Category: Wearables

  • watchOS 26: Apple Watch Alerts Users to High Power Usage

    watchOS 26: Apple Watch Alerts Users to High Power Usage

    Key Takeaways

    1. Upcoming watchOS 26 will feature a new “Liquid Glass” design and enhancements for athletes, including “Workout Buddy.”
    2. Users can clear notifications by shaking their wrist, adding convenience to the user experience.
    3. The new Power Consumption Alerts will notify users when the watch is using more power than normal.
    4. Low Power Mode can be quickly activated through these alerts to extend battery life, but it disables some features.
    5. The beta version of watchOS 26 may lead to reduced battery life in existing models, including the Apple Watch Series 10.

    The Apple Watch Series 6 and some other new models are about to get a major update this autumn. The upcoming watchOS 26 will bring not just Apple’s fresh “Liquid Glass” design, but also exciting features like “Workout Buddy,” an AI tool tailored for athletes, and the neat ability to clear notifications by simply shaking the wrist. In this vein, 9to5Mac has uncovered another interesting feature in the beta version of watchOS 26.

    Power Consumption Alerts

    This new operating system version can notice when the smartwatch is using more power than normal and will show a warning to the users. This alert lets users quickly turn on Low Power Mode, which can greatly prolong the battery life of the Apple Watch, but it does turn off some functions and background processes, like automatic workout detection and the always-on display. As per 9to5Mac, the Apple Watch analyzes past battery level data to figure out if it’s drawing too much power.

    Example Scenario

    For instance, if the smartwatch shows only 50% battery left around 5 PM, instead of the typical 70%, the previously mentioned warning will pop up. This feature is designed to help users avoid the watch running out of battery without them noticing the unusual power drain. This situation might happen during extended workouts or when the GPS is being used for a long time. Nevertheless, in the current beta version, watchOS 26 seems to generally result in reduced battery life, even with existing models like the Apple Watch Series 10.

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  • Citizen AQ4100-65M Eco-Drive Titanium Watch with Washi Dial

    Citizen AQ4100-65M Eco-Drive Titanium Watch with Washi Dial

    Key Takeaways

    1. Citizen’s AQ4100-65M is a special Eco-Drive watch celebrating the 30th anniversary of “The Citizen” series, launching in July 2025.
    2. The watch features a 38.3 mm Super Titanium case and bracelet, with enhanced scratch resistance and water resistance up to 10 ATM.
    3. The dial is made of hand-dyed Tosa washi paper in a unique indigo hue, which changes appearance based on lighting.
    4. It is powered by Caliber A060, a high-precision quartz movement with features like a perpetual calendar and a power reserve of up to 18 months.
    5. Only 550 units will be produced, priced at $3,200 USD, incorporating traditional Japanese design elements.

    As of June 24, Citizen has made it official about the AQ4100-65M, a special Eco-Drive watch that will hit the market in July 2025. This release marks the celebration of the 30th anniversary of “The Citizen” series. The watch features a rich indigo washi paper dial, a lightweight case made from ‘Super Titanium’, and boasts a movement that is accurate to ±5 seconds each year.

    Specifications and Design

    The watch comes with a 38.3 mm case and bracelet, both crafted from Citizen’s unique Super Titanium. This material has been treated with a Duratect Platinum coating, which enhances its scratch resistance while giving it a polished silver finish. It is designed to withstand water pressure up to 10 ATM and features a dual-sphere sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating.

    The Unique Dial

    One of the most impressive aspects of this watch is its dial. Citizen employs hand-dyed Tosa washi paper, which is created using a traditional lye fermentation process that incorporates indigo leaves. This paper is layered multiple times to achieve a deep blue hue known as kachi-iro, or “victory color.” This color was historically used on samurai armor and changes its appearance based on lighting. Just like other watches in “The Citizen” collection, this model also has the eagle motif engraved on the crown, dial, and caseback.

