Category: Wearables

  • Amazfit T-Rex 3 Update: Zepp OS 5.0 Now Available

    Amazfit T-Rex 3 Update: Zepp OS 5.0 Now Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Amazfit T-Rex 3 smartwatch is receiving its first update for Zepp OS 5.0 since September 2025.
    2. The update features a new user interface, updated animations, and accessibility options like adjustable font sizes.
    3. New activities, including Scuba Diving, hiking, and weighted hiking, have been added, along with a BioCharge feature for tracking energy levels.
    4. The T-Rex 3 now supports topographic maps and is compatible with the Stryd pod, with new alerts for uphill routes and a Jet Lag Manager.
    5. The software rollout for version 4.1.5.1 is gradual, starting in China, the US, and Canada, before expanding to a wider audience.

    Amazfit’s T-Rex 3 smartwatch seems to be getting its first update for Zepp OS 5.0. The last time this model saw an update was in September 2025, when it received new running dynamics along with extra keyboard layouts.

    Update Details

    Users in the Amazfit T-Rex 3/3 Pro Group on Facebook and the 4PDA forum have noted that Zepp Health is now releasing software version 4.1.5.1 for this smartwatch. The upgrade to Zepp OS 5.0 introduces a new user interface for the T-Rex 3, featuring updated animations and a more fluid experience. There’s a new option to modify font sizes under the Accessibility settings, and users can take screenshots by pressing the SEL and DOWN buttons at the same time. One user mentioned that Scuba Diving has been added as a new activity.

    New Features

    The eagerly awaited BioCharge feature replaces the older Body Battery function, allowing users to keep track of their energy levels. New sports activities, such as hiking and weighted hiking, are now included, and users can also add weights to workouts like trail running, mountain climbing, and hill climbing. The T-Rex 3 now supports topographic maps for activities like kitesurfing and skydiving, and it is also compatible with the Stryd pod for runners. Additionally, uphill alerts have been introduced as part of route guidance, along with a new Jet Lag Manager. Furthermore, users can zoom in on images within the Notification center and adjust their nap records.

    Rollout Process

    Software version 4.1.5.1 is being rolled out gradually to T-Rex 3 smartwatch users (currently priced at $226 on Amazon). Typically, updates are first made available to users in China, the US, and Canada, before becoming available to a broader audience about a week later.

     

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  • Casio Launches Limited Edition MRG-B2000 Watch in New Country

    Casio Launches Limited Edition MRG-B2000 Watch in New Country

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio G-Shock MRG-B2000KT-3A is priced at £6,200 and is available for pre-order in the UK, with an official launch set for November 2025.

    2. Only 800 pieces of the G-Shock MRG-B2000KT-3A will be produced globally, each with a unique serial number.

    3. The watch features a hand-engraved phoenix design by metalsmith Kobayashi Masao, constructed from titanium with a green DLC and copper-hued AIP coating.

    4. It includes high-tech functions such as Bluetooth connectivity, automatic time calibration, dual world time, and various features accessible via the Casio Watches app.

    5. The G-Shock MRG-B2000KT-3A is radio-controlled (Multiband 6) and offers multiple indicators, Tough Solar charging, and a monthly accuracy of 15 seconds.

    Casio has unveiled the upcoming premium G-Shock MRG-B2000KT-3A watch, set to hit the UK market. This exclusive watch made its debut in Japan earlier in November 2025 and has recently been featured in some hands-on images.

    Price and Availability

    The Casio G-Shock MRG-B2000KT-3A is now available for pre-order at the brand’s online shop in the UK. Customers in this region will find it priced at £6,200, making it the priciest model found on the website. According to the product listing, the official launch is scheduled for November 2025, which is just around the corner. Only 800 pieces are being produced globally, each bearing a unique serial number, although it remains uncertain how many will be allocated for the UK market.

    Unique Design Features

    This G-Shock watch has been crafted in collaboration with metalsmith Kobayashi Masao, who has intricately engraved a phoenix design onto each bezel by hand. The casing and bezel are constructed from titanium, featuring a rich green DLC and a copper-hued AIP coating on various parts. The dial is patterned and shielded by sapphire glass, and it is accompanied by a blue-green Dura Soft rubber strap.

