Category: Uncategorized

A Wild G-Shock Appears: The Pokémon x G-SHOCK GA-110PKM-7A Is the Most Exciting Collab Watch of 2026

In the watch-wearing world, the Pokémon x G-SHOCK GA-110PKM-7A is the talk of the town—like that one kid who can somehow pull off wearing socks with sandals. Launched for Pokémon’s 30th birthday, this isn’t just a cute little novelty; it’s a full-sized G-SHOCK with legit durability, decked out in the classic red, blue, and green of the original games. Pre-orders sold out faster than Pikachu can say “Pika!” and now it’s a hot item on the resale market. Missed out? The regular G-SHOCK GA-110 is still up for grabs—instead of a mythical watch, you’ll just get a regular hero!

Every so often, a watch collaboration cuts through the noise and becomes the thing everyone in the hobby is talking about. The **Pokémon x G-SHOCK GA-110PKM-7A** is that watch for July 2026. Announced to celebrate Pokémon’s 30th anniversary — the franchise first launched in Japan in February 1996 — the collaboration marks the first time Pokémon has ever teamed up with the flagship full-size G-SHOCK line. Previous Pokémon x Casio partnerships were limited to the smaller BABY-G series. This is the real thing: a full GA-110 platform watch, built to G-SHOCK’s legendary durability standards, dressed in the original red, blue, and green of the first generation games. Pre-orders opened on July 1, 2026 at $270 USD and sold out within hours. On StockX, the current lowest ask in the UK is £450 — more than double the £220 retail price. If you were hoping to pick one up at retail, that window has almost certainly closed. But the story of why this watch matters — and what it tells us about where G-SHOCK is heading — is worth telling in full.

Why This Collaboration Is Different

Pokémon x Casio is not a new idea. The two brands have collaborated before, most notably on BABY-G models that appealed primarily to younger collectors and franchise fans. Those were fun, but they were niche — the BABY-G is a smaller, lighter watch aimed at a different demographic than the core G-SHOCK audience.

The GA-110PKM-7A is different in two important ways. First, it is built on the **GA-110 platform** — one of G-SHOCK’s most popular and recognisable full-size analog-digital models, with a 55.2mm x 52.4mm case that sits firmly in the mainstream of G-SHOCK collecting. This is not a novelty item for franchise fans; it is a legitimate G-SHOCK that happens to have Pokémon details. Second, the design choices are deliberate and considered. Rather than leaning on Pikachu yellow or contemporary Pokémon branding — the easy, commercially obvious route — Casio chose to reference the **original 1996 game releases**: Pocket Monsters Red, Green, and Blue. The red, blue, and green accents on the bezel and case are a direct nod to those three titles. The result is a watch that reads as a franchise anniversary piece rather than character merchandise, and that distinction matters enormously to collectors.

The Design in Detail

The GA-110PKM-7A is built on a translucent resin case with a white center section, accented by the red, blue, and green of the original game trilogy. The bezel carries the standard GA-110 layout, but the details embedded throughout the design reward close inspection.

The most striking element is the **9 o’clock inset dial**, which is styled as a Poké Ball — the red-and-white sphere used to capture Pokémon in the games. The indicator hand on this sub-dial is shaped like **Pikachu viewed from behind**, tail and ears visible. It is a small detail, but it is executed with the kind of care that separates a thoughtful collaboration from a logo-slap exercise.

The band is where the 30th anniversary theme is expressed most fully. **30 Pokémon are featured across the strap**: three first-partner Pokémon from each generation, spanning Kanto through Paldea, plus Pikachu and Eevee. The mythical Pokémon **Mew** appears on the band loop — a choice that will resonate with anyone who remembers the original games, where Mew was a secret that could only be obtained through special events. The caseback carries a custom **30th anniversary Pokémon logo engraving**, and the packaging continues the theme: the watch ships inside a **Poké Ball-shaped display case**, itself housed within an outer box featuring all 30 Pokémon from the strap.

Specifications: A Proper G-SHOCK Under the Hood

The GA-110PKM-7A is not a fashion watch dressed up as a G-SHOCK. It carries the full GA-110 specification, which means it is a genuinely capable tool watch beneath the Pokémon exterior.

| Feature | Specification |

|—|—|

| Water resistance | 200 metres |

| Shock resistance | G-SHOCK standard |

| Magnetic resistance | Yes |

| World time | 29 time zones |

| Alarms | 5 daily alarms |

| Stopwatch | 1/1000th-second, with speed measurement |

| Calendar | Full auto-calendar through 2099 |

| Additional functions | Sunrise/sunset display, moon data |

| Battery | CR1220, approximately 2-year life |

| Case dimensions | 55.2mm x 52.4mm x 17.4mm |

The 200-metre water resistance and shock protection mean this is a watch you can actually wear — to the beach, to the gym, on a hike — without worrying about it. The GA-110 platform has been in production since 2010 and has proven itself across millions of units. The Pokémon edition is a limited collaboration, but it is built to the same standard as every other G-SHOCK that carries the name.

The Resale Market: What’s Happening on StockX

The demand for the GA-110PKM-7A has been extraordinary. In Japan, Casio opened a lottery system for domestic sales — the watch was not available for direct purchase, only through a random draw. Internationally, pre-orders opened on July 1 and sold out within hours at most authorised retailers. The Windup Watch Shop in Chicago, one of the most respected independent watch retailers in the US, limited purchases to one per person and brought only 30 pieces to the Windup Watch Fair.

