Let's delve into why the G-Shock GA-2100 earned the nickname "CasiOak" and whether it deserves its popularity.
There's no arguing that the Royal Oak by Audemars Piguet set the standard for sports elegance in 1972. This model embodied what luxury sports watches should be: reliable, legible, accurate, and possessing a timeless style that won the hearts of many collectors. However, the Royal Oak was incredibly expensive. Once it became clear that these watches were unattainable for most, the search for a more affordable alternative began. Enter Casio, with a model nicknamed "CasiOak."
For many, the Casio CasiOak became the perfect bridge between the durability of G-Shock and the elegance of the mechanical Royal Oak. It's important to remember that this was the golden age of affordable quartz watches, and Casio G-Shock was at the peak of its popularity. Rarely are bulky quartz watches costing less than $200 mentioned alongside icons of luxury sports watches - except for the CasiOak. The design simply worked. Want to know why the CasiOak is so popular and how it reached the top among affordable watches? Read on.
Casio - High-Tech Japanese Watchmaker
©CASIO
Casio is a brand worthy of recognition, even if you're a premium watch collector. Japanese Casio watches are functional, durable, and recognizable by design. Despite setting standards in the segment of affordable and reliable hybrid digital-analog watches, no other manufacturer can compare. Of course, there are many digital watchmakers, but Casio is a pioneer in the digital watch world with unique design features that are unmistakable. Yet, the brand remains underrated.
Casio is a brand that has attracted thousands to watches, many of whom never realized their passion for them. Casio appealed to those starting with a minimal budget. It's no surprise that even those who eventually acquired more prestigious models still hold warm feelings for Casio.
Particular attention should be paid to the G-Shock line. These watches cannot be called "unfashionable," and one of the public favorites is the CasiOak. The model caused a huge stir even years after its release. Moreover, Casio released many color variations, further solidifying the series' popularity. But what's the secret to CasiOak's success?
Remember, CasiOak is a product of the world's largest electronics manufacturer, the creator of G-Shock. Casio has been renowned for creating cutting-edge technologies for decades. But not only in watches - in the mid-1950s, Casio released the world's first fully electric calculator.
The first Casio watches appeared in the 1970s and were unique: the first quartz model with a digital display - the Casiotron. Today, the Japanese brand produces watches with GPS, altimeters, and Bluetooth. The portfolio includes bestsellers like Edifice, Pro Trek, and, of course, G-Shock, where the story of CasiOak begins.
Origins of CasiOak - G-Shock Series
You might know the name Kikuo Ibe - the engineer who created G-Shock. After dropping and breaking his late father's pocket watch, he aimed to create the world's toughest watch. To achieve this, he developed a construction with an inner urethane rubber layer.
Work on the G-Shock began in 1981 when Ibe assembled the "Team Tough". The main requirements - the "Triple Ten" concept: the watch must withstand water pressure up to 10 atmospheres, a fall from 10 meters, and operate on a battery for over 10 years. Development took two years. Ibe refined the design by adding a shock-absorbing rubber system, making the watch ultra-durable and long-lasting.
Since the release of the first model and up to the 40th anniversary of the series in 2023, the G-Shock lineup has significantly expanded. Today, it includes analog and digital watches with cases made from various materials. The models are in demand among military personnel, athletes, and travelers. Despite the variety of designs and colors, limited editions are particularly popular.
Today, the G-Shock collection is the choice for those seeking stylish yet affordable watches with high functionality and resilience. Mass production ensures wide availability of models. However, some remain scarce, such as the gold model GMW-B5000GD-9, which on the secondary market costs significantly more, occupying the exclusive watch niche.
In 2019, Casio introduced a more sporty and luxurious G-Shock variant - the CasiOak, which found its place in the "almost exclusive" segment. CasiOak's roots trace back to the Casiotron and, of course, to the legendary Royal Oak by Audemars Piguet from 1972.
Influence of Royal Oak on CasiOak
You might wonder: "How can a budget Casio compete with Audemars Piguet?" In truth, the comparison is inaccurate. The materials, mechanics, and design of the two brands exist in different realms and appeal to different audiences. However, there is one unique situation where the paths of these brands cross - CasiOak. This model brings a touch of Royal Oak magic to the world of affordable watches.
