratello’s reviewer considered it suitable for everyday wear. The reported 20 mm lug width allows a modern 20 mm rubber watch strap as a replacement option; that should not be confused with a verified original strap or a guaranteed fit for every aftermarket strap. The review says the watch was sold on a bracelet or rubber Tropic strap.

What varies between examples?

There is no single visual checklist in the cited sources that certifies a 62-6198 as original. Fratello notes variation in dial printing, caseback styles and date-wheel color, and questions whether a black date wheel on one pictured example is original. Sweephand records disputes over orange dials and blue bezels, discusses bezel lume-pip details, and notes that reproduction bezels exist. Its author says contemporary catalog or advertising evidence would help settle authenticity questions.

Free tools Windows power users keep installed

One-click scans. No signup required.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #3
Sale
Anker USB C Hub, 7in1 Multi-Port USB Adapter, 4K@60Hz USBC to HDMI Splitter
  • Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
  • Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
  • Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
  • Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
  • What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.

For that reason, evaluate the whole watch rather than treating one dial color, date-wheel color or bezel detail as conclusive. A plausible-looking part does not prove originality, and a difference from one published example does not by itself prove a watch is wrong.

What to check before buying

Ask the seller for sharp, well-lit photographs and a clear account of service and replaced parts. These checks can help you assess an example, but they are not a universal authentication test.

Rank #4
Sale
UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter Combo 4-Pack, 10Gbps USB C Converter Space Gray
  • Dual Converters, Infinite Potential:Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
  • Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
  • Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
  • Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
  • Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
  1. Dial and lume: Request straight-on and angled images showing dial text, markers and lume condition.
  2. Hands and seconds hand: Check their shape and condition, including the seconds-hand tip, against the configuration being represented.
  3. Date wheel: Ask for a photograph with the date visible, and whether the wheel has been replaced.
  4. Bezel: Inspect the insert, markings, pip and operation; ask whether the bezel is original or a reproduction.
  5. Caseback and case: Request images of the caseback markings and case surfaces, and ask whether the case has been polished or repaired.
  6. Crown and crown tube: Ask whether the crown threads and operation have been checked. Fratello reports a crown arrangement with a tube effectively integral to the case, so damage there may be serious.
  7. Movement and service: If available, request a movement photograph showing its markings and ask for service documentation and a list of replacement parts.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Water resistance and ownership realities

The 150 m figure reported by Fratello describes the watch’s historical rating; it does not establish present-day water resistance. Age, seals, prior repairs and crown-tube condition can all affect whether a particular watch remains sealed. Do not rely on the dial or a vintage rating as proof of safety in water. Have an appropriate watchmaker assess and pressure-test the individual watch before exposing it to water.

Fratello reports a screw-down crown arrangement, threaded caseback and two crystal gaskets, and warns that a stripped crown tube can leave the watch needing to stay dry. These are observations about the design, not a diagnosis of every surviving example. The review also says Citizen no longer services these vintage watches, making an independent vintage mechanical-watch specialist a sensible service category to seek; confirm a provider’s experience with this model before commissioning work.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Best Value
Anker USB C Hub, 5-in-1 USBC to HDMI Splitter with 4K Display
  • 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
  • Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
  • Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
  • HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
  • What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.

Challenge Diver heritage: what is established

Citizen’s official diver-history page says a Challenge Diver debuted in 1977 and recounts how one was found at Long Reef Beach in 1983, covered in barnacles but still functioning, with no water having entered. The company says the episode gave the Challenge Diver a distinctive place in its heritage. The account does not identify the recovered watch as reference 62-6198, so it supports the family history rather than a claim about this reference’s production or survival.

Citizen’s FY2021 fourth-quarter presentation also recounts the discovery and describes an updated Challenge Diver design released in August 2022. Citizen’s heritage page says the 2022 Mechanical Diver 200m carries forward design cues while receiving an improved case and a movement with enhanced magnetic resistance. These are modern family-level connections, not evidence that the 62-6198 itself has those specifications.

Is the 62-6198 worth considering?

It is a compelling candidate for someone who wants a vintage Citizen diver with a legible tool-watch design, useful everyday proportions and a hand-windable automatic movement with quick-set date, as reported by Fratello. The trade-off is that variant details and replacement parts require care, while a vintage water-resistance rating cannot substitute for a current test. Stockton called it “a worthwhile addition to anyone’s vintage collection” in his 2020 review; that is his assessment, not a guarantee about every example.

Fratello’s review estimated $700–$1,000 in January 2020 and contrasted it with $200–$300 four to five years earlier. Those are historical estimates only, not today’s market price. Current transaction pricing was not established by the cited sources, so judge a listing by its condition, service history, originality evidence and asking price at the time of purchase.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

More from the Journal

Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?Free driver scan
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?Free scan - under a minute

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.