A hands-on review of G-SHOCK's 2025 new "FINE METALLIC SERIES"! A "speed" model with a newly developed band

We'll be reviewing the Ref. GM-5600YM-8JF from the "FINE METALLIC SERIES." This is a new model for 2025, featuring a stainless steel case and a tough silicone band. The tough silicone band is a newly developed band with excellent wear resistance, and this model's metallic shine is achieved through a vapor deposition process.

Introducing the new G-SHOCK "FINE METALLIC SERIES," a watch that looks just like full metal!

　This review focuses on the new 2025 model, Ref. GM-5600YM-8JF, from Casio's G-SHOCK "FINE METALLIC SERIES." The G-SHOCK was launched in 1983 as an unprecedented shock-resistant watch. Its shock resistance, achieved through multiple resin parts and a hollow structure that ensures it remains unbreakable even when dropped, gave firefighters, construction workers, Self-Defense Force members, and other dangerous occupations the freedom to always know the correct time. Furthermore, the ease of coloring and molding resin parts has led to the creation of models in a variety of colors and designs, making it a hugely popular fashion item, especially among young people.

　Since then, they have continued to produce derivative collections such as the "MR-G," which boasts a full metal exterior that was initially thought to be impossible, and the "BABY-G" for women. In terms of technology, they have developed and incorporated features to improve convenience, such as light-powered Tough Solar, radio wave reception, and smartphone linking. G-SHOCK's history has always been marked by innovation, and this spirit continues in the new FINE METALLIC SERIES. The FINE METALLIC SERIES, wrapped in a metallic sheen from bezel to band, features an innovative silicone band with a vapor deposition process.

　The FINE METALLIC SERIES currently includes the 5600 series, nicknamed "Speed," known for being worn by Keanu Reeves, star of the action movie "Speed," and the 2100 series, nicknamed "Casioak" after its octagonal bezel; however, the model reviewed in this article is the 5600 series.

Stainless steel square case

　The 5600 series uses a square case that follows the original "5000" series. The original "DW-5000C" was recently registered as a three-dimensional trademark by the Japan Patent Office in 2023, simply for its shape, without any text or logos. It was publicly recognized that the watch could be identified simply by its shape, even without the "CASIO" or "G-SHOCK" logos.

　What sets this watch apart is the use of stainless steel for the case. Through forging, cutting, and polishing, a complex shape with many irregularities is created, giving it a luxurious feel that cannot be achieved with resin. Inside is a glass fiber reinforced resin case that protects the movement. The three-dimensional effect created by the sharp edges and polishing is one of the watch's greatest attractions. In particular, the flat top bezel has a vertical hairline finish, giving it a crisp edge. The bezel, which stands out when light hits it, gives it a bold impression. The top bezel is engraved with the words "PROTECTION" and "G-SHOCK," but because it is not inked black, it is not very noticeable and accentuates its coolness.

　There are four push buttons on the side of the case, which can be used to perform various operations. The buttons are low, so they are unlikely to malfunction even if moved vigorously. Near the joint between the case side and the band, there is a screw that secures the stainless steel outer case to the internal resin case. This is also found on other 5600 series watches, but while most of them are Phillips screws, this model uses hex socket screws. It's a matter of preference, but personally, I think the hex socket screws give a more stylish impression. The case back is made of stainless steel and is secured to the case with four Phillips screws.

Metallic vapor-deposited resin band

　The highlight of the FINE METALLIC SERIES is the silicone band with its metallic luster. Officially called a "tough silicone band," it has a two-layer structure with a silicone resin back and a urethane resin front, improving comfort and abrasion resistance. This model utilizes this structure and is given a silver vapor deposition treatment to create a metallic luster.

　When viewed from the side, you can see the boundary between the black silicone and the urethane. When touched with your fingers, the silicone side feels moist and familiar, while the urethane side feels smooth. It is not uncommon for resin bands to crack or break after years of use. While the actual durability cannot be determined until it has been used for an extended period of time, the Tough Silicone band feels stronger than conventional resin bands.

　The vapor deposition treatment on the band makes it appear almost identical to the color of the stainless steel case. As a result, the case and band are united, creating the illusion of a full metal watch. Combining the luxury of metal with the flexibility and lightness of a resin band, the tough silicone band is sure to become a new weapon for G-SHOCK.

　The buckle and keeper ring are made of metal, most likely stainless steel. Many G-SHOCK buckles have a curved design, but the one on this watch has a straight line design. The keeper ring only has a hairline finish on the surface where the "G-SHOCK" logo is placed. As this is a part that will likely rub against a desk or other surface when worn, a finish that makes scratches less noticeable is desirable.

Equipped with a cool inverted LCD

　The dial is fitted with a square LCD. It is a so-called inverted LCD, with white text appearing on a black background. While the black base of an inverted LCD makes it look more stylish than a regular LCD, it does have the disadvantage of being difficult to read depending on the lighting and angle. This model is no exception, and although it can be used without any issues in bright places, it can be difficult to read in slightly dark places or when viewed from an angle. We recommend that you carefully check the actual product before purchasing. You can't go wrong by choosing based on your preferences for visibility and fashion.

　However, that doesn't mean that visibility in the dark is hopeless. By pressing the button at 4 o'clock, an LED light can be illuminated from the 9 o'clock side of the LCD. If you turn on the light when you want to check the time, you can use it without any problems.

　Another appealing feature is the versatility of the G-SHOCK. When the time is displayed, the month, day of the week, and date are also displayed, and the watch is equipped with a full auto-calendar function that automatically detects leap years and the length of the month. When the time is displayed, pressing the button at 8 o'clock switches between alarm, timer, and stopwatch functions. The excellent shock resistance of the G-SHOCK makes it easy to wear during sports. Utilizing these functions will surely help you make the most of your training.

Achieves both a supple fit and a luxurious metallic feel

　Many G-SHOCK models have large cases, but the 5600 series falls into the category of being somewhat compact. At 12.9mm thick, it's not much different from a typical analog sports watch. This impression remains the same when actually wearing it, and combined with the flexible tough silicone band, it feels comfortable even when worn for long periods of time. The visual unity between the stainless steel case and tough silicone band is impressive, and if you look from a little distance, it looks like a full metal model. If I had to point out any concerns, it would be that there is a gap between the case and the band, and that fingerprints and other smudges are more noticeable.

　As mentioned above, visibility is important. If you prioritize ease of viewing, it's best to choose a model with a standard LCD screen. In that case, a gold-colored Ref. GM-5600YMG-9JF, also part of the FINE METALLIC SERIES, would be a good choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize looks, this model is the perfect choice.

G-SHOCK opens up new possibilities

　It's no exaggeration to say that G-SHOCK is the undisputed king of shock-resistant watches, and it has boasted a high level of perfection since the first model was released in 1983. But why does it continue to excite fans around the world and captivate new demographics today? Perhaps it's because G-SHOCK itself has always continued to evolve, offering surprises that exceed fans' expectations.

　Not only have they developed new structures to improve shock resistance, but they have also added new functions to enhance convenience, created diverse designs, incorporated new materials, and collaborated with renowned brands and artists, proving that there are limitless possibilities for how to enjoy a watch. The FINE METALLIC SERIES introduces a tough silicone band that is flexible, highly wear-resistant, yet has a metallic sheen, enabling a watch to be expressed in ways never before possible. G-SHOCK will continue to move forward, and we look forward to seeing what the future holds.