When most people think of Casio G-Shock watches, they think of durability, style, and affordability. Its best-selling DW5600 can be purchased for under $100, and even versions with features like Bluetooth and heart rate can be had for under $500. Thus, in 2022, when Casio released versions of that iconic square watch costing $3,500 and up, it came as a shock (no pun intended).
While there are G-Shock models that are more expensive than this, it was especially shocking to see the familiar square silhouette in this price range. Since then, I've wanted to spend some time with one to see if a G-Shock can be worth that much money. Luckily, Random Rob offered to let me borrow his (along with the very fun Casio Ring Watch)!
Casio G-Shock MRGB5000D-1 First Impressions
It's interesting to see such a familiar silhouette rendered in bright titanium. While it's still a digital G-Shock, it feels like you're wearing something of higher quality. I've owned a few metal-cased Casioak models with resin straps, but never a G-Shock with a full metal bracelet, so this level of shine was new for me.
Casio G-Shock MRGB5000D-1 Details
The multiple case components and the inner bezel are made of Ti-64, a super-hard Grade 5 titanium alloy. This provides increased scratch-resistance, as well as the ability to be finished in the brushed and mirrored finishes you see here. It then features a titanium carbide coating.
The bezel top is made from what Casio calls Cobarion, a cobalt-chrome alloy four times harder than pure titanium. It is said to offer hardness exceeding that of stainless steel, and a white gleam comparable to that of platinum. The bezel consists of 25 individual components, each polished separately.
The solar panel sits around the outside of the time display. It features operation and spec information, as well as the classic G-Shock brick pattern printed over the solar cell.
Wearing the Casio G-Shock MRGB5000D-1
The MRGB5000 is quite comfortable to wear due to its low weight and thin case.
It doesn't appear too wide or tall, but smaller wrists might have trouble with the height. The main bracelet links have excellent articulation, but the first sets stick out from the watch and don't flex downward, making the actual height of the watch fairly tall.
The positive LCD installed on the silver MRGB5000 provides the excellent legibility that you'd expect from a digital G-Shock.
An automatic LED backlight with afterglow makes it easy to read in the dark as well.
Casio G-Shock MRGB5000D-1 Bracelet
The bracelet consists of solid titanium links with the classic G-Shock recessed circles (this time made from separate pieces). It also has G-Shock's Tight-Lock, 1-press, 3-fold clasp. It is secured to the case by large screws. The titanium used is a special alloy called DAT55G, which is three times harder than pure titanium and is highly workable.
The bracelet also features a locking mechanism to eliminate any chance of dropping such an expensive watch.
Usually, I prefer G-Shocks with rubber straps, as they are more comfortable and lighter, and I don't worry about scratching them like I do metal while doing G-Shock stuff. G-Shock will sell you a less expensive black version, called the MRGB5000R-1, if you prefer to go that route. I was glad to get the full metal experience for this loan, however.
Casio G-Shock MRGB5000D-1 Movement (Module)
The module 3501 is exclusive to the MR-G B5000 series and is packed with all the bells and whistles you'd expect from a G-Shock. It features Tough Solar, Bluetooth connectivity, and multi-band 6 radio-controlled atomic clocks, allowing you to opt out of connecting it to your phone. The display, however, is a basic segmented LCD, rather than a more advanced PIP display like that of the under-$300 DWG5600 fitness watch.
A screw down caseback protects the module. This is a hallmark of high-end G-Shocks, as most models feature a pressed steel back that is secured with four screws. Behind that, a "Multi-Guard Structure" incorporates flat springs and silicon buffers on the bezel to provide increased shock absorption. It also features gold plating applied to the retainer plate for the circuit board, which reduces electrical resistance.
Casio G-Shock MRGB5000D-1 Conclusion
It's difficult to wrap my head around a digital quartz watch that costs $3,500. The large number of intricate components and the finishing of titanium make a higher cost understandable. Still, I haven't found anything that makes the module significantly different or more expensive than that of a more standard G-Shock.
That being said, there are plenty of mechanical watches out there with a basic one-piece steel case and off-the-shelf movement that cost this much. It is impressive that Casio invested in creating such a niche watch. Some people seem to get angry when things are more expensive than they think they should be, but I'm happy this exists. If you see someone wearing one, you know that they are a true G-Shock fan. It's a watch that one buys to enjoy, rather than to impress others. While the MRGB5000 is not something I would buy, it would be very cool to see someone wearing one in the wild.
Specifications:
Name: Casio G-Shock MRG-B5000 Series
Reference Number: MRGB5000D-1
Price: $3,500
Width: 43.2 mm
Height: 49.4mm
Thickness: 12.9mm
Weight: 114g
Movement (Module): 3501
Water Resistance: 200m
Crystal: Sapphire
Bracelet: Titanium