Casio Archives

Casio’s MR-G range gets new G-SHOCK model with iconic design, priced from RM15,500

Casio is today a household name, with its G-SHOCK range being especially well known not just for its rugged and high-tech looks but also genuine ruggedness. The G-SHOCK range of watches has models in various price segments from low to very high. At the very top is the flagship line known as the MR-G series. This series was introduced in 1996 when the resin watches had become very successful. The Casio team decided to create a metal watch which would be of extremely high quality and be prestigious enough for formal occasions.

This year, the flagship series gets a new model – the MRG-B5000 – which is the first in the series to feature the iconic design of the original G-SHOCK watch introduced in 1983. Available in black or silver, the watch has a recommended retail price from RM15,500 in Malaysia. The pricetag is not unusual for a MR-G model which has had watches costing as much as RM308,000 (the G-D5000-9JR in 18K gold).

Here’s why the MRG-B5000 is so expensive. For starters, it is made with cutting-edge metals finished with master polishing craftsmanship. In order to apply sophisticated polished finishes to even the tiniest corners of the complex bezel form – which is made of 25 different components – Casio’s specialists developed the new Multi-Guard Structure with many incorporates shock-absorbent parts.

The new structure in the multi-component bezel ensures superior shock-resistance while also allowing polished finishes to be applied to each individual component, down to the most challenging spots, for a beautiful finish.

The band employs a special structure as well: separate pins are embedded in round holes in each metal link to allow detailed polishing for an equally beautiful finish on the band. As with other MR-G watches, the MRG-B5000 is crafted on the high-end Premium Production Line at Casio’s main factory in Japan.

Complementing the quality of the master polishing craftsmanship is COBARION, a material which has a hardness about 4 times that of pure titanium and a brilliant gleam comparable to platinum. It is used for the top surface of the bezel, offering not just aesthetic appeal but also strength..

The band is made with DAT55G, a titanium alloy that is both about 3 times harder than pure titanium and highly workable, making it scratch-resistant so the mirror finish will be long-lasting.

Like all G-SHOCK watches, the MRG-B5000 has many time-keeping functions as well as 5 alarms. It can be used in water to depths of 200 metres.

Besides the good looks, the MRG-B5000 features radio-controlled calibration and Bluetooth/Smartphone Link connectivity. The watch connects with the dedicated Casio smartphone app to automatically adjust to the correct time. 5 world times can be selected from 39 cities (time zones) which would be convenient for the global traveller.

It also comes equipped with a solar charging system and can operate for about 22 months (with the power saving function) after being full charged. It high-brightness LED light is a fully automatic backlight (Super Illuminator) with and afterglow that can be set for 2 or 4 seconds to fade in/fade out.

Limited edition Casio EDIFICE watch features NISMO’s ace number 23

Limited edition Casio EDIFICE watch features NISMO’s ace number 23

Fans of NISMO, the Nissan division which produces high-performance models and is also responsible for the brand’s motorsports activities, will want this Casio EQS-930NIS on their wrist or as part of their collection. It’s the latest model in Casio’s EDIFICE range of high-performance metal watches and is a special limited edition which was created in collaboration with NISMO.

Like all EDIFICE watches, the concept of ‘Speed and Intelligence’ is the basis for the design of the EQS-930NIS watch. The face and body design captures the spirit of NISMO and motorsports, with the brand colours – red and black – featured prominently. The inset dials, bezel sides, and buttons are accented in red against a black base.

In addition, the inset dial at the 10 o’clock position recreates the colour gradation that appears on a sports car’s titanium tail pipe when the exhaust heat and the temperature difference between car parts cause the titanium to turn bluish. The surface of the urethane band has been processed to resemble tyre tread after an intense race.

Why NISMO likes No. 23
The traditional Nissan and NISMO ace number, ’23’, is engraved on the bezel at the 23-minute mark, as well as on the case back. ‘23’ (or ‘two-three’) when said in Japanese is ‘ni’ and ‘san’, so it is chosen for NISMO racing cars and has certainly brought them good luck on several occasions. The NISMO logo can also be seen on the bezel, band loop, and case back.

