Category: Wearables

  • Movano Evie Ring Introduces Enhanced Data Tracking Features

    Movano Evie Ring Introduces Enhanced Data Tracking Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Movano Health launched the Evie Ring in 2024, targeting women’s health but faced competition from established brands like Samsung and Oura.
    2. The Evie Ring’s app now integrates with Apple Health, allowing users to consolidate health data across applications.
    3. The app emphasizes women’s health by tracking menstrual cycle phases, activity levels, calories burned, and providing daily summaries.
    4. New workout logging features enable users to record exercises even when the Evie Ring is not being worn.
    5. Priced at $269 with no subscription fees, the Evie Ring is more affordable compared to similar products on the market.


    When Movano Health introduced the Evie Ring at the start of 2024, it aimed to cater to women with its unique design. However, the company encountered several obstacles and struggled to compete with established brands like Samsung, Oura, and Circular, which had already resolved initial issues and offered better insights. Fast forward a year, Movano has received FDA approval for its pulse oximeter, developed an AI model based on peer-reviewed medical studies, and is striving to establish itself as a trustworthy tracker for women’s health and wellness.

    App Enhancements

    As a result, the Evie Ring’s companion app is undergoing important upgrades in how it presents data. These new features are now live on the iOS app, and iPhone users can rejoice as Apple Health integration is finally here. This allows women to transfer their data across different applications and see all pertinent information in one location.

    Women’s Health Focus

    The Evie app will now display the dates and phases of the user’s menstrual cycle, emphasizing its commitment to women’s health. In addition to this, it will also show activity levels, calories burned, and a step counter visible on the Daily Summary graphic.

    Movano Health has also unveiled detailed 7-day and 30-day graphs that help users visualize trends in their mood, energy levels, and sleep metrics, covering aspects like respiration rate, resting heart rate, skin temperature, and oxygen saturation (SpO2). Another color-coded graphic will illustrate heart rate variability throughout the day, highlighting times of activity and inactivity.

    Workout Logging Features

    There are even more innovative features included. Wearing a metal ring during workouts can be uncomfortable, and while the Evie Ring’s zirconium-based liquid metal alloy aims to resolve this, many people still tend to remove their rings at the gym out of habit or fear of scratching them. This previously hindered the ring’s ability to track workouts, but the app now allows women to record exercises done while the smart ring was off their finger.

    These enhancements probably won’t drastically change the market share of the Evie Ring, yet they contribute to solving another aspect of the women’s health challenge that Movano Health is addressing. Priced at $269, the Evie is considerably more budget-friendly compared to most other rings in its class. Moreover, it does not have any subscription fees, which keeps its overall cost low over time. You can purchase it directly from the Evie website.

  • Garmin Wearables Update: Enhanced Battery Life Estimates

    Garmin Wearables Update: Enhanced Battery Life Estimates

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released System Software version 19.50 for Descent Mk3 and Mk3i dive computers.
    2. The update includes bug fixes, including a crash issue with the graphical compass data field.
    3. It resolves a blank area issue on the map during navigation and corrects dive battery estimate errors.
    4. Navigation issues with the Plan Dive feature and bugs in Auto Zoom and Orientation settings have been fixed.
    5. The update is automatically pushed to devices, with manual update options available through Garmin Connect or Garmin Express.


    Garmin has put out a new stable update for the Descent Mk3 and Descent Mk3i dive computers. The System Software version 19.50 is a small update that comes after the version 19.49 released in late February, which introduced new payment applications and data fields.

    Bug Fixes and Improvements

    The 19.50 update includes several bug fixes for these devices. One of the key fixes addresses a potential crash that could happen when users attempted to set up the graphical compass data field found on dive data pages. Additionally, some users of the Descent Mk3 dive computer had experienced a blank area near the top of the map during navigation, but this issue has been fixed. The update notes mention that an error with dive battery estimates, which was linked to the always-on display mode when inactive, has now been corrected.

    Navigation and Settings Adjustments

    Garmin has also tackled an issue with the Plan Dive feature, where navigation to nearby dive sites would not initiate as expected. Moreover, a bug related to the Auto Zoom and Orientation settings on the map has been resolved. System Software version 19.50 will be automatically pushed to Descent Mk3 and Descent Mk3i dive computers (currently priced at $1,399.99 on Amazon). You also have the option to manually update via Garmin Connect or Garmin Express.

