On November 10, 2023, in Tokyo, Casio Computer Co., Ltd. unveiled the latest additions to its line of G-SHOCK watches, specifically crafted to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the G-SHOCK brand. The new GCW-B5000UN, available in two models, joins the revered 5000 line, preserving the iconic form of the original G-SHOCK while incorporating carbon materials to achieve a blend of heightened strength and reduced weight.
Since the introduction of the DW-5000C in 1983, marking the inception of the G-SHOCK, the brand pioneered a revolutionary product category known as the “tough watch.” Driven by an unwavering commitment to toughness, recent G-SHOCK watches have increasingly incorporated carbon materials, known for their sevenfold strength compared to stainless steel and lightweight characteristics. Today, G-SHOCK watches are meticulously crafted using resin, metal, or carbon, often combining more than one of these materials in a single model.
The new GCW-B5000UN joins the 5000 line, retaining the iconic shape of the initial G-SHOCK but achieves enhanced shock resistance through components made with carbon materials utilizing diverse production processes.
This timepiece utilizes different types of carbon materials for the case, bezel, band, and clasp to accommodate the watch’s intricate structure, resulting in a lightweight design at approximately 65 g—61% lighter than its full-metal predecessor, the GMW-B5000D, crafted with stainless steel and weighing around 167 g.
Forged carbon, known for its high flexibility in molding, is employed for the bezel and band, while multilayer carbon is chosen for the clasp’s folding arm due to its remarkable bending strength. Additionally, the monocoque case and integrated case back utilize carbon fiber-reinforced resin.
The design seamlessly integrates G-SHOCK’s enduring commitment to innovation with imagery inspired by the vast expanse of outer space, featuring a motif inspired by the Big Bang and galactic planets. The two-model lineup offers a choice between purple, featuring mixed-color molding with opal specks, and basic black. Noteworthy features include a G-SHOCK 40th-anniversary logo designed by graphic artist Eric Haze, engraved on the underside, adding an extra-special touch. It’s important to note that due to the characteristics of forged carbon, individual variations exist in the pattern, color tone, and distribution/amount of opal specks on the surface of each part (bezel, band, and clasp) for each timepiece, with opal specks excluded in the clasp components.
For more information, please visit Casio.com.