    High-Tech Functions

    The G-Shock MRG-B2000KT-3A is a Bluetooth-enabled device, boasting automatic time calibration, a phone finder, and various functions accessible through the Casio Watches app. This radio-controlled (Multiband 6) watch can display dual world time, offering 27 different time zones. It includes three analog hands, providing a monthly accuracy of 15 seconds, along with multiple indicators. Two of these indicators display time in a second time zone, while the last one indicates the day of the week. Additional features comprise a 1-second stopwatch, a countdown timer, and Tough Solar charging capabilities.

    At this point, Casio has not disclosed any intentions to expand the release of the G-Shock MRG-B2000KT-3A to other parts of Europe or regions like North America.

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    Casio Launches Limited Edition MRG-B2000 Watch in New Country

     

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  • New Seiko Prospex Limited Edition Watch Coming Soon

    New Seiko Prospex Limited Edition Watch Coming Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. Seiko Thailand is teasing the Prospex Muay Thai Limited Edition, set to be fully revealed on November 26, 2025.
    2. The teaser features a diver watch on a boxing ring canvas, hinting at a design related to Thailand’s national sport, Muay Thai.
    3. Key themes include “heritage, respect, and fighting spirit,” though specific design details are not yet revealed.
    4. The watch may be a regional release, with uncertain availability outside Thailand.
    5. More details, including specifications and pricing, will be shared during the official reveal on Instagram.

    Seiko Thailand has shared a brief teaser for what it calls the Prospex Muay Thai Limited Edition, with a full reveal scheduled for November 26, 2025. While the post doesn’t display much, it does indicate that this release is closely linked to Thailand’s national sport of combat.

    Teaser Details

    In the video, a Prospex diver watch is positioned on what appears to be the canvas of a boxing ring, encircled by ropes and illuminated from above. The watch itself is mostly shrouded in darkness, leaving the dial colors, finishing, and design elements that typically characterize these themed models unseen. The only visible part is the outline of a standard Seiko diver’s case, suggesting that the final product will maintain a recognizable Prospex profile, as noted in the caption.

    Heritage and Design Elements

    Seiko’s caption mentions “heritage, respect, and fighting spirit,” but it does not elaborate on how these concepts will be incorporated into the design. Previous regional editions, like the Prospex Asia-Pacific versions, have utilized color accents, engravings on the caseback, and visual nods instead of significant alterations to the watch itself. This teaser does not clarify whether the Muay Thai edition will adhere to that approach or explore something different.

    Regional Release Uncertainty

    Another question is how widely this watch will be available. Seiko Thailand frequently highlights models that are exclusive to Thailand and do not reach global markets, which means this could end up being a regional release. There are no indications in the teaser about international availability.

    For now, the only confirmed information is the name of the edition and the reveal date. All other specifics—such as specs, reference number, pricing, case material, and how strongly the Muay Thai theme is incorporated—will be disclosed when Seiko Thailand provides more details in their Instagram post on November 26.

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  • Edible Robot: Safe to Eat, Battery Included

    Edible Robot: Safe to Eat, Battery Included

    Key Takeaways

    1. Scientists have developed fully edible soft robots that can be chewed and swallowed, including their battery and actuators.
    2. The robot uses innovative movement mechanics with a pump system made from biodegradable materials like wax and gelatin.
    3. Edible power supply components are created using baking soda and citric acid, enabling movement through a chemical reaction that releases carbon dioxide.
    4. Potential applications include delivering medication and vaccines to animals, particularly in remote or dangerous areas.
    5. Ongoing tests involve human participants, focusing on taste and sustainability in robotics, emphasizing eco-friendly designs.

    When we think about robots, many people might start to wonder if they could be eaten. Until very recently, this was not a common thought, but now the idea of fully edible robots is gaining traction. Scientists in Switzerland have created a soft robot that can be chewed and swallowed whole, including its battery and actuators.

    Innovative Movement Mechanics

    Similar to other non-edible soft robots, this one utilizes a pump system for motion. Normally, soft actuators that can be swallowed and operate based on gas pressure need pumps that cannot be made without plastic and metal. However, this research has taken a different approach by using materials like wax and gelatin; even the tubes used for the pumps are made from gelatin.