    Garmin’s commitment to improving user experience is evident in these updates, ensuring that divers have a smoother experience with their devices.

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  • Huawei Watch 5 Gets UAE Certification with Cellular Connectivity

    Huawei Watch 5 Gets UAE Certification with Cellular Connectivity

    Key Takeaways

    1. Huawei’s Watch 5 is nearing launch, as indicated by its appearance in the TDRA certification database in the UAE.
    2. The Watch 5 will support cellular connectivity through GSM networks, allowing users to make calls and access mobile data without a smartphone.
    3. Expected features include six color options, HarmonyOS NEXT, and improvements in battery performance and health-monitoring capabilities over the Watch 4 series.
    4. The design is expected to be more elegant, with an initial launch likely in the UAE, but global availability remains uncertain.
    5. The Watch 4, released in May 2023, features a 1.5-inch AMOLED display, Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 processor, and extensive health tracking capabilities.


    Huawei’s Watch 5 has been noticed on the TDRA certification database in the UAE, which suggests that its launch is getting close. The standard version, known as SOC-AL00 (registration ER42369/25), is categorized under “GSM Module,” which confirms it will support cellular connectivity through GSM networks. This means users can make calls, send messages, and access mobile data without needing a smartphone.

    Expected Features and Launch

    While the certification doesn’t reveal many details, prior leaks indicate that the Watch 5 series will come in six different color choices and will operate on HarmonyOS NEXT. It’s likely that there will be enhancements in battery performance and health-monitoring capabilities when compared to the previous Watch 4 series. Huawei is expected to introduce this smartwatch during a summer event, possibly alongside other new products.

    Design and Availability

    Although specific design features are yet to be revealed, Huawei has stated that the Watch 5 will have a more elegant look. The UAE certification hints at an initial launch in that region, but it is still uncertain when it will be available globally. To better understand what the upcoming smartwatch might offer, we can look back at its predecessor, the Huawei Watch 4.

    Huawei Watch 4 Specifications

    Released in May 2023, the Huawei Watch 4 comes with a 1.5-inch AMOLED display boasting a resolution of 466 x 466 pixels and a pixel density of 310 PPI. It operates on a Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 processor, alongside 2GB of RAM and 32GB of internal memory.

    In terms of health and fitness tracking, the watch is equipped with a heart rate monitor, SpO2 sensor, ECG, skin temperature monitoring, stress tracking, an arterial stiffness indicator, and respiratory health data. It provides a quick one-minute seven-point health overview and supports over 100 workout modes, an AI running coach, and features for fall detection along with an instant SOS function.


  • Casio G-Shock GPR-H1000 and MR-G MRG-B2100 Award Winners

    Casio G-Shock GPR-H1000 and MR-G MRG-B2100 Award Winners

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio G-Shock GPR-H1000 and MR-G MRG-B2100 won the 2025 iF Design Awards.
    2. The GPR-H1000 features GPS, six sensors, Bluetooth connectivity, and tracks various health metrics.
    3. The MR-G MRG-B2100 is made from premium materials like titanium and Cobarion, with radio control and Bluetooth features.
    4. Both watch series were launched in 2024, with multiple models available in each series.
    5. Casio has a history of receiving design awards for various products, including digital pianos and calculators.


    The Casio G-Shock GPR-H1000 and MR-G MRG-B2100 timepieces have been honored with the 2025 iF Design Awards. This annual competition occurs in Hamburg, where 131 judges from various countries select the most well-designed products.

    GPR-H1000 Series Overview

    The Master of G-Land Rangeman GPR-H1000 series debuted in 2024 and currently features three models: the GPR-H1000-1, GPR-H1000-9, and the GPR-H1000RY-1A9, which was recently introduced in the United States. This particular watch boasts a memory-in-pixel (MIP) LCD, a GPS antenna, six sensors, and Bluetooth connectivity. These features allow users to monitor their activities, heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and additional metrics, some of which can be tracked through a supporting app. Additional functionalities include tide graphs and measurements for barometric pressure and altitude.

