A review of the new MR-G "Frogman" MRG-BF1000B. A watch with a titanium bracelet and deep red accents that expands the range of wearable scenes.

Among the many G-SHOCK models, the Frogman diver's watch is particularly popular. In 2023, the company released the MRG-BF1000R, a Frogman model in the top-of-the-line MR-G series, which became a hot topic, but the MRG-BF1000B, which we'll be reviewing today, is the latest model. It features a titanium band and red accents, making it one of the so-called "variations," but when you actually wear it, you'll find it has a different appeal from the previous two models.

The original form of the MR-G Frogman is reproduced in titanium.

　I remember well the excitement I felt when the release of the first MR-G Frogman, the MRG-BF1000R, was announced in March 2023. In fact, to me, it was even more exciting than the release of the MRG-B5000, the first G-SHOCK model in the MR-G series.

　In the 1990s, when G-SHOCK was at its height of popularity, I thought the Frogman's distinctive asymmetrical form was simply cool, and I was also drawn to the somewhat silly frog character on the case back. Was it simply because I'd always loved character items, or was it because I felt a certain familiarity with frogs as a child, having been exposed to the TV anime "Dokonjo Gaeru" and Tamiya's "Mighty Frog"?

　Regardless, if G-SHOCK was the model that opened the door to wristwatches, not only with its design but also its price, then the Frogman went a step further, making people feel more familiar with wristwatches. That's why, even among the many G-SHOCK models, the Frogman remains special.

　The Frogman's asymmetrical form was designed to improve the operability of the push buttons underwater while preventing damage to the buttons due to impact, which also has the benefit of preventing the back of the hand from coming into contact with the watch.While retaining this distinctive form, the MR-G Frogman MRG-BF1000R has been divided into 76 exterior parts and polished to suit the pinnacle of the MR-G series, achieving 200m diving water resistance in accordance with ISO standards.

The red accents and titanium bracelet completely change the look.

　Following the first release, the MRG-BF1000R, and the limited edition MRG-BF1000E, which incorporates yellow, the new MRG-BF1000B is now available for 2024. The highlight is the adoption of the titanium bracelet, which was previously included with the previous limited edition model, for the first time in a regular model. The case measures 56mm high x 49.7mm wide x 18.6mm thick, and has massive proportions designed for use in harsh environments. However, by using titanium for the case, bezel, bracelet, and even small parts like the crown and buttons, the watch doesn't feel heavy despite being a full-metal model, making it comfortable to wear.

　Moreover, the bracelet uses short-pitch H-links, allowing for fine movement. They fit smoothly to the wrist, providing a comfortable fit. And when you put it on your wrist, you can really feel the thorough finish that has been applied to the bracelet as well. Each link is subjected to a deep hardening process and a DLC coating before being assembled, which is a time-consuming process that allows you to enjoy the texture befitting a high-end line, and this is also one of the attractions of the MRG-BF1000B.

　Another distinctive feature is the design, accented with red, G-SHOCK's key color. Moreover, while the first model emphasized the FROGMAN lettering and inscriptions such as LIGHT and START in white, this model unifies these in black. The tide graph motif at the 3 o'clock position on the dial has also been changed from blue to black, and other changes to the color usage of the details have created a sharper look that differs from previous models. While it is true that this is a color variation, it could also be positioned as a model that "has a diver's look, but is easier to wear around town."

Performance and specifications worthy of a professional diver's model

　Of course, the basic design follows the previous model, so the shock resistance that is the symbol of G-SHOCK and the usefulness for diving - in other words, the performance that can be used safely in everyday life - remain the same. The crown and push buttons use a clad guard structure to soften the impact on the module, and a shock-absorbing structure has also been incorporated by sandwiching a buffer between the bezel and the protectors on the 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock sides, allowing the protectors to move while sliding slightly. G-SHOCK is well-known for its shock resistance, but knowing that the shock resistance structure has been updated to match the design gives you an even greater sense of security.

　The titanium bracelet included with the limited edition model is not only comfortable and high-quality, but also has the functionality to be paired with a diver's watch. The buckle not only features the same locking system as the previous MR-G, but also incorporates an extension mechanism developed specifically for this bracelet, making it expandable and contractible so that it can be worn over a diving suit.

　The frog character that has become familiar to fans is still alive and well in this model. To match the dial, an illustration of a frog has been laser engraved on the red-coated sapphire crystal, and it is the same "diving frog" depicted on the original Frogman, released in 1993. Even new G-SHOCK fans will likely find this charming character heartwarming (as it was for me).

　This is the third MR-G Frogman, including the limited edition model, but as someone with a special attachment to Frogman watches, I was impressed by the detailed design tuning of the MRG-BF1000B, which gives it a bold look, and how it's not just another color variation, but a model that suggests it can be coordinated with a wide range of outfits and can be worn in a variety of situations. Even with the analog display and metal exterior, I still feel that its asymmetrical form, its greatest feature, is its one-of-a-kind appeal. That's why there are still so many die-hard Frogman fans, and drawn in by this originality and adorable frog, the number of fans will continue to grow.