Category: Wearables

  • Baltic Launches Aquascaphe MK2 Dive Watch with New Colors

    Baltic Launches Aquascaphe MK2 Dive Watch with New Colors

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Aquascaphe MK2 is available in two stainless steel case sizes: 37 mm and 39.5 mm.
    2. New dial color options include blue and green, with glossy or grey/silver finishes.
    3. It features a unidirectional sapphire bezel with 120 clicks and Super-LumiNova BGW9 lume on markers and hands.
    4. The watch is powered by a Miyota 9039 automatic movement, with a 42-hour power reserve and 200 m water resistance.
    5. Pricing starts at €630 for the rubber strap version and €695 for the bracelet version, available from September 25.


    Baltic has updated its well-liked vintage-style Aquascaphe Classic dive watch, now known as the Aquascaphe MK2. This new version features significant improvements in design, case sizes, and dial colors. Specifically, the Aquascaphe MK2 dive watch is offered in two stainless steel case sizes: 37 mm and 39.5 mm.

    Enhanced Features

    The watch’s case is paired with a unidirectional sapphire bezel that has 120 clicks. This time, Baltic introduces two fresh dial colors—blue and green—with options for a glossy look or a grey and warm silver-grained finish. The dial of the Aquascaphe MK2 is decorated with hour markers as well as hour, minute, and second hands, all coated with three-dimensional Super-LumiNova BGW9 lume. As is typical for diving watches, there is no date display present.

    Inside the Aquascaphe MK2

    Inside the Aquascaphe MK2, you’ll find the Miyota 9039 automatic movement, which operates at a frequency of 28,000 vibrations per hour, includes 24 jewels, and boasts a power reserve of 42 hours. The watch also offers impressive water resistance of up to 200 m (20 bar/660 ft).

    Customization and Pricing

    The Baltic Aquascaphe MK2 dive watch can be matched with FKM rubber tropical-style straps, stainless steel rice beads, or flat-link stainless steel bracelets. In terms of pricing, the Aquascaphe MK2 with a rubber strap is available for €630, while the bracelet version is priced at €695. It will be up for sale starting September 25 at Baltic’s official store, with shipping set to commence on October 6.

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  • 5-Minute Vintage Casio Mod: Add RGB Lighting & Bluetooth Superpowers

    5-Minute Vintage Casio Mod: Add RGB Lighting & Bluetooth Superpowers

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio F‑91W and A158W are popular, budget-friendly watches known for their durability and long battery life, with millions sold and over 60,000 positive reviews on Amazon.

    2. Ollee Watch is a modification designed for Casio enthusiasts who want smartwatch features without a large display, allowing for a simple 5-minute installation of a new circuit board.

    3. The Ollee modification introduces features like Bluetooth syncing, programmable timers, health tracking (step counting, heart-rate monitoring), and a customizable RGB backlight.

    4. The installation process for the Ollee PCB is easy and requires no soldering, taking approximately 5–10 minutes with common tools, while maintaining the classic Casio look.

    5. Reactions to the Ollee modification are mixed; while some purists disapprove, many enthusiasts appreciate the added functionality that enhances the classic Casio experience.


    Casio’s modest F‑91W (along with its metallic A158W counterpart, currently priced at $27 on Amazon) has developed a strong fan base. It’s tough, budget-friendly, and delightfully straightforward—truly a digital workhorse that boasts a 7-year battery life and has sold millions. As one r/casio community member put it, the F‑91W (currently $19.90 on Amazon) is basically the “Honda Civic of watches” for those who like to modify them. Even its page on Amazon features “over 60,000” positive reviews.

    The Birth of Ollee Watch

    Ollee Watch is the creation of a wearable tech engineer and devoted Casio enthusiast who “didn’t want a smartwatch” on his wrist. He appreciated the simplicity and battery longevity of the Casio but desired some smartphone-like features without needing a large display or daily recharging. Thus, Ollee was born: a small printed circuit board that replaces the standard Casio module. In the founder’s own words, Ollee offers “a 5-minute swap of the circuit board that can transform the watch into something special.” It preserves the classic Casio appearance and battery life while introducing various new functionalities.

