Tag: Casio G-SHOCK

  • CheckMag: Casio’s Role in the Rise and Fall of Mechanical Watches

    CheckMag: Casio’s Role in the Rise and Fall of Mechanical Watches

    Key Takeaways

    1. The 1970s saw the rise of quartz technology, leading to the “Quartz Revolution” that challenged traditional mechanical watches.
    2. Casio played a major role in popularizing digital quartz watches, notably with models like the Casiotron and G-Shock, which helped shift market demand.
    3. The Swiss watch industry faced a significant decline, with many brands struggling to adapt to the quartz trend, leading to mergers like the formation of the Swatch Group.
    4. Mechanical watches were rebranded as luxury items in the 1990s, allowing Swiss brands to focus on high-end craftsmanship while quartz watches remained affordable and functional.
    5. Today, the watch industry balances quartz and mechanical watches, with Casio dominating the budget market and luxury brands like Rolex and Omega thriving in the high-end segment.


    The 1970s marked a significant change in the watch industry due to the emergence of quartz technology, often referred to as the “Quartz Revolution”. Traditional Swiss watchmakers, celebrated for their mechanical artistry, faced new competition from quartz watches that were both affordable and highly precise. A key player in this transformation was Casio, which not only sped up the decline of mechanical watches but also played a role in their later resurgence.

    Mechanisms at Play

    Mechanical watches function with gears and springs, while quartz models utilize electronic oscillators that are controlled by quartz crystals to maintain accurate time. This leads to quartz watches being much more precise, dependable, and significantly cheaper to manufacture than their mechanical counterparts.

    The Rise of Digital Watches

    In 1969, Seiko introduced the first-ever quartz watch, but it was Casio that made digital quartz watches popular during the 1970s and 80s. The Casiotron, released in 1974, was among the first widely available digital watches and featured an automatic calendar, a groundbreaking feature for traditional timepieces. Casio quickly released various models that were packed with features and very affordable, which solidified its place in the market.

    The G-Shock series, launched in 1983, became another revolutionary product. These watches appealed to outdoor enthusiasts, athletes, and military personnel. Their sturdy and affordable design made them a hit, further pushing mechanical watches to the sidelines. By the 1980s, quartz watches had taken over the market, leading to a significant drop in demand for mechanical watches and nearly causing the Swiss watch industry to collapse.

    The Swiss Struggle

    Switzerland, long regarded as the heart of fine watchmaking, experienced a sharp decline in the demand for mechanical watches due to the quartz boom. From 1970 to 1983, the number of Swiss watchmakers plummeted from 1,600 to just 600, and sales of mechanical watches dropped by over 50%. Established brands like Omega, Tissot, and Longines faced tough times, while many smaller companies disappeared.

    In response to the crisis, Swiss firms hesitantly embraced quartz technology but struggled to match the pricing of Japanese brands. By 1983, Switzerland’s two largest watch groups, ASUAG and SSIH (which included Omega), merged to create what would later become the Swatch Group, providing some stabilization to the industry.

    Contrasting Quartz and Mechanical Watches

    Moving into the 1990s, mechanical watches were rebranded as luxury items instead of regular timepieces. Swiss watchmakers started to celebrate their heritage and the craft of traditional watchmaking. Luxury brands like Rolex, Omega, and Patek Philippe began marketing their mechanical watches as heirlooms and symbols of status. Some even incorporated quartz technology into hybrid models.

    Interestingly, Casio’s stronghold in the quartz market contributed to this revival. By dominating the affordable and functional watch sector, Casio (along with other quartz brands) allowed Swiss brands to concentrate on high-end mechanical watches. The durable G-Shocks from Casio created a market for “tool watches,” which inspired the design of luxury sports watches like the Rolex Explorer and Omega Seamaster. As the affordable watch market leaned toward quartz, Swiss brands found success in catering to collectors and enthusiasts who appreciated the craftsmanship of mechanical watches.

    The Balance of the Watch Industry

    Even luxury watchmakers felt the effects of the “Quartz Revolution” and had to adapt to the changing landscape.

