Machine Comparison
Citizen Cincom L12 Type VII vs Citizen Cincom L12 Type X
Citizen Machinery vs Citizen Machinery · Swiss-Type Lathes
Summary
The Citizen Cincom L12 Type VII and Citizen Cincom L12 Type X are both from Citizen Machinery's swiss-type lathes lineup, making this a common upgrade or lineup decision for shops already invested in the Citizen Machinery ecosystem. The Citizen Cincom L12 Type X shows specification advantages in 4 categories, though the Citizen Cincom L12 Type VII may still be the better choice depending on your shop's specific needs and the type of work you run. Both machines are proven performers in production environments and represent solid investments for shops in the market for a swiss-type lathe.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Citizen Cincom L12 Type VII | Citizen Cincom L12 Type X |
|---|---|---|
| Rapid Traverse | 35 m/min (all axes) | 35 m/min (all axes) |
| Control | Mitsubishi Meldas (Citizen software) | Mitsubishi Meldas (Citizen software) |
| Max Bar Capacity | 12 mm (0.472 in), 16 mm (0.630 in) option | 12 mm (0.472 in), 16 mm (0.630 in) option |
| Max Machining Diameter | 12 mm (0.472 in) | 12 mm (0.472 in) |
| Max Machining Length | 135 mm (5.31 in) GB / 30 mm (1.18 in) GBL | 135 mm (5.31 in) GB / 30 mm (1.18 in) GBL |
| Main Spindle Speed | 15,000 RPM (GB) / 12,000 RPM (GBL) | 15,000 RPM (GB) / 12,000 RPM (GBL) |
| Main Spindle Power | 2.2 / 3.7 kW (3 / 5 HP) | 2.2 / 3.7 kW (3 / 5 HP) |
| Back Spindle Speed | 10,000 RPM | 12,000 RPM ▲ |
| Back Spindle Power | 0.4 / 0.75 kW (0.5 / 1 HP) | 0.75 / 1.15 kW (1 / 1.5 HP) ▲ |
| Spindle Bore | 20 mm (0.787 in) | 20 mm (0.787 in) |
| Number Of Axes | 7 | Up to 10 (with Y2 axis) ▲ |
| Gang Rotary Tool Speed | 10,000 RPM | 10,000 RPM |
| Back Tool Post Rotary Speed | 9,000 RPM | 9,000 RPM |
| Number Of Tools | 27 | 38 ▲ |
| Price Range | $120,000 - $200,000 ▲ | $180,000 - $280,000 |
Advantages
Citizen Cincom L12 Type VII
- More competitive pricing at $120,000 - $200,000 compared to $180,000 - $280,000
- Backed by Citizen Machinery's dealer and service network for parts and support
- Medical device manufacturers producing bone screws, dental abutments, and miniature implant components in stainless steel and titanium
Citizen Cincom L12 Type X
- Superior back spindle speed at 12,000 RPM vs 10,000 RPM
- Superior back spindle power at 0.75 / 1.15 kW (1 / 1.5 HP) vs 0.4 / 0.75 kW (0.5 / 1 HP)
- Superior number of axes at Up to 10 (with Y2 axis) vs 7
- Superior number of tools at 38 vs 27
Verdict
The Citizen Cincom L12 Type X edges ahead on specifications in this comparison, particularly in back spindle speed and back spindle power. However, the Citizen Cincom L12 Type VII remains competitive and may be the better choice depending on price, dealer support in your area, or specific workholding and tooling considerations. Both are capable machines — the best decision comes from running your actual parts and evaluating total cost of ownership including tooling, training, and service.