On secondary markets, the numbers tell the story clearly. In the UK, where the watch retailed at £220, the current lowest ask on StockX is **£450** — more than double retail. In the US, where it retailed at $270, secondary market prices are running in the $450–$600 range depending on condition and seller. That is a significant premium, and it reflects genuine demand from collectors who missed the retail window rather than speculative flipping.

Whether those prices hold is another question. Limited G-SHOCK collaborations have a mixed track record on the secondary market: some (the Eric Haze DW-5600, the Futura GA-110) have held or appreciated over time; others have drifted back toward retail within six to twelve months as the initial excitement fades. The Pokémon collaboration has the advantage of being tied to a franchise with genuine multigenerational appeal, which suggests the floor is higher than most G-SHOCK collabs. But paying 2× retail for a $270 watch is a decision that requires careful thought.

Can’t Get the Pokémon Edition? Here’s What to Buy Instead

If you missed the GA-110PKM-7A at retail and are not willing to pay secondary market prices, the good news is that the base platform it is built on — the **GA-110** — is one of G-SHOCK’s best and is available right now at a fraction of the price.

The **G-Shock GA-110-1B** (ASIN: B00A2EQH2E) is the standard black version of the same case, the same movement, and the same durability specification. It retails for around **$99 on Amazon** — less than 40% of the Pokémon edition’s retail price, and a fraction of current secondary market prices. You are not getting the Pokémon details, the Poké Ball packaging, or the 30th anniversary engraving. But you are getting a genuinely excellent G-SHOCK on the platform that made the collaboration possible in the first place.

Alternatively, if the GA-110PKM-7A has sparked an interest in G-SHOCK collecting more broadly, our [Best G-Shock Watches guide](/best-g-shock-watches) covers the full lineup across every price point — from the entry-level DW-5600 to the solar-atomic GW-M5610 to the Mudmaster GSG-100. There is a G-SHOCK for every budget and every use case, and the Pokémon collaboration is a good reminder of why the platform has endured for over 40 years.

[Check the GA-110-1B on Amazon →](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00A2EQH2E?tag=ijgprojects06-20)

The G-SHOCK x Pokémon GA-110PKM-7A is a genuinely excellent collaboration watch — thoughtfully designed, properly specified, and tied to a cultural moment (Pokémon’s 30th anniversary) that resonates across generations. The fact that it sold out at retail within hours is not surprising; the fact that it was designed with enough care and restraint to appeal to serious G-SHOCK collectors as well as franchise fans is the more interesting story.

If you can find one at or near retail, it is worth buying. If the secondary market prices feel too steep, the GA-110 platform in its standard form is one of the best value propositions in watch collecting — and it will still be available long after the Pokémon edition becomes a distant memory in the resale market.

For more G-SHOCK coverage, see our [G-Shock GA2100 vs GW5000 comparison](/compare/g-shock-ga2100-vs-gw5000) or browse our [Best G-Shock Watches](/best-g-shock-watches) collection. And if you want a personalised recommendation based on your budget and lifestyle, try our [Watch Advisor](/watch-finder).

*Affiliate links are used where available — clicking them supports WatchesAndMore at no extra cost to you.*

Watch of the Week: G-Shock GWM5610-1 Solar Atomic — The Ultimate Set-It-and-Forget-It G-Shock

Solar-powered, atomic-synced, 200M water resistant — the G-Shock GWM5610-1 never needs a battery change or manual time-setting. Our previous Watch of the Week, now archived.

Every week we spotlight one watch that stands out from the crowd. This week’s archived pick is the G-Shock GWM5610-1 Solar Atomic: the watch that solves every practical problem a timepiece can have. It never needs a battery, never needs setting, and never loses time. At $129 with 4.8 stars from over 5,600 Amazon buyers, it is one of the most trusted watches in our entire database — and one of the best value propositions in all of watchmaking.

Tough Solar Power — Never Change a Battery Again

The GWM5610-1’s Tough Solar system converts any light source — sunlight, indoor fluorescent, or even a desk lamp — into electrical energy stored in a rechargeable cell. A full charge powers the watch for up to 10 months in complete darkness. In normal daily use, the watch essentially charges itself indefinitely. This is not a gimmick: G-Shock’s solar technology has been proven across millions of watches over decades of real-world use. The solar panel is integrated invisibly into the dial, maintaining the clean square aesthetic that made the original 1983 G-Shock iconic.

Multi-Band 6 Atomic Timekeeping — Always Perfectly Accurate

The second headline feature is Multi-Band 6 atomic timekeeping. The watch receives radio calibration signals from six transmission stations in the US, UK, Germany, Japan, and China, automatically syncing to atomic clock accuracy every night while you sleep. The result: accuracy to within one second per 100,000 years. Daylight saving time adjustments happen automatically. You will never need to manually set this watch — not once, not ever.

For travellers, the watch stores world time for 48 cities across 31 time zones, switchable with a single button press.

**Key Specifications:**

– Movement: Quartz with Tough Solar + Multi-Band 6 atomic sync

– Case: 43.2mm × 37.9mm resin, 200M water resistance

– Crystal: Mineral glass

– Weight: 53g

– Battery: Rechargeable (solar), 10-month backup

– Amazon Rating: 4.8/5 (5,621+ reviews)

– Price: $129

[Check Price on Amazon →](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007RWZHXO?tag=ijgprojects06-20)

Classic G-Shock Toughness in the Original Square Silhouette

The GWM5610-1 wears the same square case shape that launched G-Shock in 1983 — a design so well-executed that it has remained essentially unchanged for over 40 years. The carbon resin case absorbs shocks and impacts. The 200M water resistance rating means you can swim, surf, or shower without concern. The negative LCD display (light text on dark background) provides excellent contrast in most lighting conditions, and the EL backlight illuminates the entire face at the press of a button.