    Movement and Features

    Inside the AQ4100-65M, you’ll find Caliber A060, which is one of Citizen’s leading high-precision quartz movements. It comes with a perpetual calendar, a power reserve indicator, and an independently adjustable hour hand. The Eco-Drive movement can last for up to 18 months on a single full charge when the power-save function is activated. Furthermore, it has features that ensure automatic hand correction and magnetic resistance rated to JIS Type 1 (up to 4,800 A/m).

    Citizen is making only 550 units of the AQ4100-65M available globally, with a suggested retail price set at $3,200 USD. This price aligns it with earlier luxury Eco-Drive models like the AQ4091-56M, yet it incorporates more traditional elements from Japanese design.

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    Citizen AQ4100-65M Eco-Drive Titanium Watch with Washi Dial
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  • Garmin Patent: New Method to Measure Hematocrit and Dehydration

    Garmin Patent: New Method to Measure Hematocrit and Dehydration

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is developing a method to measure long-term blood glucose levels and other health parameters through new patent applications.
    2. The new technique, called pulse spectroscopy, evaluates blood flow non-invasively using electromagnetic radiation.
    3. The patent highlights the use of specific wavelengths (850 nm and 1,000 nm) to assess hematocrit levels in the blood.
    4. Monitoring hematocrit levels is crucial, especially for athletes, as it can indicate hydration status and overall blood composition.
    5. Real-time alerts for fluid intake based on hematocrit measurements could enhance performance monitoring for endurance athletes.

    Garmin’s wearables already track various health metrics, and the company is continually improving its sensor technology. Recently, a patent was published that shows Garmin is exploring a way to measure long-term blood glucose levels. Now, another patent (US-12343124-B2, which might only be found by a manual search here) has come to light, detailing the measurement of even more health parameters. It’s important to note that this is merely a patent application, meaning that the described measurement methods don’t necessarily have to comply with medical device standards, and not every innovation detailed in a patent ends up being sold commercially.

    Exploring Pulse Spectroscopy

    The patent focuses on a technique called pulse spectroscopy, which involves the non-invasive evaluation of blood flow using electromagnetic radiation. As expected, the patent includes a lot of technical drawings, diagrams, and absorption spectra. It also elaborates on how various wavelengths can be utilized to assess different health parameters. A notable innovation here is the application of electromagnetic radiation at wavelengths of 850 nm and 1,000 nm, which can reportedly assess hematocrit levels. This specific measure indicates the ratio of cellular components in the blood, particularly the amount of red blood cells in the total blood volume.

    Importance of Hematocrit Measurements

    This value is important in medical terms and can significantly increase in cases of dehydration caused by insufficient fluid intake. For a company like Garmin, which targets athletes, being able to monitor hematocrit levels could be quite advantageous. It would allow users to receive real-time alerts to boost their fluid intake based on solid data rather than just relying on heart rate or external conditions like temperature. Moreover, it’s common for endurance athletes to show lower hematocrit levels, so tracking this parameter could also give insights into long-term performance improvements.

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  • New Casio G-Shock MR-G Hammer Tone Watch with Tsuiki Pattern in Europe

    New Casio G-Shock MR-G Hammer Tone Watch with Tsuiki Pattern in Europe

    Key Takeaways

    1. The limited-edition G-Shock MRG-B5000HT-1 showcases a unique “tsuiki” design, reflecting traditional Japanese craftsmanship used in samurai armor.
    2. The watch features a textured titanium bezel and bracelet, along with rose gold accents and a reversed LCD, blending classic artistry with modern durability.
    3. It’s expected that only 500 units of the MRG-B5000HT-1 will be produced, making it a rare item for collectors.
    4. The anticipated release date is likely in August or September, with a high price point estimated between ¥935,000 (approximately $6,507) in Japan and €7,300 to €7,500 in Europe.
    5. This model marks the first use of the tsuiki method in the square MR-G series, building on Casio’s previous Hammer Tone models.

    Casio is gearing up to launch its limited-edition G-Shock MRG-B5000HT-1, which is part of the prestigious MR-G series. This exciting news comes as the watch has been spotted at a European retailer ahead of its official release.