Solar-powered
The 52-mm diameter EQS-930NIS is solar-powered and when fully charged, it can last about 5 months until movement stops. The wearer will be aware of the remaining charge as there is a battery level indicator on the face. Like other EDIFICE watches, it is water-resistant (down to 100 metres) and has a stopwatch which will be useful for those watching races.

There’s no indication of how limited the number of watches will be, nor the price and if it will be available outside Japan.

Limited edition Citizen Eco-Drive watches inspired by new Nissan Z

Casio’s new Scuderia AlphaTauri high-performance EDIFICE watches with 6K carbonfibre

Casio is releasing three new EDIFICE high-performance metal chronographs – the EQB-1000AT, ECB-10AT and EFS-S590 – which are made with 6K carbon . The new watches were designed with the Scuderia AlphaTauri F1 team which has had Casio as a partner since 2016 (when the team was known as Scuderia Toro Rosso).

6K carbon is a material woven from bundles of 6,000 carbonfibres, the same sort of lightweight but strong material used in Formula 1 cars. Carbonfibre is 5 times stronger than steel and one-third its weight, making it ideal for applications where weight needs to be kept low without compromising strength. Areas on the racing cars include the wings and floors.

The new EQB-1000AT, ECB-10AT and EFS-S590 mark the second collaboration with the team. The dial and bezel of the EQB-1000AT, the dial of the ECB-10AT, and the inner ring around the dial of the EFS-S590AT are made of 6K carbonfibre. The team’s navy-blue colour sets the overall tone, and their logo is engraved on the dials, case backs, and band loops.

For the Malaysian market, the model versions available are the EQB-1100AT and ECB-20AT, priced at RM2,799 and RM1,699, respectively. They are available at the G-Shock Kiosk at Isetan The Japan Store and authorized dealer stores around the country.

All three models feature robust sapphire crystals, so there should be no worries about breakage. The EQB-1000AT and ECB-10AT automatically calibrate the time when paired with a smartphone using the dedicated app, delivering the precision busy team members need.

There is also an app which allows users to set world time quickly from a preset selection of about 300 cities. This is certainly something useful to the Scuderia AlphaTauri F1 team which will travel to different cities around the planet during the Formula 1 World Championship.

Based on the original slim-profile EQB-1000 chronograph with Tough Solar power system, the watch also allows users to set the time on the main display and inset-dial display to any two cities via the app. The durable Cordura fabric band withstands the toughest conditions. The sporty rotating inner ring that shows the time remaining before the user’s next scheduled event.

The Schedule Timer function which syncs with a smartphone’s calendar app to display scheduled start and end times on the LCD and provide audible alerts. The app can draw data from Android and iOS devices.

*The Scuderia AlphaTauri F1 car in action during the 2020 championship.*

Yuki Tsunoda to drive for Scuderia AlphaTauri Honda in 2021 F1 championship

New Casio GMW-B5000CS recalls iconic form of first G-SHOCK watch

Casio’s G-SHOCK watches have been available since 1983 and those who bought them at that time will remember that the form of the first watch was a rugged square shape. That iconic shape is the basis for a new addition to the full metal construction ORIGIN series. Designated the GMW-B5000CS, the new model’s designation also recalls the original designation of the first G-SHOCK watch – DW-5000C.

The new GMW-B5000CS features a laser-carved grid design with the rugged square shape of the first G-SHOCK. It has an evolved exterior with full metal construction of all outer parts and further advanced functionality such as radio wave reception, Tough Solar power system and smartphone connectivity.

Casio has continued to create inventive colour schemes and patterns using unique CMF (design elements such as colour, material and surface finish) combinations, including black ion plating, aged finish, and camouflage design to ensure the design of the series continues to evolve.

A new internal structure employing fine-resin cushioning material was developed to offset the more powerful dropping shocks resulting from weight added by using high-strength stainless-steel parts. Besides achieving a highly accurate fit, this structure responds with reactive force to ease shocks when tiny protrusions in the cushioning material are compressed.