Beyond the headline features, the watch includes five daily alarms, a 1/100-second stopwatch, countdown timer, and an auto-calendar programmed through 2099. It weighs just 53 grams — lighter than most metal-cased watches — and the 43.2mm case fits comfortably on a wide range of wrist sizes.

Who Should Buy the GWM5610-1?

The GWM5610-1 is the right watch for anyone who wants maximum reliability with zero maintenance. It suits outdoor enthusiasts who need a tough, waterproof watch that keeps perfect time without fuss. It suits frequent travellers who want world time and automatic time-zone accuracy. It suits professionals who appreciate the clean, understated square design. And it suits anyone who simply wants a watch they can put on and forget about — knowing it will always be accurate, always charged, and always ready.

If you are considering the GWM5610-1, compare it against the [G-Shock DW5600E-1V ($59)](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000GAWSDG?tag=ijgprojects06-20) for a more affordable quartz option, or the [G-Shock GA2100-1A1 CasiOak ($99)](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DSWNXSQG?tag=ijgprojects06-20) if you want a slimmer, more modern aesthetic. But if solar power and atomic accuracy are priorities, the GWM5610-1 is the clear choice at $129.

The Verdict

The G-Shock GWM5610-1 Solar Atomic earns its Watch of the Week status by solving every practical problem a watch can have. Solar power eliminates battery changes. Atomic timekeeping eliminates manual setting. G-Shock construction eliminates worry about damage. The result is a watch you can wear every day for decades without a single moment of maintenance — and at $129, it is exceptional value.

**Rating: 4.8/5 ⭐ (5,621+ Amazon reviews)**

[Check Price on Amazon →](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007RWZHXO?tag=ijgprojects06-20)

The G-Shock GWM5610-1 is proof that the best technology is the kind you never have to think about. Solar power, atomic accuracy, and G-Shock toughness combine to create a watch that simply works — every day, for decades, without intervention. If you are ready to step up from a standard quartz watch, the GWM5610-1 is where we would start. Browse our [Watch Advisor](/watch-finder) for personalised recommendations, or check the current [Watch of the Week](/watch-of-the-week-archive) for our latest featured pick.

Mudmaster Mastery: A Deep Dive into the Casio G-Shock GSG-100-1A

Meet the Casio G-Shock Mudmaster GSG-100-1A, the rugged watch that laughs in the face of mud, dust, and probably even bad parenting! Built for military personnel and thrill-seekers, this watch is fortified with mud-resistant features that ensure it keeps ticking while you’re navigating treacherous terrains or battling a mud pie. With twin sensors offering navigation aid and a thermometer (because why guess when you can know?), this bad boy is all about serious business. Waterproof, shockproof, and resistant to cold—it’s like the Swiss Army knife of watches but on your wrist! So, gear up and let the adventures begin (just don’t forget to get it dirty)!

The Casio G-Shock Mudmaster GSG-100-1A isn’t just another tough watch—it’s specifically engineered for the harshest environments on Earth. Designed for military personnel, rescue workers, and extreme outdoor enthusiasts, the Mudmaster takes G-Shock’s legendary durability and amplifies it with specialized mud and dust resistance. This is the watch you want when failure is not an option.

GSG-100-1A
GSG-100-1A

Mud-Resistant Construction

The defining feature of the Mudmaster is its specialized mud-resistant construction. Casio engineered a unique button structure with protective gaskets that prevent mud, dust, and debris from entering the case. The buttons are designed to function even when caked with mud—a critical feature for soldiers, construction workers, and outdoor professionals who can’t afford to baby their equipment. The screw-lock crown provides an additional layer of protection, ensuring the watch remains sealed even in the most challenging conditions.

Twin Sensor Technology

The GSG-100-1A incorporates Casio’s Twin Sensor technology, providing a digital compass and thermometer. The compass is invaluable for navigation in remote areas, with bearing memory and magnetic declination correction for accuracy. The thermometer helps you monitor environmental conditions—critical information when you’re far from civilization. These sensors are seamlessly integrated into the watch’s interface, accessible with a simple button press.

CLICK IMAGE ABOVE TO SEE MY TOP
G-SHOCK SELECTIONS

Built for Extreme Conditions

Beyond mud resistance, the GSG-100-1A features 200-meter water resistance, shock resistance, and low-temperature resistance down to -10°C (14°F). The watch continues functioning in conditions that would stop ordinary timepieces. The large, high-contrast display remains readable even in bright sunlight or darkness (thanks to the LED backlight). The resin band is reinforced and designed to withstand abrasion, chemicals, and UV exposure.

Professional-Grade Features

The Mudmaster includes world time for 29 time zones, five daily alarms, a 1/100-second stopwatch, countdown timer, and full auto-calendar. The watch also features sunrise/sunset data—useful for planning outdoor activities. Battery life is approximately 3 years, and the watch alerts you when power is low. Every feature is designed with professional use in mind, prioritizing reliability and functionality over flashy complications.

The Casio G-Shock Mudmaster GSG-100-1A is the watch for serious professionals and hardcore outdoor enthusiasts. Its specialized mud resistance, twin sensor technology, and extreme durability make it uniquely capable in environments where ordinary watches fail. While it’s larger and more expensive than standard G-Shocks, the Mudmaster justifies its premium with features and construction quality that can literally save your life in extreme conditions. If your adventures take you to the edge of civilization, the Mudmaster is the watch that will get you back.