    Power Supply Made Edible

    The team from the Intelligent Systems Laboratory at EPFL University, led by Dario Floreano, has also discovered a method to create edible power supply components as part of the RoboFood project funded by the EU. Typical soft robots move by pumping air in and out of their body chambers, which causes them to deform and move. In this instance, baking soda and liquid citric acid are stored in separate containers to hold chemical energy, and carbon dioxide is pumped into the chambers to act as a propellant.

    A membrane composed of baking soda keeps everything well-separated. The battery gets activated when pressure is applied to the membrane in the acid chamber. Once enough pressure builds, the acid breaks through the membrane, mixing with the baking soda and starting a basic acid-base reaction. This reaction releases carbon dioxide (CO₂) and sodium citrate, which is a common ingredient in the food industry and is generally considered safe.

    Potential Applications and Testing

    The initial concept for these edible robots was to provide medication to animals, like wild boars, that people typically prefer to stay away from. Due to their low cost, biodegradable nature, safety for transport, mobility, and resemblance to prey, these robots could be valuable for delivering vaccines in outbreaks of swine flu or similar diseases.

    However, there are also ongoing tests involving humans. Earlier in the year, fruit-flavored actuators were distributed to participants, and the feedback is currently being reviewed. Along with basic measurability, sustainability is also a significant consideration in robotics. Project leader Dario Floreano mentions:

    If you consider it from the larger viewpoint of eco-friendly and sustainable robotics, the pneumatic battery and valve system is crucial because it works well with many types of biodegradable pneumatic robots.

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  • Vibrant New Casio G-Shock Hybrid Watches Coming to Europe

    Vibrant New Casio G-Shock Hybrid Watches Coming to Europe

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio G-Shock GA-B2100DF-1A and GA-B2100DF-4A watches are now available in several European countries, including the Netherlands, France, and Germany, priced at €179.

    2. The designs of the watches are inspired by Galapagos Island creatures: the GA-B2100DF-1A features the Galapagos Albatross, while the GA-B2100DF-4A is inspired by the Sally Lightfoot Crab.

    3. Both models include unique design elements, such as a small image of the respective animal on the indicator dial at the nine o’clock mark.

    4. The G-Shock GA-B2100 watches offer features like analog-digital functionality, Bluetooth connectivity, Tough Solar charging, and water resistance up to 200 meters.

    5. Users can register on the product page for email updates about the launch, but availability in the US is still uncertain.

    Casio has announced that its latest Galapagos x G-Shock timepieces, the GA-B2100DF-1A and GA-B2100DF-4A, will be available in more European nations. These watches, which are already for sale in the UK and have recently been showcased in hands-on images, first debuted in Japan in November 2025.

    Availability and Pricing

    Currently, the Casio G-Shock GA-B2100DF-1A and GA-B2100DF-4A models can be found on the brand’s online storefronts in countries such as the Netherlands, France, and Germany. Each watch is priced at €179 and is expected to be available soon. If you’re keen on these timepieces, you can “Register now” on the product page to get email updates about their launch.

    Design Inspiration

    The Casio G-Shock GA-B2100DF-1A and GA-B2100DF-4A watches draw their design from two creatures found in the Galapagos Islands. The GA-B2100DF-1A takes inspiration from the Galapagos Albatross, showcasing a striking black and vibrant yellow design along with a golden digital display. On the other hand, the GA-B2100DF-4A, which pays homage to the Sally Lightfoot Crab, features a black dial with an orange digital display, complemented by a bright red and orange resin bezel, casing, and strap. Both versions proudly display a small image of the respective animal on the indicator dial at the nine o’clock mark.

    Features and Functionality

    Casio’s G-Shock GA-B2100 is an analog-digital watch that includes two analog hands, which maintain accuracy within 15 seconds monthly. It covers 38 different time zones and is equipped with useful tools like a stopwatch, timer, and daily alarms. Moreover, the Bluetooth connectivity enables users to access various settings and functionalities through the Casio Watches app on their smartphones. Additional features of this model consist of Tough Solar charging, a water resistance of up to 200 meters, and a dual LED backlight. It’s still unclear when or if these Galapagos x G-Shock watches will become available in the US.

