Can the most extreme G-Shock become even more extreme? Asking the question answers it.
You know that Casio constantly seeks ways to enhance its G-Shock watches, resulting in even more extreme models. The Frogman belongs to the professional MR-G collection. This collection of extreme G-Shock watches includes some of our favorites, such as the Mudman, Mudmaster, Rangeman, and Gravitymaster. Last year, I reviewed the latest two Frogman models, and both were impressive. This year, G-Shock introduces a continuation of these watches. The new Frogman MRG-BF1000B-1A is the first production model with a titanium bracelet, making the Frogman an even more extreme model.
About a year ago, I wrote a detailed hands-on review of the current G-Shock Frogman model, introduced to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Frogman series. For this watch, G-Shock developed a new case construction, used new materials, applied new technologies, and introduced a new design. The result was an impressive watch in every respect. With a price tag of €5,000, the new Frogman was one of the most expensive G-Shocks. But people familiar with G-Shock also know that the Frogman is more than just a watch. The new Frogman MRG-BF1000B-1A reminded me of this in every way.
Hands-on with the G-Shock Frogman MRG-BF1000B-1A
The new Frogman MRG-BF1000B-1A is a variation of the models we reviewed. The first was the MRG-BF1000R-1A model, which I mentioned earlier. These watches introduced a new black and blue design with a Durasoft fluororubber strap. The second model was the limited-edition MRG-BF1000E-1A9 in black and yellow, featuring a yellow Durasoft strap and a black titanium bracelet. The newest Frogman is only available with a titanium bracelet and is the first production model.
The new release is a logical continuation of the first two models. After the black and blue and black and yellow colors, the new MRG-BF1000B-1A model features a black and red color combination. Regarding the dial design, the new watch mirrors the first model in black and blue. Both models feature a colored rehaut with white minute markers. In the limited edition, the rehauts were black and harmonized with the dial, with yellow minute markers. But this is just one element of the dial, as much more is happening here.
Unique Case Construction Still Impresses
But let's start from the beginning. Like the previous models, the new Frogman features a massive 49.7 mm × 56 mm × 18.6 mm case. It is constructed from 70 parts to provide maximum shock protection, practicality during diving, and overall functionality. The asymmetrical case is made of titanium and has a traditional screw-down case back. The bezel is also made of titanium and, like the entire case, has a thick layer of hardening mixture and DLC coating for added durability. Fluororubber parts are placed between the case and bezel to enhance shock protection. The crown, buttons, and screws used in the case construction are also made of titanium.
The case construction features a ring-shaped waterproof gasket. Additionally, the watch is equipped with sapphire crystals on the front and back. As I mentioned in the article about the first model, the sapphire glass is pressed into the titanium case back, ensuring the construction's high airtightness. But Casio also chose this construction to maintain the sensitivity of the built-in antenna to radio waves. A fully titanium case back would have made this impossible, so this solution was ideal. Furthermore, like the first model, the red sapphire case back features laser-etched Frogman logos on the top and bottom, creating a spectacular 3D effect.
Frogman - A Watch for Diving
Protections on both sides of the bezel characterize the Frogman case design. On the left side, there is a large guard protecting the buttons. A smaller guard on the right side protects the crown. By the way, the crown has a hermetic screw-down construction. Like the bezel and case, it also features waterproof fluororubber parts for enhanced shock protection. Overall, the watch design is dramatic and extreme in every way. But as you already understood, it serves a specific purpose.
Don't forget that the Frogman is a very capable dive watch. Like its predecessors, the new model meets the ISO 6425 standard. Therefore, the text "DIVER'S 200M" is proudly displayed on the dial just above the "5 o'clock" mark. Besides the Casio and MR-G logos, this is the only decorative text on a dial filled with functional sub-dials and indicators. Additionally, there is a date aperture between the "4" and "5 o'clock" marks. Large hands and indices feature white luminescent coating that glows blue in the dark, allowing nighttime use.
Premium-Class Module No. 5702
All the Frogman's functionalities are provided by the Casio module No. 5702. The brand uses this module for its premium and more expensive models. It is equipped with standard G-Shock features: stopwatch, countdown timer, alarm, automatic calendar, dual time display, world time, and LED backlight. Additionally, the MRG-BF1000B-1A is equipped with the Tough Solar charging system, Multi Band 6 automatic radio timekeeping, and Bluetooth functionality. The latter allows the watch to connect to a smartphone for various additional functions, including automatic time setting and phone finder.
As mentioned, the Frogman is a diving watch, so the module is also equipped with some diving-specific functions. An important one is that the Frogman can measure dive time up to two hours and service interval time up to 24 hours. Additionally, the watch can record up to 30 log data, including tide graphs. A very convenient feature is access to all various diving functions on land and underwater. Thanks to the case and button construction, the watch remains fully functional during dives.
Wearing the Casio G-Shock MRG-BF1000B-1A
There's a lot to say about this watch. But how does the Frogman wear? As I mentioned in two previous articles, I'm always amazed at how comfortable large G-Shocks are to wear. And the Frogman is no exception. While not modest in size or appearance, it's easy to wear. I preferred wearing the previous two models on a rubber strap. It was the simplest and most comfortable way. However, with the titanium bracelet for the new MRG-BF1000B-1A, it was different, and it was a pleasure.
The DLC-coated bracelet looks very technical, and its style perfectly suits the Frogman. The bracelet is easily adjusted to size with a push-pin tool, and it comes with a dive extension to fit your wetsuit. The bracelet quality is excellent, and the quick-change strap system with a large screw pin is very easy to remove. Unfortunately, the rubber strap is only available separately, and the clasp could use an update. While it's functional, I expect more from a watch in the €5K+ price category. However, once on the wrist, the watch feels familiar, even though it's not a direct copy of the first black and blue model. That model had white text on the case. In this version, the bezel and protective elements are entirely black. Therefore, on the wrist, it seems smaller than the first model.
Final Thoughts on the Casio G-Shock MRG-BF1000B-1A
When worn on the wrist, the watch's stunning finish caught my eye. I've mentioned this before, but Casio really went all out on their premium G-Shock models. We not only get special hardening for increased wear resistance but also visually impressive finishes. As a result, the Frogman feels like a very well-made premium watch. This is to be expected at a price of €5800, but the level of detail in construction and finish is simply impressive. Finally, using the Frogman feels like coming home. If you've ever owned a G-Shock, you'll easily navigate the various functions.
This also brings me back to the question I answered in one of the previous Frogman reviews: who are these new G-Shock MRG-BF1000B-1A watches for? I believe they are for hardcore G-Shock enthusiasts, especially those who love the Frogman. Additionally, I see these watches on the wrists of people with significant mechanical watch collections who simply want practical and functional dive watches to accompany them during dives. It's the perfect tool for such adventures. The third encounter with the current Frogman model made this abundantly clear. These are simply super-impressive G-Shocks that showcase the brand's excellent work.
For more information, visit the dedicated G-Shock page for the new Frogman. Also, let us know in the Telegram channel which of the three Frogman models you like the most.