The Watch Advisor
Find Your Perfect Watch

Casio G-Shock Mudmaster GSG-100-1A3 – The Ultimate Rugged Adventure Watch! ⏳🌍💪 YouTubeVideo

In this video, we take an in-depth look at the Casio G-Shock Mudmaster GSG-100-1A3, a watch engineered for extreme conditions. Designed for those who brave the toughest terrains, this mud-resistant, shock-resistant, and 200-meter water-resistant timepiece is built to handle the elements

SEE MY REVIEW ON ON MY WatchesAndMore YouTube Channel

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Citizen Brycen Eco-Drive Chronograph Review: Solar Power Meets Dress Watch Sophistication

The Citizen Brycen packs a solar-powered chronograph, perpetual calendar, and 100m water resistance into a refined package — and never needs a battery. Is it the ultimate set-and-forget dress watch?

There is a specific type of watch buyer who wants it all: the elegance of a dress watch, the utility of a chronograph, the practicality of never changing a battery, and the confidence of 100m water resistance. The Citizen Brycen Eco-Drive Chronograph exists for exactly that person. At around $439, it is not a budget watch — but measured against what it delivers, it represents exceptional value in the solar-powered dress chronograph category.

What Is the Citizen Brycen?

The Brycen is part of Citizen’s Eco-Drive lineup — the brand’s proprietary light-powered technology that converts any light source (natural or artificial) into electrical energy stored in a rechargeable cell. The result is a watch that, under normal wearing conditions, never needs a battery replacement. The Brycen specifically targets the dress-sport crossover market: it has the proportions and dial layout of a business watch, but the functionality of a serious chronograph.

The model designation BL5400-52E is the flagship variant, featuring a blue dial with rose gold-tone accents and a stainless steel bracelet. The 48mm case is large by dress watch standards, but the slim profile keeps it from feeling overwhelming on the wrist.

Key Specifications

| Specification | Detail |

|—|—|

| Case Size | 48mm diameter |

| Case Material | Stainless steel |

| Movement | Eco-Drive (solar quartz) |

| Water Resistance | 100m |

| Crystal | Mineral |

| Strap/Bracelet | Stainless steel bracelet |

| Functions | Chronograph, perpetual calendar, date, day, 24-hour indicator |

| Power Reserve | 6 months in the dark when fully charged |

The perpetual calendar is worth highlighting. The Brycen automatically accounts for month lengths and leap years — you set it once and it stays accurate indefinitely. Combined with Eco-Drive, this is genuinely a watch you can put on and forget about.

Eco-Drive: The Technology That Changes Everything

Citizen’s Eco-Drive technology has been refined over decades and is now one of the most reliable light-powered systems in watchmaking. The Brycen’s cell charges from any light source — indoor fluorescent lighting is sufficient for normal daily charging. A full charge provides approximately 6 months of power reserve in complete darkness, meaning even if you store the watch for extended periods, it will still be running when you pick it up.

For a dress watch that might spend time in a drawer between formal occasions, this is a significant practical advantage over a standard quartz watch that could have a dead battery waiting for you. It is also an environmental argument — no battery waste over the lifetime of the watch.

[Check the current price on Amazon →](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002NEFI4E?tag=ijgprojects06-20)

Chronograph Functions and Usability

The Brycen’s chronograph measures elapsed time with a central seconds hand and sub-dials for minutes and hours. The pushers are well-positioned and have a satisfying click. The layout is legible, with the chronograph sub-dials clearly differentiated from the running time display.

The perpetual calendar complication adds day, date, and month displays. The 24-hour sub-dial is useful for tracking a second time zone or distinguishing AM from PM at a glance. For a watch at this price point, the feature set is genuinely impressive — comparable to pieces costing two or three times as much from Swiss brands.

Design and Wearability

The Brycen’s 48mm case is the most common point of hesitation for potential buyers. In practice, the slim case height and the way the lugs curve down to the wrist make it wear smaller than the diameter suggests. The blue sunburst dial with rose gold-tone indices and hands is genuinely striking — this is a watch that draws compliments.

The stainless steel bracelet is well-finished with a mix of brushed and polished links. The clasp is secure and easy to operate. One honest criticism: the mineral crystal is less scratch-resistant than sapphire, which is standard on Swiss watches at this price. Citizen uses sapphire on some higher-end Eco-Drive models, but the Brycen uses mineral glass. It is not a dealbreaker, but it is worth noting.

How It Compares to the Competition

The Brycen’s main competitors are the Seiko Solar SSC813 and the Bulova Precisionist chronographs.

| Feature | Citizen Brycen BL5400 | Seiko Solar SSC813 | Bulova Precisionist 96B175 |

|—|—|—|—|

| Price | ~$439 | ~$295 | ~$350 |

| Movement | Eco-Drive solar quartz | Solar quartz | Precisionist quartz |

| Water Resistance | 100m | 100m | 30m |

| Perpetual Calendar | Yes | No | No |

| Crystal | Mineral | Mineral | Mineral |

The Brycen wins on feature set — the perpetual calendar alone justifies the price premium over the SSC813. The Bulova Precisionist offers exceptional accuracy (±10 seconds per year) but lacks solar charging and water resistance depth.

[Check Price on Amazon — Citizen Brycen →](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002NEFI4E?tag=ijgprojects06-20)

[Check Price on Amazon — Seiko Solar SSC813 →](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07KXQXNQK?tag=ijgprojects06-20)

Who Should Buy the Citizen Brycen?

