One of the greatest strengths of Casio’s seminal G-Shock series is its immense variety. There is a G-Shock to serve very nearly every taste, and for those looking for a more premium experience than its traditional resin offerings, Casio produces a bevy of designs in stainless steel. While this Full Metal series is comparatively more refined, Casio still allows these models to have fun, as evidenced by its latest release. The new Casio G-Shock GMWB5000RD-4 splashes the traditional G-Shock form in a deep ruby red, adding a striking new dimension to the rugged design.
The most striking element of the Casio G-Shock GMWB5000RD-4 is undoubtedly the 43.2mm stainless steel case, finished with a mix of brushed and polished surfaces accented by a red IP coating. The rugged industrial-inspired form of the original G-Shock DW-5000C takes on a new dimension with this finishing, particularly with the bright polished chamfer surrounding the octagonal bezel. The red tone itself is surprisingly dark and nuanced in initial images, with more of a ruby or wine tone than a vibrant fire engine red. This tone itself may prove divisive, as the more maroon color might feel less impactful than a more saturated red. Casio finishes the case with a black DLC-coated stainless steel screw-down caseback, helping to deliver a robust 200 meters of water resistance.
Casio opts for a negative LCD digital dial for the G-Shock GMWB5000RD-4. In addition to the usual G-Shock complement of complications to display, this dial elegantly integrates the brand’s Tough Solar charging apparatus with a gray and black brick pattern panel on the inner chapter ring. This smooth introduction of a third color beyond the red, black, and white helps to add a sense of visual variety, as does the gold text on the outer chapter ring.
The in-house Module 3229 quartz movement inside the Casio G-Shock GMWB5000RD-4 offers a diverse suite of complications, including a 24-hour split-seconds chronograph, a full perpetual calendar through the year 2099, a 24-hour countdown timer, a multi-function alarm, hourly time signals, and an accuracy of within 15 seconds per month with two-year battery life. To further increase accuracy and functionality, the Module 3229 is equipped with Bluetooth connectivity to allow users to engage with the watch via the G-Shock app, while the Multi-Band 6 atomic timekeeping system automatically adjusts the time via a link to atomic clocks around the world. Casio pairs the G-Shock GMWB5000RD-4 with its beefy, angular stainless steel bracelet featuring a matching deep red IP coating.
Through the addition of an unusually nuanced, complex shade of red, the Casio G-Shock GMWB5000RD-4 brings a more refined interpretation of G-Shock’s wilder side to its more premium Full Metal series. Available for online preorder starting January 15, the Casio G-Shock GMWB5000RD-4 will be available for sale online through the G-Shock SoHo Store, and through select authorized dealers on January 20, 2021, at an MSRP of $600. For more details, please visit the brand’s website.