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  • New Casio Collaboration Watches Now Available in US Stores

    New Casio Collaboration Watches Now Available in US Stores

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio’s collaboration with Stranger Things features two new watch models: DW5600STT-1 and AQ800EST-1, launching in December 2025.
    2. The suggested retail prices are $150 for the DW5600STT-1 and $130 for the AQ800EST-1.
    3. The designs are inspired by characters from the show, including Eleven and Vecna, with distinct color schemes.
    4. Both watches include features like a stopwatch, alarm, and are water-resistant, with the DW5600 offering 200 meters of resistance.
    5. The DW5600 has an estimated battery life of five years, while the AQ800 lasts around three years and includes dual time zones.

    The latest watches from Casio’s collaboration with Stranger Things have shown up on the brand’s online store in the US. Revealed earlier this year and recently seen in hands-on images, these watches are already set to launch in countries such as Germany and Japan.

    Pricing and Availability

    Casio has now set up a product page for the Stranger Things G-Shock DW5600STT-1 on its US website, listing a suggested retail price of $150. Additionally, a listing for the Stranger Things Vintage AQ800EST-1 shows that it will be sold for $130 in the US. Both watch models are slated for a December 2025 release, though a specific date hasn’t been mentioned. Interested buyers can hit the ‘Notify Me’ button on the product pages to receive an email alert when they become available.

    Design Features

    The designs of the DW5600STT-1 and AQ800EST-1A are influenced by the popular TV show, incorporating elements from characters like Eleven and Vecna. The digital G-Shock model sports a striking red and black color scheme, featuring a dark display. On the other hand, the Vintage model is silver and black, showcasing a slim, lighter screen below the main dial.

    Functionality

    Both watches come equipped with useful features such as a stopwatch, alarm, and hourly time signals. The resin-made DW5600 boasts 200 meters of water resistance, an LED backlight, and an estimated battery life of five years. The AQ800, however, allows for dual time zones and is expected to last around three years on a single battery. While the second model has a resin case, its strap is crafted from stainless steel.

    Casio (G-Shock, Vintage)

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    New Casio Collaboration Watches Now Available in US Stores

     

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  • Affordable Casio AE-1500WHC Watches with 10-Year Battery Available

    Affordable Casio AE-1500WHC Watches with 10-Year Battery Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio has launched the AE-1500WHC digital watches in the US, priced at $45.95 each, featuring vibrant displays.
    2. The watches have a sturdy design, measuring 54.4 × 51.3 × 15.8 mm, and weigh only 59 grams.
    3. Key features include a 1/100-second stopwatch, dual time zones, a 24-hour countdown timer, five daily alarms, and an auto-calendar valid until 2099.
    4. These models offer impressive battery life of up to 10 years and water resistance up to 100 meters.
    5. The AE-1500 watches combine practical features and bold design, making them a top choice under $50, but with limited stock availability.

    Casio has introduced its sturdy, oversized AE-1500WHC digital watches to the US market. With a striking design, these watches offer significant functionality at a very reasonable cost. Both the AE-1500WHC-1AV and AE-1500WHC-8AV are now available on Casio’s US site for $45.95 each, following their earlier appearances in European stores.

    Design and Build

    The AE-1500 models are based on the well-known AE-1500 platform, now updated with vibrant displays—green for the 1AV and orange for the 8AV. Each watch is crafted with a chunky resin structure measuring 54.4 × 51.3 × 15.8 mm. Weighing in at just 59 grams, they are light but still make a statement, particularly suited for those who like a more prominent watch on their wrist.

    Features and Functionality

    Even though they are affordably priced, these watches pack in a lot of features. They come equipped with a 1/100-second stopwatch, dual time zones, a 24-hour countdown timer that can auto-repeat, five daily alarms (one of which has snooze), and a complete auto-calendar valid until 2099. The backlight uses amber LED with an afterglow effect, too.

    Battery and Water Resistance

    Another impressive aspect of these watches is their battery life, which lasts up to 10 years thanks to a single CR2032 cell. Additionally, Casio has rated these models for water resistance up to 100 meters—making them a great deal for the price.

    Although they aren’t officially part of the G-Shock series, the AE-1500s offer many similar specifications in a simpler design. They possess enough distinctive style to be eye-catching—especially the amber-on-gray 8AV, which boasts a unique retro-digital aesthetic. For those seeking practical features, bold design, and genuine value, these watches rank among Casio’s top selections under $50, now available for purchase in the US. However, keep in mind that the website notes “Limited Stock”.