    MR-G MRG-B2100 Series Details

    The MR-G MRG-B2100 is another series launched in 2024, with three models available so far: the MRG-B2100B-1A, MRG-B2100D-1A, and the more recent MRG-B2100R-2A. These radio-controlled watches are constructed from premium materials like titanium and Cobarion, offering Bluetooth connectivity for smartphone pairing. Within the Casio Watches app, users can find features such as Phone finder and automatic time adjustment. Moreover, it includes a power-saving mode and Tough Solar charging.

    Previous Awards and Recognition

    These accolades are not the first for Casio, as the brand has been previously acknowledged for its design excellence in digital pianos and scientific calculators. The 2025 iF Design Award Night is scheduled to occur in Berlin on April 28th.

    iF Design Awards (1, 2), Great G-Shock World

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  • Unimatic x Massena Lab Launch U1-SPG NASA Artemis Watch 300m Water Resistance

    Unimatic x Massena Lab Launch U1-SPG NASA Artemis Watch 300m Water Resistance

    Key Takeaways

    1. Collaboration: Unimatic and Massena Lab created the U1-SPG NASA Artemis Limited Edition GMT watch, celebrating the NASA Artemis project.
    2. Design: The watch features a 40 mm stainless steel case with a burnt orange Cerakote coating, inspired by the SLS rocket.
    3. Dial & Movement: It has a matte black dial with a NASA logo and vintage-style hands, powered by a Seiko automatic NH34A movement with a 42-hour power reserve.
    4. Durability: The watch is a genuine dive watch, able to withstand pressures up to 300 meters, with a sapphire glass top.
    5. Limited Availability: Only 99 pieces will be made, priced at $1,295, available on the Massena Lab website.


    Unimatic has collaborated again with the design company Massena Lab to create a striking matte orange retro-futuristic GMT watch called the U1-SPG NASA Artemis Limited Edition. This watch honors the adventurous spirit of the NASA Artemis project. The latest limited edition from Unimatic x Massena Lab is built on the Modello Uno GMT, which has the same design and movement. The main distinction is that the U1-SPG features vibrant colors and unique markings.

    Design and Features

    The watch boasts a 40 mm stainless steel case with a burnt orange Cerakote coating, reflecting the color of the SLS rocket used during the Artemis missions. It has a durable stainless steel case topped with a charcoal Cerakote-coated unidirectional bezel that clicks 120 times and includes a screw down at 3 o’clock, along with a 60-minute scale. The back of the case is solid steel and showcases an engraving of the Artemis mission emblem along with the watch’s individual number of only 99.

    Dial and Movement

    The dial, finished in matte black, features a classic NASA worm logo positioned above the 6 o’clock mark, along with vintage-style Super-LumiNova-coated sword hands and hour markers that enhance visibility in dark conditions. Inside the U1-SPG is the Seiko automatic NH34A movement, which operates at a frequency of 3 Hz and offers a power reserve of approximately 42 hours.

    Durability and Availability

    While it draws inspiration from space travel, the U1-SPG NASA Artemis Limited Edition is also a genuine dive watch, capable of withstanding pressures up to 300 meters with a 2.5 mm sapphire glass on top, making it perfect for any water-related activities.

    The Unimatic x Massena Lab U1-SPG NASA Artemis Limited Edition is available for purchase at a price of $1,295 through the official Massena Lab website. Keep in mind that this striking space-themed watch is limited to just 99 pieces.

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  • Oppo Watch X2 Mini Launching Soon as Smaller OnePlus Watch 3

    Oppo Watch X2 Mini Launching Soon as Smaller OnePlus Watch 3

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Oppo Watch X2 was unveiled as a rebranding of the OnePlus Watch 3, featuring enhancements over previous models.
    2. A new smartwatch, the Oppo Watch X2 Mini, is coming soon, targeting users with smaller wrists with a 42mm case size.
    3. The smaller size of the Oppo Watch X2 Mini may lead to a smaller display and lower battery capacity, potentially affecting battery life.
    4. Oppo’s dual-OS and dual-processor approach may improve battery performance in the Oppo Watch X2 Mini compared to competitors.
    5. The launch of the Oppo Watch X2 Mini may hint at a possible relaunch of a smaller OnePlus smartwatch variant.


