As a surfer, it has always been difficult for me to choose a tough watch that would accompany me in conquering the mightiest waves throughout the world. In my quest to find the perfect watch, I suffered multiple heartbreaks when my expensive watches became the victims of ferocious waves. Finally, I decided to test the G-Shock watches, which had often been suggested by my fellow athletes.

What is so special about G Shock watches and why are they so popular? G-Shock watches are the pioneers of shock resistance in watches. They have a high tolerance against electric shock, water, gravity, vibration and low-temperature. The vision behind their creation was “creating a watch that never breaks”. Their toughness won them the title of the “toughest watches of all time”. 

Now, most of you would be wondering, watches belonging to this series, for sure, have a high price tag attached to them. However, it is quite the opposite; G-Shock is one of the most affordable well-known watch series ever released. Now, is shock resistance the only good thing about them? Keep reading to discover more features of this gem of a watch.

Who Makes G Shock Watches?

Gravitational Shock, abbreviated as G-Shock, is a watch line produced by Casio, a Japanese electronics company. This shock-resistant watch was designed and developed by Kikuo Ibe. It is manufactured in the Yamagata Prefecture, Tōhoku, Northern Japan. Ibe aimed to make an unbreakable watch, which wouldn’t break, even if dropped. Casio launched the first watch of this series, DW-5000C, in 1983.

Now, let’s learn the design story of the world’s toughest watch:

• G-Shock’s concept was born when Kikuo Ibe set his eyes on a goal centered around the development of an unbreakable watch. It all started when Ibe lost his beloved watch, which was gifted by his father, in an accident.
• This idea was first discussed in a meeting held around 35 years ago. In this meeting, the company’s higher-ups composed a three-men team headed by Kikuo Ibe and placed the responsibility of the unbreakable watch’s design and development on their shoulders.
• The first design was based on the assumption that coating the watch with a soft material would reduce the impact on falling. They choose a shock-absorbent rubber for this experiment. However, no matter how many layers they used, the watch failed to sustain the shock. Furthermore, the multiple rubber coatings made it look like a softball.
• To counter the size issue, they developed a 5-step-shock-absorbent structure. This innovation reduced the watch’s size but increased its electronic parts’ vulnerability.
• Finally, the miracle moment arrived. Kikuo Ibe decided that he would dedicate one week, both day and night, to his research and at the end, if he wouldn’t succeed, then he’ll resign. A decision, which proved to be a ground-breaker in the development of world’s first shock-resistant wristwatch.
• It was almost the end of Kikuo’s final week, he stepped out of his office to relax for a moment and observed a small child playing with a rubber ball. At that moment, an idea struck his mind. He thought of a structure in which the module would float inside a tunnel in the case and in this way, it won’t feel the impact.
• His idea was successful, and Casio developed, DW-5000C, the first shock-resistant watch of the world.

Now, I’ll end the story with an interesting fact related to the testing procedure. Kikuo Ibe’s team wasn’t using any high-tech testing apparatus. They were throwing the watches from their office’s windows, which was on the 3rd floor, at the height of 10 meters.

Are G Shock Watches Any Good?

G-Shock watches are the best in terms of utility and toughness among their counterparts in the same price range. They have a superior electric shock, water, gravity, vibration, shock and low-temperature resistance. They are highly regarded by sportsmen and military personnel.

However, they are bulkier in comparison with other watches; therefore, they aren’t suitable for people who prefer smaller designs.

Casio G-Shock’s toughness has been measured numerous times by subjecting it to various loads and dropping it from high altitudes. However, the most intensive one amongst them was conducted by the Guinness World Record on December 12, 2017.

In this test, the Casio G-Shock DW5600E-1 was placed under a driving truck, weighing 24.97 tons. It was successful in sustaining the load and won the world’s toughest watch’s spot in the Guinness World Record book.

