Casio's latest mechanical watch in the "EDIFICE" series has arrived. Its high level of craftsmanship is sure to impress even watch enthusiasts!

Casio has announced the second generation of its "EDIFICE AUTOMATIC" series, featuring a mechanical movement, as part of its 2026 lineup. This is a hands-on review of the watches. This time, we will be looking at the forged carbon model and the stainless steel model with gold IP finish. The level of craftsmanship is just as high as its predecessor, and even I, who owns several mechanical watches, am impressed by its outstanding finish.

A review of Casio's latest mechanical watch, the carbon model.

　In 2025, Casio surprised many watch enthusiasts. The company, which had long been a leader in the quartz watch genre, suddenly announced the "EDIFICE AUTOMATIC EFK-100/EFK-110" series, equipped with an automatic winding movement. Five variations were released, including a forged carbon model, and the high level of craftsmanship, from the texture of the case and dial to the wearing comfort, demonstrated the company's serious commitment to mechanical watches. Then, in 2026, the second installment, the "EDIFICE AUTOMATIC EFK-200" series, was unveiled.

　The lineup consists of five models: the forged carbon model "Ref.EFK-200XPB-1AJF," the "Ref.EFK-200CD-1AJF" which combines a forged carbon dial with a stainless steel case, and the "Ref.EFK-200D-2AJF," "Ref.EFK-200D-4AJF," and "Ref.EFK-200DG-5AJF" which feature electroformed gradient dials that give off a retro feel. All models have a case size of 39mm or less in diameter, following the sporty and compact design of the previous model.

　This time, we'll be focusing on the forged carbon model Ref.EFK-200XPB-1AJF, while also touching on the gold-colored Ref.EFK-200DG-5AJF, and conducting a hands-on review.

A carbon dial that combines intricate patterns with excellent legibility.

　In this forged carbon model we're reviewing, the most striking feature is undoubtedly the carbon dial. In recent years, carbon material has become widely used not only in motorsport but also in luxury watches. Its functionality—lightweight and strong—is certainly a factor, but the unique texture created by the overlapping fibers is also one of the elements that attracts attention. Because of its manufacturing process, no two patterns are exactly alike, which is a charm that is similar to natural materials such as meteorite and mother-of-pearl, allowing you to enjoy the individuality of a one-of-a-kind item, even though it is a mass-produced industrial product.

　Furthermore, its organic pattern dramatically changes its appearance depending on the viewing angle. Sometimes it appears completely black, but you can enjoy the changing expressions as the pattern emerges depending on how the light hits it. However, such patterned dials also have their weaknesses. Because the pattern itself is so prominent, if the overall balance, including the indices and hands, is not carefully considered, the legibility of the watch as a timepiece may be compromised. In a model that is completely focused on being a work of art, this might be considered a unique feature, but for most wristwatches, its essence should be that of a tool for displaying the time.

　However, there's no need to worry about that with this model. The basic color scheme is unified in black, creating a sense of unity from the case and dial to the strap. On the other hand, the use of rose gold only for the indices, hands, and date display window creates contrast and ensures excellent legibility despite the complex pattern. The way the limited number of colors balances the complex texture with excellent legibility feels like it's packed with the know-how that Casio, with its experience in creating practical watches like the G-SHOCK, has cultivated.

　The quality of the indices is also beyond expectations. While their height is somewhat subdued, giving them a flat appearance, the top surface has a rough hairline finish, and the sides are cut diagonally to create a sense of depth. Similarly, the hands have a hairline finish over a large area, which softly reflects light. The white luminous paint is clearly different in length for the hour and minute hands, making them instantly distinguishable even in the dark. In lower-priced watches, it's not uncommon to notice burrs or rough press marks on these parts. However, in this model, these were hardly noticeable.

　A chapter ring with a minute track is placed around the outer edge of the dial, creating a sense of depth while also reducing the visual distance between the hands and the crystal. This minimizes the stretched-out look often found in low-priced, practical watches.

　If I had to point out a drawback, it would be the difficulty in reading the date display. The date disc is positioned somewhat recessed, and the window itself is small. I can't deny that there were times when it appeared a little dark depending on the viewing angle. I would especially recommend checking the two-digit display for dates from the 10th onwards before purchasing.

Lightweight and strong carbon case

　Another noteworthy feature of this model is its forged carbon fiber middle case. In recent years, various companies have released models using carbon fiber, but most of them are in the mid-to-high price range. This model is remarkable for actively incorporating a carbon fiber case at a price well under 10 yen.

　The case design is a cushion shape, giving it a somewhat retro feel. The bezel, which emphasizes this shape, is made of stainless steel with a black IP finish, creating harmony with the middle case. The top surface of the bezel has a hairline finish, and the four corners have beveled polished surfaces, adding definition. The overall sharp, edgy design gives it a sporty and sleek impression.

　The case diameter is 38.8mm. This size remains largely unchanged from its predecessor, striking a balance between presence and wearability. While not particularly small in an era of shrinking watch sizes, it's a timeless size that won't be affected by changing trends, making it a reliable choice for everyday wear. Thanks in part to the integrated strap design, the case length is kept to 43.8mm, ensuring a comfortable fit even for those with slender wrists. Of course, the lightweight carbon fiber material also contributes to the improved wearing comfort.

