Buffy Acacia
If you ask someone to name a watch brand, whether they answer Rolex or Casio is probably a coin toss. In particular, G-Shock is synonymous with digital watches.And if you want a watch that won’t break if you get hit by a car, where else can you turn? There are plenty of iconic models to choose from, from adventure-ready beaters to summertime streetwear favorites, Casio G-Shock has it all. Many of these are based on black, but feel free to browse the vast selection of reference models. Many of these are available in the Time+Tide shopFind the color that best suits your personality.
DW-5600UE-1
The square-shaped Casio G-Shock, which has become legendary since its launch in 1983, is the quintessential durable watch. It’s almost impossible to break, unless you hit it with a hammer and nails. The modern DW-5600UE-1 is as close to the original as possible, retaining its octagonal shape, raised shoulders, protected pushers and easy-to-read black numerals dial. A small pop of color around the frame of the newly updated LED screen injects a bit of fun, and the full resin case and bracelet ensure it’s lightweight and practical. Price: USD 74.95
DW-6900-1V
Relaxing its stiff ’80s lines into the ’90s, the G-Shock DW-6900 series reached its zenith on Tom Cruise’s wrist in Mission: Impossible II. The three digital wheels on the face give the impression of a spy device or a navigational cluster. Either way, its chunky circular silhouette is instantly recognizable, and there’s a reason it’s a fan favorite. Price: $84.95 USD
GA-2100-1A Casio Oak
CasiOak probably needs no further introduction than the ubiquitous DW-5600 series. This was one of the few G-Shocks to sell for above list price. Since its release, it has been sluggish on the second-hand market. The situation is not as dire, but it is still one of the best-selling G-Shocks in recent years. Taking a lot of inspiration from the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak, it brings a uniquely digital twist to wristwatch street fashion while still maintaining all the ruggedness and practicality we have come to expect. Price: $99
GM-S5600-1
The GM-S5600-1’s smaller, sleek case may have been designed for a woman, but the result is a modern, gender-neutral take on a vintage classic. The polished steel case and bezel measure 43.8mm x 38.4mm, making it a good choice for those with smaller wrists or who don’t like things too flashy. The dial is cleaner with minimal printed text and a negative LED display, but still has all the timer and alarm features you’d expect from a G-Shock. Price: $160 USD
GBX-100-1
You might scoff at first when you see the G-Lide catalogue. I’m not a fisherman or a surfer, but I follow the tides. Helpful for all walks of lifeNot only that, but the GBX-100-1 also tells you the sunrise and sunset times for your location, making it a handy addition for anyone. The case shape is based on the same elongated octagon as the DW-5600, but the bold steel bezel gives it a sportier look. Syncing with your smartphone is also a nice feature, so the time displayed is always accurate and changing time zones and alarms is easy. Price: $160 USD
GMW-B5000GD-9
A solid gold watch says a lot about a person’s confidence, if not their personality. The Full Metal G-Shock Might Not Be Real Goldbut with decorations that are just as flashy as the real thing. The gold DLC coating not only looks great but also makes the steel case more scratch-resistant. It has a solar-powered module with Bluetooth capability, a smooth negative display, and full LED backlighting for easy reading at night. Price: US$600, available at the T+T shop
Time+Tide Timeless Pick: GMW-B500CS-1 Tron
There are so many limited edition G-SHOCKs that it’s hard to choose just one. GMW-B500CS-1 Tron This is a watch I have personally bought, sold, and then bought again because I was so nostalgic. Perfectly recreating the atmosphere of the 1982 film Tron, the grid tunnel effect is achieved by laser etching into the watch’s highly polished black IP coating, giving it the same liquid-like sheen you’d expect from ceramic. If you like watches that incorporate sci-fi aesthetics and optical surrealism, this is one of the few watches that could survive on the battlefield.
