Since its debut in 2019, the slim profile and octagonal case design of the Casio G-Shock GA2100 series, inspired by Genta, have made the “Casioak” a classic among enthusiasts of the Japanese giant's durable and multifaceted watches. In its latest release, Casio aims to give this entry-level hit a more premium character by adding a stainless steel flash to the signature shock-resistant resin case concept. The new Casio G-Shock GM2100 series enhances the successful “Casioak” formula with a sleeker finish while maintaining the durability, functionality, and affordability that define the long-standing G-Shock sub-brand.
The Casio G-Shock GM2100 series features a stainless steel and resin case slightly smaller than the original GA2100 model - 44.4mm across (the GA2100 diameter is 45.4mm) - but it has a surprisingly slim profile by G-Shock standards. While the wide octagonal bezel, ribbed case sides, and integrated hooded lugs have been carried over from the resin version, Casio gives the GM2100 design more nuance with a combination of materials and finishes. In the GM2100-1A model, the outer stainless steel case remains brightly polished, except for the rough radial brushing on the octagonal bezel and case sides.
Each of the other three variants in the line adds an aggressive layer of dark ion plating to this finishing formula, making the design more in line with the classic G-Shock aesthetic with its black resin in the images. In the GM2100B-3A and GM2100B-4A models, the brand opts for a charcoal-gray coating, providing contrast with the darker strap design. For the GM2100N-2A model, Casio instead uses a deep, rich midnight blue ion plating, creating a multi-tonal blue color scheme on the dial and strap.
All four models use classic G-Shock resin inner cases with stainless steel case backs. Like all G-Shock models, the GM2100 series boasts a robust 200-meter water resistance and massive shock protection.
Like the cases, the dials of the Casio G-Shock GM2100 series add depth to the clean “ana-digi” design of the GA2100 with metallic textures and new materials. The bare GM2100-1A stainless steel model accentuates the bright case finish with a steel-gray main dial surface, giving the familiar look a more luxurious texture in images with striking vertical brushing. The inverted digital sub-dial, stretching between the “3 o'clock” and “6 o'clock” markers, is mostly carried over from the resin case variants, as are the broad tapering sword hands and the layered retrograde date indicator at the “9 o'clock” position.
The three other models in the GM2100 series take this simple formula in wilder visual directions through color. The most aggressive of this group is the GM2100B-4A model, where every dial element is executed in a bold ruby red. Even the digital sub-dial features a red background, and while this look is dramatic and stylish, it noticeably impacts the readability of the images.
The GM2100B-3A model strikes a more acceptable visual balance: a grass-green matte dial surface is paired with functional elements executed in contrasting black. Finally, the GM2100N-2A model extensively uses various textures and shades of blue to create an attractive and reliably functional monochrome aesthetic.
All four models of the Casio G-Shock GM2100 series use the in-house quartz Module 5611 ana-digi movement. Like most G-Shock movements, the Module 5611 has a rich set of complications, including a 1/100-second chronograph, a 24-hour countdown timer, a world timer, a perpetual calendar, five daily alarms, dual LED dial illumination, and radio-controlled time correction with an hourly signal. The basic accuracy of the movement is +15/-15 seconds per month, and the battery life is stated to be three years.
Casio equips each model in the series with an integrated accordion-style resin strap with an embossed waffle texture. In the GM2100-1A and GM2100B-4A models, this strap is done in classic G-Shock black, while in the GM2100B-3A and GM2100N-2A models, it is in very dark forest green and dark blue, respectively.
Thanks to more premium materials, more complex finishing, and more subtle use of color, the Casio G-Shock GM2100 series successfully enhances the fan-favorite “Casioak” concept while staying true to the durable and accessible core design principles. All four models of the Casio G-Shock GM2100 series are now available at select G-Shock retailers and the G-Shock Soho Store. MSRP for the Casio G-Shock GM2100 series starts at $200. For more detailed information, visit the brand's website.