A review of the high-end G-SHOCK "MRG-B2000JS." The cutting-edge yet comfortable design is impressive, striking a balance between offense and defense.

In October 2024, G-SHOCK released the limited edition "MRG-B2000JS" model from its flagship MR-G series. This watch is based on the original Japanese sword "Juryokumaru San," marking the first time in five years that a model bearing the name "Juryokumaru" has been released. The design is a departure from the previous model, with a unique pattern on the bezel that draws attention and makes a strong impact. However, when you actually hold it in your hands, it doesn't feel overly bold, and you'll find it to be a well-balanced watch with a design that's easy to wear on a daily basis.

The motif is an original Japanese sword made for the MR-G.

　Since 2015, MR-G has been actively releasing models incorporating traditional Japanese designs. Representative examples of this in the current lineup include the "MRG-B2000B-1A4JR" in its "Aka-migi" color scheme and the "MRG-B2000B-1AJR" in its "Kachi-iro" color scheme. Another watch incorporating this design, released in 2018, is the "MRG-G2000HA." This model features a bezel design reminiscent of a sword's iron tsuba (guard). Rather than simply incorporating traditional Japanese elements, Casio commissioned swordsmith Teruhei Ueyama to craft a Japanese sword to give the watch a story of its own. This resulted in the creation of the original Japanese sword "Jyūryūmaru," created exclusively for MR-G.

　In 2019, the company will release the "MRG-G2000R," which also has a Gravity Maru theme. This model also features a sheath as its motif, and all of the previous models have been inspired by the construction of swords. The "MRG-B2000JS," reviewed here, was created to focus on the blade itself. The bold pattern on the bezel is an expression of the blade pattern of the Gravity Maru, as envisioned by Ueyama. While highlighting this distinctive design, the bracelet features a blue mother-of-pearl texture inspired by the sheaths created by traditional craftsman Mamoru Nomura, and incorporates Gravity Maru and San design elements throughout, resulting in a watch with a strong presence.

A cutting-edge design that blends in with the black exterior

　But that's not the only eye-catching design element. The center case, coated with blue-gray AIP (arc ion plating), features a recrystallized pattern, and the dial features the diamond-wrapped pattern found on the Juryokumaru and San designs. Like other models in the MRG-B2000 series, the indexes have a gentle curve reminiscent of the curves of a sword, and the outer periphery of the dial features cut surfaces reminiscent of a fan or folding screen. These are all elements that clarify the concept of this watch, and are details that could only be achieved with the advanced technology Casio has cultivated through the manufacture of G-SHOCK. However, with so many design elements, when I first saw the visuals for this watch, I felt it was a bit overly decorative.

　However, when I actually held the watch in my hands, my image of it completely changed. The unique design elements, such as the blade pattern, aoba texture, and diamond-shaped pattern, blend in well with the black exterior, and when strong light occasionally hits the watch, each element is designed to reveal its unique expression. In other words, at first glance, it is a massive, all-black watch with rose gold accents. It does not give off an extremely avant-garde impression, and is a watch that is easy to wear on a daily basis.

　Of course, the distinctive design that appears when you hold the watch up to the light is truly unique, and you'll want to spend any free time gazing at it. As mentioned above, the bezel features the blade pattern of the gravity circle that Ueyama envisioned, but it also resembles the natural rock surface, giving the watch a powerful feel.

　On the other hand, the blue shell texture band was created by scanning a pattern made by Nomura of finely crushed shells to fit the size of the bracelet, and then using structural coloring technology to create tiny scratches on the surface of the bracelet, which changes color when light hits it. Because it only reflects light that hits it at a certain angle, the sparkle given off by the texture is very subdued. In contrast to the dynamic blade pattern, the bracelet exudes a tranquil and elegant atmosphere, and the balance is impressive.

As with other G-SHOCK models, careful consideration has been given to the fit.

　As for the all-important wearability, with a diameter of 49.8mm and a thickness of 16.9mm, this model is quite large in a world where smaller diameter models are becoming more common. However, the case and bezel are made of titanium, and the bracelet is also made of titanium alloy DAT55G, so although the nominal weight is 154g, it feels much lighter when worn than the numbers suggest. What's more, the bracelet has a wide range of movement, so it fits snugly on my slender wrist and is comfortable to wear. As with other G-SHOCK models, this model clearly shows that Casio has designed the watch with wearability in mind.

　Furthermore, this model's visibility is also impeccable. The dial has a large number of components, including the aforementioned diamond-wrapped pattern and the cut edges of the outer periphery that evoke a fan or folding screen, as well as three subdials and a date display. However, the striking silver indexes and thick hour and minute hands ensure that the current time is easy to read. The second time display at 7-8 o'clock is also easy to read thanks to its gold-colored ring. While the focus may be on the unique design of this watch, its practicality, including its comfortable fit and high visibility, is undeniable.

A new form of high-end piece that combines tradition and cutting-edge technology

　Now, the inspiration for the watch comes from Juryokumaru and San, and the character "san" is said to have been inspired by the way Juryokumaru's blade shines and the sheath decorated with abalone. For this model, Ueyama himself engraved the character "san" on the case back. The engraving on the case back, along with the exterior design that emerges when the right light hits it, are special elements that only those who own this model can enjoy. I hear that the MR-G, which is based on traditional Japanese design, is highly regarded overseas, and I think the inscription element will also be popular with overseas enthusiasts.

　While incorporating edgy elements throughout, the design never overemphasizes them, achieving a perfect balance between offense and defense. Its technical prowess and sense are evident in the diverse challenges Casio has taken on with its G-SHOCK. At 1.1 million yen (tax included), it's comparable to luxury mechanical watches, but considering the involvement of renowned swordsmiths and traditional craftsmen in its production and the abundance of cutting-edge technology built into the exterior, it's not an excessive price tag. Furthermore, the Tough Solar and Bluetooth connectivity ensure exceptional timekeeping accuracy, making this a highly worthy choice for enthusiasts who have owned several luxury watches.