    Enhanced Features

    To begin with, the timepiece can now automatically sync through Bluetooth with your phone, offering world time, five programmable timers, a 1/100-second stopwatch, and even sunrise/sunset times using GPS. The alarm now includes a snooze option and hourly chime, plus it can play custom tunes (one user even included a Star Wars melody). On the health front, Ollee introduces an accelerometer for step counting, a heart-rate “pulsometer,” and an ambient temperature sensor—all tracked on the watch and sent to the Ollee app.

    There are lifestyle perks too: a full-color RGB backlight that can be tinted to any color, a digital compass, and an NFC contact tag (for sharing links or IDs) in compatible resin-cased versions. The tiny gadget also features entertaining extras—like a flashlight mode, a digital tally-counter, and simple mini-games such as Pong or Blackjack—all navigable through the Casio buttons.

    Technical Specifications

    Inside, the Ollee PCB houses a modern microcontroller (ARM Cortex) with Bluetooth LE capabilities. It operates on a standard CR2016 coin cell: with performance ranging from about 10 months of heavy use to up to 3 years in ultra-power-saving mode. In contrast, a regular F‑91W might last over 7 years on one battery, but with fewer functions. When you access the Ollee app on iOS or Android, you can adjust all settings—alarms, time zones, fitness goals, LED colors, and more. The watch and app work together to stay in sync whenever they’re close.

    Installation Process

    Installing Ollee Watch into your Casio is surprisingly easy—no soldering is necessary. You simply take off the watch’s snap-on case back (a small prying tool or knife works), remove the original module and battery, and insert the Ollee board along with a fresh CR2016 battery. The unit is made as a “drop-in replacement.” In theory, it’s a quick job lasting 5–10 minutes. The kit comes with the Ollee PCB and an optional NFC tag; common tools like a case opener or small screwdriver and a pair of non-magnetic tweezers will be needed. After swapping the board, you just reseal the case (be careful to replace the rubber gasket for splash resistance) and pair the watch with the Ollee mobile app. Some skill is required to handle the tiny board, but early users report that the swap is “smooth and easy.”

    Mixed Reactions

    As with any third-party modification, opinions differ. A “purist” remarked that “if you want a smartwatch, buy a smartwatch,” dismissing Ollee as “a gold medal in the waste of time Olympics.” However, many enthusiasts enjoy it. A commenter on a Casio forum expressed that the Ollee “took an $18 Casio that’s been cherished forever and added some brains to it—Bluetooth, step tracking, sunrise/sunset, custom alarms, RGB backlight… still maintains that classic look… but now it communicates with your phone.”

    The Ollee Watch modification is available directly from the maker’s website. The DIY circuit board kit costs $54.99, while for around $99.99, you can purchase a complete F‑91W/A158W (new watch plus pre-installed Ollee). To be fair, stock watches are widely available globally and can also be bought separately. The Ollee mobile app is free on both iOS and Android, and the developer provides a dedicated subreddit along with video tutorials (see above) to assist new users.

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  • Doxa SUB 300 Carbon Seafoam: Limited Edition Automatic Watch Release

    Doxa SUB 300 Carbon Seafoam: Limited Edition Automatic Watch Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Doxa SUB 300 Carbon Seafoam Limited Edition is a new dive watch, limited to just 100 units worldwide.
    2. The SUB 300 series was first launched in 1967, known for its durability and innovative features like the no-decompression limit table and helium escape valve.
    3. The new model features a 42.5mm carbon fiber case, a Seafoam dial, and comes with two straps: a black rubber strap and a Seafoam NATO strap.
    4. The price of the Doxa SUB 300 Carbon Seafoam Limited Edition is $3,990.
    5. It is exclusively available through Watches of Switzerland showrooms in the UK and US, or via their online store.


    Doxa has recently introduced the SUB 300 Carbon Seafoam Limited Edition, a fresh take on its legendary dive watch collection, in collaboration with Watches of Switzerland. This limited edition is restricted to just 100 units globally.