　The strap is made of a firm resin and features lines that blend seamlessly with the case. It is secured with screws from the side of the lugs. Combined with a double-folding buckle and featuring numerous adjustment holes on the tip, it can accommodate a wide range of wrist sizes.
The stainless steel case back, finished in black IP coating, is a screw-down type. This provides 10 ATM water resistance, making it suitable for wear in inclement weather.

The movement is the renowned Cal.8215.

　While the previous model featured the Cal.NH35 movement, manufactured by TMI, a subsidiary of Seiko, this model's movement has been changed to the Cal.8200 series, which has been produced for many years by Miyota, a subsidiary of Citizen. It is an entry-level movement supplied to various brands both domestically and internationally, and is a mass-produced item with many of its manufacturing processes automated. It may be a somewhat commonplace and often overlooked movement, but its specifications are by no means inferior.

　What's particularly noteworthy is its reliability, stemming from its simple structure. The Cal.8200 series, which has been continuously produced and improved over many years, boasts a vast track record of adoption worldwide. Furthermore, it excels in parts supply and maintainability, and despite being an inexpensive movement, it embodies a design philosophy that assumes long-term use with repeated overhauls. While its nominal accuracy and power reserve are slightly inferior to the latest models, there are not many mass-produced movements that can rival the Cal.8200 series.

　The automatic winding mechanism employs a simple unidirectional winding system. When worn on the wrist, the rotor occasionally spins vigorously, but the vibration and noise are at a level that is not noticeable. In fact, regarding the noise, I personally found some of the in-house movements that use ceramic ball bearings to be more noticeable.

　The operation is quite standard. The mainspring is wound when the crown is fully pushed in, the date is advanced with one click, and the time is adjusted with two clicks. This model features an octagonal crown, allowing for precise operation with your fingertips.

　The rotor and bridges visible through the see-through case back are rather unrefined and not particularly visually appealing. However, the Cal. 8200 series, which pushes the boundaries of mechanical movement as an industrial product, possesses a different kind of charm than movements that prioritize ostentation.

Retro gradient dial gold color model

　Let's also mention another variation model, Ref.EFK-200DG-5AJF, which is unified in gold color. Its distinguishing feature is the gradient dial that transitions from brown to black. This, combined with the cushion-shaped case design, gives it a retro-futuristic impression reminiscent of the 1970s.

　The 38mm stainless steel case and bracelet are given a glamorous finish with gold IP plating. However, it doesn't feel gaudy. This is probably because the brushed finish is the main feature. It doesn't shine brightly, but rather emits a soft luster. On the other hand, the four corners of the bezel and the sides of the case are polished, allowing you to enjoy a subtle sparkle when you move your wrist.

　The bracelet features a sporty design combining H-shaped and square-shaped links. Each link is connected by a split pin, and it appears that all links can be removed. Due to the tapered design, there is a limit to how many links can be removed, but it's a welcome feature that it's easy to adjust even for users with slender wrists. The smooth feel against the skin provided by the solid, solid links is also appealing. The buckle is a tri-fold type that opens and closes with a push button.

Comfortable fit for everyday use

　Both models offer a comfortable fit. The forged carbon model, with its lightweight case and supple resin strap, feels so light you almost forget you're wearing it. The stainless steel model has a comfortable weight that isn't burdensome, while its understated gold-toned exterior and gradient dial make a statement.

　Both cases are 11.9mm thick, which is not particularly thin. However, the three-dimensional bezel design, the clearance between the hands, and the presence of the chapter ring prevent them from appearing excessively thick. If you're looking for a lightweight sports watch for active situations, the forged carbon model is a good choice, while if you're looking for a daily watch to wear in various situations, the stainless steel model would be better.

I was amazed by the high level of completion.

　This is the first time I've had the opportunity to thoroughly test a Casio mechanical watch. When I saw the news that the company was releasing a mechanical wristwatch, I was certainly surprised, but to be honest, I thought it would be of a quality commensurate with its price. Considering that the company entered the watch industry by applying calculator technology, its foundation is electronic technology. In fact, the company has built a solid position with high-tech quartz watches such as G-SHOCK and Oceanus. No matter how much they use general-purpose movements, mechanical watches should be outside their area of ​​expertise.

　But what about seeing the actual watch? The exquisite craftsmanship of the dial, including the treatment of the hands and indices, exudes a sense of luxury, and together with the sharp-edged case, it gives the owner a great sense of ownership satisfaction. While possessing a distinct personality with its forged carbon case and gradient dial, its solid design, with few drawbacks such as a manageable size and 10 ATM water resistance, offers a glimpse into the know-how that Casio has accumulated over many years as a practical watchmaker.

　Moreover, the selling price is well under 10 yen. I don't like to casually use the term "cost performance" because it seems like I'm giving up on evaluating it properly, but the quality of this product is so phenomenal that if I don't use that term, when else would I?

　Casio's mechanical watch series has already released its 32nd model. The company will undoubtedly continue to release new models in the future. We look forward to seeing how these models will evolve and to watching the future of Casio's originality.