In order to present G-SHOCK brand’s innovation while maintaining the heritage of the first model, the GMW-B5000CS has a grid design resembling a time tunnel which suggests a ‘connection of the past with the future’. A ‘near-future’ design with prominent silver lines is forged by applying black ion plating finish to the bezel, band and buckle surface, while bringing out an underlying colour scheme using a laser to carve out the latticed pattern.

As with the base model, the GMW-B5000CS is equipped with smartphone connectivity which interfaces through the free G-CONNECT app. It can make automatic time correction (performed 4 times a day) and can be easily set to 39 different cities for world time. Adjustments are easy and among the other practical features are a high-luminosity full auto LED backlight. The Bluetooth low energy connectivity has a signal range up to 2 metres (depending on conditions).

Being a G-SHOCK model, the GMW-B5000CS is obviously very tough and can remain water-resistant down to 200 metres. Its solar charging capability is claimed to provide up to 22 months of operation with power-saving mode active.

Casio watches have a very wide price range and this new model falls in the upper range with a recommended retail price of RM3,499 at all G-Factory stores and authorized dealer stores in Malaysia.

New range in Casio EDIFICE line with ‘Speed and Intelligence’

New range in Casio EDIFICE line with ‘Speed and Intelligence’

Casio’s EDIFICE line of high-performance metal chronographs have long been associated with motorsports and many of their features are specifically designed for those in the fast-paced racing world. This month, the company has released five new additions to the EDIFICE line based on the brand concept of ‘Speed and Intelligence’.

The new ECB-10 models have been developed based on interviews with motorsport racing team members, especially those in the Scuderia Alpha Tauri Formula 1 team which Casio is partnered with. Their feedback is reflected in functions including the Schedule Timer, which is convenient for time management by teams who need to schedule activities down to the minute, and automatic time zone adjustment (over 300 cities with smartphone link), which is useful when traveling to races around the world. The latter does not require the user to press a button or make adjustments manually.

With Bluetooth, the ECB-10 models can be paired with a smartphone, accessing the device’s calendar app. Notifications are provided at the start and end of a scheduled activity. The notifications are automatically adjusted with any schedule change made on the calendar app. This allows the timer to support sudden changes in schedule.

The watch face features an octagonal bezel studded with four screws, evoking a professional power tool used for racing car maintenance. The bold look strongly suggests a mechanical design. The dial is emblazoned with horizontal lines to express the dynamic energy of cars tearing down the straightaway.

The five versions of the ECB-10 range have either black or silver resin casing and strap, as well as stainless steel casings. Prices range from RM789 to RM859 and are available at G-Factory stores and authorized dealer stores around Malaysia.

Casio and Scuderia Alpha Tauri F1 — *Casio is partnered with the F1 team Scuderia Alpha Tauri (formerly the Scuderia Toro Rosso Formula 1 team).*

Casio Malaysia Releases New EDIFICE Scuderia Toro Rosso F1 Team Models

Since 2016, Casio has had a presence in Formula 1 racing through association with the Scuderia Toro Rosso Formula 1 Team. Sharing the focus on precision and technology with the Formula 1 team, Casio has collaborated in the development of high-performance metal chronographs based on the brand concept of ‘Speed and Intelligence’.

Its latest additions to the EDIFICE line – the EQB-1000TR and EFR-S567TR slim-profile chronographs – are now available in Malaysia, with recommended retail prices of RM3,159 and RM1,269, respectively.

Designs inspired by F1 racing cars
Both watches have designs inspired on the Scuderia Toro Rosso STR14 which is competing in the 2019 Formula 1 World Championship. Adopting the racing car’s colour scheme of blue, red and silver, the entire EQB-1000TR and the dial of the EFR-S567TR adopt an eye-catching red stripe motif on a blue background, representing the team colours.

In both models, the entire dial, excluding the bezel and inset dials, is made of carbonfibre. This material, first used in the aerospace industry, offers high strength but is lighter than steel so it is ideal for F1 machines that need to be light.

The dial and case back feature the team logo, and the inset dial in the 9 o’clock position has an image of a bull, the team symbol. The new models are also infused with the worldview of Scuderia Toro Rosso.