The Brycen is the right watch for someone who wants a sophisticated dress chronograph that is genuinely practical for daily wear. The solar charging eliminates battery anxiety, the perpetual calendar eliminates manual date adjustments, and the 100m water resistance means you never have to take it off.

**Buy the Brycen if you:**

– Want a solar-powered watch that never needs a battery

– Need a chronograph for professional or formal occasions

– Appreciate the perpetual calendar complication

– Want a watch that works as hard as it looks good

**Consider alternatives if you:**

– Prefer mechanical/automatic movements (look at Seiko Presage or Orient)

– Want a smaller case (the 48mm may be too large for some wrists)

– Need sapphire crystal (look at Citizen Promaster or higher-tier Eco-Drive models)

The Citizen Brycen Eco-Drive Chronograph is one of the most complete watches available under $500. Solar charging, perpetual calendar, chronograph, and 100m water resistance in a refined package that works for business and weekends alike. If you want a dress watch that also does everything, the Brycen is the answer.

[Check the current price on Amazon →](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002NEFI4E?tag=ijgprojects06-20)

Not sure which watch is right for you? Try our [Watch Advisor](/watch-finder) for personalised recommendations.

Watch of the Week Archive: Seiko Prospex HBC005 — Japan’s First Dive Watch, Reborn for 2026

Seiko’s 145th anniversary limited-edition Prospex diver. Calibre 6R55, 72-hour power reserve, 1965 heritage design reborn. A watch that will be worth more in five years than it is today.

To mark 145 years since Kintaro Hattori opened his Tokyo clock shop, Seiko has reissued the watch that started it all: the 1965 Prospex diver — Japan’s first purpose-built dive watch. The HBC005 is powered by the Calibre 6R55 with a 72-hour power reserve, features a super-hard coated stainless steel case, a silver-white aluminium rotating bezel with blue accents, and a bracelet with a diver-friendly clasp that adjusts in 2.5mm increments. It was our Watch of the Week for May 2026, and it earned that spot.

Why the HBC005 Is Special

The Seiko Prospex HBC005 is not just another anniversary watch. It is a faithful reissue of the watch that defined Japanese dive watch design — the 1965 Prospex, which was Japan’s first purpose-built dive watch.

The Calibre 6R55 inside is one of Seiko’s finest movements: 24 jewels, upgraded to a 72-hour power reserve in the HBC005. That means you can take it off on Friday evening and pick it up Monday morning and it will still be running. For a mechanical watch, that is exceptional.

The super-hard coating on the stainless steel case makes it significantly more scratch-resistant than standard stainless steel. The silver-white aluminium bezel insert with blue accents is a nod to the original 1965 design, and the bracelet’s 2.5mm micro-adjustment clasp is a practical detail that most watch brands charge $1,000+ to include.

The 145th Anniversary Context

Seiko was founded in 1881 when Kintaro Hattori opened a clock shop in Tokyo’s Ginza district. In 145 years, the company has grown from a small clock retailer to one of the world’s most respected watchmakers — responsible for innovations including the world’s first quartz watch (1969), the world’s first GPS solar watch (2012), and the Spring Drive movement.

The HBC005 is one of a small number of limited-edition pieces released to mark the 145th anniversary. It is not a concept watch or a museum piece — it is a fully functional, daily-wearable dive watch that happens to carry the heritage of 145 years of Japanese watchmaking.

Who Should Buy the HBC005?

The HBC005 is the right watch for:

– **Seiko collectors** who want a piece with genuine historical significance

– **Diver watch enthusiasts** who want a Japan-made automatic diver with a 72-hour power reserve

– **Investors** who recognise that limited-edition Seiko anniversary pieces tend to appreciate in value

– **Watch enthusiasts** who want a watch that can be worn every day but will also be a conversation piece

At $595, it is not a budget watch — but for a Japan-made, limited-edition Seiko Prospex with a 72-hour power reserve, it represents genuine value.

The Seiko Prospex HBC005 was our Watch of the Week for May 2026. It is the rarest thing in watchmaking: a limited-edition anniversary piece that is also genuinely wearable every day. At $595 for a Japan-made, limited-edition Seiko Prospex with a 72-hour power reserve, this is the kind of watch that will be worth more in five years than it is today.

[Check availability on Amazon →](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CXMHK1J4?tag=ijgprojects06-20)

See all our [Watch of the Week picks](/watch-of-the-week-archive) or find your perfect watch with our [Watch Advisor](/watch-finder).

History of G-Shock

https://watchesandmoreco.blog/2026/06/29/the-legend-born-the-complete-history-of-the-g-shock-watch/

The Legend Born: The Complete History of the G-Shock Watch

Discover how Casio’s G-Shock revolutionized the watch industry in 1983 and became the world’s toughest watch. From humble beginnings to global icon.

The G-Shock story begins with a broken watch and an engineer’s obsession. In 1981, Casio engineer Kikuo Ibe dropped his mechanical watch—a gift from his father—shattering it on the ground. Frustrated by the fragility of watches, Ibe set himself an ambitious goal: create a watch that would never break, no matter how hard it was dropped. What followed was two years of relentless experimentation, over 200 prototypes, and the birth of a watch that would revolutionize the industry.

Project Team Tough

Ibe assembled a small team at Casio and launched ‘Project Team Tough’ with a clear mission: create a watch with 10-meter drop resistance, 10-bar water resistance, and a 10-year battery life—the ‘Triple 10’ concept. The team faced skepticism from Casio management and the watch industry. Conventional wisdom said such a watch was impossible. But Ibe was undeterred. He experimented with hundreds of materials and designs, testing each prototype by dropping it from the third floor of the Casio building. Failure after failure, the team persisted.