    First Insights

    The MRG-B5000HT was first mentioned in early June, and since then, several leaks have provided more information about its features and pricing. Now, we finally have a glimpse of the watch—and it’s impressive. The latest images showcase the watch’s key feature: the “tsuiki” design, which is a traditional Japanese hammering method that has been used for centuries to create samurai armor. This heritage is evident in the textured titanium bezel and bracelet, which gives the watch a unique, rugged look. While the design maintains the core elements of the MRG-B5000 series, it introduces enhancements with rose gold accents and a reversed LCD, merging age-old Japanese artistry with contemporary G-Shock durability.

    Additional Details

    In other news, well-known G-Shock insider @Geesgshock has shared more pictures of the MRG-B5000HT-1, claiming that it looks much better in person than in the renders. He also noted that the version seen in Europe seems to be a demo unit from a private event, indicating that retailers might be showcasing it to select clients.

    Casio has not yet confirmed when the MRG-B5000HT-1 will officially be released, but it seems likely to hit the market in August or September. Rumors suggest that only 500 units will be made available worldwide, and the price tag is expected to be high; in Japan, it’s set at ¥935,000 (approximately $6507), while in Europe, it’s rumored to range between €7,300 and €7,500.

    Historical Context

    Previously, Casio has launched at least two Hammer Tone models that utilized the Tsuiki pattern, with the MRG-G1000HT from 2016 being the most well-known. However, this will be the first time the traditional tsuiki method is applied to the square MR-G series.

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    New Casio G-Shock MR-G Hammer Tone Watch with Tsuiki Pattern in EuropeNew Casio G-Shock MR-G Hammer Tone Watch with Tsuiki Pattern in Europe
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  • Garmin May Introduce Course Planner Feature for Smartwatch Users

    Garmin May Introduce Course Planner Feature for Smartwatch Users

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has introduced new tools like Step speed loss, Running economy, and Running tolerance in their Forerunner 570 and 970 smartwatches.
    2. A new Course Planner tool is expected to launch in the Garmin Connect Mobile app, allowing users to create and discover running courses.
    3. The Course Planner may cater to ultra runners and endurance athletes with features like cutoff times, countdown timers, and rest breaks.
    4. Users will likely have the ability to manage repeat crossings and make quick edits with a bulk management tool.
    5. Details about the release date and compatible smartwatches for the new Course Planner feature are still unknown.

    Garmin seems to be developing some exciting new features for runners. Recently, the company introduced tools such as Step speed loss, Running economy, and Running tolerance with their Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 smartwatches (curr. $749.99 at Amazon).

    A New Course Planner Tool

    According to a report from the5krunner, Garmin is expected to launch a new Course Planner tool within the Garmin Connect Mobile app. Currently, users can either discover existing courses or create their own in Garmin Connect. The app can generate courses based on your selected distance and direction, utilizing the Garmin Connect Trendline Popularity Routing tool.

    Features for Endurance Athletes

    This upcoming Course Planner tool appears to be geared towards ultra runners and other endurance athletes. There are whispers that users might be able to set cutoff times, whether required by event organizers or personal goals, complete with countdown timers. Users could also include rest breaks and notes at specific points along their courses. Additionally, it seems there will be options for repeat crossings at the same spot, along with a bulk management tool for quicker edits.

    Unknowns Remain

    The5krunner hasn’t shared the source of this information. It’s still unclear when the new Garmin Course Planner feature will be available in the app, and there is no word on which smartwatches will be compatible with the new feature.

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  • R11 Ultra Smart Ring with Display Launches at Only $50

    R11 Ultra Smart Ring with Display Launches at Only $50

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Rollme R11 Ultra smart ring is priced at $50 and comes in three colors and various sizes.
    2. Key features include an integrated display that shows battery level, heart rate, current time, and step count, along with smartphone camera control and TikTok scrolling.
    3. The ring uses optical sensors to monitor heart rate, blood oxygen levels, stress levels, and sleep quality, but lacks GPS for precise location tracking.
    4. It is water resistant up to 5 ATM and has a battery life of up to seven days, with longer standby time and magnetic recharging.
    5. An alternative option to consider is the YD Life, available on Amazon.

