Category: Wearables

March 1, 2025
Pre-Order Casio G-Shock Fire Package 2025 Special Edition Watches
Key Takeaways
1. Casio has launched its limited-edition G-Shock “Fire Package” collection for 2025, continuing a tradition since 2014.
2. The collection features two models: the AWG-M100FP-1A2JR (analog-digital) and GW-2320FP-1A2JR (fully digital), aimed at young individuals facing new challenges.
3. Pre-orders are available in Japan, with prices starting at 24,200 yen (~$162) and going up to 31,900 yen (~$213); international availability is uncertain.
4. Both watches include Tough Solar charging, Multi-band 6 time adjustment, 20 bar water resistance, and various standard features like alarms and world time.
5. The Fire Package series originally debuted in 2004, was revived in 2015, and has since become an annual release.
It’s that time of year again when Casio brings out its limited-edition G-Shock “Fire Package” watches. This tradition has been alive since 2014, with the Japanese watchmaker launching special themed AWG-M100 and 2300 series watches every first quarter of the year. Following this custom, Casio has now officially introduced the 2025 G-Shock Fire Package collection.
Latest Releases
This year’s set includes the analog-digital AWG-M100FP-1A2JR and the fully digital GW-2320FP-1A2JR models. The theme focuses on young people, freshmen, and “individuals who are embarking on new challenges in fresh areas,” which Casio claims is reflected in the black base color alongside cool blue highlights. The watches come packed in a unique box, seemingly created from eco-friendly materials. It’s unfortunate that Casio stopped using the classic trunk-style box last year.
Pre-Order Details
The G-Shock Fire Package 2025 edition can now be pre-ordered in Japan. The pricing starts at 24,200 yen (~$162) for the analog-digital GW-2320FP model and rises to 31,900 yen (~$213) for the fully digital AWG-M100FP watch. What about a worldwide launch? Typically, Fire Package watches are exclusive to Japan. Some previous models have made it to the US and UK, but the editions from 2023 and 2024 did not, so we shouldn’t expect much.
Features and Specifications
Both watches come with Tough Solar charging, Multi-band 6 radio-controlled time adjustment, 20 bar water resistance, an LED backlight, and are shock-resistant. They also have standard features like world time for 48 cities, 5 daily alarms, a fully automatic calendar, a stopwatch, and a countdown timer.
A Look Back
The Fire Package series has a fascinating background. It was first launched in 2004 with three hybrid analog-digital watches. However, there wasn’t another release for over ten years. Casio brought the series back in 2015 but with a new approach, offering only two models: the AWG-M100, an analog-digital hybrid, and the GW-M500, a fully digital watch. Since then, it has become an annual event.
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Tags: AWG-M100, G-Shock Fire Package, GW-2320
March 1, 2025
New Casio G-Shock GD-100: Limited Edition Suzuki Watch Launch
Key Takeaways
1. The third Suzuki Jimny x Casio G-Shock GD-100 watch is inspired by the Suzuki Jimny 4WD and will be available in a limited lottery of 1,000 units from April 9 to April 15, 2025.
2. The watch features a military-inspired color palette, enhanced visibility digital screen, and includes Jimny branding like the rhino logo and engraved case back.
3. Each watch comes in special edition packaging, including a metal canister with Jimny and Casio illustrations, and has G-Shock’s shock resistance and 200-meter water resistance.
4. The watch is priced at ¥26,400 ($175), with lottery winners notified on April 16, 2025, and deliveries expected by the end of April.
5. High demand is anticipated due to the popularity of previous Jimny x G-Shock models.
Casio and Suzuki are collaborating again to introduce the third iteration of the Suzuki Jimny x Casio G-Shock GD-100 watch. This latest model draws inspiration from Suzuki’s well-known Jimny 4WD, a compact, five-door SUV. It will be sold in a limited lottery of 1,000 units, with applications open from April 9 to April 15, 2025.