Solar-powered with smartphone connectivity
The EQB-1000TR, a slim-profile chronograph equipped with a Tough Solar power system and smartphone connectivity. In addition to accurate time syncing that can be performed by connecting to a smartphone app, the new model has World Time. The user can see the time for two different places, in the main and inset dials, by selecting from approximately 300 cities. This feature is very useful for the Scuderia Toro Rosso drivers and team members who travel around the globe.

The new Last Lap Indicator displays the difference from the previous lap time on the inset dial within a range of minus 5 to plus 1 seconds. The stopwatch function has also been enhanced, and the recorded times can be uploaded to the smartphone app. Since 200 lap times can be saved, measured to 1/1000th of a second, the chronograph helps manage detailed times during a race.

*The Scuderia Toro Rosso STR14 in action at the 2019 Japanese GP recently*

Casio adds 3 new models to its G-SHOCK Clear Skeleton Series

For some, there’s a certain appeal to being able to see inside objects and observe the different parts, especially mechanical ones. And where a watch is concerned, there are certainly many parts which are also moving and therefore provide a fascinating ‘show’ on the wrist.

Casio’s G-SHOCK Clear Skeleton Series clearly exploits this with its translucent casings in two versions based on the GA700 and DW5600 casings. A transparent resin is used for the casings, giving the illusion of being able to ‘see inside’ and in so doing, it makes the watch a fashionable accessory. However, unlike the GA-300 series which actually shows moving gears, these Clear Skeleton watches do not go to that extent.

For the Malaysian market, the latest Clear Skeleton Series is available in three versions – the DW-5600SK-1DR (RM459), DW-6900SK-1DR (RM479) and GA-700SK-1ADR (RM549). All have analogue and digital functionality, making them versatile timepieces for all occasions.

1980s look merged with today’s fashions
These new versions combine the popular semi-transparent resin construction with metallic colours to create a mix that captures the look of the 1980’s along with today’s fashions. Two-tone colouring matches bright hues with the semi-transparent resin for the case and band.

Unlike some watches (even Casio models) which have a ‘see-inside’ design, the Clear Skeleton Series watches have pointers that can be seen clearly. In some such watches, the excessive number of parts (especially metal ones that reflect) can make reading the time at a glance a bit difficult.

Casio toughness
Being Casio products, these watches naturally have the toughness that the brand has built its reputation since the first G-Shock model was released in 1983. Besides shock resistance, there’s also water resistance to a depth of 200 metres.

For viewing at night or in dim conditions, there’s electro-luminescent (EL) backlighting plus ‘afterglow’. This ‘afterglow’ feature keeps the backlighting on even after it is switched off. There’s also a Flash Alert with buzzer that sounds for alarms and hourly time signals.

For those who need accurate timing at sports event, the stopwatch measures in 1/100-second increments and there are elapsed time, split time, 1st-2nd place times modes. The automatic calendar is programmed up till 2039, like most Casio watches with the older modules. However, the latest ones are programmed up till 2099 which, of course, would be irrelevant to you personally.

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Casio

Casio’s MR-G range gets new G-SHOCK model with iconic design, priced from RM15,500

Limited edition Casio EDIFICE watch features NISMO’s ace number 23

Casio’s new Scuderia AlphaTauri high-performance EDIFICE watches with 6K carbonfibre

New Casio GMW-B5000CS recalls iconic form of first G-SHOCK watch

New range in Casio EDIFICE line with ‘Speed and Intelligence’

Casio Malaysia Releases New EDIFICE Scuderia Toro Rosso F1 Team Models

Casio adds 3 new models to its G-SHOCK Clear Skeleton Series

Casio’s MR-G range gets new G-SHOCK model with iconic design, priced from RM15,500

Limited edition Casio EDIFICE watch features NISMO’s ace number 23

Casio’s new Scuderia AlphaTauri high-performance EDIFICE watches with 6K carbonfibre

New Casio GMW-B5000CS recalls iconic form of first G-SHOCK watch

New range in Casio EDIFICE line with ‘Speed and Intelligence’

Casio Malaysia Releases New EDIFICE Scuderia Toro Rosso F1 Team Models

Casio adds 3 new models to its G-SHOCK Clear Skeleton Series

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