    Currently, the watch industry has reached a state of equilibrium. Quartz watches dominate the everyday and budget-friendly market, while mechanical watches thrive in the luxury sector.

    Casio remains a major contender in the quartz market, with well-known lines like G-Shock, ProTrek, and Edifice offering practical and resilient options at a reasonable price. On the other hand, brands such as Rolex and Omega have solidified their positions in the high-end mechanical watch segment.

    Despite the advent of smartwatches, mechanical timepieces still hold their charm. This underscores the notion that watch collecting transcends mere timekeeping; it’s also about tradition, heritage, and artistry. Nonetheless, it’s clear that Casio has made timekeeping accessible to the masses, thus ushering mechanical watches into a new era of appreciation.

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  • Casio G-Shock GA-2100AS Hybrid Watches Launch in Europe

    Casio G-Shock GA-2100AS Hybrid Watches Launch in Europe

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio G-Shock GA-2100AS-2A and GA-2100AS-5A are part of the new Oasis of Day and Night series, launched in Japan and now available in Europe.
    2. The watches feature a durable Carbon Core Guard structure and are waterproof up to 20 bar, with timekeeping for 48 cities and a calendar valid until 2099.
    3. Key functionalities include a stopwatch measuring to 1/100th of a second, a 24-hour countdown timer, and five daily alarms.
    4. Enhanced visibility is provided by a dual LED backlight, and the watches are powered by two SR726W batteries lasting up to three years.
    5. Available for €119 in select European countries, it is unclear when they will reach the US or UK, and the release of other models in the series remains uncertain.


    The Casio G-Shock GA-2100AS-2A and GA-2100AS-5A timepieces are now up for grabs in Europe. These watches are part of the four-model series called Oasis of Day and Night, which was introduced in Japan just last month.

    Tough and Versatile Design

    The G-Shock GA-2100 Series features a hybrid design with a Carbon Core Guard structure, which makes them extra durable. They are also waterproof up to 20 bar. These watches can keep time for 48 different cities around the globe, and they come with a fully automatic calendar valid until 2099. Additional features include a stopwatch that measures to 1/100th of a second, a countdown timer for 24 hours, and five alarms you can set for daily reminders.

    Enhanced Visibility and Longevity

    Moreover, there is a dual LED backlight that illuminates both the dial and the inset digital display, allowing for easy reading in dim conditions. Casio claims that the two SR726W batteries can power the watch for as long as three years. The GA-2100AS-2A sports a navy blue resin case and strap, while the GA-2100AS-5A is a desert sand-inspired beige. Both models include blue-green highlights, which are said to symbolize the oasis’s lake.

    You can purchase the Casio G-Shock GA-2100AS-2A and GA-2100AS-5A in various European locations such as the Netherlands, France, and Spain for €119. It’s still uncertain when these models will be available in other regions like the US or the UK. Additionally, it is yet to be determined if the remaining models from the Oasis of Day and Night line, the GA-110AS-2A and GA-110AS-5A, will be released in these countries.

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  • Casio G-Shock GM-110D Full Metal Watch Release Date and Pricing

    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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  • Casio G-Shock Manga CasiOak Faces Production Halt

    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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  • Casio G-Shock DW-6900TR Watches Now Available in More Countries

    Casio G-Shock DW-6900TR Watches Now Available in More Countries

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio G-Shock DW-6900TR series celebrates the 30th anniversary of the DW-6900 series and will soon be available in more European countries.
    2. Design elements include a metal front button for the backlight, displaying “Since 1995,” and a back casing with a Shock Resist logo featuring 30 stars.
    3. The models are shock-resistant, waterproof up to 20 bar, with a battery life of approximately five years and various timekeeping functions.
    4. Availability includes listings in the Netherlands, France, and Spain with a price of €119, although a specific release date is not yet announced.
    5. The watches are expected to be priced around $120 when they become available in the US.


    The Casio G-Shock DW-6900TR-1, DW-6900TR-4, and DW-6900TR-9 limited edition timepieces are set to be available in more European nations soon. These three versions mark the 30th anniversary of the first 6900 series watches. They were introduced in the UK and Japan earlier this month.