Design Features
The G-Shock GD-100 is the foundation for this unique edition, showcasing a military-inspired color palette that reflects the Jimny’s adventurous spirit. The digital screen is designed for better visibility, complemented by green and yellow details that enhance its tough look. Casio has cleverly included Jimny branding throughout the watch, featuring a custom backlight with the Jimny rhino logo, an engraved case back that reads Jimny x Suzuki, along with more branded touches on the strap.
Packaging and Specifications
Each watch is presented in special edition packaging, which includes a metal canister adorned with illustrations of the Jimny and Casio logos. The timepiece boasts G-Shock’s renowned shock resistance and is water-resistant up to 200 meters, making it a reliable choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
This is the third time that Suzuki has collaborated with Casio G-Shock. Previous Jimny-themed G-Shock models also utilized a limited-edition lottery system, showcasing designs that honored the Jimny’s off-road prowess. The set price for this watch is ¥26,400 ($175), and those selected in the lottery will be informed on April 16, 2025, with deliveries expected by the end of April.
Anticipated Demand
With the success of past Jimny x G-Shock models, there is a strong expectation that interest in this new edition will be high.
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Tags: Casio G-Shock GD-100, limited edition watch, Suzuki Jimny
March 1, 2025
Xiaomi Watch S4 Prices on Amazon: Base Model €159.99
Key Takeaways
1. Pricing Information: The Xiaomi Watch S4 is expected to have an MSRP of €159.99 for black and silver models, with the ‘Rainbow’ model priced at €169.99 in Eurozone countries.
2. Global Launch: The global launch of the Xiaomi Watch S4 is anticipated at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025 in Barcelona, following its initial launch in China in October 2024.
3. Display and Connectivity: The global version features a 1.43-inch AMOLED display (466 x 466 resolution) with a peak brightness of 2,220 nits, and supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.3, including Bluetooth calling.
4. Health and Navigation Features: The smartwatch includes health-tracking capabilities such as a heart rate monitor, accelerometer, and barometric altimeter, as well as GPS and other navigation systems like Beidou, Galileo, and GLONASS.
5. Battery Life and Compatibility: It has a 486 mAh battery lasting up to 15 days on a single charge and is compatible with Android 8.0 or higher and iOS 12.0 or above, but may lack the wrist gesture controls found in the Chinese version.
Multiple versions of the Xiaomi Watch S4 have been seen on Amazon in Dubai, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain, showing different price ranges in these regions.
Pricing Details
From the early listings, the black and silver models of the Watch S4 are likely to have a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of €159.99 across most Eurozone countries. The ‘Rainbow’ model is priced a bit higher at €169.99.
Global Launch Expectation
The Xiaomi Watch S4 was launched in China in October 2024 alongside the Pad 7 Pro, Smart Band 9 Pro, Xiaomi 15, and Xiaomi 15 Pro. It is anticipated to have its global launch at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025 event in Barcelona next week. Although Xiaomi has confirmed its attendance and plans to unveil new products globally, they have yet to share specific details regarding what will be announced.
Specifications of the Global Model
The global version of the Xiaomi Watch S4 is expected to come in colors like silver, black, and rainbow. It boasts a 1.43-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 466 x 466 and peaks brightness of 2,220 nits. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.3, and it supports Bluetooth calling through built-in microphones and speakers. This smartwatch includes health-tracking features like a heart rate monitor, accelerometer, and barometric altimeter. It also supports GPS, Beidou, Galileo, and GLONASS for navigation. The Watch S4 has NFC capabilities and is rated at 5 ATM for water resistance, making it suitable for short swims.
It is equipped with a 486 mAh Li-Po battery that can last up to 15 days on a single charge. The watch is compatible with smartphones that run Android 8.0 or higher and iOS 12.0 or above. However, the wrist gesture controls found in the Chinese version are not mentioned for the global version based on the leaked specifications.
Tags: Mobile World Congress 2025, Smartwatch, Xiaomi Watch S4
March 1, 2025
Casio G-Shock GW-5000HS: Solar Charging & Multi-Band 6 Now in US
Key Takeaways
1. Casio has launched the G-Shock GW-5000HS-1 and GW-5000HS-7 in the U.S., honoring the original G-Shock from 1983.
2. The GW-5000HS-7 features a clean white design, while the GW-5000HS-1 maintains the classic black look with an inverted display.
