G-SHOCK's latest flagship MR-G model, the MRG-B5000R-1JR, will be released in January 2024! Check out the strap that's reminiscent of the original!

The latest model in Casio Computer's top-of-the-line G-SHOCK series, the MRG-B5000, has been released: the MRG-B5000R-1JR. The release date is scheduled for Wednesday, January 24, 2024. Let's take a closer look at the specifications and performance of this watch while getting hands-on with it.

Divided into 25 parts! A case with a beautiful surface finish

The MRG-B5000R-1JR is the latest G-SHOCK model scheduled for release on Wednesday, January 24, 2024. It uses the latest technology and materials to recreate the iconic design inherited from the DW-5000C, also known as the "origin" of the MR-G series, which boasts a square shape that is the pinnacle of G-SHOCK's flagship series. Indeed, the GMW-B5000 series already features a square shape in the full-metal G-SHOCK lineup.

　However, the methodology for recreating the square form is different between the GMW-B5000 and the MRG-B5000. Let's explain step by step. First, the GMW-B5000. The upper case and inner case of this model are each one-piece, and the entire body is coated with a single color DLC.

　In contrast, the upper case of the MRG-B5000 took a different approach. The upper case, which forms the base of the iconic rectangular form, was divided into 25 individual parts. Why was this done? It was to eliminate distortion and obtain a smooth, beautiful surface through a process called Zaratsu polishing for each part of the upper case. If the case remained one piece, it would not be possible to polish the recessed parts beautifully enough. Take a close look at the finish on the surfaces of the case parts and their edges. You will be able to experience the technology worthy of a top-of-the-line G-SHOCK.

　Incidentally, when it comes to the case, especially the bezel, it's hard to shake the impression that fingerprints are easily visible when touched with bare hands, so you need to be careful about that.

　The change in case structure also leads to a different approach to shock resistance. The GMW-B5000 has a stainless steel upper case and inner case sandwiched between them, with a fine resin cushioning material. The MRG-B5000, on the other hand, is divided into 25 parts, with the four corner parts made of a combination of T-bars and leaf springs acting as shock absorbers, achieving high shock resistance. Leaf springs and silicone are also used between the other parts to provide shock resistance.

Cobalion is a material that is approximately four times harder than pure titanium and has the same brilliance as platinum.

　I'd also like to mention "Cobalion," a cobalt-chrome alloy used for the bezel parts that characterize the square form. This material is about four times harder than pure titanium and has a brilliance comparable to platinum. It's the perfect choice for bezel parts, which are prone to scratches. This alloy also contains very little nickel, which can cause allergic reactions in the human body. For this reason, it's often used for medical purposes, such as in artificial joints. The only weakness of this alloy is that it becomes harder the more force is applied, making it difficult to process. Despite this drawback, it was a material that G-SHOCK wanted to use for the MR-G, the flagship model of the G-SHOCK line.

What is Durasoft Band, a luxury belt made from fluorite?

　The biggest feature of this model is the use of a strap called the "Durasoft Band." The Durasoft Band is a strap made from fluoroelastomer (FKM), which is made from the mineral fluorite. Compared to regular silicone straps, it is characterized by its high durability and exceptional comfort.

　The MR-G series already uses Durasoft bands on the round-shaped "MRG-G2000R-1AJR" and "MRG-B2000R-1AJR." The shape of the one-push three-fold clasp is the same as the "MRG-G2000R." However, the pattern on the band is different, and this watch uses a design reminiscent of a caterpillar tread, which is typical of the origins of G-SHOCK. It can be said that the design is faithful to the original.

　By the way, my personal favorite is the pattern on the back of the strap. It reproduces the brick pattern that has been on the dial of G-SHOCK since the first generation, and this playful design is sure to move the hearts of fans.

Experience the Durasoft Band

　Now, the all-important question of comfort. Since the strap of the model I borrowed this time could not be cut, I tested the fit all the way to the part that attaches to the wrist. Indeed, the strap feels snug and secure compared to a regular silicone strap, and is very comfortable.

　The reason is that it has just the right amount of firmness and a snug fit typical of elastomer. Silicone bands give the impression of a hard plastic feel, but the DuraSoft band feels closer to the feel of natural rubber, with a moderately soft feel.

　The buckle is made of titanium, so it doesn't feel cold despite being made of metal. The buckle also has small adjustment holes, so you can determine the belt size and make fine adjustments even after cutting.

