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Watch collectors are notorious for their blathering on about the beauty and romance of mechanical watches and how their digital counterparts are sterile and soulless. I know this because, as a watch lover myself, I have to constantly listen to my own incessant droning on the topic. However, in a world where shopping for a Swiss luxury watch can cost you as much as a mansion, we watch lovers also have to be practical. That’s why even the most serious timepiece nerd loves and respects G-Shock watches.
G-Shock history
Casio is a Japanese company that’s known for making high-quality electronics at affordable prices. While it may not have the watchmaking reputation of fellow Japanese brands like Seiko and Citizen, Casio has always been a respected name in the world of digital watches. In fact, Casio’s first-ever wristwatch, 1974’s Casiotron, was one of the first digital watches, and the very first to include an automatic calendar. Casio soon became a trusted name in digital watches.
In 1981, however, Japanese engineer Kikuo Ibe decided he wanted to create a digital model that was virtually indestructible. The result was Casio’s beloved G-Shock line of watches. With thick resin cases and straps, the digital watches were shock-proof, water resistant, and were some of the most rugged and durable timepieces ever made. The line was a hit, and G-Shock watches have been a staple of daily life for decades. They’re especially popular with military personnel and others whose careers and daily tasks require a watch that can take a beating and still keep working.
G-Shock watch options
Casio’s G-Shock line is one of the most diverse in its entire catalog. While all G-Shock watches have a few consistent features, there are plenty of variations from which to choose. While some people favor the iconic G-Shock square design, others are a bit more experimental and like the brand’s more eclectic offerings. That’s the beauty of G-Shock. While there are a few functionality tentpoles that you can always count on, there’s also plenty of room for personal style and aesthetic expression. Additionally, even though G-Shocks have traditionally been oversized watches, there are plenty of smaller offerings these days. No matter your wrist size, there is likely a G-Shock that’s right for you, and there are options for practically any budget, making this type of watch attainable for most.
Casio G-Shock GA-2100 Watch
Casio G-Shock GD100 Watch
Casio G-Shock DW5600 Classic Square Watch
Casio G-Shock 2100 Watch
Practical benefits
As mentioned above, G-Shocks have thick resin cases that protect the digital components within from damage. Every single G-Shock watch, by definition, must be shock-resistant and include at least 200 meters of water resistance. That makes these watches perfect for sports as well. You’ll see them quite often on the wrists of triathletes, because they can go from swimming to biking, to running, and everything in between in an instant. They’re the ultimate sports watch in addition to being the ultimate work watch.
In addition to the practicality of G-Shock durability, there’s also an affordability factor at play. It’s almost hard to believe, but G-Shock watches, despite being some of the most durable timepieces on the planet, are also incredibly affordable. Many can be bought for well under $100. That’s an incredible value proposition when you consider how long most of these watches last. I have personally owned G-Shocks that have continued working for over a decade. The only interruption is every few years when they need a battery replacement. Even the batteries tend to cost less than $20.
Collector credibility
It’s this impressive world-class quality, paired with the affordable price, that has made G-Shock a darling of the watch-collecting world. While digital watches are not the typical favorite fare of watch geeks, we know quality and value when we see it. That’s why just about every serious watch collector I know has at least one G-Shock in their collection. Many have more than that. I’ve owned so many G-Shocks over the years that I can barely remember them all. Watch collectors can be a bit stuffy, and we often take ourselves too seriously. However, G-Shock is nothing if not fun, and these watches allow us to express ourselves and enjoy collecting in a way that most other watches cannot.
If you’re just starting your watch-collecting journey, or even if you’re currently in the thick of it, you can’t go wrong with a Casio G-Shock watch. It’s a piece you can wear anywhere at any time, and it can get the job done. Whether you’re on a trip around the world or headed to basic training, it’s the right time for a G-Shock.
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