3. Both watches are made in Japan with durable materials, including a metal casing and a bio-based resin strap.
4. They include advanced features like Tough Solar power, Multi-band 6 timekeeping, and 200-meter water resistance.
5. The G-Shock GW-5000HS series is priced at $300 and is available on Casio’s website, with recent availability in the UK and Europe.
Casio has finally introduced the G-Shock GW-5000HS-1 and GW-5000HS-7 watches in the United States. These latest additions pay tribute to the original G-Shock, which debuted in 1983, keeping the classic face layout, the well-known brick pattern, the screw-lock case back, and the mode indicators that fans have cherished.
Striking Designs
Among the two, the G-Shock GW-5000HS-7 stands out with its clean white color and non-inverted display. It’s significant as it’s the very first non-black watch in the GW5000 series. On the other hand, the GW-5000HS-1 upholds the traditional black look and features an inverted LCD, giving it a more discreet appearance.
Quality Craftsmanship
Both of these timepieces are crafted at the Yamagata Casio factory in Japan, the birthplace of G-Shock. They come with a metal casing and a screw-lock back cover that has a DLC (diamond-like carbon) finish for extra resilience. Additionally, they include a rubber strap made from bio-based resin, making them eco-friendlier.
Advanced Features
The G-Shock GW-5000HS series is packed with cutting-edge features such as Tough Solar power, Multi-band 6 support for radio-controlled, precise timekeeping, and Super Illuminator LED lighting to enhance visibility in low light. They also offer 200-meter water resistance and standard watch functionalities like World Time for 31 time zones and 48 cities, a 24-hour countdown timer, five daily alarms with snooze, a full auto calendar, a 1/100-second stopwatch, and a battery level indicator.
You can now find the G-Shock GW-5000HS series on Casio’s website for the price of $300. Both models join the GW-5000U-1, which was released in 2021 and is now out of stock in the U.S. They have also recently become available in the UK and Europe.
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Tags: Casio, G-Shock GW-5000HS-1, G-Shock GW-5000HS-7
March 1, 2025
OnePlus Watch 3 Buyers Get Apology Letters for Issues
Key Takeaways
1. The OnePlus Watch 3 features a typo, saying “Maed in China” instead of “Made in China,” which led to a pause in sales.
2. OnePlus issued an apology and offered customers the choice to return the watch or keep it as a “limited edition” collectible.
3. The smartwatch is available for pre-order with a price of $329, and a coupon code can be used for a $30 discount.
4. It has a 1.5-inch LTPO AMOLED display, IP68 water and dust resistance, and meets MIL-STD-810H standards for durability.
5. Powered by the Snapdragon W5 processor, it offers 32GB of storage, runs on WearOS 5, and has a 613mAh battery for up to 5 days of use.
The OnePlus Watch 3 is the newest flagship smartwatch from the company. This watch attracted attention when well-known YouTuber MKBHD found a small typo on its backside. The engraving incorrectly says “Maed in China” instead of the correct “Made in China.”
Company Response to the Error
OnePlus recognized this small error on X and chose to pause new sales of the smartwatch. However, since not everyone follows social media, they took further action. A Reddit user shared that their OnePlus Watch 3 included a letter of apology. This letter informed customers that they could either return the item or keep it as a special “limited edition” collectible.
Apology from OnePlus
“Unfortunately, shortly after the OnePlus Watch 3 went on sale, we noticed a typo on the underside of the dial – ‘Meda in China’. Apologies!” – OnePlus
The OnePlus Watch 3 is available for pre-order, but delivery has been postponed until April. Its price is set at $329, but customers can use the coupon code “TIME1010” on the official OnePlus website to receive a $30 discount.
Features and Specifications
The Watch 3 boasts a 1.5-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a maximum brightness of 2,200 nits, ensuring good visibility in bright outdoor conditions. For durability, it has an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance. Moreover, it is also compliant with MIL-STD-810H standards. Powered by the Snapdragon W5 along with a custom BE2800 co-processor, the Watch 3 comes equipped with 32GB of storage and operates on the WearOS 5 system. Its battery has a capacity of 613mAh, providing up to 5 days of use under normal conditions.