    The Oppo Watch X2 was unveiled last month, essentially rebranding the OnePlus Watch 3. Both smartwatches present a range of new features and enhancements compared to their earlier versions — the Oppo Watch X and OnePlus Watch 2. However, they are exclusively available in one size, 46mm, which may not suit people with smaller wrists. Oppo has now disclosed plans for a new smartwatch that seems to target those with petite wrists.

    New Smartwatch Coming Soon

    The anticipated smartwatch will be known as the Oppo Watch X2 Mini, as mentioned in a Weibo post by Oppo’s CEO, Qiao Jiadong. An earlier report indicates that the Oppo Watch X2 Mini will feature a 42mm case, making it significantly smaller than the X2. This compact size should help it compete against competitors like Samsung, whose Galaxy Watch 7 (priced at $239 on Amazon) is offered in 40mm and 44mm options.

    Pros and Cons of a Mini Version

    While a smaller smartwatch will likely be appreciated by many users, it’s crucial to recognize that this reduced size will come with a smaller display and lower battery capacity, resulting in shorter battery life. Nevertheless, given that Oppo (and OnePlus) have tackled the previously poor battery life of smartwatches with their dual-OS and dual-processor approach, the Oppo Watch X2 Mini is expected to deliver battery performance that surpasses its rivals.

    OnePlus Relaunch Hopes

    The introduction of the Oppo Watch X2 Mini also sparks speculation about a possible relaunch for OnePlus, potentially as the OnePlus Watch 3 Mini or perhaps the OnePlus Watch 3R, succeeding last year’s OnePlus Watch 2R. Still, considering not every Oppo device is marketed under the OnePlus brand—taking the Oppo Find N5 as an example—it’s wise to manage expectations.

    In addition to the Oppo Watch X2 Mini, Oppo plans to introduce the Pad 4 Pro and Enco Free 4 earbuds. All four devices are set to launch in April.

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  • Casio A130WE Retro-Futuristic Watches Now Available in the UK

    Casio A130WE Retro-Futuristic Watches Now Available in the UK

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio Vintage A130WE watches draw inspiration from the 1980s and are described as “retro-futuristic.”
    2. Pricing for the A130WE-1AEF model is £59.90, and the A130WE-9AEF model is £79.90, both available through the Casio UK online shop.
    3. The watches feature large rectangular faces, are splash-resistant, and can display time in 12 or 24-hour formats across four world time zones.
    4. Key features include a stopwatch, five daily alarms, a countdown timer, an LED backlight, and a battery life of up to three years.
    5. Additional models, A130WEG-7A and A130WEGG-1A, are expected but have not yet been launched in Europe.


    The Casio Vintage A130WE watches are now available in the UK. This model, which takes inspiration from the 1980s, is often referred to as “retro-futuristic.” It first became available for pre-order through a third-party retailer in France back in January and was released in Japan the following month.

    Pricing and Availability

    You can purchase the Casio A130WE-1AEF and A130WE-9AEF watches from the Casio UK online shop for £59.90 and £79.90, respectively. Both of these models feature large rectangular faces, with dimensions of 40.5 mm x 33.9 mm, and they are splash-resistant. They can show time in either 12 or 24-hour formats and can accommodate up to four different world time zones. These time zones are shown on several digital displays, with one display designed to look like an analogue clock (top left).

    Features and Design

    Additional features of these watches include a stopwatch that measures in 1/100 seconds, five daily alarms, and a countdown timer that works within a 24-hour range. Moreover, these timepieces come with an LED backlight and can operate for up to three years on a CR1616 battery. The A130WE-1A model has a strap made from stainless steel, with a chrome-plated resin casing framed around a black watch face highlighted with white, blue, and yellow accents. In contrast, the A130WE-9 is entirely gold with black and burgundy details, featuring a resin case and bezel along with a stainless steel band.

    Future Releases

    Currently, the Casio A130WE-1AEF and A130WE-9AEF watches have not been launched in other European nations like France and the Netherlands. It is also uncertain when the A130WEG-7A (all silver) and A130WEGG-1A (dark gray/black) models will be introduced in this area.

