Tag: retro watches

October 12, 2025
Affordable Casio Vintage A158WEM & AQ-230EM Watches with Mesh Bracelets
Key Takeaways
1. Casio is expanding its retro watch collection with new mesh bracelet versions: A158WEM and AQ-230EM.
2. The A158 was launched in 1989, and the AQ-230 debuted in 1995, both known for their reliability and affordability.
3. The new models will be the first to feature a mesh bracelet design, which is lightweight and won’t catch on wrist hair.
4. The AQ-230EM will include a stylish dial with analog hands and a larger display window, inspired by the AQ-500 from 1982.
5. The expected retail prices are $35 for the A158WEM and $60 for the AQ-230EM, with a release anticipated by the end of 2025.
Casio is set to expand its collection of retro watches with new mesh bracelet versions: the A158WEM and AQ-230EM. These models were unveiled through online leaks and lifestyle images shared by the trusted source Casioblog. They maintain the classic square designs and features that have kept the A158 and AQ-230 as staples in Casio’s affordable vintage offerings for many years.
History of the Models
The Casio A158 was first introduced in 1989, while the AQ-230 launched in 1995. Both watches gained popularity worldwide due to their dependability, simple design, and low prices. Even though they have significant differences in how they display time—digital for the A158 and a mix of analog and digital for the AQ-230—these models are iconic within Casio’s “Vintage” range and are highly regarded by both retro enthusiasts and new customers alike.
New Features
The upcoming A158WEM and AQ-230EM for 2025 mark the first time these series will feature a mesh bracelet design. This delicately woven strap resembles chain mail and offers a lightweight and flexible option. Another advantage is that it doesn’t catch on wrist hair. Each series will have new versions, including:
The AQ-230 showcases a stylish dial with analog hands and narrow hour markers, along with an enlarged display window that enhances its “vintage” look. This design can be traced back to the AQ-500 (“Janus”) from 1982, which is well-known for its metallic effect dial plate. Both new mesh versions come with plastic cases and bezels that have a chrome finish, plus plastic glass, contributing to their budget-friendly pricing.
Pricing and Availability
The anticipated retail price for the A158WEM is $35, while the AQ-230EM will be around $60. Although Casio has yet to announce an official launch date, the release is expected to happen by the end of 2025.
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Tags: retro watches
March 5, 2025
Casio A130WE: New Multi-Time Zone Watches Launching in Europe
Key Takeaways
1. The new Casio A130WE watches are marked as “Coming Soon” on European websites and debuted in France and Japan earlier this year.
2. Pricing for the A130WE models varies, with the A130WE-1A at £59.90/€64.90 and the A130WEG-9A at £79.90/€84.90, while other models have different prices in various regions.
3. The watches have a nostalgic 1980s design, featuring an LCD screen and various functions like a 1/100-second stopwatch and the ability to track time across four zones.
4. Key features include a countdown timer for up to 24 hours, five daily alarms, and an LED backlight.
5. All models come with a chrome-plated resin case and stainless steel bracelets, with different color options including silver, gold, and dark gray/black.
New Casio A130WE watches are marked as “Coming Soon” on the brand’s websites across various European nations. These timepieces were first seen at the French retailer David et Philly back in January and made their debut in Japan during February.
Availability and Pricing
You can find the A130WE models on the Casio online platforms in countries like the UK, the Netherlands, and France. The A130WE-1A will be priced at £59.90/€64.90, while the A130WEG-9A comes at a higher cost of £79.90/€84.90. Currently, the A130WEG-7A and A130WEGG-1A are not listed in the UK, but they are available in other regions for €64.90 and €84.90, respectively.
Design Features
These nostalgic watches boast a design inspired by the 1980s and feature an LCD screen. The time shows up in the upper right corner with an analogue-style clock, and again in the bottom segment. The dial located in the top right helps with tracking and includes functions like a 1/100-second stopwatch. Additionally, the day and date can be viewed on the centre-right of the watch. Users have the ability to keep track of time across four zones, with a selection of 48 cities. Other functionalities include a countdown timer lasting up to 24 hours, five daily alarms, and an LED backlight.
Specifications
All four models come with a chrome-plated resin case and a stainless steel bracelet. The A130WE-1A and A130WE-7A are silver, with the former having a black watch face, while the latter is fully silver. The A130WEG-9A features a golden design, including a gold ion-plated bracelet and matching watch face. Lastly, the A130WEGG-1A is dark gray/black, sporting a black ion-plated strap and a black frame surrounding the display and dials. It’s still unclear when these watches will be officially released in Europe or in other markets like the US.
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Tags: Casio A130WE, retro watches