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Tags: Oneplus, OnePlus Watch 3, Smartwatch
March 1, 2025
Casio G-Shock GM-110D Full Metal Watch Release Date and Pricing
Key Takeaways
1. The new Casio G-Shock GM-110D series will be released on March 14 in Japan, with preorders available on Yahoo! Japan and Rakuten.
2. The GM-110D-8AJF is priced at ¥60,500 (~$399), while the GM-110BD-1A9JF costs ¥69,300 (~$457), featuring a full-metal stainless-steel design.
3. The black and gold version (GM-110BD-1A9JF) is generating more excitement on social media compared to the silver model.
4. The watches are shock-resistant, water-resistant up to 200 meters, and include features like world time, stopwatch, countdown timer, alarms, and an auto-LED backlight.
5. The GM-110D series will likely have a global release after its initial launch in Japan.
Casio has made it official regarding the release date of its new G-Shock GM-110D series, which boasts a full-metal stainless-steel design. The models GM-110D-8AJF and GM-110BD-1A9JF, which were recently leaked, are set to hit the market on March 14 in Japan. Preorders are currently available through online shopping platforms like Yahoo! Japan (1) (2) and Rakuten (1) (2).
Pricing and Features
The GM-110D-8AJF, which features a silver-tone stainless-steel finish, is priced at ¥60,500 (~$399). On the other hand, the GM-110BD-1A9JF, which has a black ion-plated case and a gold dial, will retail for ¥69,300 (~$457). Both watches maintain the analog-digital hybrid display that the GM-110 series is known for, and they come equipped with a fold-over clasp bracelet that includes a push-button release.
Popularity and Anticipation
According to social media feedback, it’s clear that the black and gold version is capturing more attention compared to its silver counterpart. This suggests that it may become a favorite among collectors and fashion aficionados. Given Casio’s track record, these new models are likely to debut in Japan first, with a wider global release expected to follow shortly after.
Technical Specifications
The GM-110D series is confirmed to have a shock-resistant stainless-steel case and bezel, along with a water resistance of up to 200 meters. They also feature a mineral glass crystal and a quartz movement. Other functionalities include world time for 31 time zones and 48 cities, a 1/100-second stopwatch, a countdown timer, five daily alarms, a full auto-LED backlight, and a choice between 12 or 24-hour time formats. The watches are powered by a CR1220 battery, which has an approximate lifespan of three years.
With the announcement now made, it shouldn’t be long before the GM-110D series arrives in international markets.
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Tags: Casio G-SHOCK, GM-110D series, stainless-steel watches
February 28, 2025
Xiaomi Watch S4 Global Pricing Leaks Higher Than Expected
Key Takeaways
1. The Xiaomi Watch S4 was revealed last October and is set for a global launch at MWC 2025 in Barcelona.
2. Initial pricing for the Watch S4 in Europe was expected at €159.99 (~$167), reflecting a €10 increase from the Watch S3.
3. Recent leaks suggest the Watch S4 might actually be priced at €179.99 (~$187), marking a 20% increase from the previous model.
4. Despite the price hike, the Watch S4 remains more affordable than competitors like Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 7 and Mobvoi’s TicWatch Pro 5.
5. Shipments for the Watch S4 are expected to start on March 7, shortly after the MWC 2025 event.
The Xiaomi Watch S4 has been available for some time, having been revealed last October alongside the Pad 7 Pro, Smart Band 9 Pro, Xiaomi 15, and Xiaomi 15 Pro. Though Xiaomi has announced plans to reveal new products globally at MWC 2025 in Barcelona next week, they have kept details about these upcoming items largely under wraps.
Pricing Changes Expected
Recent leaks suggest that the Watch S4 is a device Xiaomi plans to unveil outside of its home market next week. Initially, the Watch S4 was expected to launch in Europe for €159.99 (~$167), which is a €10 (~$10) increase from the previous year’s Watch S3 (currently priced at $149.99 on Amazon). However, it appears that this pricing may not apply uniformly across the entire Eurozone.