Now, some of you would be wondering, is toughness the only worthy feature of G-Shock watches? No, it has multiple other specifications, which distinguish it from its competitors in a similar price range. Some of them are listed below:

• The light function of G-Shock watches isn’t limited to a miniature light bulb like the others. It has an extra light, termed as EL backlight, which provides extra luminous. You can utilize this function by slightly tilting your hand to one side.
• These watches won’t bother you to change their batteries after every few months. They have a solar-charging system for capturing and converting light into electric power, which is then used by the battery to operate their multiple high-tech features.
• G-shock watches are well-known among the watch enthusiasts for their accuracy. They sync time with different time zones throughout the world with the help of Multiband 6 technology. It is a system that allows them to receive signals from 6 broadcasting stations located in Japan, China, United States, United Kingdom and Germany.
• Each watch from the G-Shock series has unique functions suitable for sports activities. The common ones found in almost every watch belonging to this collection include stopwatch and tide graphs. These two features are specifically handy for soccer and fishing, respectively.
• G-Shock watches won’t leave your side in extreme weather, as they can function in temperatures as low as -20°C.
• As I mentioned earlier, G-Shock watches have exceptional accuracy. However, if due to any reason, your watch fails to display the correct time, you can connect it with your smartphone via the Bluetooth to sync time.

How Long Do G-Shock Watches Last?

Image via survivalmag

Casio G-Shock watches last for decades. Their batteries are the only component that requires replacement. According to multiple watch forums, watch enthusiasts own watches from G-Shock’s 80s and 90s releases, which are still functioning as new. These include, ’83 – DW5400, 83′ DW-5000C-1A, 84′ Dw-5200, 84′ DW-5700C-1V circa and 94′ DW-6200 circa.

Since its inception in 1983, Casio G-Shock has released 5 series. Let’s have a look at their major features and functions:

MR-G

G-Shock collection released this series around 20 years ago. They were the first watches in this collection with a metallic case. The main purpose behind the development of this series was to give a formal touch to the G-Shock series. MR-G watches have evolved a lot since their release and include features such as GPS Hybrid Technology and Dual dial.

Master of G

The Master of G series from the G-Shock collection was created to sustain harsh environments.

Most of its releases include solar-charging system, Multi-Band 6 technology, mud/dust resistance, twin sensor, compass/thermometer, triple sensor, altimeter/barometer, water depth meter, quad sensor, tide graph, moon data, sunrise/sunset data, analog display, 200M water resistance, GPS timekeeping, 3-way time sync via Bluetooth and GPS position tracking.

G-Steel

G-Steel watches have a Carbon Core Guard structure. Apart from toughness, these watches are known for their two-toned aesthetics.

As the name indicates, these watches are made from stainless steel. They have a carbon bezel, tough solar, double LED lights, battery level indicator, shock resistance and 3-way time sync via Bluetooth.

Analog-Digital

As the name indicates, G-Shock Analog-Digital watches are a combination of analog and digital. Like other G-shock watches, Analog-Digital is also shockproof with a water resistance of up to 200 meters.

S-Series

Are you a woman who loves a tough watch on her wrist? If yes, then G-Shock S-Series is a must for your wardrobe. Casio released the S-Series after the continuous demand of women for a watch as sturdy as the G-Shock. Watches belonging to the S-Series have similar features as the other G-Shock watches.

Are G Shock Watches Waterproof?

Image via Casio

The watches belonging to the G-Shock series aren’t waterproof, but rather water-resistant. They can resist damage in water up to 200 meters, which is equal to 660 feet. This collection has the motto of “Triple Ten”, which means its watches have shock-resistance up to 10 meters, water-resistance up to 10 bars and a battery life of 10 years.

Now, some of you might be confused between water-resistant and waterproof.

• Waterproof material or device is something which doesn’t allow water to enter its mechanism, for instance, a piece of rubber.
• Water-resistant device means something that restricts water from damaging its parts to a certain extent.

