Despite its bulky appearance! Why the Casio Pro Trek "PRW-69YB-3JF" blends in seamlessly in both the mountains and the city [Wearing Review]

Casio's PRO TREK, as its name suggests, is a truly professional-grade outdoor watch designed for professional use. In other words, its defining characteristic is its robust design and appearance. However, in recent years, models have emerged that, while retaining the toughness and high functionality required for use in harsh conditions, also feature refined designs and wearability. The "PRW-69YB-3JF" is one such example. After actually wearing it, I began to see many reasons why it can be used seamlessly in both the mountains and the city.

30 years dedicated solely to outdoor watches.

　I learned about mountain climbing by chance after becoming a working adult.

　However, it wasn't hard rock climbing or winter mountaineering, but rather light hiking. Nevertheless, the act of traversing unpaved mountain trails and aiming for the peak was one of the few pastimes in today's safe and secure society that still retained a sense of adventure. I quickly became hooked, and on weekends I frequently visited the low mountains of Chichibu, Okutama, and Tanzawa. This was about 30 years ago, in 1995.

　Upon investigation, I discovered that 1995 was the year Casio launched its PRO TREK (hereinafter referred to as Pro Trek) line. Looking back, it seems that around that time, the number of mountain enthusiasts who favored Pro Trek watches began to increase.

　On weekends, the buses heading to the trailheads are packed with hikers. Looking at the hands of those holding onto the handrails and straps, you can get a sense of the trend in outdoor watches. Several of my hiking friends have bought Pro Trek watches. In fact, the first Pro Trek model, the "DPX-500," was a groundbreaking wristwatch that could tell you altitude and direction, and was well-received by many mountaineering enthusiasts at the time.

　Since then, Pro Trek has continued to innovate for over 30 years, and today it has become a leading brand of outdoor watches in Japan, enjoying widespread recognition and strong support.

　From the many Pro Trek models available, the one we'll be reviewing today is the "PRW-69YB-3JF" from the Climber line. This model features a large digital face equipped with a duplex LCD (dual-layer LCD) that enables multi-function display, and a robust, no-nonsense, square form factor.

　When you actually put it on, you'll be surprised by its lightness. It weighs just 68g. The reason for its lightness lies in the material of the case and case back. It uses flame-retardant biomass plastic that is resistant to cooking fires and campfires, and reduces the environmental impact. It's a material that ensures the practicality that outdoor enthusiasts demand and matches their mindset.

　The cross band is also flame-retardant. The texture is slightly firm, but it doesn't feel uncomfortable or jarring against the skin. It's also lightweight. It uses a nylon material called "CORDURA® re/cor™" which balances abrasion resistance with environmental friendliness.

　The combination of the black case and olive green band is also nice. It has a strong outdoor feel, yet it also has a calm appearance that blends well with city wear.

　I honestly really like the look and feel of it. Next, let's take a look at the LCD display, which is arguably the true strength of Pro Trek's digital models.

Easy button operation and high visibility are excellent features.

　The most distinctive feature of this model, the "PRW-69YB-3JF," is its large, highly visible digital compass. The graphics, which clearly indicate north, south, east, and west at a glance, follow hand movements and allow for 60 seconds of continuous measurement. Furthermore, the use of a duplex LCD is a welcome feature, as it displays the time even when the compass is in use.

　

　

　The compass display (top right button), barometric pressure/temperature display (middle right button), and altitude display (bottom right button), all primarily used for mountaineering, can be switched with a single push from the clock display. The large buttons, featuring a knurled pattern, should be easy to operate even while wearing gloves.

　Another feature I use quite frequently during actual mountain hikes is the light on the watch face. Whether spending the night in a mountain hut or tent, on a pre-dawn peak climb, or on the twilight return from a day hike, a watch with a bright light is reassuring and invaluable.

　This watch features a high-brightness, fully automatic LED backlight that evenly illuminates the entire LCD screen, achieving exceptionally high visibility. The light turns on with a press of the button at the 6 o'clock position. Automatic illumination, which turns on simply by tilting your wrist, can also be easily set with a button.

　The digital face, equipped with a duplex LCD that enables multi-function display, offers exceptional readability in daylight and indoors. It promises stress-free visibility whether you're in the mountains or in the city.

Even if you're not a serious climber

　While the "PRW-69YB-3JF" is primarily designed for outdoor use, it also offers plenty of potential for everyday wear in the city.

　The black and olive green color scheme, which evokes an outdoor mood, also matches today's casual outfits.

　Its streamlined form and lightweight design of just 68g make it a great choice not only for climbers seeking to minimize their gear weight, but also for watch enthusiasts who prioritize a watch that's comfortable to wear.

　The compass display, barometric pressure/temperature display, and altitude display are features truly suited for climbers, but they are also convenient for everyday walks and strolls around town, and there's a simple joy in "tinkering with a tool."

　The Pro Trek "PRW-69YB-3JF" is a watch that lets you enjoy both mountain and city life. It's a watch that climbers, hikers, and campers will love, and it's also a must-try for anyone who likes outdoor-style gear and clothing. I'm pretty sure you'll love it.