I recently bought for my son a Casio G-Shock G5600-1DR for his day-to-day use. This is the 4th generation basic G-Shock, produced 30 years after the first G-Shock came out of the production line back in 1983.
This model has, like all newer Tough Solar models, has a Power Save function. This function goes to sleep mode when the watch isn't used for some time during daytime. In Power Save mode, the watch can work in the background for about 11 to 12 months.
Like all G-Shock, the watch has the following functions:
Shock resistant
Solar powered
Water resistant 20 ATM
Dual time
1/100-second stopwatch
Countdown timer (Countdown range: 100 Hour)
Daily alarms 5 independent daily alarms
Hourly time signal
Battery power indicator
Power Saving
Auto-calendar
12/24-hour format
Electro-luminescent backlight
Module: 2597
48.9 X 43.0 X 13.7 mm
Weight: 52.0 g
I tried it and I actually quite like it. It has a nice size that is universal. Not too big and not too small. As I am getting a bit old and starting to have problems focusing on small stuff (need bifocals!), the large digits on the LCD is large enough to not give me problems.
The Casio G-Shock series have been around since 1983 and have a very strong cult following due to its ability to withstand battering. Despite being a watch collector that tends to collect watches with significant contribution to the world of horology, I have yet gotten a G-Shock in collection thus far. However, today a new chapter has dawned and the collection has a new member in the form of the Casio G-Shock Black Out Basic Series GX-56BB-1DR.
The GX series are typically called the “King of G-Shock" models. These are the biggest G-Shocks ever produced by Casio. The company launched the first back in 2010. It has the classic 5600 G-Shock design but in a size that is close to twice the size. The over-sized design is its call to fame. Unfortunately, for some people, the size could be a bit overwhelming.
I got the watch from the Watch Style of Mid Valley Megamall. The MSRP was RM809 (with GST). I was able to get it for RM680. Although I believe I could get it cheaper elsewhere, I still decided to get it from this brick and mortar shop due to the personal service rendered.
The GX-56BB-1DR is the latest iteration of the “King of G-Shock" models. Released from the second half of last year, the 1DR is a black out military design with a negative-film style display. It has the familiar TV case design with dimensions of 55.5 mm (N-S), 53.6 mm (E-W) and 17.5 mm tall. It is a light watch of just 88 gm due to the extensive use of resin as the main material for the watch.
Unlike the standard “King of G-Shock" models, the dial on the GX-56BB-1DR is devoid of any colours except black, grey and thin lines of white. It is also rather sparse when it comes to notations. Below is a side to side comparison between the 1DR (Left) and a 1ADR (Right).
Functionality is as expected of a standard G-Shock. Details can be found at the end of this review (See Watch Specifications).
Unlike the more commonly seen 5600 series G-Shock model, the four pushers are housed in a prominent housing and capped with a substantial resin cap. These caps are mud-resistant i.e. you can engage the buttons even when immersed in mud or water. Water rating is 200 meters, similar to its other brethren.
The straps are 30 mm at the lugs and tapers down to 22 mm at the buckle. The heavy-duty buckle has a double hook and secured firmly to the end of the strap via a screwed tube pin.
Below is a photo of the case-back.
Below is the photo of the electro-luminescent (EL) back-light in action. As you can see, the EL generates a nice blue-green afterglow.
I won’t go further into describing the watch as there are already a number of reviews done on the watch and series. What I plan to do is go through my views about the usability and practicality of owning and using the “King of G-Shock" model as a daily wear.
The most obvious question to ask is the size issue. Let’s face it; this watch is big which limits its usage in formal functions. As it was advertised, the GX-56BB-1DR is truly a sport watch to be used in active situations. However, it may not be as practical as many would think. Having a chunk of plastic over your wrist may not necessarily be advantages, unless you crave attention. For an adventurer, anything that limits movement without the added payoff benefits is not useful. For that size, I would choose instead the Casio Protrek series as it would at least give me compass bearing, barometric and altitude functionality. If I need more, I would even get the Suunto Traverse Alpha series of watch that could give an additional GPS functionality (if we want to keep to Casio, perhaps the Protrek WSD-F20BK Android Smart Watch would be another option).
