Why Are G-Shock Watches So Special? 6 Reasons Why You Should Invest In A G-Shock Watch

One of Casio’s most popular watch lines is G-shock, short for Gravitational Shock watch. They are the ideal accessory for anybody who prioritizes accuracy, toughness, and flexibility because they have been designed to withstand the toughest situations, from severe temperatures to strong impact.

They include a variety of functions, including world time, alarm, countdown timer, waterproofing, and shock resistance. The timepieces are offered in a range of styles from traditional to contemporary, from casual to sporty.

G-shock watches are an excellent choice whether you’re an outdoor lover, a professional, or just someone who needs a reliable, functional watch.

In this article, we will briefly summarize the history of G-shocks, compile a list of the best G-Shock watches for you, and also discuss a common question “Why are G-Shock watches so special?“.

The History Of G-Shock Watches

The watch brand Gravitational Shock, sometimes known as G-Shock, is created by the Japanese electronics manufacturer Casio. Kikuo Ibe created and developed this shockproof watch. It is produced in Yamagata Prefecture, in the northern Japanese region of Tohoku. Ibe wanted to build a watch that would not break even if it were dropped. The DW-5000C, the first timepiece in this series, was released by Casio in 1983.

When Kikuo Ibe set the goal of creating an unbreakable watch, the idea for G-Shock was born. It all began when his father gave him a beloved watch, which he carelessly lost.

The company’s executives assembled a three-man team called “Team Tough” under the leadership of Kikuo Ibe, and gave them responsibility for creating the unbreakable watch. The goal of Team Tough was to develop a watch that could endure a 10 meter drop, 10 bar (100-meter) pressure in the water, as well as at least 10-year battery life, or the “triple ten” idea.

Over the course of two years, they built more than 200 prototype watches for their new watch, all of which went through rigorous testing. The fact that they weren’t getting the desired outcomes made it difficult and unappreciated labor.

When Kikuo’s final week was almost over, he walked out of his office to take a break and saw a child playing with a rubber ball. He immediately came up with a new idea. He thought of a design where the module could float within a tunnel in the casing, protecting it from impact.

The History of the Casio G-Shock

The watch brand Gravitational Shock, sometimes known as G-Shock, is created by the Japanese electronics manufacturer Casio. (Source: Internet)

His plan was successful, and Casio released the DW-5000C, the first watch that has the capability of resistance to shock in the world.

Since the first model was released, hundreds of innovative G-Shocks from various lines have been introduced to the market annually (the greatest number ever being 221 in 1998 only), with more than 100 million products having been distributed globally.

Why Are G-Shock Watches So Special?

It is believed that having a G-shock watch has very few drawbacks because even entry-level models come with a wealth of advantages. Is it true? Are G-Shock models really good?

Let’s find out what makes G-Shock watches so special below.

1. High Durability

G-shocks were created as a “Triple 10” upgrade to Casio watches, which means that they were built to be able to withstand a fall of 10 meters, be waterproof to a depth of 10 meters, and have a battery life of 10 years. But G-shocks went beyond their original purpose and are likely the most technically demanding wristwatches ever developed.

Mua Casio G-SHOCK MUDMASTER Mens Watch GG-1000-1A3DR trên Amazon Mỹ chính hãng 2023 | Fado

G-shocks were created as a “Triple 10” upgrade to Casio watches, which means that they were built to be able to withstand a fall of 10 meters. (Source: Internet)

These timepieces are a perfect buddy for every athlete and adventurer since they can withstand the most severe weather and environmental conditions as well as are ideal for every outdoor activity.

2. Accuracy

The majority of G-shocks have quartz-powered movements and are known as digital watches. When it regards timekeeping precision, quartz watches are the most superior type of watch, surpassing several mechanical and automatic watch brands.

The official precision of G-shock watches is +/- 15 seconds every month, yet many watch users have found their G-shock watches to be more accurate than this.

3. Multi-functionality

With a G-shock, you may do a variety of activities without concern about the safety of your watch, such as scuba diving, survival missions, camping, and various water and snow sports.

G-shocks are shock-resistant and durable enough to handle the rigors of battlefields and the dangers of the jungle, and they are waterproof up to 200 meters (660 feet), making them ideal for scuba diving and snorkeling.

Đồng hồ Casio G-Shock GMA-S120GB-1ADR – Casio Anh Khuê Watch

With a G-shock, you may do a variety of activities without concern about the safety of your watch, such as scuba diving, survival missions, camping, and various water and snow sports. (Source: Internet)

4. Advanced Technology

Even though they have a more traditional style, G-shock watches are now equipped with some of the newest watch features and technologies, such as solar models that don’t require batteries.

Because G-shocks are generally used outdoors and in the sun, having a solar function that enables them to recharge themselves is a smart addition. The majority of these models include glowing paints on their dials, which make it quite simple to see the time in the dark.

GWG-2000-1A5 | MUDMASTER | G-SHOCK | Đồng hồ | CASIO

Even though they have a more traditional style, G-shock watches are now equipped with some of the newest watch features and technologies, such as solar models that don’t require batteries. (Source: Internet)

The Multiband 6 feature is also available on some models. This enables the watch to update the time and ensure that it is even more precise than the standard model by connecting to the atomic clock.

