Source: CASIO. The new flagship store at ION Orchard mall in Singapore.
CASIO has established its latest flagship store in Singapore’s ION Orchard mall. This store showcases a distinctive sculpture by Singaporean artist Jahan Loh. This artwork features a metallic half-body bust that evokes a futuristic cyborg, with the face being a representation of Casio’s iconic watch and its signature rounded rectangular bezel.
Coinciding with the store launch, G-SHOCK, a Casio brand, has unveiled its most recent addition to the G-SQUAD sports series. Crafted for daily wear, the DW-H5600 series boasts features designed for fitness enthusiasts. These features include an optical heart rate sensor and an accelerator sensor for step tracking.
These watches are engineered to provide feedback on various workout types, including running and walking. They offer insights through training analysis, monitor recovery during sleep, and even guide breathing exercises using the Polar library. Additionally, they measure blood oxygen levels. Polar, a Finnish brand and partner with Casio, licenses its technology and algorithms to other companies.
In a move towards sustainability, the materials used in the bezel and band are sourced with a focus on minimizing environmental impact. The straps and case are constructed from bio-based resin, a polymer derived from renewable organic sources through chemical or biological synthesis of raw materials. A memory in pixel liquid crystal display (MIP LCD) ensures time and measurement data are easily readable. The watches can be charged using both USB and solar power.
The DW-H5600EX model stands out with a unique package that includes an extra bezel and band. These additional components feature a printed section of the DW-5000C design drawings, paying homage to the first-ever G-SHOCK watch. They also showcase the vibrant lines of the module wiring diagram.
The DW-H5600 series watches are available at different price points: the DW-H5600-1 and DW-H5600-2 are priced at S$399, while the DW-H5600MB-1 and DW-H5600-2 are priced at S$419 each. The DW-H5600EX-1 is priced at S$619.
This launch also marks the 40th anniversary of the robust G-SHOCK timepiece, first introduced in 1983. To commemorate this milestone, Casio introduced the G-SHOCK 40th Anniversary RECRYSTALLIZED SERIES, comprising three limited-edition models.
The DW-5000, launched in April 1983, holds the distinction of being the first G-SHOCK model. In celebration of this legacy, a special 40th-anniversary model has been crafted. It incorporates a new stainless-steel recrystallisation and deep hardening technology, a technique also applied to the first-generation DW-5000 and its full-metal counterpart, the GMW-B5000.
The DW-5040PG, a reimagining of the original G-SHOCK, features a recrystallized and deep-hardened screw-on case back, buckle, and band loop. Its face proudly displays “PROJECT TEAM Tough”, a tribute to the original G-SHOCK development team. The watch back is finished with black ion-plating (IP), while the buckle and band loop have a gold IP finish. As a subtle nod to the anniversary, four stars symbolizing “40” adorn the loop. The bezel and band are made from environmentally friendly biomass plastic.
The GMW-B5000PS boasts a recrystallized and deep-hardened bezel, band, and screw-on case back. It also features a titanium carbide (TiC) coating for enhanced scratch resistance. The face is marked with “SINCE 1983.” The GMW-B5000PG shares these features but distinguishes itself with a gold IP finish on the recrystallized and deep-hardened bezel, band, and screw-on case back. It also features the “SINCE 1983.” inscription on the face.
A testament to their significance, all three models are engraved with Eric Haze’s 40th-anniversary logo on their backs. Additionally, the lower left button features a star symbol, further distinguishing these models as special editions.
The 40th Anniversary RECRYSTALLIZED SERIES watches are available at the following prices: GMW-B5000PS (S$1,249), GMW-B5000PG (S$1,249), and DW-5040PG (S$449).
CASIO also shared that select G-SHOCK stores will feature centerpieces created by Singaporean artists. These stores will also offer a broader selection of G-SHOCK watches, including the MRG series, limited-edition models, and new releases.