Although G-Shock watches are water-resistant, there are certain rules that you should follow before subjecting them to water:

• Never use your G-Shock or any other water-resistant watch’s button or crown while it is wet or under-water. However, the ones with “DIVER’S WATCH 200M” written on it can survive these operations.
• If you are scuba-diver planning to get your hands on a G-Shock, then remember to check that it has “DIVER’S WATCH 200M” written on it.
• Always rinse your watch with clean water after using it in seawater. Saline water might reduce the watch’s water resistance capacity, if it isn’t cleaned on time.
• Water-resistance doesn’t mean that the watch is soap or detergent-resistant; therefore, you should avoid wearing them while bathing or showering with soap, shampoo and other such substances containing chemicals. Negligence in this regard might result in a water-resistance reduction.

What is the Best G Shock Watch?

Amazon is filled with Casio G-Shock watches, and it is quite tricky to pick an original one.

However, you don’t have to worry about it, because I am here to help you out. Below, I have compiled a list of top Casio G-Shock watches currently available on Amazon:

1. G-Shock Men’s GD 350 Watch
2. Casio Men’s G-Shock GW6900-1
3. Casio G-Shock Tough Solar GW-M5610BC-1JF Men’s Watch
4. Casio Men’s GG-1000-1A3CR Mudmaster G-SHOCK
5. Casio G-Shock 2018 GX56BB-1
6. G-Shock Women’s GMA
7. G-Shock Women’s GMA-S110MP-4A1CR Pink Watch

G-Shock Men’s GD 350 Watch

Are you in search of a sturdy watch under $100? If yes, then you need to check out the G-Shock Men’s GD 350 watch.

This black beast is not just shock-resistant but also has a water-resistance up to 200 meters. This watch won’t leave your side in the darkest of places, thanks to its Auto LED Backlight (Super Illuminator).

This watch is, specifically, suitable for people who travel a lot, and often, struggle in syncing their watch with the current time zone in a foreign land. It can sync time with 35 time zones (100 cities) with the city name displaying on the dial. In addition to this, it has an exceptional stopwatch, which has an accuracy of 1/100 second.

Furthermore, the G-Shock Men’s GD 350 won’t let you miss your early morning meetings through its 5 alarms, including a countdown alarm. Following are a few of its aesthetics’ details:

• It has a Resin case and band, having a diameter of 49 millimeters and a width of 29 millimeters respectively.
• It has a black band and a grey dial.
• It shows day, date and month on its digital display.
• Its bezel is made from Resin.

Casio Men’s G-Shock GW6900-1

Most of you would agree that battery replacement in wristwatches is quite bothersome. However, the recent inclusion of Tough Solar technology has removed this burden. If you are in search of a watch with a solar-powered battery at an affordable price, then check the Casio Men’s G-Shock GW6900-1 Tough Solar Sport Watch.

The Tough Solar Technology present in this watch doesn’t require continuous or regular energy provision; in fact, you can keep it functional for 5-23 months without exposure to any light. Furthermore, you can charge it with any type of light; however, the rate of charging differs with the source of light.

Apart from this, the GW6900-1 has multiple other attractive features. Below, I have listed a few of them for your convenience:

• It has a water resistance of up to 20-bar.
• It has an EL backlight, which allows you to check the time in all situations regardless of the light condition.
• Its superior shock-resistance allows it to sustain impact and vibrations.
• It has Multiband-6 Technology, which allows it to sync time accurately by receiving signals from 6 stations located at different parts of the world.

Casio G-Shock Tough Solar GW-M5610BC-1JF Men’s Watch

Another great option in the G-Shock watches with the Tough Solar Technology is the GW-M5610BC-1JF Men’s Watch.

Just like other releases in the various collection of G-Shock series, this watch also includes the Multiband-6 Technology, which allows it to sync time at multiple locations throughout the world by receiving radio signals from 6 stations situated in Japan, United States, United Kingdom, Germany and China.

