G-Shock have added more hype to their recent set of releases with this new line of CasiOak watches. These new timepieces, coming from a long line of successful G-shock CasiOak watches, arrive clad in a fully stainless steel case and bracelet.
While known for their impeccably strong resin-case watches, G-Shock have been expanding as of late. Whether it's their G-Steel watches range, or the release of a titanium MR-G Kiwami square, their list of premium metal watches goes on.
Although we love them for it, perhaps it’s time to accept G-Shock as more than an affordable fan-favourite. This stainless steel CasiOak collection bears more resemblance to the Audemars Piguet ‘Royal Oak’ fromw which it was endearingly named after than your typical G-Shock watch — and yet, they still fit the ‘watches for everyone’ tag seamlessly.
Overview:
- Stainless Steel CasiOak Design
- Returning Visuals
- A New-Look Bracelet
- Stainless Steel CasiOak Features & Specifications
- Our Verdict
Stainless Steel CasiOak Design
The steely GMB2100D-1A, black GMB2100BD-1A, and rose gold GMB2100GD-5A all share the conventions of the classic CasiOak. The beloved octagonal case is still here, expressed in a suave brushed steel look that pairs strongly with the uniform black dials. Each case measures at 49.8mm length, 44.4mm width, and 12.8mm height.
Featuring an attractive depth, their dial showcases both a negative digital screen and a set of hands with bold, textured indices. The hybrid digital/analogue display is typical of the GA-2100 Series, but we'll remind you again just how much visual clarity you get from this dial.
Returning Visuals
You may have noticed the ‘Tough Solar’ and ‘Bluetooth’ markings returning from the recent CasiOak solar & bluetooth models, and yes, those upgrades return here. More on those later.
A black multi-function dial rests at the 9 o’ clock position, also returning from the last release, allowing you an indication of which timekeeping mode the watch is currently in. Even with all these dial complications, the stainless steel CasiOak still feels minimal in presentation, which is nice.
A New-Look Bracelet
This full metal CasiOak bracelet has never looked so close to the original Royal Oak from which it takes obvious inspiration.
There are some subtle differences from the Royal Oak though. For one, the boreholes on either end of the links are far more reminiscent of the original Casio square. And secondly, the steel links hold ‘T’ and ‘Y’ shapes, rather than a flat rectangular form. Even with some major differences, the steel bracelet combines with the vintage hexagon case to remind us of one of the most famous watches ever made.
These new steel link shapes give these CasiOaks a distinctive look from the rest, but it does keep the lengthened look that makes it a favourite. This bracelet has a subtle brush, and a gleaming polished finish that brings it all to life.
Stainless Steel CasiOak Features & Specifications
Following on from the release of the Solar & Bluetooth CasiOak range, this full steel casioak line continues the evolution of the GA-2100 Series G-Shock.
Tough Solar is retained in this newest model, allowing your battery to last much longer than a typical quartz watch. Bluetooth is another welcome feature, allowing you to link with the G-Shock Connected app for a range of new upgrades — including improved timekeeping accuracy and more world time cities.
One of the most useful features of the stainless steel CasiOak is its Super Illuminator light that shines over the digital screen at night. This is a gratifying update for anyone who had reservations about this line’s negative digital display. At night, the time is super visible.
New features aside, this collection does just about everything you expect from G-Shock watches. They're incredibly durable; they keep alarms, stopwatch time, and an automatic calendar that you’ll use everyday.
Our Verdict
This new stainless steel CasiOaks have a premium feel to them, but they don’t leave behind the sporty, affordable qualities that make a G-Shock great. For anyone who’s been waiting to see what a full metal CasiOak would look like, here it is.
There’s no doubt these are impressive looking timepieces. From the new-look bracelet to the brush and polish of the steel; it’s clear that this is a labour of love. Carrying over the bluetooth and solar additions of the last release is a welcome touch, too.
The G-shock CasiOak is as dressy as ever in this multi-layered stainless steel model. The option of black ion-plating, rose-gold plating, and a minimalist steel look awards you plenty of option.
If you are tempted by one of these new metal G-Shock, you’ll be pleased to know that it isn’t excessively priced. It might take a little saving, but you might find a stainless steel CasiOak on your wrist sometime soon.