    History of the SUB 300 Series

    The SUB 300 line debuted in 1967, designed as a robust, professional-grade diving watch. The initial models gained fame due to their incorporation of a no-decompression limit table on the bezel, along with exceptional underwater visibility. Moreover, the SUB 300 played a key role in the introduction of the helium escape valve in dive timepieces. As the years went by, Doxa made strides in innovation by exploring advanced materials and contemporary design. The journey led to the use of forged carbon, which was first seen in the SUB 300 Carbon series.

    Design and Features of the New Model

    The Carbon Seafoam Limited Edition features a carbon fiber case that measures 42.5mm in diameter and has a thickness of 13.5mm, sporting a matte and patterned texture. The Seafoam dial adds a softer, modern touch to the watch. Buyers will receive two straps with their purchase: a black rubber strap for everyday use and a Seafoam NATO strap for a different look.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Doxa SUB 300 Carbon Seafoam Limited Edition is priced at $3,990. It can only be purchased through the Watches of Switzerland showrooms in the UK and US, or via their online store.

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  • Restocked Limited Edition Casio G-Shock Watch with Hammered Bezel

    Restocked Limited Edition Casio G-Shock Watch with Hammered Bezel

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio G-Shock MRGB5000HT-1 has limited availability, with only 500 units produced globally.
    2. The watch is priced at $8,000 in the U.S. and £6,200 in the UK, with limited stock in Europe for €7,300.
    3. Each bezel of the MRGB5000HT-1 is uniquely hand-hammered from titanium by artisan Kazuya Watanabe.
    4. The watch features world time support for 39 cities, radio control, Bluetooth connectivity, and various time management functions.
    5. There are rumors of a new high-end G-Shock model, the MRG-B2000KT, potentially releasing later this year.


    The Casio G-Shock MRGB5000HT-1 has returned to availability in many nations. Initially launched in the UK in August 2025, it expanded to Europe and hit North America by early September. This luxury watch became popular quickly, resulting in sellouts across various regions.

    Current Availability

    The Casio G-Shock MRGB5000HT-1 is now restocked on the brand’s online shop in the United States. At present, there are seven pieces for sale, each priced at $8,000. Meanwhile, in the UK, two units of the watch, referred to as the MRG-B5000HT-1, are up for grabs for £6,200 each. Consumers in other European nations, such as Germany and the Netherlands, can purchase the watch for €7,300, but stock is limited once again.

    Limited Stock Information

    Casio has indicated that only 500 units exist globally, reaffirming that no further production has occurred since the previous round of sellouts. The scarcity of the G-Shock MRGB5000HT-1 can be attributed to its unique bezel. Crafted from titanium, each bezel is hand-hammered by artisan Kazuya Watanabe, resulting in a one-of-a-kind design for every piece.

    Features and Future Releases

    Among the MRGB5000HT-1’s features are support for world time across 39 cities, allowing users to toggle between five time zones. This model is also radio-controlled and Bluetooth-enabled, enabling management via the Casio Watches smartphone application. Additionally, it includes a stopwatch, a timer, and several alarms. There are also rumors that Casio may be developing another high-end G-Shock, the MRG-B2000KT, which could debut later this year.

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  • New Casio Edifice Metal Hybrid Watch with 10-Year Battery Life

    New Casio Edifice Metal Hybrid Watch with 10-Year Battery Life

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio Edifice EFV-C120D-1A4 features a slimmer design compared to the previous EFV-C110 model.
    2. It has a striking black dial with red accents, housed in a silver stainless steel casing and strap.
    3. The watch is water-resistant up to 100 m and powered by a CR2025 battery, lasting around 10 years.
    4. Key functionalities include world time for 30 cities, a 1/100th second stopwatch, countdown timer, daily alarms, and a Telememo function for storing phone numbers.
    5. The release date and pricing for the EFV-C120D-1A4 in the UK are currently unknown, with older models priced around £99.90.