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    Affordable Casio AE-1500WHC Watches with 10-Year Battery Available

     

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  • I Bought a €20 Smartwatch on Aliexpress: My Experience

    I Bought a €20 Smartwatch on Aliexpress: My Experience

    Key Takeaways

    1. Budget Constraints: The author wanted a smartwatch with basic features and aimed for a price around €50, as most options from established brands start at €100.

    2. Affordable Choice: The author purchased a low-cost smartwatch from Aliexpress for €17–25, which offered a round design, IP68 rating, and alarm functionality.

    3. Battery Life Performance: The budget smartwatch surprisingly provided good battery life, lasting about a week and a half on a single charge.

    4. Alarm Functionality Issues: The watch had a significant flaw in its alarm feature, failing to vibrate and only playing a loud melody, despite settings indicating otherwise.

    5. Reliability Concerns: The experience highlighted the unreliability of ultra-cheap smartwatches, suggesting that low prices may lead to poor functionality and performance.

    After my old Amazfit Bip Lite became too worn out to wear publicly, it was time to find a replacement. I wanted a round design, long battery life, and the ability to set alarms directly on the watch — that’s all I really needed. Most recent models, even those from Amazfit, cost around €100 (the Amazfit Active 2 is available for $80 on Amazon’s Black Friday). I was hoping to find something closer to €50, as my watch doesn’t need to do much. As I mentioned in a recent opinion piece: smartwatches are often “overpriced, overstuffed, and intrusive!”

    Searching for Budget Options

    Since established brands currently don’t offer genuinely affordable options (as noted — choices pretty much start at €100), I decided to check out Aliexpress. Eventually, I caved and ordered the “LLIGE Bluetooth Call Women Smart Watch Men Sport Fitness Watches Heart Rate Health Monitor Smartwatch for Android iOS”: it has a nice-looking round screen, IP68 (which I don’t intend to test), and alarms on the touchscreen. The cost? €17–25!

    Specifications and Initial Impressions

    The only spec that seemed a bit dodgy was battery life, but I was okay with that — same goes for the not-so-great Da Fit app, which I wanted to avoid anyway. A few days later, the watch showed up.

    After using it for several days, my experience was mixed. Sadly, one major downside was significant enough that I started looking again — more on that later.

    Battery Life Surprises

    I was pleasantly surprised by the battery life of this budget model. On a single charge, the 230 mAh battery lasted about a week and a half with my light usage — and it’s still showing around half capacity. This gives me hope that other models might also last longer than expected when used lightly. The touchscreen worked better than I thought it would.

    If privacy is important to you, this might not be good news — many inexpensive smartwatches lack any open-source companion app alternatives. Gadgetbridge supposedly works for some models, but it didn’t recognize mine. The default app, Da Fit, isn’t the best and probably isn’t very privacy-friendly.

    Alarm Functionality Issues

    The worst part is that you must use it at least once, as there’s no way to set the time directly on the watch. A one-time sync with a smartphone is required.

    Up to that point, though, things seemed fine. I thought I had found an affordable watch with decent looks, excellent battery life, and on-device alarms. The watch faces were quite limited and mostly unimpressive, but I found one I liked — it resembled an electricity meter.

    And then the watch let me down with a basic function: the alarm. There seems to be a bug — the watch allows you to set an alarm directly on the device, but instead of vibrating, it blared a painfully loud melody at me the next morning.

    In the settings, under “Vibrate & Ring,” you can choose whether the watch should vibrate, vibrate and ring, or stay silent — but this feature appears to be broken. No matter what I select, the watch won’t vibrate and just plays the loud ringtone. There’s also no way to change this in the app. The feature is simply bugged. My only hope is for a firmware update.

    Final Thoughts

    I expected a €17 smartwatch to let me down with its battery life, looks, or cheap build quality. Instead, it failed at a function I thought every smartwatch could manage: a silent wrist vibration for an alarm. Maybe I was just unlucky, and other models don’t have this problem.

    But it brings to light the main issue with ultra-cheap Aliexpress watches and similar products: you can’t depend on them to function correctly — much less last over time. As the saying goes: buy cheap, buy twice.

