The Casio G-Shock range is one of the broadest and most diverse of any brand, delivering bulletproof durability and multi-functionality to a variety of market segments. The premium MT-G line, however, is where the brand truly gets to flex its creative muscle in combining advanced materials and finishes with the signature blend of rock-solid capability and toughness. The newest MT-G iteration, the MTGB1000XBD-1, is a perfect example of this, adding an updated black resin case with G-Shock’s first-ever layered carbon fiber bezel.

While the case of the MTGB1000XBD-1 is a hockey puck on the wrist at 51.77 millimeters in diameter (although a lack of lugs may mitigate this for wearability somewhat), the watch remains lightweight and wearable without sacrificing a 200-meter water resistance rating, thanks to a mix of lightweight materials, including polished resin for the main case body and multi-layered carbon fiber comprising the bezel. Beyond being a first for G-Shock, this bezel is an impressive piece on its own, featuring sharp etchings and a layering process that alternates black and red sheets of carbon fiber material for an eye-catching striated look that adds a jolt of color to the case. Small details, such as the polished hex screws holding the bezel to the main case, the red anodizing along the side of the 8 o’clock pusher, the anti-reflective sapphire crystal, and the sharply finished knurling of the crown, drive home the more upmarket feel of the MT-G compared to its more modestly finished brethren.

Likewise, the dial of the MTGB1000XBD-1 features an array of different high-quality finishes to drive home the prestige of the MT-G line. The subtle crosshatch guilloché pattern of the main dial surface alludes to the Casio Tough Solar charging technology within without shouting it, while the red accents of the case are repeated in anodized pieces at 3 o’clock and 9 o’clock, along with red print throughout. There’s strong use of grooved patterns for extra play in changing light, as well, including snailing patterns on the subdials at 12 o’clock, 6 o’clock, and 9 o’clock. This grooved finish continues through the broad sword hands, as well as the applied wedge indices, which are also steeply inclined to help accentuate the visual depth of the watch. The only segment without a finish, in fact, is the date window at 4:30.

In keeping with most modern G-Shock models, the MTGB1000XBD-1 offers a massive array of complications and features. These include a 24-hour chronograph function, a 24-hour countdown timer, a second time zone in the 6 o’clock subdial, a power-reserve indicator, a fully automatic day/date display, a daily alarm function, a true world timer, a push-button LED illumination system, Bluetooth pairing to mobile devices through the G-Shock Connected app, and self-adjusting radio sync atomic timekeeping from six timekeeping stations across the globe.

The integrated bracelet of the MTGB1000XBD-1 is made of a blend of materials, including polished resin composite and PVD-coated stainless steel. Like the case and dial, this combination of elements leads the H link bracelet to a variety of complex finishes including brushed main surfaces and polished bevels. Casio completes this bracelet with a signed folding clasp.

The G-Shock MT-G MTGB1000XBD-1 is an excellent iteration in Casio’s ongoing expansion of the G-Shock brand, slotting in as one of its most premium and materially advanced entries to date. The new model is available now through Casio authorized dealers and the brand’s website at a retail price of $1,100.