Potential Price Hike
New information indicates that the Watch S4 might be priced at €179.99 (~$187), representing a 20% increase compared to the Watch S3. Even with this hike, Xiaomi would still offer a more affordable option compared to competitors like Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 7 or Mobvoi’s TicWatch Pro 5. Additionally, Chipoteka Croatia has reported that shipments for the Watch S4 are expected to commence on March 7, shortly after MWC 2025 concludes. For further technical specifications and comparisons to its predecessor, check out our in-depth article on the Watch S4 launch.
Conclusion
In summary, while the Watch S4 promises new features and improvements, potential buyers should prepare for a price increase. Xiaomi aims to position itself competitively against other brands while introducing its latest mid-range smartwatch.
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Tags: MWC 2025, smartwatch pricing, Xiaomi Watch S4
February 28, 2025
Leica ZM 12: Luxury Watch with 100m Water Resistance & Titanium Case
Key Takeaways
1. The Leica ZM 12 is a new premium watch model that comes in four dial colors and features a smaller dial size compared to its predecessor, the ZM 11.
2. The watch is made from 316L stainless steel or grade 5 titanium, with a lightweight design and a double-domed sapphire crystal for durability and visibility.
3. It is powered by the Leica Calibre LA-3002 movement, offering a 60-hour power reserve and precision within -4/+6 seconds per day, along with 100 m water resistance.
4. The ZM 12 offers a variety of strap and bracelet options, including materials like rubber and stainless steel, with prices ranging from $550 to $1,350.
5. The starting price for the Leica ZM 12 is $6,250 for the steel version and $7,000 for the titanium version, available for purchase on Leica’s official website and through authorized dealers.
After making its entrance into the luxury watch world with the launch of the ZM 1 early in 2022, Leica has now presented its newest high-end timepiece, the ZM 12. This watch comes in four dial colors: Steel Blue Orange, Steel Silver Grey, Steel Olive Black, and Titanium Chocolate Black, with three in steel and one made of titanium. The ZM 12 follows the Leica ZM 11, which was released in 2023. A key distinction between the two models is the dial size; the ZM 12 is two millimeters smaller, measuring 39 mm.
Design and Materials
This compact and stylish watch is crafted from 316L stainless steel and weighs approximately 66 grams. There’s an option for a titanium case, made from grade 5 titanium, which is 14 grams lighter, bringing its weight down to just 52 grams. The watch features a double-doomed sapphire crystal with laser-printed text inside and a durable anti-reflective coating on both sides.
Dial Features
The design of the ZM 12’s dial is fairly minimalistic. It includes a printed minute track and an inner bezel to aid in precise timekeeping. For improved visibility in low light, Leica incorporates Swiss-Super LumiNova for the hands and indices. The watch also has a screw-down crown, typical of luxury timepieces.
Movement and Functionality
At the core of the ZM 12 is the Leica Calibre LA-3002, which was developed in partnership with the Swiss movement expert Chronode SA. Leica claims that this automatic caliber provides an impressive power reserve of 60 hours and maintains accuracy within -4/+6 seconds per day. The watch is rated for water resistance up to 100 m (~328 ft), making it suitable for everyday water activities.
Straps and Pricing
Leica provides a variety of straps and bracelets for the ZM 12, which include options like orange, technical textile beige, and black rubber, as well as stainless steel and titanium bracelets that feature dual folding butterfly-style clasps.
The steel version of the Leica ZM 12 starts at $6,250, while the titanium model is priced at $7,000. Straps and bracelets are available in a range from $550 to $1,350. You can now buy this timepiece through Leica’s official website or from authorized dealers.
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Tags: Leica ZM 12, luxury watch, Swiss movement
February 28, 2025
Garmin Fenix 7 and 7 Pro Fix Sensor Pairing Issues Before Update
Key Takeaways
1. Garmin is no longer focusing on software updates for the Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro models.
2. Attention has shifted to newer models like the Enduro 3, Fenix E, and Fenix 8, which receive regular updates.
3. Recent updates for the Fenix 7 series included System Software 20.16, but it introduced bugs affecting external sensor connections.