    Design Features and Inspiration

    The DW-6900TR showcases several design elements inspired by its forerunners, featuring an enhanced metal front button that activates the backlight. When the backlight is turned on, the text “Since 1995” appears, marking the inception year of the DW-6900 series. The back casing has an engraved Shock Resist logo adorned with 30 stars, symbolizing each year of the series’ history. The DW-6900TR-1 comes in black, the DW-6900TR-4 is bright red, and the DW-6900TR-9 is yellow, reflecting the color palette of the classic DW-6900H series.

    Technical Specifications

    Casio’s DW-6900TR models are designed to be shock-resistant and waterproof up to 20 bar, boasting an estimated battery lifespan of five years. They feature a stopwatch that measures to 1/100 of a second, a 24-hour countdown timer, hourly time signals, and a multifunctional alarm. Users can select between 12-hour and 24-hour time formats, and the calendar is fully automatic until the year 2099. The watches are claimed to keep time within a margin of 15 seconds each month.

    Availability and Pricing

    Casio has already listed the DW-6900TR-1, DW-6900TR-4, and DW-6900TR-9 on its online platforms in countries like the Netherlands, France, and Spain, where they will be priced at €119. On these websites, the watches are labeled as “Coming Soon”; although a specific release date has not been announced, interested buyers can subscribe to receive an email alert upon launch. It remains uncertain when these watches will become available in the US, where they are anticipated to be priced around $120.

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  • Casio Unveils Rugged Solar-Powered G-Shock Watches with Bio Parts

    Casio Unveils Rugged Solar-Powered G-Shock Watches with Bio Parts

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio launched two new G-Shock models in the UK: GW-5000HS-7ER (white) and GW-5000HS-1ER (black), priced at £279 (around $353).

    2. Both models feature eco-friendly designs with bezels and straps made from bio-based resin, reducing environmental impact.

    3. The watches include advanced features like Tough Solar charging, Multi-Band 6 radio timekeeping, and standard functionalities like World Time and five daily alarms.

    4. The GW-5000HS series maintains the classic square shape of the original G-Shock from 1983 while incorporating modern sustainability practices.

    5. Aimed at enthusiasts, these models blend tradition with eco-friendliness, and they are available on G-Shock’s UK website.


    Casio has introduced two fresh G-Shock models in the UK, namely the GW-5000HS-7ER (white) and GW-5000HS-1ER (black). These watches blend the brand’s well-known toughness with eco-friendly features. They are priced at £279 (around $353) and keep the classic square shape of the original model from 1983 while embracing modern sustainability practices, which include components made from bio-based resin.

    Eco-Friendly Design

    The bezel and straps of both models are made with bio-based resin, which comes in part from renewable sources, helping to lessen environmental harm while maintaining their ruggedness. These timepieces also boast a DLC-coated stainless-steel case for scratch resistance, a water resistance of up to 200m, and Casio’s exclusive shock-resistant design.

    Advanced Features

    Both G-Shock models, the GW-5000HS-1ER and GW-5000HS-7ER, come with significant functional improvements such as Tough Solar charging that removes the need for disposable batteries and Multi-Band 6 radio timekeeping for precise timekeeping. They include standard features like World Time, five daily alarms, a stopwatch, and dual LED lights. Assembly of both watches takes place at Yamagata Casio, the same factory that created the first G-Shock in 1983.

    Targeting Enthusiasts

    Although these watches cost more than most resin G-Shocks, the GW-5000HS series is aimed at fans looking for a mixture of tradition and eco-friendliness. As stated earlier, the watches are currently available on G-Shock’s UK website. Don’t forget to check our News Section for more updates on the latest happenings.


