Last month, Casio surprised everyone by releasing its first-ever watch with an automatic movement. The Edifice EFK-100 series jumps on the integrated bracelet sports watch bandwagon, offering several different colors, including this steel and forged carbon, EFK-100CD-1A. Although they are sold out at the moment, I was able to borrow one from Random Rob.
First Impressions of the Casio Edifice Automatic EFK-100CD-1A
In addition to the genuine forged carbon dial, the EFK-100 series is available in steel with green, blue, and white dials that feature a forged carbon look. A carbon case version is also available outside the US. I like this version, as steel lends itself well to an integrated sports watch, and I find the real forged carbon attractive.
Casio Edifice Automatic EFK-100CD-1A Details
The case has sharp edges, with polished sides and brushed top surfaces. The sloped bezel is also fully polished. Overall, the finishing is suitable for a $300 watch, but not as sharp as more expensive watches.
Wearing the Casio Edifice Automatic EFK-100CD-1A
The 39mm case wears comfortably, and is a good size to straddle being dressy and sporty.
The automatic movement makes it thicker than the Oceanus, but 12.5mm thick should still please most people.
The hands are skeletonized, but have brushed top surfaces and polished sides. The polished and brushed hour markers appear to float over the dial, reflecting light as well. The result is good legibility, but without the sharpness or sparkle that you'd find on a Grand Seiko.
Lume is applied to the hands, but it is minimal due to the skeletonization. There is also no lume on the hour markers, which severely limits nighttime legibility. It's understandable considering that this is not a tool watch, but something to be aware of if you love lume.
Casio Edifice Automatic EFK-100CD-1A Bracelet
The integrated H-link bracelet features brushed surfaces with polished facets between the links. It's thin, with excellent articulation. The clasp is slim and features two micro-adjust positions. 
The integrated male end links add some height to the watch, but even including them, it is only 48.5mm tall. It will still fit smaller wrists just fine.
StrapHabit doesn't currently sell straps to fit this watch, but you can view our favorite straps for your other watches at the links below. You can also view our Guide to Choosing a Watch Strap.
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Casio Edifice Automatic EFK-100CD-1A Movement
Casio Edifice Automatic EFK-100CD-1A Conclusion
While there is nothing groundbreaking about the Casio Edifice Automatic, it could bring fans of the Casio brand into the world of mechanical watches. It's less expensive than a quartz Tissot PRX, and much cheaper than the automatic version. A Citizen Tsuyosa is also more expensive than the Casio. Overall, it is an attractive watch at an affordable price.
Casio Edifice Automatic EFK-100CD-1A Specifications:
Name: Casio Edifice Automatic Forged Carbon
Reference Number: EFK-100CD-1A
Price: $300
Width: 39mm
Height: 43.5mm
Thickness: 12.5mm
Weight: 148g
Movement: Module 5755 (Seiko NH35)
Power Reserve: 40 hours
Water Resistance: 100m
Crystal: Sapphire
Bracelet: Stainless steel