The Breakthrough

The breakthrough came from an unexpected source: a rubber ball. Watching a child bounce a ball, Ibe realized the solution wasn’t to make the watch harder—it was to suspend the module in a protective shell, allowing it to float and absorb impacts. This ‘hollow structure’ concept became the foundation of G-Shock design. The team developed a unique resin case with internal cushioning that protected the module from shocks. After 200 prototypes, they finally achieved the Triple 10 goal.

The DW-5000C Launch

In April 1983, Casio launched the DW-5000C—the first G-Shock. The watch was revolutionary: a chunky, utilitarian design unlike anything on the market. Initial sales were disappointing. The watch industry dismissed it as ugly and unnecessary. But Casio persisted, marketing the watch to construction workers, military personnel, and outdoor enthusiasts who needed genuine durability. Slowly, word spread. The watch that could survive anything found its audience.

Cultural Phenomenon

The 1990s saw G-Shock explode into mainstream consciousness. Hip-hop artists, skateboarders, and extreme sports athletes adopted the watches. Casio released hundreds of models with increasingly advanced features: solar power, atomic timekeeping, GPS, and more. Collaborations with fashion brands and artists elevated G-Shock from tool watch to cultural icon. By the 2000s, G-Shock had sold over 100 million units worldwide.

Legacy and Innovation

Today, G-Shock continues to innovate while staying true to Ibe’s original vision. Modern G-Shocks incorporate Bluetooth connectivity, smartphone integration, and advanced sensors—yet they maintain the core principle of absolute toughness. The brand has released over 3,000 different models, yet the original DW-5000C design remains instantly recognizable. G-Shock proved that functional design could be beautiful, that durability mattered, and that innovation came from solving real problems.

The G-Shock story is a testament to the power of persistence, innovation, and staying true to a vision. Kikuo Ibe’s obsession with creating an unbreakable watch led to one of the most successful watch brands in history. G-Shock didn’t just create tough watches—it created a new category, influenced fashion and culture, and proved that engineering excellence could resonate with millions of people worldwide. Four decades later, G-Shock remains the world’s toughest watch, still guided by the Triple 10 principle that started it all.

Casio GST-B200 G-Steel Review: Can a G-Shock Be a Dress Watch?

The Casio GST-B200 G-Steel combines G-Shock’s legendary toughness with a refined metal design and Bluetooth connectivity. We put it to the test: can it really cross the line from sport watch to dress watch?

The question posed in our YouTube video — can the Casio GST-B200 be a dress watch? — is more interesting than it sounds. G-Shock has always been about toughness first, style second. But the G-Steel line represents Casio’s attempt to bridge the gap between the rugged utility of G-Shock and the refined aesthetics of a dress or business watch. The GST-B200 is the latest iteration of this experiment, and the answer to the question is: almost.

What Is the Casio GST-B200 G-Steel?

The GST-B200 is part of Casio’s G-Steel lineup — a sub-series of G-Shock watches that use a combination of metal and resin construction to create a more refined aesthetic than standard G-Shock models. The B200 specifically introduces Carbon Core Guard technology (the same lightweight carbon-reinforced structure found in the CasiOak GA2100) and Bluetooth Mobile Link connectivity for automatic time synchronisation with a smartphone.

The watch is available in several colourways: black/black, silver/black, and gold-tone accents. The silver/black version (GST-B200B-1A) is the most versatile and the one most likely to pass in a business casual setting.

Key Specifications

| Specification | Detail |

|—|—|

| Case Size | 53.3 x 46.5mm |

| Case Material | Carbon Core Guard + stainless steel bezel |

| Movement | Tough Solar quartz |

| Water Resistance | 200m |

| Crystal | Mineral |

| Strap | Resin with metal keeper |

| Functions | World time, stopwatch, countdown timer, alarm, Bluetooth |

| Power | Tough Solar (charges from light) |

The 53.3 x 46.5mm dimensions make this a large watch — larger than most dress watches. This is the central tension in the ‘can it be a dress watch?’ question.

Carbon Core Guard: Lightweight Toughness

The Carbon Core Guard structure is one of the GST-B200’s most interesting technical features. The inner case is made from carbon-reinforced resin, which is significantly lighter than metal while maintaining excellent shock resistance. The outer bezel and accents are stainless steel, giving the watch its refined appearance.

The result is a watch that looks like it has a full metal case but weighs significantly less. This is a genuine quality-of-life improvement for a watch worn all day — the GST-B200 does not feel heavy on the wrist despite its size.

[Check the current price on Amazon →](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QGZY6ZD?tag=ijgprojects06-20)

Tough Solar and Bluetooth: The Practical Advantages

The GST-B200 combines two of Casio’s most practical technologies. Tough Solar charges the battery from any light source, providing years of operation without battery replacement. Bluetooth Mobile Link connects to the Casio Watches app on your smartphone, automatically synchronising the time to the atomic clock standard — so the watch is always perfectly accurate.

The combination means you never change a battery and never manually set the time. For a watch worn daily, these are significant practical advantages. The Bluetooth also enables features like phone finder (the watch can make your phone ring) and world time synchronisation across multiple time zones.

The Dress Watch Question

Here is the honest assessment: the GST-B200 can pass in a business casual environment, but it will not pass in a formal one. The 53mm case width is simply too large for a dress watch — it will extend past the wrist on most people, which is the defining characteristic of a sport watch rather than a dress watch.