    If any major brands were to provide a well-made, reliable, and fairly priced alternative, I’d definitely be interested. Until then, I’ll likely wait for a sale that brings a more advanced mainstream smartwatch into my budget. To be continued…

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    I Bought a €20 Smartwatch on Aliexpress: My ExperienceI Bought a €20 Smartwatch on Aliexpress: My ExperienceI Bought a €20 Smartwatch on Aliexpress: My ExperienceI Bought a €20 Smartwatch on Aliexpress: My ExperienceI Bought a €20 Smartwatch on Aliexpress: My ExperienceI Bought a €20 Smartwatch on Aliexpress: My ExperienceI Bought a €20 Smartwatch on Aliexpress: My ExperienceI Bought a €20 Smartwatch on Aliexpress: My Experience

     

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  • Citizen Launches New Stainless Steel Eco-Drive Watches

    Citizen Launches New Stainless Steel Eco-Drive Watches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Citizen is introducing three new stainless-steel Eco-Drive watches themed around Disney’s Mickey and Minnie Mouse.
    2. The highlight model, BM7481-53W, features a 42mm case with a graphic of Mickey Mouse and uses the J810 Eco-Drive movement.
    3. The EM1051-53W is a more compact 29mm version, ideal for smaller wrists, and operates on the E031 Eco-Drive movement.
    4. The GA1071-51W showcases Minnie Mouse on a black dial, has a 30mm case, and is powered by Citizen’s J015 movement.
    5. All models come with stainless-steel link bracelets, Disney Parks logo engravings, and themed packaging, with expected prices between $150 and $300.

    Three new stainless-steel watches are being added to Citizen’s lineup, as reported by trusted watch source @plus9time. These Eco-Drive timepieces feature themes from Disney, specifically Mickey and Minnie Mouse. The new collection includes various models suitable for different wrist sizes, all centered around the solar-powered Eco-Drive technology.

    Featured Model

    The highlight of the collection is the BM7481-53W, which boasts a 42mm stainless-steel case and a white dial showcasing a striking graphic of Mickey Mouse right in the middle. Surrounding the dial are the words “Mickey Mouse,” which also serve as stylish hour markers. This model utilizes Citizen’s J810 Eco-Drive movement, allowing it to charge through any light, eliminating the need for battery changes.

    More Compact Option

    Next up is the EM1051-53W, which shares a similar dial design but comes in a 29mm case, making it perfect for smaller wrists or as a matching pair with the BM7481. It operates on the E031 Eco-Drive movement. Both watches feature a polished case along with a fluted bezel that adds a touch of vintage flair.

    Introducing Minnie Mouse

    The third watch, the GA1071-51W, features a black dial and includes Minnie Mouse in the design. The Minnie graphic is placed at the 6 o’clock position, surrounded by fun dial markers. This model has a 30mm case and is powered by Citizen’s J015 movement.

    All three models are equipped with brushed stainless-steel link bracelets, and their casebacks are engraved with the Disney Parks logo. The packaging is also themed to match the Disney aesthetic, featuring Mickey Mouse illustrations on sleek black cylindrical boxes. While pricing and availability details are still under wraps, considering the Eco-Drive technology and stainless-steel design, they are expected to be in Citizen’s mid-range pricing—likely between $150 and $300 based on the region.

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    Citizen Launches New Stainless Steel Eco-Drive WatchesCitizen Launches New Stainless Steel Eco-Drive Watches

     

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  • Affordable Moon Phase Watches Under $200 – CheckMag

    Affordable Moon Phase Watches Under $200 – CheckMag

    Key Takeaways

    1. Moon-phase watches have gained popularity, with sales increasing over 50% from 2023 to 2024, appealing to both collectors and budget-conscious buyers.
    2. The first moon-phase watch was introduced by Patek Philippe in 1925, linking modern models to a long tradition in watchmaking.
    3. Affordable moon-phase watches under $200 are available, proving that luxury is not necessary to enjoy this feature.
    4. Notable affordable options include Casio’s MTP-M305D-1A2VDF, Timex’s Waterbury Classic Moon Phase, Fossil’s Neutra Moonphase, Citizen’s entry-level model, and Timex’s Marlin Moon Phase.
    5. These watches combine stylish designs with practical features such as water resistance and quartz movements, making them suitable for everyday wear.