As it stands, this watch has wrist presence that would make any wearer proud. The only feedback I have on this is perhaps an extension strap be included in the package. This watch would look good being worn over jacket sleeves. Having an extension strap will give the added length needed to do this.
The second issue is visibility. The blackout option with the negative display is great when viewed through the military context. Therefore, you should need to know its limitations otherwise you would be complaining without reason. If you need a watch that is bright, this is not the one for you. It is never meant to be anyway.
The watch has more than sufficient volume to add a radio wave antenna for time keeping accuracy. I would love it if such functionality is made available (previous JDM version of the GX used to have this function). Although I would not be able to take advantage due to my location, other users may be in the position to gain from that option.
The watch is comfortable to wear, provided you have the necessary wrist size to carry it. I have not had the opportunity to wear the watch in a wet and humid environment but I suspect it would not be an issue. If you happen to wear a long sleeve shirt, do ensure the cuffs is wide enough.
Below is a video of the watch on my wrist.
The limited flexibility could be why it has never been put in volume production like the more useful 5600. Although Casio was correct in interpreting the practical value of the watch, the demand from the fan base is overwhelmingly more than the supply. Hence the high secondhand value of this series due to demand.
In conclusion, this is a serious watch that does not have the flexibility like its smaller brother, the 5600 series. Its brute bulk is its call to fame.
Watch Specifications
Case / bezel / Band material: Resin
Shock Resistant
Mineral Glass
Mud Resistant
200-meter water resistance
Electro-luminescent (EL) backlight with full auto EL light, selectable illumination duration and afterglow. The EL is blue green
Solar powered
World time with 31 time zones (48 cities + coordinated universal time) and daylight saving (DST) function
1/100-second stopwatch with measuring capacity: 23:59'59.99''. Measuring modes: Elapsed time, split time, 1st-2nd place times
Countdown timer with measuring unit of 1 second with countdown range of 24 hours. Countdown start time setting range: 1 minute to 24 hours (1-minute increments and 1-hour increments)
5 daily alarms (with 1 snooze alarm)
Hourly time signal
Battery level indicator
Power Saving (display goes blank to save power when the watch is left in the dark)
Full auto-calendar (to year 2099)
12/24-hour format
Button operation tone on/off
Regular timekeeping: Hour, minute, second, pm, month, date, day
Accuracy: ±15 seconds per month
Approximate battery operating time is 11 months on rechargeable battery (operation period with normal use without exposure to light after charge); 27 months on rechargeable battery (operation period when stored in total darkness with the power save function on after full charge)
Casio produces a number of G-Shock watches only for sale to the Japanese domestic market (JDM). This list of JDM G-Shocks focuses on the 5000-series such as the common DW-5600 and the GW-M5610 models.
I currently have only one G-Shock in the collection (although I listed two on this blog, the G5600-1DR is technically my son's). That is the extra-large GX-56BB-1DR which has some drawbacks due primarily to its size. Although it is a serious tool watch, it does not have the flexibility like its smaller brother, the 5600 series. Its brute bulk is its call to fame.
I need to get a 5600 series model into the collection to experience the additional flexibility of the much smaller and practical classic G-Shock. After doing my research, I decided to get one with a composite bracelet instead of the traditional resin band (like my son's). This particular model I chose has the same style of display like the big brother i.e. a reverse display - white display with black background.
I was able to find one from SeiyaJapan. The MSRP (including the local sales tax) is YEN25,920 (YEN24,000). SeiyaJapan listed it for USD199. This comes out to RM814.63. Additionally, I have to pay RM48.88 for GST.
The square face of the GW-M5610BC-1JF came from the original design of the DW-5000C back in 1983. Although it inherits the first G-Shock design, this latest iteration is equipped with the latest technology. It is also a JDM model.