  • New Casio G-Shock Fire Package Radio-Controlled Watches Leak

    New Casio G-Shock Fire Package Radio-Controlled Watches Leak

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio will launch two new G-Shock models, AWG-M100FP-1A2JR and GW-2320FP-1A2JR, in March in Japan.
    2. Both models feature a black and gray design with a shiny metallic bezel and are expected to be made from resin and aluminum.
    3. They offer water resistance of 20 ATM, Multi-Band 6 radio control, and a minimum battery life of six months, extendable through solar charging.
    4. The watches include functionalities like 48 world time zones, an LED backlight, a countdown timer, stopwatch, and alarms.
    5. Pricing in Japan is set at ¥31,900 (~$213) for the AWG-M100FP-1A2JR and ¥24,200 (~$162) for the GW-2320FP-1A2JR, with unique packaging details yet to be revealed.


    Casio is set to introduce two fresh models in the G-Shock Fire Package Series this coming March in Japan. The new additions to the lineup are the analog-digital AWG-M100FP-1A2JR and the digital GW-2320FP-1A2JR. According to images shared by the Japanese media source Mynavi News, these timepieces feature a combination of black and gray tones with a shiny metallic bezel.

    Anticipated Features

    Although the features have not been officially verified yet, it is common for the AWG-M100FP and GW-2320FP series watches to be constructed using resin and aluminum components, boasting a water resistance rating of 20 ATM. These models are also radio-controlled via Multi-Band 6 technology and have a minimum battery life of six months, which can be prolonged through solar charging and a power-saving function. Users can enjoy selecting from 48 different world time zones, and an LED backlight makes it easy to see the digital screens in low light. Additional functionalities include a countdown timer, stopwatch, and alarms.

    Pricing and Packaging Details

    The Casio G-Shock Fire Package models AWG-M100FP-1A2JR and GW-2320FP-1A2JR will be priced in Japan at ¥31,900 (~$213) and ¥24,200 (~$162), respectively. Reports suggest that these watches will be presented in unique packaging, though the specifics of this packaging are not yet known. The exact date for their launch in this market is still pending. Moreover, it’s unclear if or when these models might be available in other regions, such as the US.

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  • Casio G-Shock MRG-B2100R-2A Bluetooth Watch Launches Worldwide

    Casio G-Shock MRG-B2100R-2A Bluetooth Watch Launches Worldwide

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio G-Shock MRG-B2100R-2A watch is now available in the US and UK, with different model names for each region.
    2. The watch features high-quality materials such as Titanium and Cobarion, with a design inspired by traditional Japanese art.
    3. It includes Bluetooth capabilities for smartphone syncing, along with various functionalities like LED backlight and water resistance up to 200 meters.
    4. The retail price is $3,800 in the US and £3,300 in the UK, making it a luxury item.
    5. The MRG-B2100R-2A is a limited edition watch, with only a few pieces left available in the UK.


    The latest Casio G-Shock MRG-B2100R-2A watch has recently become available in more regions. This high-end timepiece was hinted at late last year and officially debuted in Japan in January, where it carries the model number MRG-B2100R-2AJR.

    Availability in Different Regions

    Now, the Mr-G series watch can be found in the United States under the name MRGB2100R-2A and in the United Kingdom as the MRG-B2100R-2ADR. The elevated price of this watch is due in part to its construction from high-quality materials like Titanium, Cobarion, and a diamond-like carbon coating. The dial’s aesthetic takes inspiration from kigumi, a classic Japanese woodworking style, featuring a detailed pattern, while the color reflects the traditional Japanese ink wash painting technique.

    Features and Functionality

    The MRG-B2100 is a radio-controlled timepiece equipped with Bluetooth capabilities, allowing users to sync it with a smartphone through the Casio Watches app. This integration provides features like Phone finder and Auto time adjustment. Additional functionalities include an LED backlight, automatic hand home position correction, and a power-saving mode. Furthermore, the watch boasts a water resistance of up to 200 meters, along with shock and magnetic resistance. Casio claims that under normal use, the battery can last for at least five months, a duration that could be extended due to Tough Solar charging.

    Pricing and Limited Edition Status

    The Casio G-Shock MRG-B2100R-2A is priced at $3,800 in the US and £3,300 in the UK. It’s important to highlight that this watch is a limited edition; the G-Shock UK website shows that only four pieces remain available in this region. At this moment, it is uncertain if or when this model will officially be launched in Europe.