　The total weight, which directly affects the comfort of wearing it, is 106g. Despite the extensive use of titanium, a lightweight metal, this model offers a massive wearing feel. The GM-5600-1JF, which has a similar structure but a stainless steel body and resin band, weighs in at 73g.

A look that exudes the presence of a G-SHOCK

　Next, let's look at how it looks when you wear it. The first impression is, "Oh, I'm wearing a G-SHOCK on my wrist." The shock-resistant body makes it clear that it's a G-SHOCK. In addition, the gold parts used on the buttons and screws of this model add a strong accent.

　Or perhaps it's too much of a G-SHOCK. When I placed it next to my own G-SHOCK, the DW-H5600, I really felt the strong assertion that the MRG-B5000R-1JR makes: "G-SHOCK is here." The comparison DW-H5600 is a matte blue-gray, but the carefully crafted metal body asserts its presence more than I expected. It truly gives the impression of being the king of kings, the G-SHOCK of G-SHOCKs.

　For many users, G-SHOCK has been a part of their lives since childhood, and it's like a childhood friend. Many of them have worn it while playing sports or engaging in outdoor activities. If you're looking to wear the familiar G-SHOCK not only for outdoor and sports activities, but also for formal or dressy occasions, the MRG-B5000R-1JR is the perfect choice. This carefully crafted watch retains the iconic look that makes it instantly recognizable as a G-SHOCK, while also exuding a mature aura that makes it suitable for formal occasions. It's like the boy with the short haircut from long ago has grown up and appeared on stage as a man suited to a suit.

Easy to set up! Mobile Link

　By the way, if you're a G-SHOCK user, you've probably used the time setting or stopwatch function by repeatedly pressing one of the four buttons on the case. The same is true for the MRG-B5000R-1JR. Each time you press the slightly stiff button, a high-pitched, short electronic beep sounds and the mode changes. This is also a characteristic of G-SHOCK. However, it can be a bit cumbersome when setting the alarm, etc. For those people, there is the "Mobile Link" function.

　Mobile Link is a feature that allows you to configure your watch from your smartphone via the "Casio Watches" application. Functions such as alarms, timers, and reminders can be easily controlled from your smartphone, eliminating the need to fiddle with the four buttons on the G-SHOCK itself.

　However, the problem with this feature is that it takes time and effort to connect, which can be a bit tedious. First, you have to hold down the MODE button on the device for three seconds. This is quite stiff and difficult. After a few seconds, you'll be able to connect. If you don't do anything special, the connection will be lost after a few minutes, and you'll have to repeat the same operation every time. Honestly, it would be better if connecting to a smartphone was easier.

The most powerful G-SHOCK

　Let's take a closer look at the module. The charging method is Casio's pride and joy, "Tough Solar." This method allows the watch to be charged even with light sources weaker than sunlight, such as fluorescent lights, and the battery can last for approximately 10 months even if it runs out of power, and even longer, approximately 22 months if the power saving function is turned on.

　The accuracy of the time is maintained by "Multiband 6," a function that receives and corrects radio waves from base stations around the world, including Japan (two stations), China, North America, the UK, and Germany. The time is also corrected by synchronizing with a smartphone using the aforementioned Mobile Link. If neither function works, the watch maintains the accuracy of a typical quartz watch, with an average monthly deviation of ±15 seconds.

　The watch is also water resistant to 20 bar, a standard G-SHOCK expects, making it ideal for swimming, water activities, and other water-related activities. This is typical of G-SHOCK, whose selling point has always been its "tough" design. The crystal is made of sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating on the inside. It's packed with advanced features that embody the unbreakable nature of G-SHOCK.

A review of the already released MRG-B5000!

　And finally, let's look at the already released MRG-B5000 series. The "MRG-B5000B-1JR," released in March 2022, is a product with a black DLC coating. It comes with a metal bracelet, and differs from the "MRG-B5000R-1JR" in that the frame of the solar cell around the LCD display is red. The "MRG-B5000D-1JR" is a model also released in March 2022. Its appearance is characterized by a beautiful silver color thanks to its titanium carbide coating.

　In addition, the "MRG-B5000BA-1JR" was added to the lineup in June 2022. This model features a black DLC coating reminiscent of the blue ink used in ink painting, as well as a blue IP coating on the solar cell frame, band pins, and part of the upper case.

　The MRG-B5000R-1JR retains the iconic G-SHOCK design, crafted with the finest technology and latest materials. It's the perfect watch for anyone who wants to wear a G-SHOCK even in formal settings, or perhaps especially so.