Casio G-Shock DW-5000R: A 41-Year Legacy Revived

Celebrating 41 Years of G-Shock: The New DW-5000R

It marks an impressive milestone for Casio as it celebrates 41 years since the launch of the first G-Shock digital watch. The latest release, the G-Shock DW-5000R, is being hailed as the closest recreation to the original DW-5000C that was introduced back in 1983. The new version stays true to the original design, mirroring its dimensions and even the positioning of the dimples on the watch strap.

The Innovation Behind G-Shock

The G-Shock series has always been about durability and resilience. The inspiration for this iconic watch came from a personal experience of Casio's engineer, Kikuo Ibe, whose mechanical watch broke after falling. This incident led to the creation of a timepiece that could withstand shocks and drops. The design philosophy aimed for a “triple 10” resistance: 10-year battery life, 10-bar water resistance, and the ability to survive a 10-meter drop.

A Nostalgic Yet Modern Recreation

While the DW-5000R exudes nostalgic charm, it also boasts modern touches. According to Casio, it is a "higher level of reproduction" compared to previous limited reissues, indicating its potential longevity in the G-Shock lineup. The new model does have slight alterations:

Increased case size from 41.6mm to 42.3mm
Shorter buttons compared to the original
Updated water resistance reading of “20 BAR” instead of “200M”

Despite these minor differences, the essence of the original DW-5000C remains intact. A modern LED backlight and a more sustainable use of "biomass plastic" for its bezel and band reflect Casio's commitment to reducing environmental impact, while key features like the stopwatch timer, multi-functional alarm, and calendar display are still present.

Availability and Pricing

The G-Shock DW-5000R is set to be released in Japan on December 13th, with pricing around 33,000 yen (approximately $217). Casio has been approached regarding its availability in other regions, including the United States, and updates will be provided once information is confirmed.

Conclusion

The release of the G-Shock DW-5000R not only pays homage to the watch that started it all but also ensures that the legacy of durability and innovation continues. As G-Shock expands its offerings, enthusiasts and newcomers alike can look forward to having a piece of history that stands the test of time.