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5. Affordable Price

When considering the price to value, G-shock watches are not too pricey and they are good quality watches, so you are likely to get much better value for the money you invest in one.

Each G-shock watch has a certain price range and is available in a variety of sizes, forms, models, designs, and technological specifications.

G-Shock watches range in price from $40 to $70 for basic digital versions and from $70 to $200 for midrange items with extra features, making their total price range from $40 to $8000.

6. Good Reputation

In the watch industry, G-Shock is a highly-regarded and reliable brand. G-Shock gained an enthusiastic following over the years because of its reputation for producing tough, useful, and fashionable timepieces. Purchasing a G-Shock wristwatch ensures that you will receive a high-quality item.

Casio G-Shock GA-900-4ADR - Đồng Hồ Nam – PhongWatch

In the watch industry, G-Shock is a highly-regarded and reliable brand. (Source: Internet)

Most people miss the fact that G-Shock has very few competitors in the “unbreakable watch” field. There are just Timex, Luminox, and a Chinese replica dubbed S-Shock left in addition to G-Shock. Only Timex, out of the above, can compete with G-Shock’s basic functionality, but they don’t manufacture the more sophisticated watches with solar power and other features.

Do G-Shock Watches Have Downsides?

Although worth-buying with many useful features and amazing durability, G shock watches still have some disadvantages.

G-shocks are durable and useful, but they aren’t really smart. Certain models, like the updated Rangeman, feature GPS and Bluetooth connectivity but it drastically decreases battery life. So, a smartphone must be paired with it in order for it to operate fully.

G-Shock GA-2110 PROs & CONs from users and experts — CasioFan Magazine

G-shocks are durable and useful, but they aren’t really smart. (Source: Internet)

The fact that Casio watches seem to be bulky and don’t have appealing designs is another common complaint heard of them. But it’s also what makes them so much exciting to own; whether you’re a fashion-conscious buyer trying to display your Casio collection or just want a tough, trustworthy running watch that won’t let you down, there are many different Casio G-Shocks to select from.

How Long Do G-Shock Watches Last?

A G-Shock watch is durable for many years thanks to its special structure. It can last for decades. If you use it for sports purposes, you will likely need to replace the buttons as well as the straps of a G-shock every 5 to 6 years. However, with everyday use, you can expect a watch to last from 10 to 15 years.

Another essential factor is whether the particular version is solar-powered or not. Solar models are said to endure for a very long time and just require the repair of a few exterior parts, but non-solar models require batteries to be changed every 2 to 5 years depending on use.

Even the most affordable G Shock should last from 3 to 5 years of trouble-free use if you intend to perform absolutely no service before replacing a battery.

G-Shock timepieces offer great value for the money. Even though they don’t perform as fancy tasks as other smartwatches, they are extremely reliable and have a long lifespan.

What Tests Are Used to Determine The Toughness Of G-Shocks?

In order to evaluate the endurance of G-Shock watches, they will be abused more than most other timepieces. According to brand history, Kikuo Ibe, the G-Shock’s father, threw watches out of the windows as the initial models were being developed. But those are only rudimentary tests.

Casio says that about 10 and 20 people are going to attempt to destroy G-Shock watches every day by using the impact of gravity, pressure, water, electricity, and even hammers.

One of Casio’s most simple tests includes hitting a G-Shock against a net with a large rotating mallet to check whether it can, well, withstand a hammer blow. Another strange machine submerges G-Shock watches in a red liquid to test the watches’ resistance to probable mud and dirt infiltration.

Are G-Shock Watches Good? What's Great and What's Not

In order to evaluate the endurance of G-Shock watches, they will be abused more than most other timepieces. (Source: Internet)

Following this is a device that simultaneously examines both resistance to water pressure and each pusher. According to Casio, this is the only equipment in the world that can do both tests at once.

Now is the legendary drop test. G-Shock offers two mechanical devices for simulating falls rather than throwing timepieces out the window like in the past. One, quite easily, drops a G-shock onto a slab of concrete from a height of 10 feet. The other way is intended to replicate a considerably greater fall and is, as a result, enclosed in a cage and powered by a pneumatic pump.

Choosing Best G-Shock Watch For You

1. Casio Rangeman GW-9400 

Casio’s “survival wristwatch” designed for performance in harsh conditions is the G-Shock GW9400. It is also the most well-known model in Casio’s upscale Master of G line and could be the greatest tactical watch ever produced.

GW-9400-1DR – GC Shop Egypt

Casio’s “survival wristwatch” designed for performance in harsh conditions is the G-Shock GW9400. (Source: Internet)

The Rangeman requires no maintenance due to its solar battery as well as radio time sync functions. The time is calibrated every day at 0:00 through an audio signal, and the battery recharges itself.

2. G-Shock DW5600E 1V

This G-Shock DW5600 model has a design inspired by the first G-Shock in 1983 and is one of the most popular and extremely affordable products of Casio. It’s a straightforward watch with all the features you could possibly need, including a calendar, timer, stopwatch, alarm, and hourly time beeps.