    Rollme has launched a new wearable device known as the R11 Ultra, which is now available for purchase directly from its online store. This smart ring, as expected, comes packed with a variety of features and is offered in three different colors and various sizes, priced at $50. It’s important for interested buyers to consider the shipping options and any possible import charges before making a decision.

    Key Features Highlighted

    Rollme emphasizes two main features of the R11 Ultra: its integrated display and its functionality as an input device. The compact display can indicate battery level, heart rate, current time, and step count. Users can also utilize the ring to operate their smartphone camera through gestures, and it can even scroll through TikTok feeds. Additionally, this model serves as a tally counter.

    Sensor Capabilities

    In terms of technology, Rollme’s latest offering is not revolutionary. It employs optical sensors to monitor heart rate and blood oxygen levels, and it can assess stress levels. The manufacturer claims that it can also track and analyze sleep quality and duration. Activity tracking is integrated as well, taking into account metrics like heart rate and steps taken.

    Thus, while the smart ring can estimate the distance traveled during runs, it lacks a GPS feature for precise location tracking. On the plus side, the ring is rated water resistant up to 5 ATM and boasts a battery life of up to seven days with a full charge. In standby mode, it can last even longer and recharges on a magnetic base.

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    R11 Ultra Smart Ring with Display Launches at Only $50R11 Ultra Smart Ring with Display Launches at Only $50
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  • Casio MTG-B4000 Carbon-Steel Hybrid Watches Now Available in US

    Casio MTG-B4000 Carbon-Steel Hybrid Watches Now Available in US

    Key Takeaways

    1. Innovative Design: The MTGB4000 series features a redesigned Dual Core Guard structure with a hybrid frame of carbon-fiber and stainless steel, minimizing shock transfer and achieving a slim profile.

    2. Advanced Technology: Equipped with Tough Solar charging, Multi-Band 6 radio reception, Bluetooth connectivity, and a bright Super Illuminator LED for enhanced functionality and accuracy.

    3. Launch Details: Both models weigh 112 g, offer free US shipping, and come with a one-year warranty that can be extended to three years upon registration.

    4. Availability: The MTGB4000 models are now available on the G-Shock US website, with previous releases selling out quickly, particularly the B-1A2 colorway.

    5. Target Audience: The MTGB4000 caters to those seeking a bold aesthetic and advanced features, while some users express concerns over the design and AI involvement in its creation.

    Casio has just released the latest MT-G series on the American G-Shock online store, allowing customers in the US to get their hands on the MTGB4000-1A and MTGB4000B-1A2 after much excitement. Despite sharing the MT-G name, there’s a lot of new technology and features inside these models.

    Innovative Design Features

    The engineers at Casio utilized their in-house AI tools to completely redesign the Dual Core Guard structure. This has resulted in a new hybrid frame that combines carbon-fiber plates with stainless-steel components, employing a screw-less lug design to minimize shock transfer. The case dimensions of 56.6 × 45.3 × 14.4 mm are impressively slim for an MT-G, while still boasting a water-resistance rating of 200 meters and G-Shock’s Triple G Resist certification, which protects against shock, vibrations, and centrifugal forces.

    Advanced Technology

    The watches come equipped with Tough Solar charging that offers five months of autonomy (or 18 months in power-saving mode). Multi-Band 6 radio reception ensures the analog time display is accurate to the second. Additionally, a Bluetooth connection to the Casio Watches app allows users to select world-time effortlessly, find their phone, calibrate the hands automatically, and access around 300 city presets. The 24-hour stopwatch and countdown timer will be useful for athletes and travelers, while the bright white Super Illuminator LED ensures visibility in low light conditions.

    Launch Details

    Both models weigh 112 g, which is relatively light for the MT-G line, thanks to the carbon composite mid-case and the removal of metal screws at the lugs. The premium construction is completed with a domed sapphire crystal featuring inner AR coating, a knurled screw-lock crown, and indices filled with Neobrite.

