One of the most powerful tools in any modeler's arsenal is the use of part labeling, especially when it comes to fictional or fantastical machines. By placing heat warning labels near exhaust ports and instruction plates on hatch openings, an experienced model builder can take wild fantastical constructs, from an X-Wing fighter to an MS-06 Zaku II, and give them a layer of functional realism that makes these creations far more believable.
Casio has always embraced a technical, sci-fi aesthetic for its durable and diverse G-Shock line, and in its latest release, the brand fully adheres to this intricate utilitarian look to uniquely embody the classic G-Shock formula. The new Casio G-Shock GMWB5000TVA1 in a titanium case gives the brand's signature octagonal case, inspired by industrial style, a gritty and futuristic sheen, while adding several unique touches to the G-Shock formula.
The titanium case of the Casio G-Shock GMWB5000TVA1, measuring 43.2 mm by 49.3 mm, echoes the classic 80s shape of the original G-Shock DW-5000C with lugs, a smooth octagonal bezel, and characteristic ridged details framing each of the four buttons. The grained matte black DLC coating maintains the classic black case color characteristic of resin G-Shocks but allows for deep black polished accents on the bezel and buttons. However, where the GMWB5000TVA1 truly stands out is in the laser-engraved details. Throughout the case design, Casio cuts through the black coating to reveal the titanium beneath with technical labels in the style of warning signs. The bezel is engraved with function markers and letter designations for each of the four buttons, while the sides of the case feature the inscription “Diamond-Like Carbon Coating.”
However, the most attention-grabbing engravings on the images are on the case lugs. Instead of the traditional recesses for the GMWB5000 model, in the new model these characteristic strokes are presented as fully laser-drilled holes that go straight through the structure of the titanium lugs, as well as a third slot opening that reveals the deep red resin inner case. Casio further emphasizes this layered look with an engraved crosshair and even more detailed technical text indicating “Fine Resin Cushioning.” Overall, this set of sci-fi-style engravings risks appearing cluttered or overly complex but evokes a grounded futuristic aesthetic reminiscent of video games or modern Gundam model kits with a biting sense of seriousness in the images. Like all G-Shock models, the GMWB5000TVA1 promises tremendous durability and 200-meter water resistance.
Casio leaves the familiar formula of the G-Shock digital dial in the GMWB5000TVA1 more or less unchanged but adds additional technical labeling to the black inner bezel. Potentially the weakest element here is the 6 o'clock marking, with an undeniably wordy description that essentially boils down to the classic “G-Shock Protection” engraving on the outer bezel. Casio leaves its Tough Solar charging panel surrounding the digital dial unmasked in this new model, giving the design an extra layer of futuristic technicality in the images. The LCD dial itself remains unchanged from the standard version, but it appears legible and high-contrast.
The quartz movement Module 3459 installed in the Casio G-Shock GMWB5000TVA1 is a staple of Casio's high-end digital offerings and offers a wide array of dependable complications. These features include Bluetooth mobile device connectivity, solar charging, Multi-Band 6 radio-controlled time correction six times a day, LED dial backlighting, as well as more familiar complications such as a full world timer with automatic daylight saving time correction, 1/100 second split chronograph, 24-hour countdown timer, five daily alarms, and a perpetual calendar accurate to the year 2099. When the atomic time correction signal is disabled, the accuracy of the 3459 module is +15/-15 seconds per month, and the battery life after a full solar charge is up to 22 months.
Casio continues the series of technical engravings on the G-Shock GMWB5000TVA1 with a black DLC titanium single-link bracelet. Each link of this familiar pattern is laser-engraved with information ranging from DLC coating details to the numbering of each link and pin extraction instructions on the links near the clasp. The clasp itself features the most complex marking, containing a full description of Casio's Multi-Band 6 radio-controlled time correction technology. The bracelet smoothly transitions into the case design, continuing the more aggressive approach to the classic recesses on the G-Shock lugs. However, just like on the case, the engraved sci-fi-style information is likely not to appeal to everyone but gives this familiar design an aggressive and futuristic charm.
Just as realistic decals can give a spaceship model a sense of lived-in functionality, the complex technical engravings of the Casio G-Shock GMWB5000TVA1 give the brand's most durable design a new charismatic character.
The Casio G-Shock GMWB5000TVA1 watch will be available on the G-Shock e-commerce site, select authorized retailers, and the G-Shock Soho Store in November 2021 for $1,650. For more detailed information, please visit the brand's website.