Timepieces that will be passed down forever #08 G-SHOCK "MRG-B5000 / DW-5000R"

Casio Computer's philosophy of "creating one from zero" has been passed down since the company's founding, eventually leading to the creation of the shock-resistant G-SHOCK. This iconic timepiece is still going strong more than 40 years after its creation. While incorporating new technology, its looks remain unmatched and its durability remains unwavering.

The originator of shock-resistant watches shows the next evolution with an iconic timepiece

　Should iconic models be recreated as faithfully as possible, or enhanced with interpretations? It's a question every watch brand inevitably asks itself, and one that divides enthusiasts. Now, more than 40 years after its birth, Casio has chosen to answer both questions with its iconic and ultra-durable G-SHOCK: the DW-5000R, faithful to the 1983 original, and the MRG-B5000, featuring exceptional materials and finishes.

　This strategy also demonstrates the many facets of an iconic model, because, as mentioned at the beginning, it's not a simple story. Indeed, the DW-5000R faithfully reproduces the look and feel of the original DW-5000C. However, it also incorporates new technologies and materials, such as bio-based resins and high-brightness LED backlighting. The case size has also been revised, expanding from 41.6mm to 42.3mm.

　On the other hand, the MRG-B5000, which belongs to the high-end MR-G line, is made of special metal with an exquisite finish and also features smartphone linking, a feature that was not available in 83. However, there have been no excessive changes to the appearance, and the design remains faithful to the original. Is it making the old new, or making the new look old? In watchmaking, the answer is always a delicate one.

　When the DW-5000R was released in 2024 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Casio Watch, its faithful homage to the original model brought tears to the eyes of many. This model captures the essence of the original's square design while incorporating subtle improvements appropriate for the 21st century. While the brick pattern on the display frame remains, the materials have been optimized to improve shock resistance, lightness, and robustness. It's truly a paradox.

　The MRG-B5000 displays unprecedented craftsmanship and technical prowess in every detail. A significant departure from the early days of resin, the case and bezel are made of high-hardness 64 titanium, while the band is made of DAT55G, which is approximately three times harder than pure titanium. The top bezel is made of Cobalion®, which is approximately four times harder than pure titanium and has a platinum-like shine. The MRG-B5000B utilizes the mirror finish of Cobalion® while adding a lustrous coating of black DLC, reminiscent of the original model.

　Furthermore, each component is hand-polished using the Zaratsu polishing technique used in luxury watchmaking, which achieves a distortion-free mirror finish even for the complex, angular shapes of G-SHOCK watches.

　Beneath its traditional exterior lies a host of cutting-edge features, including Tough Solar, which enables continuous power supply via light, Multiband 6, which automatically adjusts the time via radio wave reception, Bluetooth®, which allows connection to smartphones, and Super Illuminator, which ensures visibility even in dark places. To ensure the robustness of this high-tech masterpiece, the watch features a new, enhanced shock-resistant Multiguard Structure, which incorporates stainless steel leaf springs and silicone buffers between the bezel parts. This ensures robustness while also retaining the elegance of a luxury timepiece.

　Both the DW-5000R and MRG-B5000 embody the essence of G-SHOCK: the birth and foresight of revolutionary concepts, and the ability to continually refine and improve performance. This duality is the secret to G-SHOCK's longevity: they are democratic and accessible, while also serving as a platform for innovation that stands shoulder to shoulder with the world's finest timepieces. One embodies the birth of an idea, the other its most refined expression. Together, they tell the rich story of G-SHOCK, its respect for tradition, and its "Relentless" pursuit of innovation. The horizons are limitless.

DW-5000R-1AJF
As the phrase "a reissue of the original G-SHOCK" suggests, this is the first time in about 30 years that a resin 5000 series watch has adopted a flat bezel, and it also features a screw-down back, making it a must-have model for fans. However, the outer case and band are made of biomass plastic, and the backlight has been changed to a Super Illuminator, making it a modern model. Quartz movement. Resin and stainless steel case (48.9mm x 42.3mm, 13.1mm thick). Water resistant to 20 bar. Priced at 33,000 yen (tax included).

MRG-B5000B-1JR
Not only has the original model been made fully metal, but it has also been meticulously polished down to the finest detail, achieving a level of perfection worthy of the pinnacle of the series. It also features a mobile link function that connects to smartphones via Bluetooth®, significantly enhancing its practicality. It's Tough Solar, runs for approximately 22 months on a full charge (in power save mode), and features a 64Ti case with Cobalion® (49.4mm x 43.2mm, 12.9mm thick). Water resistant to 20 bar. Priced at 495,000 yen (tax included).