4. Garmin is working on fixing the issues with a Beta Version 20.21, which has reached some public testers.
5. The ECG feature remains disabled in the new beta version, indicating more updates may be needed before a stable release.
The Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro (currently priced at $649.99 on Amazon) are now considered older models of smartwatches. Because of this, Garmin is no longer focusing on their software updates. Instead, attention has shifted to the Enduro 3, Fenix E, and Fenix 8, which receive many bug fixes, new features, and other enhancements on a monthly basis.
Recent Changes in the Fenix 7 Series
In the last few weeks, there have been a lot of changes regarding the Fenix 7 series, although they may not be what Garmin was expecting. The company recently wrapped up its latest round of beta testing before releasing System Software 20.16 to its stable software branch.
Issues with System Software 20.16
The launch of System Software 20.16 also aligned with the increase of ECG compatibility across Europe and the UK. Nevertheless, there were reports of a bug that came with the update, which caused problems with external sensors not connecting automatically during activities like using heart rate monitors (HRMs).
Now, Garmin is working to fix this problem, and they are distributing Beta Version 20.21 to address it. The company claims that this update has already reached half of the public beta testers. However, Garmin has decided to keep the ECG feature disabled in this new beta version. This suggests that there might be at least one more beta update before they release a stable version. Just for reference, the complete changelog for System Software 20.16 should include the updates introduced with Beta Version 20.19 as well.
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Tags: Fenix 7, Garmin, System Software 20.16
February 28, 2025
Casio G-Shock Manga CasiOak Faces Production Halt
Key Takeaways
1. The Casio ‘Manga’ CasiOak has become a highly sought-after collector’s item in 2024, with prices exceeding double its original retail value.
2. Its unique design features hand-drawn manga art elements, standing out from traditional G-Shock aesthetics.
3. Reports indicate that production of the Manga CasiOak has effectively stopped, increasing its scarcity and resale value.
4. The blue and white models of the Manga CasiOak are difficult to find in retail stores, leading collectors to seek them on secondary markets.
5. Interested buyers should act quickly to purchase, as prices may continue to rise and limited restocks may occur.
The Casio ‘Manga’ CasiOak has quickly become one of the hottest G-Shock models of 2024, reaching a status where it can be considered a true collector’s item. Its prices have surged to over double their initial retail value. Launched in May 2024, the GA-2100MNG series attracted attention from both watch enthusiasts and manga lovers alike, thanks to its distinctive hand-drawn manga art style paired with the well-known ‘CasiOak’ design and features.
Unique Design Elements
The Manga CasiOak draws inspiration from the highly popular GA-2100 series, which earned the nickname “CasiOak” due to its octagonal bezel that resembles the Royal Oak from Audemars Piguet. This Manga Edition takes a daring step away from standard G-Shock aesthetics. It boasts bold black outlines, screentone shading, and comic book-style speech bubbles. Even the case back is engraved with “Don!”—a famous Japanese sound effect often seen in manga. It’s safe to say that this watch certainly makes a statement on the wrist.
Market Scarcity
Casio has yet to officially announce the discontinuation of the Manga CasiOak, but reports from Great G-Shock World suggest that production has effectively stopped. This watch was heavily marketed with an emphasis on Japanese culture and was made in Japan, contributing to its allure as an exclusive release, similar to other limited edition products. As a result of its sudden unavailability, resale prices have skyrocketed, with some listings even hitting three times the original retail price of ¥25,300 ($170).
Collectors’ Demand
The blue GA-2100MNG-2AJR and the white GA-2100MNG-7AJR models are now reportedly hard to come by in regular retail outlets. Consequently, collectors and enthusiasts are turning to secondary markets like Yahoo! Auctions and Rakuten to secure their own pieces.
For those looking to make a purchase, it’s advisable to act fast before prices rise even more. G-Shock retailers may receive occasional limited restocks, so if you’re interested, make sure to check regularly for availability.
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Tags: Casio G-SHOCK, collectors’ item, GA-2100MNG