    The Casio Edifice EFV-C120D-1A4 is now listed on the UK website of the brand. This latest analog-digital timepiece is part of the EFV-C120 series, which improves upon the previous EFV-C110 model by featuring a slimmer design.

    Design Features

    The EFV-C120D-1A4 showcases a striking black dial accented with red, encased in a silver stainless steel bezel and casing. It comes equipped with a stainless steel strap that has a convenient one-touch 3-fold clasp. The dimensions of the watch are 49.5 x 45.5 x 13.7 mm (approximately 1.9 x 1.8 x 0.5 inches). Additionally, it boasts water resistance up to 100 m and is powered by a CR2025 battery, which provides an estimated lifespan of around 10 years.

    Functionalities

    This model supports world time, allowing the user to select from 30 different cities and switch daylight saving time on or off as needed. It includes features like a 1/100th second stopwatch, a countdown timer with a range of 24 hours, and three daily alarms. Furthermore, the Telememo function enables storage of up to 30 phone numbers alongside eight-character names. The two analog hands are designed to maintain accuracy within 30 seconds each month, and the inset digital displays show the date and the day of the week.

    Availability and Pricing

    At this moment, the release date for the Casio Edifice EFV-C120D-1A4 in the UK is still unknown, as is its pricing. For reference, older models like the EFV-C120D-2A are priced at £99.90 (approximately €119.99 at Casio DE). It remains uncertain when or if this new watch will become available in other regions, such as the US.

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  • Casio Stops Production of Full-Metal G-Shock GM-B2100 Watches

    Casio Stops Production of Full-Metal G-Shock GM-B2100 Watches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio is discontinuing its first full-metal 2100 collection, including the GM-B2100D-1A and GM-B2100BD-1A models.
    2. The discontinuation was noted after the GM-B2100BD-1A became unavailable on Casio’s US and Japan websites for months.
    3. Remaining stock of the GM-B2100BD-1A may still be found on Casio’s UK site, but options are limited.
    4. Fans of the GM-B2100BD-1 should check eBay or Facebook Marketplace for purchasing opportunities.
    5. The GM-B2100BD features stainless steel construction, Bluetooth connectivity, solar charging, and a water resistance rating of 200 meters.


    Casio is slowly removing its first full-metal 2100 collection, and it seems the end is finally here. The GM-B2100D-1A was discontinued back in February, and now it appears that the G-Shock GM-B2100BD-1A, the darker version that started the series in 2022, has also been phased out.

    Signs of Discontinuation

    This development was first noticed by Great G-Shock World, but fans might have anticipated this as the B2100BD-1A has been unavailable on Casio’s US and Japan websites for several months. With the Silver and Rose Gold models already gone and newer versions like the GM-B2100AD and GM-B2100SD taking their place, it was just a matter of time before Casio ended this trio. Although the watch is still listed on Casio’s UK site, it’s likely that what remains is the final stock you’ll see.

    Limited Availability

    The full-metal 2100 series does offer a variety of interesting choices, but if you were a fan of the unique dark grey look of the GM-B2100BD-1, your best bet now is to search on eBay or Facebook Marketplace.

    The GM-B2100BD was the first all-metal model in Casio’s 2100 series, giving one of G-Shock’s well-known designs a more luxurious twist. It kept the octagonal bezel and textured strap from the original DW-5000C of 1983, but replaced resin with stainless steel for a shinier appearance. The watch also features the classic screw-back case and comes with capabilities like Bluetooth Smartphone Link, solar charging, hand shift feature, world time, shock resistance, and water resistance rated at 200 meters.

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  • New Seiko Astron GPS Solar Limited Edition Watches Launching Soon

    New Seiko Astron GPS Solar Limited Edition Watches Launching Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. Seiko launched two new limited edition Astron GPS Solar watches: SSH183J1 and SSH185J1, inspired by the speed of light.
    2. The SSH183J1 features a silver dial with a black ceramic bezel and neon orange accents, while the SSH185J1 has a black face with a white ceramic bezel and light green accents.
    3. Both models utilize the caliber 5X83 GPS Solar movement, maintaining accuracy within 15 seconds monthly without a GPS signal.
    4. They offer world time for 38 cities, power-saving functions, stopwatch, date display, and are water-resistant up to 10 bar.
    5. The SSH183 is priced at $2,900, and the SSH185 at $3,100, with only 1,200 units of each available globally, set to launch in October 2025.