    In the past few years, watches featuring moon phases have seen a significant comeback, appealing not just to collectors and enthusiasts, but also to those who are mindful of their budgets. From 2023 to 2024, sales of these moon-phase models increased by over 50%, and even budget-friendly watch partnerships have jumped on the so-called “moon-phase trend.”

    The Allure of Moon-Phase Watches

    Many watch enthusiasts admire these timepieces for their typically stylish designs and captivating allure. The delicately curved lunar window really “adds a sense of depth to the face.” Personally, I think no other complication is as enchanting and poetic. It serves as a daily reminder of the moon’s phases and our existence beneath the stars. Interestingly, the first moon-phase watch was introduced by Patek Philippe in 1925, which connects today’s favored models to a nearly century-long tradition of watchmaking.

    Top Picks for Affordable Moon-Phase Watches

    Below, we present our top five selections for the best moon-phase watches priced under $200, demonstrating that you don’t need a luxury budget to showcase the moon on your wrist.

    Casio’s MTP-M305D-1A2VDF is a stylishly vintage 3-dial analog watch, priced at about $135. It features day, date, and moon-phase subdials on a dark dial. Available in various colors, it has a two-tone stainless-steel case (44.5×34×9.3 mm), a polished silver bezel, and a stainless-steel strap that adds a smart-casual touch. Inside, a standard quartz movement (battery-powered, approximately 3-year lifespan) drives the three hands along with the calendar and lunar functions. With a water resistance of 50 m, you won’t need to remove it while washing your hands or during a light rain shower. The result is a very straightforward, everyday dress watch with an unexpected moon-phase feature.

    Timex’s Heritage-Inspired Design

    Timex’s new Waterbury Classic Moon Phase (model TW2W75700) is a steel watch inspired by heritage. This bracelet model, measuring 40 mm, boasts a rich blue sunray dial featuring full Arabic numerals. A unique quartz “moon phase” movement keeps track of the lunar cycle on a subdial located at 6 o’clock, nicely complementing the day/date subdials. Timex describes the 40 mm stainless steel case and matching bracelet as corrosion-resistant and built for “everyday toughness.” Underneath, a reliable quartz analog caliber powers three hands, plus calendar and moon functions. Notably, the Waterbury has a water resistance rating of 50 m, with luminous hands for visibility in dim lighting, making it as practical as it is stylish.

    Fossil’s Neutra Moonphase (model FS5903, around $195) is a 42 mm casual dress watch that showcases a modern retro design. Its blue sunburst dial includes three subdials, featuring a proper moon-phase indicator that adds depth and personality to the otherwise simple dial. The case is made of polished silver-tone stainless steel (42 mm diameter, 13.6 mm thick) and is paired with a soft brown leather strap. Inside, a quartz multifunction movement (battery type SR621SW) manages the time, date, and moon-phase. It’s rated for water resistance up to 5 ATM (50 m), and the crystal is made of mineral glass. Overall, this Fossil watch features an attractive sunray dial and the unique addition of a moon dial at an accessible price.

    Citizen’s Understated Elegance

    Citizen’s entry-level moon-phase model is a sleek, dressy 3-hand watch (silver dial) with calendar and moon features. It typically retails for around $100-120. The design is simple yet elegant, with a silver-tone case and matching steel bracelet, featuring a symmetrical tri-compax dial (day, date, 24h/moon). As mentioned by Walmart, it has a quartz movement and is water-resistant to 5 ATM (50 m), making it suitable for everyday wear. This Citizen watch is all about subtlety—its most noticeable characteristic is a subdial showing the lunar phase, making it an unobtrusive yet functional accessory for office or formal occasions.

    Timex’s Marlin Moon Phase (approximately $200 at retail) is a nod to the 1960s dress-watch aesthetic. It features a 40 mm stainless-steel case with a matching bracelet or leather strap, and the dial comes in rich colors like green, black, and blue. What makes the Marlin stand out is its calendar movement: beneath the main hands, there are three subdials displaying the day of the week, the month, and—at 6 o’clock—the moon’s phase. Timex promotes the subdial as “faithfully mirroring the lunar cycle.” The Marlin uses an acrylic crystal (another retro touch) along with a reliable quartz analog movement. It has a water resistance rating of 50 m. In practice, you get a classic Marlin look (with hand-applied indices, fluted bezel, and simple pencil hands) combined with genuine moon-phase functionality—an unusual find in this price range.

     

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