The GW-M5610BC-1JF is a solar powered and atomic timed GW-M5610 with a composite metal & resin band with a traditional folding clasp. Additional features unique to this model compared to my earlier GX-56BB-1DR is the additional standard radio, multi-band 6 functionality as well as the composite bracelet. If this watch gets anywhere close to any of the six stations, namely in Japan (two stations), China, the United States, United Kingdom and Germany, it will automatically correct the time using the radio signal received. Unfortunately, where I am, it is too far to receive the Chinese station. However, if I bring the watch near the Malaysian-Thailand border, it will latched on to the signal.
The dimensions of the watch is 46.7 mm wide and 43.2 mm tall. It's thickness is 12.7 mm. Made out of resin and metal parts, it is slightly heavier than the all resin version weighing in at 51.7 gm. The bracelet can fit a maximum wrist size about 20 cm (or 8 inches).
Below are some of the other functionality provided with this watch:
Shock resistant
Water resistant of up to 20 ATM (or 200 meters)
Mineral crystal window
World time: 48 cities
Hourly time signal
Stopwatch with 1/100-second accuracy
Countdown timer of up to 24 hours
Daily alarms of up to 5 independent daily settings
Battery power indicator
Power capacity of 10 months of use without the benefit of charging
Power saving mode of 26 months (if activated)
Auto-calendar
Display option of either 12 or 24-hour format
daylight saving time setting function
UTC time display
Electro-luminescent backlight
The Unboxing
As usual, I had to pick up the package at the customs to pay for GST. After making payment I took a few photos of the unboxing.
I was extremely pleased to get a few gifts from SeiyaJapan. I got the latest product brochures from Casio as well as Seiko.
I also received a polishing cloth signed by SeiyaJapan as well as a signed bracelet link remover tool.
Surprisingly, I also got a green nylon strap with this purchase. Considering this watch comes with a bracelet, it can be replaced with a normal 20 mm strap. Additional lug springs were also provided.
The Watch
Size wise, this watch is in the sweet zone. It is a perfect size for a 'beater' sports watch, unlike the more tool-like G-Shock currently available such as the Mudman or Rangmen, this watch is relatively small.
Made out of resin, the watch surface has some flexibility to resist scratches and bumps.
The square casing sits nicely on the wrist. The dial, protected by a mineral crystal window, consists of an LCD screen framed by an efficient solar panel that can even convert energy from florescent lighting of just 500 lux to the rechargeable battery. At full charge, the battery will have enough power to enable the watch to operate continuously for 10 months without charging. If the power saving mode engaged, the duration goes up to 26 months. A power reserve indicator is provided which gives a simple power rating of "H" for high, "M" for medium and "L" for low; each corresponding to a third of the battery power. Additional warnings such as "LOW" and then "CHG" will come out in sequence when the battery power gets dangerously depleted.
The dial has six display sections. The middle section is the biggest and this display the time. The next biggest section is the top section that consist of three display sections in various sizes. Here, the function chosen by the operator (world time or countdown timer or any other function available on the watch) will be highlighted. The smallest section is the bottom part which consists of two display sections namely a simple function indicator as well as a power reserve indicator.
The dial is also covered with many small text to indicate the various functions typical on most Casio watches. Four of the key texts are "TOUGH SOLAR", "MULTI BAND 6", "SHOCK RESIST" and "WATER RESIST 20BAR". All the texts are in white to contract with the dark background. The only colour to be seen is a red triangle under the "SHOCK RESIST" text.
The bezel of the watch is elevated approximately 2 mm above the mineral crystal window. It has a large indented texts on it; "PROTECTION" at the top and "G-SHOCK" at the bottom. This setup provides some protection to the glass from side or glancing impact.
The watch casing has four control buttons, two on each side. These buttons allow users to choose the various functions available as well as adjust the information displayed. For more detail please refer to the manual below.
It is also worth to note that the buttons are fairly small and recessed. Although this keeps them safe from damage or accidental activation, it also makes them difficult to use especially if it is on the wrist. I can just about manipulate the buttons with my nails while on the wrist. Some of you may not be as fortunate.
The illuminator function does not have a good impact due to the reverse display LCD screen. It does allow you to see the information on the watch in the dark but barely. There is also an “Auto EL” feature that detects wrist movement and automatically lights up the watch when you raise and turn it towards your face. Although this is a good feature, the reverse display LCD screen negates its effectiveness somewhat. If you want to get the maximum benefit of this feature, get the model with the standard LCD screen. In that model, the whole LCD screen will glow green when the illuminator function is engaged.
