What types of watches are available in G-SHOCK's top-of-the-line line, "MR-G"?

Among the wide variety of G-SHOCK models, the "MR-G" is the collection positioned at the top of the line. Not only is it made with the utmost in high quality, but its appearance, which is imbued with a Japanese aesthetic and the expression of "strength" inherent in G-SHOCK, gives it the perfect dignity as a G-SHOCK worn by adults. In this article, we will introduce the representative series that make up the lineup, and delve into the features and appeal of each.

The pinnacle of G-SHOCK! What is "MR-G"?

　G-SHOCK was born as a "durable watch that wouldn't break even if dropped," breaking the conventional wisdom of wristwatches up until then. The top-of-the-line model, the MR-G, was released in 1996.

　The current MR-G shares the design philosophy of combining a metal case with high shock resistance with the "Full Metal" G-SHOCK and "MT-G," but it has acquired its own unique appeal. The most notable aspect of this appeal is the thorough pursuit of quality in everything from structure and materials to color and finish, based on Japanese craftsmanship. Examples of this include the titanium case, which is polished to perfection using the Zaratsu polishing method, and the powerful design, which is inspired by Japanese military equipment and architecture.

　Another feature of the MR-G is its structure, which maintains its toughness. For example, the "Multi-Guard Structure," which subdivides parts and incorporates cushioning material, enhances robustness while also contributing to the beautiful finish of every corner of the parts. Furthermore, the "Clad Guard Structure," which protects the crown and pushers with an integrated guard part, combines robustness with ease of operation.

　With such unique value, the MR-G strives for the highest standards in every aspect, making it truly worthy of being called the G-SHOCK flagship. Furthermore, the MR-G is packed with features, including Tough Solar, which minimizes the need for battery changes, MULTIBAND6, which receives radio time signals from six regions around the world, and Bluetooth connectivity for smartphones.

Representative collection of "MR-G"

　The current MR-G lineup includes models based on iconic collections such as the original G-SHOCK known as "Origin" and the "2100" with its distinctive octagonal bezel, but reconstructed with MR-G quality. Below, we will introduce some representative collections from this diverse lineup.

　While this article focuses on regular models, limited edition models that are released periodically also have a strong presence in the luxury watch market. Models with special designs handcrafted by artisans are particularly rare due to the manufacturing process, and often sell out quickly after release.

"MRG-B2000" incorporates traditional Japanese colors

　The MRG-B2000 series is known as a staple of the MR-G line. The greatest appeal of this series is the way it sublimates traditional Japanese symbols of strength into its design. The watches feature colors such as "kachiiro" (victory color) and "akazonae" (red armor), which have long been considered auspicious by samurai warriors. Depending on the model, the dial or strap may feature decorations reminiscent of the blade pattern of a Japanese sword or a folding screen, boldly reflecting the craftsmanship rooted in Japan in the design.

　This series is based on the armor-inspired design of the "MRG-G1000B." Its four screws and accent colors create a powerful and glamorous appearance. Another attractive feature is the wide variety of models available, including one with a bezel made of recrystallized titanium.

　The Ref. MRG-B2000BG-3AJR is a model inspired by the dark blue-green color of "kuroganeiro," the color that appears when the iron used in armor and swords is heated. The theme color is expressed throughout the watch, with a green inset dial and Casio's exclusive green DLC treatment on the case and bracelet. Furthermore, accents of gold and a tortoiseshell pattern on the dial are eye-catching, creating a watch that exudes strength and elegance in every detail.

"MRG-B5000" inherits the "Origin"

The "MRG-B5000" is a series that reconstructs the first G-SHOCK model, the "DW-5000C," based on the MR-G concept.

　This series uses a "Multi-Guard Structure" that incorporates fluorine rubber buffer material between the subdivided case parts, allowing the original complex angular shape to be reproduced even though it is made of titanium. Furthermore, each subdivided part is polished before being assembled, bringing the shine of metal to the familiar "Origin" form.