The Royal Oak is the creation of designer Gerald Genta, the "Picasso" of watchmaking art. He also created the Ingenieur for IWC and the Nautilus for Patek Philippe. The Royal Oak was a bold experiment: an octagonal bezel, an integrated tapering bracelet, and a unique "Grand Tapisserie" dial pattern. Initially, the design did not succeed, but it soon became a global sensation. Within a few years, other brands, such as Tissot and Girard-Perregaux, followed suit, producing their versions of steel sports watches with integrated bracelets. Limited supply and high demand made the Royal Oak expensive and desirable.
Over time, many brands created watches inspired by the Royal Oak, whether exact homages or individual design elements. Given Casio's expertise in digital quartz watches, the CasiOak could not resemble anything else on the market. Perhaps this explains its popularity six years after its release.
Brief History of CasiOak
When the first G-Shock CasiOak GA-2100 was released in 2019, technically, it offered nothing new. The analog design was simpler than previous G-Shock models. But its resemblance to the Royal Oak attracted collectors worldwide. The model featured a striking octagonal bezel and became the thinnest in the G-Shock series. Rapidly growing popularity made the watch scarce, and for some time, they sold for more than the recommended price.
In comparison, the price of the CasiOak was several times the retail cost of regular G-Shock watches. Of course, no one would mistake the quartz ana-digi Casio for ultra-luxury Swiss watches, but the proportions and profile of the CasiOak appealed to many due to its affordability. These were Japanese tool watches supporting the G-Shock tradition of strength. Over time, the hype has somewhat subsided, but the model remains in demand today.
Main Features of G-Shock CasiOak
The standard GA-2100 model boasts a unique design. A resin case with a diameter of 45.4 mm and a thickness of 11.9 mm, with a lug-to-lug distance of 48.5 mm. The crystal is mineral. Water resistance is 200 meters, which is quite respectable. Despite the size, the watch looks compact on the wrist thanks to the small lug length.
The octagonal bezel is the source of the "CasiOak" nickname. The metal versions are slightly larger than the resin ones, but Casio executes the finishing at a high level. The bracelets, whether resin or metal, have a tapering shape and sturdy hardware. The end links of the metal bracelets resemble those of expensive Swiss watches. Good quality is also noticeable in other elements, such as the bezel construction, which protects the integrated crystal.
The central element is a three-dimensional dial with analog and digital functions characteristic of G-Shock. The dial is adorned with a relief ring, and the digital display is located between the 3 and 6 o'clock marks. On the other side of the dial is a small seconds hand.
The only weak point could be the luminescent hands: they quickly lose luminosity after exposure to light. However, the backlight is activated by a button and illuminates both the analog and digital elements.
The functions are controlled by side buttons: the lower left switches modes (local time, world time, stopwatch, timer), the upper right activates the backlight, and the lower right adjusts settings. The collection includes models with Bluetooth and solar charging, as well as various straps for modding.
Popular CasiOak Models
Most Royal Oak alternatives are costly, except for specific homages. Even the Tissot PRX costs several hundred dollars. Therefore, the CasiOak maintains significant global popularity. Below is a brief overview of popular models.
CasiOak GAB-2100
Released a year after the original, this model gained smartwatch and Bluetooth features. Setting and time correction can be done through an app, and solar charging supports the mechanism's operation. The dial features mode and battery charge indicators. Additionally, there is 1/100-second accuracy, fixed intervals, laps, and a 60-minute timer. Models are easily recognized by the Tough Solar and Bluetooth logos at the 3 o'clock mark. The price is only $50 higher than the base version.
CasiOak GAE2100WE-3A
This model stands out with a forest-style camouflage design, giving it a bold look. Large but balanced proportions are achieved through the square case. The octagonal bezel emphasizes the connection to the Royal Oak, and the case is reinforced with Carbon Core technology - a combination of carbon fiber and resin for strength.
The ana-digi dial with sand-like markers on a matte black background, LCD display for date and seconds, and a day of the week indicator. The functionality includes a stopwatch, a calendar up to 2099 with no adjustments, an alarm, and world time.