Casio G-SHOCK DW5600E-1V — The Classic at a low price – The Brooks Review

This G-Shock DW5600 model has a design inspired by the first G-Shock in 1983 and is one of the most popular and extremely affordable products of Casio. (Source: Internet)

3. G-Shock Mudmaster GWG2000

The Mudmaster GWG2000 features a bit thinner and smaller carbon core guard construction while maintaining the same durable design as the most popular GWG1000. The Rangeman’s protected button structure is carried over into the Mudmaster, which is dust- and mud-resistant and perfect for use in harsh conditions. In addition, it has multi-band 6 radio waves timekeeping, tough solar power, and an opaque sapphire crystal for raised scratch resistance.

G-SHOCK Mudmaster GWG-2000-1A3ER Review – WATCHDAVID®

The Mudmaster GWG2000 features a bit thinner and smaller carbon core guard construction while maintaining the same durable design as the most popular GWG1000. (Source: Internet)

4. G-Shock GMW-B5000D

The GMW-B5000D has its foundation on the first G-Shock but is made entirely of stainless steel. Both G-Shock fans and common watch lovers hold it in regard because of its history, iconic features, and build quality.

The GMW-B5000D is also equipped with cutting-edge technologies, including tough solar power, multi-band 6 automated radio timekeeping, as well as Bluetooth mobile connection, which enables the watch to sync the time with a smartphone automatically.

Đồng hồ Casio G-shock nam GMW-B5000D-1 1:1 – donghominhtu

The GMW-B5000D has its foundation on the first G-Shock but is made entirely of stainless steel. (Source: Internet)

5. G-Shock GA2100

One of the most popular new G-Shock series is the minimalist GA-2100. The circular analog-digital display is an innovative take on the octagonal bezel and band of the classic G-Shock. It is a smaller and more elegant G-Shock watch that is 45.4 millimeters broad and 11.8 millimeters thick, with an inside casing bolstered with carbon fiber.

GA-2100-1A | ĐỒNG HỒ KIM-SỐ TIÊU CHUẨN | G-SHOCK | CASIO

One of the most popular new G-Shock series is the minimalist GA-2100. (Source: Internet)

FAQs

1. Are G-Shocks waterproof?

The G-Shock watches family are water-resistant rather than waterproof. Something that restricts water from destroying its components to a certain extent is said to be water-resistant. They can withstand damage at water depths of up to 200 meters, or 660 feet.

Avoid using a watch’s buttons or crown when it is wet or submerged in water, regardless of whether it is water-resistant. However, buttons on the “DIVER’S WATCH 200M” case versions may be operated underwater.

2. Do G-Shocks glow in the dark?

This may be the most daring G-Shock watchmaking technique ever. G-Shock always dazzles with its use of ingenious methods to make the bezel on its timepieces stand out. The magical effect is created by phosphorescent particles incorporated into the colorful glass fiber sheets of carbon which glow in the dark.

However, not all G-Shock watches can glow, you should read the product description on the company’s website.

3. Can I shower with my G-Shock?

You can use your G-Shock in a wide range of conditions, including surfing, swimming, or jet skiing, as well as everyday activities like taking a shower.

However, wearing a watch while bathing or taking a shower with soap, or other chemicals should be avoided because water resistance does not imply that the watches are soap- or detergent-resistant. A decline in water resistance function of the device might happen if this is neglected.

4. Do G-Shocks take batteries?

The answer is Yes. The lithium battery that comes with G-Shock watches typically lasts between two and six years. How frequently you use the alarm system or the lighting functions will affect the longevity. Regular usage of either will quickly deplete the battery and necessitate replacement.

5. Are G-Shock watches scratch-resistant?

The technique used by G-Shock to ion-plate stainless steel provides a finish that is far more scratch-resistant than conventional plating.

6. Which is better, G-Shock or Casio?

Normal Casio watches are suitable for daily wear, but G-Shocks are more durable and are ideal for many activities even in harsh conditions. Normal Casio watches have a maximum water resistance of 50 meters, while G-Shocks have 200 meters. Normal Casio displays are easily scratched, but G-Shock displays are tough to scratch.

7. Is G-Shock better than Timex?

G Shock is the best watch in terms of durability and practicality with many outstanding features. It’s really hard to find another watch that can compete with it. However, G-Shock is not the best option if you want a simple sports watch, instead, choose the Timex.

Pick the G-Shock if you require advanced functions like solar power and hands-free backlighting. Choose any style you like if all you need is a straightforward sturdy watch.

Conclusion

So, why are G-Shock watches so special? To summarize what we have explained above, they are tough, reliable watches that offer excellent performance and have a brilliant reputation for quality. Think about a G-Shock when you are looking for a great companion for your adventures or simply need a device that is practical and useful enough for everyday activities.

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About Yuu Sato

Yuu Sato has been working in hospitality industry since 2003. In the past, he used to work as a tour guide and now he is running his business of supplying comfortable accommodations in Japan. Thanks to this experience and his passion for writing blog, the articles by him provides awesome tips and things to do when you are traveling in the country of cherry blossoms.

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