That said, in the modern workplace where ‘business casual’ has largely replaced formal dress codes, the GST-B200 works well. The metal bezel and clean dial design read as more sophisticated than a standard G-Shock, and the Bluetooth connectivity gives it a tech-forward appeal that resonates with professionals.

If you want a watch that can do everything — survive the gym, look appropriate in a meeting, and never need a battery or time adjustment — the GST-B200 is genuinely the best option in its category.

How It Compares to the Competition

The GST-B200’s main competitors are the G-Shock GA2100 CasiOak and the Citizen Promaster Tough.

| Feature | Casio GST-B200 | G-Shock GA2100 | Citizen Promaster Tough |

|—|—|—|—|

| Price | ~$335 | ~$99 | ~$395 |

| Movement | Tough Solar | Solar quartz | Eco-Drive solar |

| Crystal | Mineral | Mineral | Sapphire |

| Water Resistance | 200m | 200m | 200m |

| Bluetooth | Yes | No | No |

| Case Size | 53.3mm | 48.5mm | 46mm |

The CasiOak is the better value if you just need a tough watch. The GST-B200 justifies its premium with Bluetooth connectivity and a more refined aesthetic. The Citizen Promaster Tough wins on crystal quality (sapphire) but lacks Bluetooth.

[Check Price on Amazon — Casio GST-B200 →](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QGZY6ZD?tag=ijgprojects06-20)

[Check Price on Amazon — G-Shock GA2100 →](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DSWNXSQG?tag=ijgprojects06-20)

Who Should Buy the Casio GST-B200?

The GST-B200 is the right watch for someone who wants G-Shock toughness with a more refined aesthetic and modern smart features.

**Buy the GST-B200 if you:**

– Want G-Shock durability with a more professional appearance

– Value Bluetooth time synchronisation and phone finder

– Want Tough Solar so you never change a battery

– Need 200m water resistance for water sports

**Consider alternatives if you:**

– Have a budget under $150 (look at G-Shock GA2100 or DW5600)

– Need a true dress watch (look at Tissot Gentleman or Citizen Brycen)

– Want a smaller case (the 53mm may be too large for some wrists)

The Casio GST-B200 G-Steel is the most refined G-Shock you can buy — and the closest thing to a G-Shock that can pass in a professional environment. Tough Solar, Bluetooth, Carbon Core Guard, and 200m water resistance in a watch that looks like it costs twice as much. If you want one watch that does everything, the GST-B200 is the answer.

[Check the current price on Amazon →](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QGZY6ZD?tag=ijgprojects06-20)

Not sure which G-Shock is right for you? Try our [Watch Advisor](/watch-finder) for personalised recommendations.

Casio G-Shock GWM5610-1: Retro Tech That Never Quits

Discover why the iconic Casio G-Shock GWM5610-1 remains one of the most beloved watches among enthusiasts. Solar power, atomic timekeeping, and timeless design.

In an era of smartwatches and disposable technology, the Casio GWM5610-1 stands as a testament to thoughtful engineering and timeless design. This watch represents the perfect marriage of retro aesthetics and modern technology—a digital watch that looks like it could have been designed in 1983 but incorporates features that were science fiction just decades ago.

Retro Design, Modern Soul

The GWM5610-1’s design is instantly recognizable as a G-Shock square—the same basic shape that launched in 1983. But don’t mistake this for nostalgia alone. The design has endured because it works. The square case provides maximum display area in a compact footprint. The button layout is intuitive and easy to operate even with gloves. The negative display (light text on dark background) is a nod to the original G-Shock while providing excellent contrast in most lighting conditions.

Technology That Just Works

What makes the GWM5610-1 special is how its technology fades into the background. You don’t think about solar charging—the watch is always powered. You don’t worry about accuracy—atomic timekeeping ensures it’s always correct. You don’t stress about durability—it’s a G-Shock. This is technology done right: invisible, reliable, and empowering. It’s the anti-smartwatch, requiring no charging, no updates, no connectivity, yet somehow more capable where it matters.

The Enthusiast’s Choice

Ask watch enthusiasts about their favorite G-Shock, and the GWM5610-1 consistently tops the list. Why? Because it represents G-Shock at its purest. No unnecessary complications, no gimmicks—just the essential features executed flawlessly. The watch community appreciates its honesty: it doesn’t pretend to be a luxury watch or a fitness tracker. It’s a tool watch that does its job perfectly, and there’s something deeply satisfying about that.

Built to Last Decades

Perhaps the most compelling aspect of the GWM5610-1 is its longevity. With solar power, there’s no battery to replace. The solid resin construction doesn’t corrode or degrade. The module is shock-resistant and water-resistant to 200 meters. Barring catastrophic damage, this watch will function perfectly for 20, 30, even 40+ years. In a world of planned obsolescence, the GWM5610-1 is refreshingly permanent. It’s a watch you can pass down to your children.

The Casio GWM5610-1 proves that retro doesn’t mean outdated. By combining timeless design with solar power and atomic timekeeping, Casio created a watch that’s simultaneously nostalgic and futuristic. It’s a reminder that good design endures, that reliable technology doesn’t need to be complicated, and that sometimes the best tools are the ones that simply work, year after year, without fuss or fanfare. For anyone seeking a watch that will serve them faithfully for decades, the GWM5610-1 is an obvious choice.

Tissot Gentleman Powermatic 80 Review: The Swiss Automatic That Punches Way Above Its Price

At $950, the Tissot Gentleman Powermatic 80 delivers 80 hours of power reserve, a sapphire crystal, and Swiss automatic movement. Is it the best value Swiss dress watch you can buy?

