Key Takeaways
1. Casio launched nearly 20 new models in May, including premium and budget-friendly options.
2. The MTG-B4000 series features a slim design, Bluetooth connectivity, and solar charging, priced between ¥165,000 and ¥176,000.
3. New surf watches in the G-Lide series focus on tide data and workout tracking, priced at ¥28,600.
4. The “Black and Bold Red” series includes five models with matte black cases, priced between ¥14,300 and ¥24,750.
5. Unique collaborations include a Crocs watch with glow-in-the-dark features and a limited-edition model with the Surfrider Foundation Japan.
After a hectic April filled with leaks, we are now nearing the end of May, which has also been bustling for the Japanese watch brand. Almost 20 new models were introduced into Casio’s collection, with many still up for grabs (though a few have already sold out). From luxurious titanium chronographs to budget-friendly solar-powered hybrids, here’s a complete overview of each model that officially debuted this month.
New Releases in the MTG Series
The eagerly anticipated MTG-B4000 series has finally launched, featuring two models: MTG-B4000B-1A2JF and MTG-B4000-1AJF. As previously mentioned during the leak period, both timepieces showcase a carbon and stainless steel Dual Core Guard design, boast a new slim profile of 14.4 mm, and offer premium features like Bluetooth connectivity, solar charging, and sapphire crystal. The prices are set at ¥176,000 (~$1,121) for the B-1A2JF and ¥165,000 (~$1,051) for the standard model.
Surf Watches and Collaborations
On the surf watch front, the GBX-100S-1JF and GBX-100S-2JF from the G-Lide series have hit the market in Japan. These new additions use skeleton-style resin cases and stainless-steel bezels, focusing extensively on tide data, lap tracking, and workout logs via the Casio app. The price for these models is ¥28,600 (~$182).
Another collaboration has made its way to the shelves with the limited-edition GW-M5610U, created in partnership with Japanese artist Tamio Okuda. This model features unique text on its display, a striking red-and-black color scheme, and is set to ship in August for ¥35,000 (~$223).
The Black and Bold Red Lineup
Casio also released five new models in the highly sought-after “Black and Bold Red” series: DW-5600BBR-1JF, GD-010BBR-1JF, GX-56BBR-1JF, GA-700BBR-1AJF, and GA-B2100BBR-1AJF. Each model showcases matte black cases with dark red highlights and is priced between ¥14,300 (~$91) and ¥24,750 (~$158).
The Oceanus Manta collection welcomed two new groups of watches. Early in May, Casio introduced the OCW-S400A-5AJF and OCW-S40-2AJF (both three-hand models), along with OCW-S7000E-2AJF and OCW-S7000E-2AJF (chronographs). All these watches feature titanium constructions, sapphire crystals, solar-powered quartz movements, and Bluetooth connectivity.
Towards the end of the month, Casio launched the OCW-S6000PB-7AJF. This limited model of just 600 units features a bezel with 72 facets cut from sapphire and has a stunning silver-blue dial. It is scheduled for release in June with a price tag of ¥385,000 (~$2,700).
Affordable Options and G-Shock Collaborations
The Edifice EFV-610 series made its debut in Japan, offering four models: EFV-610DE-2A, EFV-610ECL-1A, EFV-610DE-3A, and EFV-610EL-5A. These are classic quartz chronographs with a water resistance of 100 m, a 1/10-second stopwatch, and stainless steel cases. Two of the models come with steel bracelets, while the others feature leather straps.
In the more budget-friendly category, Casio introduced new AE1000W color variants in the US: AE1000W-5AV and AE1000W-8AV. These models maintain the classic cockpit instrument-style design, offering world time for four zones, a stopwatch, countdown timer, and a battery life of 10 years. The price is $29.95.
Also available in the US are three models from the AQS820W series: AQS820W-1AV, AQS820W-3BV, and AQS820W-5AV. These hybrid analog-digital watches come with Tough Solar technology, a water resistance of 100 m, and can last up to 10 months on a solar charge. They retail for $55.95.
The MTP-B185 series quietly launched worldwide, featuring six stainless steel color options, including gold and black ion-plated versions. All models have a 40 x 32.5 mm case, 50 m water resistance, and an SR920SW battery. Notable models include MTP-B185B-7AV, MTP-B185D-1AV, and MTP-B185G-9AV, among others.
G-Shock has been busy with collaborations this May. The Offspring x DW-5600 “Cement Edition” was introduced, but this model is limited to a Friends & Family raffle only.
Unique Collaborations and More
Casio also unveiled a collaboration with Crocs, launching the GA2100CROCS25-7, which features a glow-in-the-dark resin case and a strap that integrates with Crocs’ footwear rivets.
The G-5600SFJ-9, a collaboration with Surfrider Foundation Japan, was officially announced. This watch comes with a bright yellow bio-resin construction, 200 m water resistance, and solar charging capabilities. It is expected to launch in June at a price of ¥20,900.
Another collaboration features the DW-6900 x Montedio Yamagata, priced at ¥19,800. This model maintains the original DW-6900U design while adding a red reverse LCD, team crest, and an all-black matte finish.