    As of now, the MTGB4000 models are available for purchase on the official G-Shock US website, offering free shipping within the US and a one-year warranty that can be extended to three years through Casio’s registration program. Given the quick sell-outs of previous MT-G releases, those interested, particularly in the more subdued B-1A2 colorway, should act fast, as it combines all features in one of Casio’s darkest finishes ever.

    For anyone who found the MTG-B3000 (currently priced at $1,200 on Amazon for the MTG-B3000PRB-1AJR) to be an improvement but desired a bolder aesthetic, the MTGB4000 is positioned to be the perfect match. It incorporates advanced carbon technology, AI-driven design, and classic G-Shock characteristics in a package that is now accessible without the hassle of international shipping. However, some users on aBlogtoWatch expressed dissatisfaction with the design and the AI involvement in creating the watch, which could be a point of consideration.

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    Casio MTG-B4000 Carbon-Steel Hybrid Watches Now Available in USCasio MTG-B4000 Carbon-Steel Hybrid Watches Now Available in US

     

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  • New Casio Vintage Full-Metal Watches Launching Soon in the UK

    New Casio Vintage Full-Metal Watches Launching Soon in the UK

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio is launching two new Vintage watches in the UK: A1000A-7 (silver) and A1000G-9 (gold).
    2. The watches feature a premium design with a hairline finish, stainless steel cases, and dimensions of 39.6 x 38 x 7.3 mm.
    3. Functional features include a daily alarm, stopwatch, automatic calendar, and a white Super Illuminator LED backlight.
    4. Pricing in the UK is £115 for the A1000A-7 and £165 for the A1000G-9, with an uncertain release date.
    5. Both models are water-resistant and have a battery life of approximately three years with a replaceable CR1616 battery.

    Casio is set to introduce two fresh Vintage watches in the UK: the A1000A-7 and the A1000G-9. These timepieces follow the gold and silver models from the Casio Vintage Collection x A.P.C., which launched in late 2024.

    Premium Design

    The new Casio Vintage A1000 series watches are showcased as high-end timepieces, featuring a hairline finish on the stainless steel case, bezel, and the watch face around the digital screen. Each timepiece has dimensions of 39.6 x 38 x 7.3 mm (~1.6 x 1.5 x 0.3 inches) and weighs 83 g (~2.9 oz). They come equipped with a stainless steel bracelet that includes a one-touch 3-fold clasp. Although very similar, the A1000A-7 boasts a classic silver stainless steel appearance, while the A1000G-9 is elegantly gold ion plated.

    Functional Features

    Both A1000 models are packed with features such as a daily alarm, hourly time signals, and a stopwatch that measures to 1/100 of a second. Users have the option to switch between 12-hour and 24-hour time formats, and the calendar is completely automatic. The watches are claimed to stay accurate within 30 seconds each month. Additionally, a white Super Illuminator LED backlight ensures readability in darker settings. They are also water-resistant and are expected to last for around three years with a replaceable CR1616 battery.

    Pricing and Availability

    In the UK, the Casio Vintage A1000A-7 is set to retail for £115, while the A1000G-9 will be available for £165. The exact release date for these watches is currently uncertain, with the company simply indicating that they are ‘coming soon.’ It is also unknown when or if they will be available in other countries.

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  • Limited Edition Citizen Zenshin Watch Inspired by Fantastic Four

    Limited Edition Citizen Zenshin Watch Inspired by Fantastic Four

    Key Takeaways

    1. Citizen has launched a special edition Marvel The Fantastic Four Inspired Box Set ahead of the movie release on July 25th.
    2. The watch features a brushed blue dial, sapphire crystal, white lume markers, and symbols related to the Fantastic Four.
    3. It is powered by the J800 Eco-Drive movement, which uses light to generate power, and includes a date display.
    4. The watch is water-resistant up to 100 m and has a diameter of 39.5 mm.
    5. Priced at $595 in the U.S. and £499 in the U.K., only 1,000 pieces will be made, with an expected release in late July 2025.

    Citizen has unveiled a special edition Marvel The Fantastic Four Inspired Box Set. This announcement comes ahead of the release of Marvel Studios’ The Fantastic Four: First Steps movie, set to hit theaters on July 25th.