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  • Global Smartwatch Shipments Drop 7% in 2024 – First Decline

    Global Smartwatch Shipments Drop 7% in 2024 – First Decline

    Key Takeaways

    1. Global smartwatch shipments declined by 7% in 2024, marking the first downturn in the sector, primarily due to Apple’s fading momentum and sluggish upgrade cycles.

    2. China emerged as the largest market for smartwatch shipments, surpassing North America and India, driven by local brands like Huawei, Xiaomi, and BBK’s Imoo.

    3. Apple faced significant challenges, with a 19% drop in Apple Watch shipments due to unimpressive upgrades and legal disputes, while competitors like Samsung and Xiaomi experienced growth.

    4. Kids’ smartwatches gained popularity, with brands like Imoo leading the market, as parents seek ways to connect with and track their children.

    5. Analysts predict a gradual recovery in the smartwatch market by 2025, driven by AI-enhanced features and advanced health sensors, but brands must adapt to remain competitive.


    The smartwatch market has recently encountered a significant hurdle. After years of uninterrupted growth, global shipments of smartwatches saw a decline of 7% in 2024, which is the first downturn ever recorded in this sector. Counterpoint Research indicates that this drop was primarily due to Apple’s fading momentum, sluggish upgrade cycles, and a decrease in the basic smartwatch category, especially in India.

    China Takes the Lead

    Despite the overall market shrinkage, China made impressive gains. For the very first time, the nation surpassed North America and India to seize the largest portion of global smartwatch shipments. This surge was powered by local companies like Huawei, Xiaomi, and BBK’s Imoo, who tapped into the growing engagement of Chinese consumers.

    Apple’s Challenges Amidst Competition

    Apple, long recognized as the leading smartwatch provider, managed to retain its position, but not without challenges. Shipments of the Apple Watch fell by 19% year-on-year, hindered by unimpressive upgrades in the Series 10 and the unexpected lack of an Ultra 3 model. Legal disputes also complicated the situation, limiting shipments during the first half of the year. In North America, where Apple usually dominates, many buyers chose to wait for more significant innovations before making a purchase.

    In contrast, Samsung quietly improved its standing, experiencing a 3% year-on-year growth, thanks to an expanded Galaxy Watch lineup, which now includes the first Galaxy Watch Ultra. Xiaomi made even bigger strides, emerging as the fastest-growing smartwatch brand in 2024 and breaking into the top five global rankings for the first time. This success can be attributed to an aggressive expansion of its product range, with models like the Watch S1 and Redmi Watch gaining popularity across various regions.

    The Rise of Kids’ Smartwatches

    While many smartwatch segments faced challenges, one area bucked the trend: kids’ smartwatches. Brands like Imoo led the market, catering to the increasing demand from parents wanting a convenient way to keep track of and connect with their children. Even brands traditionally aimed at adults, such as Noise, boAt, and Fitbit, have begun to shift their focus towards this expanding segment.

    Even though the market has seen its first decline, the outlook isn’t entirely negative. Analysts predict a gradual recovery in 2025, with single-digit growth anticipated from AI-enhanced features and next-generation health sensors. Expect smarter heart monitoring, sleep apnea detection, and even early warnings for diabetes. However, to stay competitive, brands will need to strive harder for regulatory approvals and push the limits of smartwatch capabilities.

    The smartwatch industry isn’t finished—it’s merely transforming. If you’re in the market for a new Wear OS smartwatch, don’t forget to check out our latest piece on the 7 best Wear OS smartwatches of 2025.

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  • Garmin March Update: New Features for Smartwatches and Bike Computers

    Garmin March Update: New Features for Smartwatches and Bike Computers

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released stable updates for the Fenix 7, Fenix 8, Fenix E, and Enduro 3 smartwatches.
    2. The Q1 2025 update includes improved functionality and new features for fitness and outdoor devices.
    3. Free software updates will roll out over the coming weeks, and users can enable automatic updates.
    4. Key upgrades include passcode support and keyboard enhancements, but not for Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro models.
    5. Older Garmin smartwatches now have better workout execution scores and Body Battery Trueup functionality.