    Seiko has introduced two fresh Astron GPS Solar 2025 Limited Edition watches, which will be available worldwide: the SSH183J1 and SSH185J1. The brand claims that this design “shows the near future,” with the horizontal pattern on the dial drawing inspiration from the speed of light.

    Design Details

    The SSH183J1 features a silver dial encased in a black ceramic bezel. Its bracelet is made of a titanium base that matches the silver color, complemented by a black ceramic central row. Additionally, there are vibrant neon orange touches, including on the lower layer of the bezel. On the other hand, the SSH185J1 has a similar style but boasts a black face and a black-coated titanium casing and bracelet, along with a white ceramic bezel and central strap row. It also showcases light green accents on the dial and the pushers.

    Technical Specifications

    Both of these Astron models utilize the caliber 5X83, a GPS Solar movement. It is reported to maintain accuracy within 15 seconds each month without a GPS signal. Features include support for world time across 38 cities, power-saving and overcharge prevention functions, along with a stopwatch. Moreover, they provide a basic date display, and dials that show the day of the week and time in a second time zone. These watches have a water resistance of up to 10 bar and dimensions of 43.4 x 13.4 mm (approximately 1.7 x 0.5 inches).

    Pricing and Availability

    The Seiko Astron SSH183 is priced at $2,900/£2,550, while the SSH185 is set at a higher price of $3,100/£2,700. Each model is limited to just 1,200 units worldwide and is expected to launch in October 2025.

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  • Garmin’s New Sleep Feature Now Available for Select Users

    Garmin’s New Sleep Feature Now Available for Select Users

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has launched a new sleep feature called Health Status for its smartwatches, available alongside the Venu 4 priced at $549.99.
    2. The Health Status function focuses on five key metrics: heart rate, heart rate variability (HRV), respiration, skin temperature, and Pulse Ox, with a summary of nightly sleep data.
    3. Users can receive notifications for ‘Outlier’ readings that may indicate issues like poor sleep quality or stress, with in-depth graphs available for tracking over time.
    4. The Health Status feature is being expanded to newer Garmin smartwatch models, including the Fenix 7, Forerunner 255, and Instinct 3.
    5. Future updates will allow the latest models, such as the Fenix 8, Forerunner 570, and Venu X1, to access Health Status directly on the watch.


    Garmin has recently announced the rollout of its new sleep feature called Health Status for some of its smartwatch users. This feature was revealed alongside the launch of the Venu 4, which is currently priced at $549.99 on Amazon, as well as the brand’s new Lifestyle Logging option. While it’s still in beta testing on the Garmin Connect mobile app, many users can access it through the web app.

    Health Metrics Overview

    The Health Status function focuses on five key metrics: heart rate, heart rate variability (HRV), respiration, skin temperature, and Pulse Ox. Users will find a summary of the data gathered from their previous night’s sleep on this dashboard. Additionally, the typical range for each metric gives a clearer picture, but users should note that it may take 21 to 28 days of data to establish these ranges. During this period, the app will display the message “Calibration in progress.”

    Notification Features

    If any ‘Outlier’ readings are detected, users have the option to receive notifications, which could indicate potential issues like poor sleep quality, increased stress, or even illness. Furthermore, by clicking on each of the five sections in the Health Status feature, users can access more in-depth information, including graphs that track their data over the last week.

    Smartwatch Compatibility

    Garmin is expanding the Health Status feature to its newer smartwatch models, such as the Fenix 7, Forerunner 255, and Instinct 3 (refer to the list below). Additionally, users of the latest models, including Fenix 8, Forerunner 570, and Venu X1 (see the second list below), will also receive an on-watch version of Health Status. This is anticipated to be rolled out in future updates.