The question of whether the Tissot Gentleman Powermatic 80 is a ‘giant killer’ is one that gets asked repeatedly in watch enthusiast circles. The answer, after spending time with it, is: yes — with some important caveats. At $950, it sits at the entry point of the Swiss luxury watch market, and it delivers specifications that would cost significantly more from brands like Longines, Certina, or Hamilton. The 80-hour power reserve alone is a genuine differentiator.

What Is the Tissot Gentleman Powermatic 80?

The Gentleman is Tissot’s flagship dress watch — a 40mm automatic with a clean, versatile dial design that works equally well with a suit and with jeans. The Powermatic 80 designation refers to the movement inside: the ETA C07.111, a Swiss-made automatic calibre with an 80-hour power reserve. This is the same movement family used across the Swatch Group’s mid-range brands, including Longines and Hamilton.

The current generation (T127.407) is available in multiple dial colours: blue, silver, and black are the most popular. The blue dial with stainless steel bracelet is the definitive configuration — it is the version that most often appears in ‘best dress watches under $1,000’ roundups.

Key Specifications

| Specification | Detail |

|—|—|

| Case Size | 40mm diameter |

| Case Material | Stainless steel |

| Movement | Powermatic 80 (ETA C07.111) |

| Water Resistance | 100m |

| Crystal | Sapphire (anti-reflective coating) |

| Strap/Bracelet | Stainless steel bracelet |

| Lug Width | 21mm |

| Power Reserve | 80 hours |

| Accuracy | ±4 seconds per day |

The 21mm lug width is the one specification that gives some buyers pause — aftermarket straps in 21mm are less common than 20mm or 22mm. Tissot sells official straps for the Gentleman, but third-party options are more limited.

The Powermatic 80 Movement: Why 80 Hours Matters

The standard power reserve for most automatic watches is 38-42 hours. This means that if you take the watch off on Friday evening, it will have stopped by Sunday morning. The Powermatic 80’s 80-hour reserve changes this calculus entirely — you can take it off Friday evening and it will still be running Monday morning.

For a dress watch that might only be worn on weekdays, this is a genuinely practical advantage. You do not need a watch winder, and you do not need to reset the time and date every Monday. The watch is simply ready when you are.

The movement also features a silicon balance spring, which makes it more resistant to magnetic fields than traditional steel springs. This is increasingly relevant in a world full of electronic devices.

[Check the current price on Amazon →](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07XTVQ8XR?tag=ijgprojects06-20)

Design: Versatile, Not Boring

The Gentleman’s design philosophy is restraint. The dial is clean — applied indices, simple hands, date window at 3 o’clock. There is nothing superfluous. This is not a watch that demands attention; it is a watch that rewards close inspection.

The 40mm case is the ideal size for a dress watch — large enough to be noticed, small enough to disappear under a shirt cuff. The brushed and polished finishing on the case and bracelet is executed to a standard that exceeds what you typically find at this price point. The sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating gives the dial excellent legibility in all lighting conditions.

The blue dial variant has a subtle sunburst finish that catches the light differently throughout the day. It is one of the most visually interesting dials available under $1,000.

How It Compares to the Competition

The Gentleman’s direct competitors are the Hamilton Jazzmaster Viewmatic, the Longines Record, and the Certina DS-1 Powermatic 80.

| Feature | Tissot Gentleman PM80 | Hamilton Jazzmaster | Longines Record |

|—|—|—|—|

| Price | ~$950 | ~$795 | ~$2,100 |

| Movement | Powermatic 80 | ETA 2824 | L888.4 |

| Crystal | Sapphire | Sapphire | Sapphire |

| Water Resistance | 100m | 50m | 30m |

| Power Reserve | 80 hours | 38 hours | 64 hours |

| Case Size | 40mm | 42mm | 40mm |

The Gentleman wins on power reserve versus the Hamilton and on price versus the Longines. The Hamilton is a strong alternative if you prefer a slightly larger case and a more classic aesthetic.

[Check Price on Amazon — Tissot Gentleman →](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07XTVQ8XR?tag=ijgprojects06-20)

[Check Price on Amazon — Hamilton Jazzmaster →](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BKIIWTS?tag=ijgprojects06-20)

Who Should Buy the Tissot Gentleman Powermatic 80?

The Gentleman is the right watch for someone who wants a genuine Swiss automatic dress watch without paying luxury watch prices.

**Buy the Gentleman if you:**

– Want a Swiss-made automatic dress watch under $1,000

– Value the 80-hour power reserve for weekend storage

– Want sapphire crystal and anti-reflective coating

– Need a versatile watch that works for business and casual occasions

**Consider alternatives if you:**

– Have a budget under $500 (look at Seiko Presage or Orient Bambino)

– Want a sport watch rather than a dress watch (look at Seiko Prospex or G-Shock)

– Need a larger case (look at Hamilton Jazzmaster at 42mm)

The Tissot Gentleman Powermatic 80 is one of the best value propositions in Swiss watchmaking. An 80-hour power reserve, sapphire crystal, and Swiss automatic movement for under $1,000 — this is a watch that genuinely punches above its weight class. If you are ready to step into Swiss automatic territory, the Gentleman is the place to start.

[Check the current price on Amazon →](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07XTVQ8XR?tag=ijgprojects06-20)

Not sure if a dress watch is right for you? Try our [Watch Advisor](/watch-finder) for personalised recommendations.