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  • New Casio Fine Metallic G-Shock Watches Now in the US

    New Casio Fine Metallic G-Shock Watches Now in the US

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio has released four new G-Shock G-Steel Fine Metallic watches in the US: GM5600YMG-8, GM5600YM-9, GM2100YMG-8A, and GM2100YM-9A.
    2. The GM5600 series features a metal bezel, silicone band, 200-meter water resistance, and a battery life of around five years.
    3. The GM2100 series combines stainless steel and resin, also offering 200-meter water resistance, but with a shorter battery life of about three years.
    4. Both series include features like a stopwatch, countdown timer, alarms, and LED backlight for visibility.
    5. Pricing for the new watches starts at $240 for the GM5600YM-8 and goes up to $300 for the GM2100YMG-9A.


    Casio has introduced four new G-Shock G-Steel Fine Metallic watches in the US: the GM5600YMG-8, GM5600YM-9, GM2100YMG-8A, and GM2100YM-9A. These watches were released earlier in January in Japan and Europe, and they are set to be available for purchase in the UK soon.

    Features of the GM5600 Series

    The GM5600YMG-8 and GM5600YM-9 come with a metal bezel and a silicone band that looks metallic. These shock-resistant digital timepieces are water-resistant up to 200 meters and are designed to last around five years on a single battery. They include features like a 1/100-second stopwatch, a 24-hour countdown timer, and a multifunctional alarm. Additionally, there’s an LED backlight that makes it easier to read the watch face in dim conditions. The GM5600YMG-8 has a dark display with light numbers set in a silver case, while the GM5600YM-9 has a gold finish with a classic light display featuring dark numbers.

    The GM2100 Series Overview

    The GM2100YMG-8A and GM2100YM-9A are hybrid models that mix stainless steel and resin. These watches also boast shock resistance and are water-resistant to 200 meters. However, the battery life for the GM2100 models is a bit shorter, lasting about three years. They offer the same stopwatch, countdown timer, and five daily alarms. Moreover, they include support for 31 world time zones, a dual LED backlight, and a hand shift function. The GM2100YMG-8A is entirely silver, while the GM2100YM-9A has a gold finish paired with a black watch face.

    Pricing Details

    You can now find these Casio G-Shock G-Steel Fine Metallic watches in the US, with prices starting at $240 for the GM5600YM-8. The GM2100YM-8A is priced a bit higher at $260, while the GM5600YMG-9 is available for $280, and the GM2100YMG-9A can be purchased for $300.

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  • Casio Launches Stylish BGA-280 Series Watches for 2023

    Casio Launches Stylish BGA-280 Series Watches for 2023

    The Casio G-Shock Baby-G BGA-280TD-7AJF and BGA-280TD-2AJF watches are now available in Japan. These stylish round hybrid wearables feature a unique tie-dye effect on their watch faces. The BGA-280TD-7AJF sports a white resin body paired with an iridescent pink dial, whereas the BGA-280TD-2AJF comes with a blue resin case and strap, along with a stunning blue/green watch face.

    Specifications and Features

    In terms of features, both BGA-280 Series watches are exactly the same. They are designed to be shock-resistant and can withstand water pressure of up to 10 ATMs, with a battery life that lasts about three years. Users can select from 29 different world time zones, and the time display can be set to either a 12-hour or 24-hour format on the digital screen. Casio claims that the watches maintain accuracy to within 30 seconds per month, and they have a fully automatic calendar.

    Tools and Functions

    These models come equipped with a 60-minute stopwatch, precise to one second, and it includes a split function. Additionally, they offer a 60-minute countdown timer with auto repeat and time-up alerts. You can also set up to five daily alarms, one of which includes a snooze option. To make it easier to read the display in dim conditions, there is a white LED backlight included.

    You can currently purchase the Casio G-Shock Baby-G BGA-280TD-7AJF and BGA-280TD-2AJF watches in Japan for ¥14,300 (~$94). However, the company hasn’t shared any details about future releases in other regions, including North America or Europe.

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