    Garmin has been consistently providing stable updates for its range of smartwatches recently. Notably, the Fenix 7 and Fenix 8 models have received new stable updates in the past week, along with related models such as the Fenix E and Enduro 3, currently priced at $899.99 on Amazon.

    Summary of Updates

    In its latest feature update, Garmin has outlined all the changes made to its currently supported smartwatches. According to a press release, the company describes its Q1 2025 update in this way:

    As part of our ongoing commitment to enhance our products and offer better features for current users, we are thrilled to unveil our upcoming feature update for smartwatches and cycling computers. This update brings improved functionality and new features to many of our fitness and outdoor devices.

    Update Availability

    The free software updates have started to roll out and will continue throughout the next weeks. Users can update their smartwatch or cycling computer by turning on automatic updates from their devices.

    Garmin also clarifies that the new update includes five main upgrades, such as passcode support and enhancements to the keyboard. However, these features are not available on the Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro, nor do they include strength workouts for Garmin Cycling and Garmin Run coaches. Older Garmin smartwatches have received better workout execution scores and Body Battery Trueup functionality. Interestingly, the comparison table included below is identical to one that leaked nearly two months ago. Check out the graphics below for additional details.

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  • Casio G-Shock GMA-S110BE-4A Limited Edition Now in the US

    Casio G-Shock GMA-S110BE-4A Limited Edition Now in the US

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio launched the G-Shock x Barbie GMA-S110BE-4A limited edition watch for the US market, following previous pink G-Shock releases.
    2. The watch features a pink design with a three-dimensional case, a resin casing, and a bio-based resin bezel, inspired by the GA-110 model.
    3. It has an analog-digital hybrid display, a heart motif, and the Barbie logo, along with an amber LED backlight for visibility in dim light.
    4. Key functionalities include support for 29 world time zones, a fully automatic calendar, a 1/1000-second stopwatch, a countdown timer, and five daily alarms.
    5. Priced at $170, the watch is water-resistant up to 200 meters and will be available for purchase starting March 13th.


    Casio has unveiled the G-Shock x Barbie collaboration watch last month in Japan, and now, they have officially revealed the G-Shock GMA-S110BE-4A limited edition Barbie watch for the US market. This latest Barbie limited edition timepiece joins three other pink G-Shock watches that were introduced earlier this year, including the GMA-P2100PP, GMD-S5610PP, and GMA-S140PP.

    Design Features

    As the title indicates, the G-Shock GMA-S110BE-4A limited edition Barbie watch sports a cohesive pink color design with slight variations throughout each part, like the strap, bezel, and watch face. It showcases an industrial aesthetic with a three-dimensional case design, reminiscent of the GA-110 model that was launched in 2010. The watch has a resin casing paired with a bezel made of bio-based resin.

    Specifications

    In terms of size, the G-Shock GMA-S110BE-4A measures 49 x 45.9 x 15.8 mm (1.92 x 1.8 x 0.62 inches) and weighs in at 56 grams (0.12 lbs), which should make it comfortable for various wrist sizes. The pink dial features an analog-digital hybrid with two hands (hour and minute), a heart motif at 9 o’clock, the Barbie logo at 3 o’clock, and a digital display showing day, PM, month, date, second, minute, and hour. It also includes an amber LED backlight with afterglow, so you can easily read the time in dim light.

    Additional Features

    Moreover, the pink strap features a Barbie logo, and the case back has Barbie’s iconic side profile engraved. This shock-resistant analog-digital watch supports 29 world time zones, along with a fully automatic calendar valid until 2099. Other key functionalities are a 1/1000-second stopwatch, a countdown timer for 24 hours, and five daily alarms.

    The G-Shock GMA-S110BE-4A is powered by a CR1220 battery, which has an expected lifespan of 2 years. This model also boasts 20 bar (200 m) water resistance, making it suitable for swimming and light water activities. It is also said to maintain accuracy to within 15 seconds per month.

    The retail price of the Casio G-Shock GMA-S110BE-4A limited edition watch is set at $170. It will be available for purchase starting tomorrow, March 13th, through Gshock.com and at the G-Shock Soho store.

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