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For over 35 years, the Casio G-Shock has been an icon of tough, dependable and affordable quartz watchmaking. The G-Shock line has developed an incredibly loyal and enthusiastic following over time, propelling a series that started as an inexpensive, indestructible timepiece for difficult conditions to a dizzying array of features, styles and price points for nearly any application. Through it all, however, few G-Shock iterations have remained as iconic as the original design. The 5000 series, which debuted in 1983, has had a constant presence in the G-Shock lineup ever since in dozens of different variations, materials, and colors, becoming a style icon in its own right. The latest of these variations, the G-Shock GMW-5000TB, takes the classic shape and functionality of the affordable 1983 original and adds truly premium materials and finish throughout.
While the octagonal case shape of the GMW-5000TB is a faithful reproduction of the classic 5000 series outline, down to the double ribbed guards on the outside of each pusher, the new model sets itself apart in the subtle details. While the textured surface of the case may emulate the look of the classic resin plastic G-Shock, the entire case of the GMW-5000TB is made of lightweight DLC coated titanium. In addition, the crystal here is rendered in anti-reflective sapphire. Beyond the change of materials, gold accents on the pushers, bezel and the lugs hint at the new model’s upmarket shift. While the materials involved may be significantly more luxe, the GMW-5000TGB loses none of the hallmark G-Shock toughness with 200 meters of water resistance and the line’s namesake shock protection.
The gold accents continue on the dial of the GMW-5000TB as a further hint of this model’s more premium appeal. Like most G-Shock models before it, the STN-LCD dial of the GMW-5000TB displays a massive list of various functions. These include time, date, month, a 1/100 second chronograph with 24-hour recording, five daily alarms, a perpetual calendar accurate through the year 2099, a 24-hour countdown function, an AM/PM indicator, and automatic time calibration via radio signals from one of six stations around the globe. Bluetooth connectivity also enables the watch to be connected to a mobile phone via the G-Shock app, enabling automatic world time setting for over 300 cities worldwide, automatic reminders, a phone finder function, and a watch battery-level indicator.
The digital movement powering the GMW-5000TB uses Casio’s Tough Solar technology, providing the benefits of solar battery charging without the usual decrease in durability. Battery life is estimated at up to 22 months stored in darkness after a full charge.
The bracelet of the GMW-5000TB is the most prominent clue that this is no ordinary G-Shock 5000 series. While the vast majority of G-shock models opt for a resin strap, this model offers a DLC-coated titanium bracelet with folding clasp that mimics the textured finish and iconic two-hole pattern of most G-shock resin straps. Casio finished the bracelet with a three-fold butterfly deployant clasp.
The GMW-5000TB represents a major step up in finish for the timeless 5000 series design, one that’s sure to excite the die-hard G-Shock collector. The Casio G-Shock GMW-5000TB is currently available only through Casio authorized dealers in Asia for an average exchange rate of $1,388 USD. More information is available on the brand’s website.