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  • Garmin D2 Air X15 Expected Soon with Major Upgrades

    Garmin D2 Air X15 Expected Soon with Major Upgrades

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has launched the Venu 4 along with other products like the Bounce 2 and Instinct Crossover AMOLED.
    2. A new model, the D2 Air X15, is expected to replace the D2 Air X10, with a potential debut this fall.
    3. The D2 Air X15 will maintain features from the D2 Air X10, including a global airport database and flight plan transfers.
    4. The D2 Air X15 may include enhancements from the Venu 3 to Venu 4 transition.
    5. The launch date for the D2 Mach 2 remains uncertain despite earlier hints.


    Garmin has launched the Venu 4, which it announced last week along with the Bounce 2, Instinct Crossover AMOLED, and the Instinct Crossover AMOLED Tactical Edition (currently priced at $749.99 on Amazon). According to sources from Garmin Rumors, we might soon witness the arrival of a new addition to the D2 Air series.

    A Quick Overview

    To refresh your memory, Garmin first brought out the D2 Air X10 over three years ago, built on the foundation of the Venu 2 Plus. Despite this, the company chose not to upgrade the D2 Air series with a model based on the Venu 3. Yet, Garmin Rumors claims that the company will be revisiting the Venu 4 series for the next iteration of the D2 Air.

    Upcoming Changes

    It is said that Garmin is preparing to replace the D2 Air X10 with the D2 Air X15. Garmin Rumors has not yet confirmed a specific launch date, but it believes the D2 Air X15 will debut this fall. At present, the D2 Air X15 is expected to keep features from the D2 Air X10, such as access to a global airport database and the ability to wirelessly transfer flight plans from Garmin Pilot.

    Anticipated Features

    Furthermore, the D2 Air X15 is likely to incorporate the enhancements that exist between the Venu 3 and the Venu 4, which we have detailed in a separate discussion. For now, it’s uncertain when Garmin will officially introduce the D2 Mach 2, which was hinted at earlier this year.

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  • Casio MTP-B185D Stainless Steel Watch Now in the UK

    Casio MTP-B185D Stainless Steel Watch Now in the UK

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio Standard MTP-B185D-1AVEF watch is available in the UK for £84.90 with free delivery in 2-4 business days.
    2. The watch features a lightweight stainless steel design with dimensions of 40.0 x 32.5 x 7.3 mm and a weight of 80 grams.
    3. It has a black dial with silver hands and indexes, protected by a sapphire crystal, and maintains accuracy within 20 seconds per month.
    4. The watch is water-resistant up to 50 meters and powered by an SR920SW battery, lasting about three years.
    5. Availability of the other three color options (dark blue, light blue, and silver dials) in the UK is still uncertain.


    The Casio Standard MTP-B185D-1AVEF watch is now up for grabs in the UK. This analog model made its debut on the brand’s global website earlier this year, along with three additional versions of the same design.

    Pricing and Availability

    You can purchase the Casio Standard MTP-B185D-1AV from the company’s online shop for £84.90. They offer free delivery within two to four business days. However, it’s still uncertain if or when the other three color options—featuring dark blue, light blue, and silver dials—will be available in this market.

    Specifications and Features

    The MTP-B185D-1AV from Casio is a fairly lightweight stainless steel watch, with dimensions of 40.0 x 32.5 x 7.3 mm (around 1.6 x 1.3 x 0.3 inches) and a weight of 80 grams (approximately 2.8 ounces). The silver octagonal bezel frames a black dial, which showcases silver hands and indexes, all protected by a sapphire crystal. It features three analog hands for hours, minutes, and seconds, maintaining accuracy within 20 seconds each month. Additionally, there’s a simple date display that shows the day of the month.

    Additional Information

    Moreover, this Standard watch is water-resistant up to 50 meters and is powered by an SR920SW battery, lasting about three years. As of now, Casio has not revealed any plans to introduce the MTP-B185D-1AV or other watches from this series to other European nations.

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