　The exterior is made of different materials with different properties. Depending on the model, materials used include the super-hard alloy "COBARION®," which is about four times harder than pure titanium and boasts a shine equivalent to platinum, the robust titanium alloy "64 Titanium," and "DAT55G," which is about three times harder than pure titanium, showing the company's unwavering commitment to both durability and beauty.

　The Ref. MRG-B5000B-1JR, one of the models in the lineup, is also a faithful reproduction of the original model, but is also an MR-G model. The case and bracelet are deep-hardened and DLC-coated, and the entire watch is unified in a black finish reminiscent of the original resin case. Additionally, the brick pattern around the LCD, the red line on the face, and the color scheme of certain letters all follow the original design, making this a highly refined revival model.

The simple yet iconic "MRG-B2100"

　Like the MRG-B5000, the MRG-B2100 is part of a series that recreates the iconic G-SHOCK form with MR-G quality. This series is based on the design of the 2100, affectionately known as the "Casioak." While retaining the iconic octagonal bezel and another distinctive feature, the thin case, each element has been updated for the MR-G model.

　The dial features a geometric pattern inspired by the traditional Japanese architectural technique of "kigumi." This pattern also serves as a light source for the Tough Solar system, creating a design that combines three-dimensionality with functionality. Meanwhile, the digital display found on the original has been omitted, giving the watch a simpler appearance compared to other MR-G models.

　The bezel is divided into 27 parts, each polished and then assembled, giving the octagonal shape a sharper look. As with the MRG-B5000, different materials are used for each exterior component, with COBARION® used for the top of the bezel, DAT55G for the bracelet links, and 64 titanium for the case.

　The Ref. MRG-B2100D-1AJR is a model with a silver color scheme that highlights the texture of the metal, exuding the dignity of a luxury watch. The black dial with red accents is both bold and simple, making it suitable for any occasion. The case and bracelet surfaces are treated with titanium carbide, giving it excellent color development and wear resistance.

"MRG-BF1000" is a titanium version of "Frogman"

　The Frogman, part of G-SHOCK's professional line, "MASTER OF G," is a diver's watch with 200m water resistance according to ISO standards. Based on this, the MRG-BF1000 is part of the MR-G series, rebuilt while maintaining the iconic asymmetrical case design and excellent durability.

　In this series, the exterior is broken down into over 70 parts that are then assembled, achieving both meticulous polishing and a complex case shape. Furthermore, O-rings and buffers are incorporated to ensure airtightness between parts, ensuring the watch remains water resistant to 200m.

　It also has a wide range of functions, including a dive mode that displays dive time and surface interval time, and a tide graph mode that displays tidal information and local time. Additionally, a sapphire crystal is pressed into the center of the pure titanium case back, ensuring uninterrupted radio reception from the built-in antenna.

　The model we picked out is the Ref. MRG-BF1000B-1AJR, the only one in the current MRG-BF1000 series with a metal bracelet. Its black base and red accents on the inset dial, second hand, and part of the crown create a powerful design that matches its massive size. The sapphire crystal case back is coated with a red vapor deposition treatment, the theme color, and features Frogman's iconic frog character engraved in the center.

Mid-size "MRG-B1000"

　Among the MR-G models, the "MRG-B1000" is a mid-size series characterized by its small case size, made possible by unique miniaturization technology.

　This series is designed with a focus on everyday practicality, and the dials feature a relatively minimalist design. However, like the aforementioned MRG-B2000, the design incorporates symbols of strength that have been passed down since ancient Japan, and models with ink and victory themes are also available. This makes the MR-G a convenient watch that can be worn both on and off the job.

　Although it is small, it is packed with features, including Bluetooth connectivity for smartphones, "Multiband 6" that receives standard radio waves from six stations around the world, and "Tough Solar" that is powered by light. Its price is also relatively reasonable among the MR-G models, making it a suitable entry-level model.

　The Ref. MRG-B1000D-1AJR is a watch that evokes the image of armor, swords, and other military equipment, thanks to its titanium carbide treatment that gives it a vibrant metallic luster. The bezel is treated with DLC for increased wear resistance, further enhancing the watch's bold appearance. The red accents on the dial are reminiscent of the red lace decoration on armor, a symbol of strength.