This watch shows time through the Japanese Quartz movement. Let’s discuss its case and band’s material and dimensions, and other aesthetic features:

• It has a Resin case and band, having a diameter of 47 millimeters and a width of 19 millimeters respectively.
• It is completely black and has a 3-Fold One Push Buckle.
• Casio G-Shock designed this watch for athletic purposes.
• It has a digital display and a brushed case finish.

Casio Men’s GG-1000-1A3CR Mudmaster G-SHOCK

Do you often find yourself in harsh weather? Are you on a look-out for a watch to sustain mud and dust at an affordable price? If yes, then the latest edition in the Master of G Mudmaster collection might be the most suitable timepiece for you.

The Casio G-Shock GG-1000-1A3CR Mudmaster is exclusively designed for adventurers seeking thrill in areas covered with mud or dust, such as the deserts. Its structure contains multiple gaskets placed over pipes to trap mud and sludge before it intrudes with the internal functions.

It has numerous other attractive features suitable for rangers and rescue crews. Some of them are listed below:

• It has a built-in electronic compass, a handy feature in harsh environments.
• It has an illumination light. However, it is seldom required as the glowing hands of the watch make it easier to read time in the dark.
• It has a mineral crystal dial window.
• It has a water resistance of up to 100 M.

Casio G-Shock 2018 GX56BB-1

Does any of you know which watch is termed as the King of G-Shock? Well, it’s the Casio 2018 GX56BB-1!

Now, most of you would be wondering, why is it called the “King” of the toughest watch series of the world? The Casio 2018 GX56BB-1 is a combination of all the major features found in the G-Shock watches. It would take quite a while to discuss all of them; therefore, I have listed the top 4 ones below:

• It has the Tough Solar Technology, which eliminates the battery replacement struggle.
• It is shock-resistant and water-resistance. It can sustain up to 200M in the water.
• It is mud resistant, which makes it suitable for harsh environments.
• It has a completely automatic EL backlight with afterglow.

G-Shock Women’s GMA Series

Are you a woman who envies men when you see them sporting a Casio G-Shock watch? Well, not anymore! Have a look at the GMA-S120MF-7A1CR, right from the G-Shock S-Series, exclusively designed for tough, yet classy women.

You can rock this watch on all occasions and with various dressing styles. It is both, stylish and unbreakable, and includes G-Shock’s signature water and shock resistance. It is highly suitable for adventures involving hiking, rock climbing and even diving.

This white and rose gold beauty has 4 daily alarms and a snooze alarm. Furthermore, it has a stopwatch, which is accurate up to 1/100 seconds. In addition to this, there are multiple other features; what are these? Let’s have a look:

• It shows day, date and month on its digital display.
• It has an estimated battery life of 3 years.
• It has a Stainless-steel case and Resin band, having a diameter of 50 millimeters and a width of 29 millimeters respectively.
• It has a rose gold dial and white band.

G-Shock Women’s GMA-S110MP-4A1CR Pink Watch

I often come across people complaining about the lack of feminine colors in G-Shock watches. Well, ladies, I have found an adorable watch from the S-Series, which is not just tough but cute as well.

The baby pink-colored G-Shock Women’s GMA-S110MP-4A1CR is designed for women with an active lifestyle.

It has multiple functions, which are suitable for activities involving harsh weather and water. The prominent ones include 200M water resistance, speed indicator, shock resistance, world time and stopwatch. Following are a few of its aesthetic specifications:

• It has a Resin case and band, having a diameter of 49 millimeters and a width of 25 millimeters respectively.
• Its main attraction is the baby pink band and dial.
• Its baby pink bezel has bronze detailing.
• It displays time in both, 12 and 24-hour format.

Whether you belong to the military, play extreme sports, or run a business, the Casio G-Shock collection has a sturdy watch to keep you updated with accurate time for every occasion. This shock-resistant watches series, whose idea was born due to an accident with its creator, Kikuo Ibe, is considered as the toughest one in the world. If you work in harsh environments or underwater, then a Casio G-Shock watch is a must-have in your accessories wardrobe. Let me know in the comments below that which one is your favorite and why!