An interesting feature is the set of three straps: an integrated rubber, black rubber, and orange NATO, providing unlimited personalization options.
CasiOak GM2100
Since its release, Casio has actively promoted the CasiOak in a more premium segment. The GM2100 variant features a fully metal case with an integrated steel bracelet, enhancing the sense of exclusivity. Models are slightly larger than the original, some with gold accents for a more luxurious look.
CasiOak GAE2100GC-7A
The series includes "icy" variants, such as the GAE2100GC-7A with a snowflake camo pattern on a white icy-textured case. This variant gives the collection a modern and fresh appearance.
Alternatives to CasiOak
If the CasiOak's price seems high or you want more color options, consider the following alternatives based on cost, style, and features.
Models GA-B001
GA-B001 is a G-Shock inspired by the Royal Oak concept, with an octagonal bezel, faceted case, and integrated straps. They feature an ana-digi dial and Carbon Core but have a more futuristic and vibrant design. New versions include Bluetooth.
If you like the Royal Oak concept, the GA-B001 is an affordable and functional option with bright colors and unusual cases.
Casio DW-5900BB
When buying a CasiOak at retail was almost impossible, collectors sought alternatives. DW-5900BB is one of them, with an octagonal case and a mesh dial pattern reminiscent of the Royal Oak. The chronograph design gives the model a sporty character.
The tapered rubber strap makes the watch comfortable despite its bulkiness. The black case looks stylish and feels pleasant to the touch. The module includes a countdown timer, five alarms, date, and backlight. These are versatile watches for an active lifestyle and everyday wear.
Citizen Ana-Digi Temp
If you don't like the bulkiness of G-Shock but want an ana-digi display, consider the Citizen Ana-Digi Temp. Citizen is another Japanese brand with a strong digital history and solar technology. The watch features four digital windows and analog hands, done in a retro 1980s style. New models continue the original's traditions, appealing to vintage design lovers.
Modifications of CasiOak
CasiOak satisfied many Royal Oak fans who are unlikely to afford the original. After the release of the first model, modification kits appeared. Modified CasiOak broadened collectors' possibilities, bringing the watches closer to the "Vallee-de-Joux" style.
New cases and bracelets from various materials appeared, offering more freedom in personalization. Modifications are an important part of modern collecting, but there is a risk that visual changes may overshadow the original design.
An example is Rolex watches, which sometimes resemble modified Seiko, although Seiko, in turn, was inspired by Rolex. It will be interesting to observe how this trend affects the perception of watches in the future.
Mod CasiOak Galaxy
If you want to add vibrant colors and love modifications, consider the G-Shock CasiOak Full Metal Rainbow. This is a joint project by the British brand Dial Artist and IFL Watches. Imagine the Breitling Superocean Rainbow combined with the geometry of the Royal Oak.
The watch stands out with a multicolored dial and mother-of-pearl hour markers under a mineral glass on a steel case. The creation and hand-painting took three months. The model quickly went viral on social media, setting a new trend in sports watches.
The company also released a more restrained version of the CasiOak Rainbow with a simple dial and more modest rainbow markers.
Conclusion
The G-Shock CasiOak burst into the world of collecting like a meteor and immediately won the hearts of fans with its octagonal bezel and nods to the Royal Oak. These are some of the thinnest and lightest G-Shocks, yet significantly cheaper than the original Audemars Piguet. But is the CasiOak worth its popularity? The answer depends on your design preferences. If you like the Royal Oak style, the CasiOak is sure to appeal to you.
One of CasiOak's main advantages is its affordable price. Models with solar charging and Bluetooth cost only $50 more than the base version. Bluetooth ensures synchronization with your phone, which is convenient. Metal versions can cost several hundred dollars more, which not everyone finds justified, but compared to the Royal Oak, it's still a good deal.
Is it worth buying a CasiOak today? Without a doubt - yes. These are reliable and functional watches, surpassing competitors in their price segment. And the modification options make them even more versatile.
Do you agree? Share your opinion on the CasiOak: what would you change in the design, and what new features would you like to see? Leave your comments!