    Watch Design and Features

    The watch in this Fantastic Four collaboration is modeled after the Citizen Zenshin timepiece. Its aesthetic reflects the movie’s theme, featuring a brushed blue dial that is shielded by a sapphire crystal. The watch includes white lume markers, with some being substituted for symbols related to the superhero group. Additionally, it has a silver Super Titanium casing and bracelet, while the case back showcases the Fantastic Four logo.

    Technical Specifications

    The Citizen Zenshin Fantastic Four watch, also known as AW0131-66W, is driven by the brand’s J800 Eco-Drive movement. This innovative movement allows the watch to harness any kind of light to generate power. It features three hands for hours, minutes, and seconds, along with a date display. The watch is water-resistant up to 100 m and has a diameter of 39.5 mm (approximately 1.6 inches).

    Pricing and Availability

    The Citizen Marvel The Fantastic Four Inspired Box Set is priced at $595 in the United States and £499 in the United Kingdom. It will be packaged in custom-designed packaging and includes a collectible coin. Only 1,000 pieces of this edition will be made available, with an expected release date in late July 2025.

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  • Casio G-Shock MRG-B2000 Kurogane-Iro Watches Launch in Europe

    Casio G-Shock MRG-B2000 Kurogane-Iro Watches Launch in Europe

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio G-Shock MRG-B2000BG-3A and MRG-B2000RG-3A watches are now available in the UK, Germany, and the Netherlands, having debuted in Japan in June 2025.

    2. The MRG-B2000BG-3A is priced at £2,700 in the UK, with limited stock, while the MRG-B2000RG-3A is available for €3,300 in Germany and the Netherlands, with a projected US retail price of $3,000.

    3. The MRG-B2000BG-3A features a dark green DLC coating and a brushed titanium bezel, while the MRG-B2000RG-3A has a recrystallized titanium bezel and a fluorine rubber strap, both inspired by traditional Japanese armor colors.

    4. Both models are radio-controlled with Bluetooth functionality, supporting dual world time zones, stopwatch, countdown timer, daily alarm, and an LED backlight for low-light conditions.

    5. The watches have Tough Solar charging, a power-saving mode, and can operate for up to 26 months, with dimensions of 54.7 x 49.8 x 16.9 mm (2.2 x 2.0 x 0.7 inches).

    The Casio G-Shock MRG-B2000BG-3A and MRG-B2000RG-3A watches are now up for grabs in European nations such as the UK, Germany, and the Netherlands. These high-end watches first debuted in Japan back in June 2025.

    Pricing and Availability

    In the UK, the Casio G-Shock MRG-B2000BG-3A is priced at £2,700. It’s important to mention that the online listing shows there are only three pieces remaining in stock. Meanwhile, in EU countries like Germany and the Netherlands, the MRG-B2000RG-3A is offered at €3,300. Both models can also be found on the brand’s online store in the US, but purchasing them isn’t possible there at this time. They are projected to retail for $3,000 in the US market.

    Design Features

    The Casio MRG-B2000BG-3A features a dark green diamond-like carbon (DLC) coating on the casing and band, paired with a brushed titanium bezel. On the other hand, the Casio MRG-B2000RG-3A has the same titanium casing but includes a recrystallized titanium bezel and comes with a robust fluorine rubber strap. Both models take inspiration from the Japanese color kurogane-iro, which is often seen in traditional armor and helmets.

    Functional Specs

    The functionalities of these two watches in the MRG-B2000 series are the same. They are radio-controlled (Multiband 6) watches with Bluetooth capability, allowing users to manage various settings through the Casio Watches smartphone app. Each model also supports dual world time zones and includes features like a stopwatch, a countdown timer, and a daily alarm. An LED backlight helps you read the dial in dim conditions, and with Tough Solar charging and a power-saving mode, these watches can operate for up to 26 months. Each watch’s dimensions are 54.7 x 49.8 x 16.9 mm (2.2 x 2.0 x 0.7 inches).

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    Casio G-Shock MRG-B2000 Kurogane-Iro Watches Launch in Europe

     

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