Casio G-SHOCK's "MR-G" is the ultimate example of strength and the beauty of metal. The complete story of the "red armor" and "victory color" models that captivate the world.

In addition to its excellent shock resistance, the MR-G uses a metal exterior and is meticulously finished down to the smallest detail, giving it the strength and luxury befitting the highest-end G-SHOCK line. The two "MRG-B2000B" models, named "Akazonae" (Red Armor) and "Kachiiro" (Victory Color), combine this sturdy appearance with a concept befitting a Japanese brand, and have garnered high support not only in Japan but around the world.

It has been about six years since the first model, the "MRG-G1000B-1A4JR" ("Red Armor"), was released. There is a reason why the "Red Armor" and "Victory Color" models have continued to attract so many people for such a long time. By explaining the specific reasons, we will reveal the true value of the two "MRG-B2000B" models.

The strength of the MR-G is shown in the "red armor" and "victory color"

　MR-G has been actively developing models inspired by armor since 2014, noting that the shock-resistant, scratch-resistant exterior with a powerful yet sophisticated look is in sync with the armor worn by samurai in the past. Among these is the "MRG-G1000B-1A4JR," commonly known as "Aka-Migi," which was born in 2017 and is based on the "MRG-G1000DC-1AJR," which features a shock-resistant full metal body and GPS hybrid radio-controlled solar power.

　The term "akamizo" (red armor) refers to a military unit uniformed in vermilion-painted armor that was organized from the Sengoku period through the Edo period. The Kai Takeda Army is particularly famous among the "akamizo." Many fans will remember the spectacular scene in the currently airing historical drama "What Will Ieyasu Do?" in which Takeda Shingen's army, led by Takeda Shingen, enters battle clad in bright red armor. This color, which has long been a symbol of strength, is expressed in the traditional Japanese color of crimson (kokibeni) on the "MRG-G1000B-1A4JR." Its powerful expression, evocative of the mighty Takeda army, has captivated not only G-SHOCK fans but also many other watch enthusiasts. This style is faithfully inherited in the second "akamizo" model, the "MRG-B2000B-1A4JR," released in 2022, and continues to enjoy great popularity.

　Meanwhile, following the positive reception of the first "Aka-mizo" model, the "MRG-B2000B-1AJR" was released in 2021. This model also incorporates traditional Japanese colors, but is designed in the image of "Kachi-iro," a deep, rich indigo color that contrasts with "Aka-mizo." Originally written as "brown" or "pounded color," this color was popular among warriors as far back as the Heian period, when it was used in costumes and other items. Later, it came to be written as "Kachi-iro" (victory color) as a lucky charm, and many warlords, including Date Masamune, incorporated it into their armor. Even today, it remains a popular color among Japanese people as a morale-boosting color, as seen in the uniforms of the Japan national soccer team.

　Both models have been extremely popular since their launch. This is due to the fact that they further deepen the armor design motif, a theme characteristic of a Japanese brand, and that they are conceptual models that more clearly convey the "toughness" that is the core performance of G-SHOCK, which is why they have garnered such support not only in Japan but worldwide.

A sturdy exterior that embodies the concept and a dial that expresses Japan-made

　The unique themes of "red armor" and "victory color" were created based on the MR-G's heroic design, which is reminiscent of armor, as well as its shock and scratch resistance, which makes it suitable for use in harsh environments - in other words, its "toughness."

The MRG-B2000B uses lightweight, rust-resistant pure titanium for its case, bezel, and bracelet. While that alone is practical enough, Casio has further applied a double hardening process: a deep hardening treatment and a DLC coating that increases the scratch resistance of the material's surface, creating an exterior that is strong enough for the MR-G's top-of-the-line line, and allows you to enjoy the high-quality feel of the titanium material for a long time. What's more, the heavy-looking black case and bracelet are partially polished with Zaratsu polishing to add a lustrous accent, creating a refined design reminiscent of the armor worn by samurai warriors, which is another reason why it is so captivating.

　In addition to this tough exterior, the clad guard structure used on the crown and push buttons further enhances shock resistance. MR-G watches use a metal exterior, so they have a different shock-resistant structure to the plastic G-SHOCK to protect the movement from impacts when dropped. However, if external pressure is applied to the crown, which is directly connected to the internal mechanism, there is a possibility that the movement may be damaged. This is why a unique structure was devised, in which αGEL is loaded inside the crown unit and then a crown cover is placed over it to absorb shock. Moreover, not only the crown but also the push buttons are covered to ensure shock resistance; the high reliability of the G-SHOCK brand is also an important factor supporting the popularity of the MRG-B2000B.

　Meanwhile, the dials have been designed to more clearly express the themes of "red armor" and "victory color." Not only do they use accent colors that symbolize each model, but the outer periphery of the dial features cut surfaces reminiscent of fans and folding screens, and the indexes have a unique shape with a gently curved top inspired by the curvature of a sword. The indexes are made from lightweight resin to prevent them from coming off the dial even if the watch is dropped, but Yamagata Casio's nano-processing technology, such as electroforming to highlight the edges of the ridges and adding sawing, gives them a finish that is indistinguishable from metal. This uncompromising creation also enhances the appeal of the MRG-B2000B.

Improved practicality with radio wave reception and Bluetooth communication functions

　Of course, the MRG-B2000B's extensive features are also not to be missed. The first "red armor" model, the MRG-G1000B-1A4JR, was equipped with a GPS hybrid radio-controlled solar system, but the current MRG-B2000B no longer has this feature, instead being equipped with a time calibration signal receiver and Bluetooth communication function. This allows it to be linked to a smartphone, ensuring accurate time display at all times, both in Japan and overseas. In addition to supporting 27 time zones, it also has an automatic daylight saving time setting function, making it a practical update.

　It also offers all the basic features expected of the G-SHOCK brand, including JIS Class 1 magnetic resistance, 20-atmosphere water resistance, and a Super Illuminator with a high-brightness LED light for visibility in dark places.

　Shingo Ishizaka of Casio Computer, who has been involved in the planning of MR-G since the relaunch in 2014, analyzes the reason why both the "Aka-mizo" and "Kachi-iro" models have been loved for so long as "they have reliable performance and a basic design that still has the typical G-SHOCK characteristics."

"It is very important to have a timeless style that is not influenced by trends and that will be popular for a long time. We believe that a product can only be attractive if a distinctive story is added to this absolute foundation. With this premise in mind, the story becomes a point that highlights individuality, and we believe it is a very important factor. The armor concepts of "red armor" and "victory color" embody the shock resistance of G-SHOCK, and because armor is recognized worldwide, we believe it is one of the ideal themes for worldwide development."

　The MRG-B2000B is a watch that combines the basic performance and functionality expected of a G-SHOCK with a clear, conceptual design that expresses its core capabilities. This top-tier quality, long-selling model is sure to continue to attract watch enthusiasts around the world for years to come.