This is an impression of the "EDIFICE Automatic" Ref. EFK-110D-7AJF mechanical wristwatch released by Casio. This model is a smaller-cased version of the "EFK-100" series, which was Casio's first mechanical wristwatch. Focusing on the case's design and details, we will explore the high level of craftsmanship and potential of this watch.
The sharp design and the skillful use of satin and polished finishes are clearly visible from this angle in the photo. Automatic winding. 21 jewels. 21,600 vibrations/hour. Power reserve of approximately 42 hours. Stainless steel case (38mm diameter, 11.8mm thickness). 10 ATM water resistance. 49,500 yen (tax included).
Photographs and Text by Shin-ichi Sato
[Article published on January 10, 2026]
A small-diameter model has already appeared in the mechanical EDIFICE Automatic series.
The watch I'll be reviewing this time is the Casio EDIFICE "Automatic" Ref. EFK-110D-7AJF. This model retains the design code of the EDIFICE Automatic "EFK-100" series, which was launched in June 2025 as Casio's first mechanical wristwatch, but is a slightly more compact version.
When the EFK-100 series was announced, it generated buzz (albeit with some criticism) because Casio, a company with world-class quartz technology, was entering the mechanical watch market. For more on the high quality of the EFK-100 series, please refer to the extensive commentary by the Chronos Japan editorial team.
Let's review Casio EDIFICE.
Casio's EDIFICE line is based on a modern style that incorporates the world of motorsport, and includes models created in collaboration with racing teams, models equipped with functions to support team management, and models inspired by the suspension arms and meters of racing cars. The lineup includes simple three-hand models, as well as many models that reflect the brand concept with a sporty feel, a futuristic technological feel, and cutting-edge designs reminiscent of digital gadgets.
Many of these watches are priced under 5 yen, and a major attraction is that they offer models with Casio's technological prowess, featuring multi-functional quartz movements and unique designs at an accessible price. It should also be noted that the ability to bring these futuristic and cutting-edge designs to life is a testament to Casio's superior manufacturing technology.
Design of the EDIFICE Automatic Ref. EFK-110D-7AJF
The EDIFICE Automatic being reviewed is a simple model equipped with a mechanical movement and featuring hour, minute, second, and date displays. My first impression upon picking it up was, "This is a very EDIFICE-like design." This was due to the sporty and modern feel emanating from the case and bracelet with their straight lines and sharp edges, and the highly legible, precise second scale. I looked through the EDIFICE lineup again to see if there was a model it was based on, but I couldn't find anything similar. So, I also checked the Oceanus line just to be sure, and it was clear that the Oceanus, which effectively incorporates curves, and this model have very different concepts. This ability to "establish and use different design concepts for each brand" is one of Casio's strengths.
The dial features a design that replicates the distinctive texture of forged carbon. This design is linked to EDIFICE's incorporation of the world of motorsport, and the use of forged carbon for the case and dial of the Ref. EFK-100XPB-1AJF. This silver-colored dial model replicates the distinctive texture through shallow irregularities, and its appeal lies in the fact that its appearance changes dramatically depending on the angle at which light enters it.
It's equipped with a "Miyota" movement!
The watch is equipped with a Japanese-made movement by Miyota, with Casio designating it as module number "5766". Based on specifications, its unidirectional winding mechanism, and appearance, it appears to be equivalent to the Miyota Cal. 8215. A Miyota movement would be reliable and trustworthy despite its low price. The casing is marked as "CASED IN CHINA".
Of particular note is that the EFK-100 series is equipped with the Cal.NH35A manufactured by TMI (Time Module, a Seiko subsidiary), which is different from this model. While it is common for different models to use different movements, it is unusual for models with the same design concept and only slight size differences to employ different movement manufacturers.
The sleek design and high visibility contribute to high customer satisfaction.
This model has a case size of 38mm in diameter and 11.8mm in thickness, which is more compact than the Ref. EFK-100YD-7AJF, which was 39mm in diameter and 12.5mm in thickness. Unfortunately, I haven't had the opportunity to handle the previous model, so I can't say for sure, but I suspect the effect of being thinner is more significant than the reduction in diameter. If you have the chance to compare them in a store, I recommend paying attention to the thickness.
When worn, the watch has a sleek design that makes a good impression. The case, based on straight lines, has sharp edges at the boundaries of its surfaces. The absence of any protruding parts on the outside of the case seems to greatly contribute to its refined appearance. In addition, the contrast between the slightly rough satin finish and the polished finish is an effective design element that enhances its metallic appeal.
The hour and minute hands have a "hollow shape" with a slit along the center line, giving them a three-dimensional and intricate design. While the hand shape is reminiscent of previous EDIFICE models, this is perhaps the first time we've seen such an elegant and slender design. The indices are also thin and elegant. The top surface has a satin finish, and the edges are polished, resulting in a sophisticated finish.
In addition to its simple dial design, the seconds scale, which is synchronized with the movement's oscillation frequency, is easily visible even when viewed from an angle, resulting in excellent legibility. Furthermore, both the minute and second hands reach the outermost scale. Mechanical movements have a greater output torque to move the hands compared to quartz movements, making it easier to use longer hands, which is why this design is unique to this mechanical series within Casio's lineup.
Excellent packaging and comfortable to wear.
This bracelet offers excellent wearability thanks to its well-designed packaging that fits comfortably on the wrist. The lugs are long but curve along the arm, and for me, with a wrist circumference of approximately 18cm, it doesn't protrude from my wrist at all. The bracelet has a wide range of motion and a good fit. It would likely suit people with thinner wrists as well. With a thickness of only 11.8mm, it fits well under shirt sleeves. I paired it with a casual work shirt this time, but it would also look good with a business-appropriate broadcloth shirt.
The author's thoughts on the appeal of the Casio EDIFICE Automatic
The EFK-110 series includes the silver Ref. EFK-110D-7AJF, as well as the black Ref. EFK-110D-1AJF and the navy Ref. EFK-110D-2AJF. All of these are attractive colors that can be considered classic choices for business informal watches.
Focusing on the details of this watch, the contrasting finishes, sharp edges, three-dimensional hands, and polished, beveled indices reveal that considerable expense was invested in its production. The minute and second hands, which extend to the outer edge of the dial, are a highlight unique to mechanical watches. The fact that all of this is offered at an accessible price of 49,500 yen (including tax) demonstrates the processing technology that Casio has honed over the years. Taking into account the overall quality, including the wearing comfort, I rate this watch as highly accomplished.
Based on the quality of this model, it's safe to say that Casio is providing high-quality mechanical watches, but it will probably take a little more time for this to become widely recognized in the market. However, I felt that the EDIFICE Automatic has sufficient potential to serve as a stepping stone to broadening that recognition.
At the end of this impression, upon seeing the minute and second hands reaching the edge of the dial, I thought that Casio, having seriously dedicated itself to quartz technology, must have a deep understanding of the weaknesses of quartz and the strengths of mechanical watches. That's why I believe the hands, made to be as long as possible, embody the strong desire of the designers who have worked on quartz watches up until now to say, "This is what I wanted to do." Therefore, I concluded that these long hands are one of the reasons for the existence of this watch.