The case-back is a solid stainless steel plate attached via four screws. It is stamped with important information about the watch such as the serial number and more. This watch is made in Thailand and sold uniquely in Japan; hence the JDM classification.
Underneath the case-back is the 3159 module. This module has all of the basic timekeeping functions you want in a digital watch; world time for 48 cities and 29 time-zones, stop-watch, timer, 5 alarms and many more make this an excellent 'do-all' timepiece. The atomic multi-band synchronisation makes it accurate all the time (subject to the watch be under the coverage of the six radio towers). Even if you are not able to utilise this function (unfortunately I am handicapped in this as well) the 3159 quartz module is accurate to +/- 15 seconds per month.
Although this watch is solar powered, the rechargeable battery does not last forever. Eventually it will die and your need to replace it. If you do need to do a battery replacement, please send your watch to a qualified Casio technician. The exercise is not a simple unscrew the back and replace the battery but also involves a series of steps not usually known to the general public. Not all dealers can do it also. Often you would hear horror stories of a G-Shock not working after a battery change. Standard diagnosis is that it is 'spoiled'. More often than not, it wasn't coded properly after the battery change.
The Bracelet
The composite bracelet has the similar metal bracelet design. However, it has metal and resin bits which makes for a rather light bracelet. The outer links are made of a strong raisin polymer while the centre links are made from stainless steel. Each link is held together by a set of small spring bars. Like the watch casing, the bracelet is also black in colour with the steel portion painted black using the PVD technique.
Resizing the bracelet is rather easy as one only need to disengage the spring bars unlike the typical friction pin system of bracelets in the same price points. I had to take out 2 links to fit my wrist properly.
The metal clasp is a double-lock clasp with push button release. It has four micro adjustment points for finer resizing. I especially like the elevated G-Shock logo on the clasp surface.
The Wearing Experience
Compared to the GX-56BB-1DR, the GW-M5610BC-1JF felt so much handier. The size makes it useable in all occasions, even with formal wear. The watch height is not excessive and it tucks under shirt cuffs easily. Moreover, the composite bracelet has a visual cue that is richly metallic and hence seems more valuable than it actually is.
The reverse display also helps mask the "cheap digital quartz watch" impression that such watches generally give off. Due to the proliferation of cheap digital watches from countless factories in China as well as in many other cheap labour countries, a typical John will generally have such notion. Only true watch aficionados will appreciate a G-Shock. I know that this sounds very fashion conscious on my part but in reality, a lot of people do figure this as part of their value judgement. I need to highlight this possibility. Personally, I don't give a damn but if you do, you have to keep this in mind.
Overall, the watch has the 'wear-and-forget' feel to it. As a 'beater' watch, the GW-M5610BC-1JF is so flexible for both male and female. Below is the watch on my wrist.
Below is a video of the watch on my wrist.
Conclusion
In 1981 Kikuo Ibe, an engineer with Casio set out to design a resilient watch. Mr. Ibe wanted his watch design to be thin, able to withstand impacts, and water resistant to a respectable depth. The first model of Casio G-Shock to come out was the DW-5000, the first iconic square "G". The year was 1983.
If you don’t have a Casio G-Shock, I can sincerely say that you don’t have a complete watch collection. The G-Shock evolutionary line is a distinctive horological branch that is as important as the Rolex Submariner branch or the Seiko 5 branch.
Having something similar to the original DW-5000 in the collection completes that journey for a collector.
The Series
The GW-M5610 series was first established 2010. It is the modern version of the DW-5600 and comes with the Tough Solar, Radio Wave and some other functions. There are seven models in the series namely:
GW-M5610-1 / -1JF
GW-M5610BC-1JF
GW-M5610-1BJF
GW-M5610NV-2JF
GW-M5610B-1 / -1JF
GW-M5610BA-1JF
GW-M5610R-1JF
I think the green and blue versions are the nicest.
