Skip to main content

The Manual may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

G-Shock watches: Tough, stylish, and built to last

Your ultimate guide to G-Shock watches: Features, models, and buying tips

A watch Casio G-Shock MASTER OF G MUDMASTER Series GG-1000-1A3
G-Shock Master of G Mudmaster Series 2p2play / Shutterstock

Without a doubt, the most durable timepieces found on the market are Casio G-Shock watches, which carry a toughness and innovative design that relegate them to a class all their own. Since debuting in 1983 with the innovative DW5000C, G-Shock has been created to withstand the most extreme conditions and are virtually indestructible. From adventurers to professionals and collectors, G-Shock boasts a wide range of models for every lifestyle and price point. 

Why G-Shock stands out

Every G-Shock watch features shock resistance, G-Shock durability, water resistance up to 200 meters, a stopwatch, and an alarm. Advanced models have countdown timers, world time, multiple alarms, and auto calendars. With basic models available to premier luxury editions, G-Shock gives first-time buyers and avid collectors entry points that work with their budget. 

Recommended Videos

Basic G-Shock models

Close up of Casio G-Shock DW 5600 series.
Casio G-Shock DW 5600 series Cornelius Krishna Tedjo / Shutterstock

The DW-5600, DW-6900, and DW-9052 are basic models that offer shock and water resistance like more expensive models but at a lower price. While they don’t come with multi-city world time and an automatic backlight, they are perfect for casual wear, outdoor activities, and in the workplace.

Solar-powered G-Shock watches

Casio G-shock Japanese wear-resistant and shock-resistant wristwatch
G-shock Japanese watch Ihor Matsiievskyi / Shutterstock

Tough Solar is one feature with G-Shock that uses solar panels to power the watch battery, thereby eliminating the necessity of replacing  batteries frequently. When exposed to ample amounts of light, a Tough Solar watch can go for nearly a decade without requiring maintenance. Some solar models also come with Multi-band 6 atomic timekeeping to ensure precision functionality wherever you may be. 

Big case G-Shock models

Casio G-Shock model GA-100 wristwatch.
Casio G-Shock model GA-100 Nor Gal / Shutterstock

The series includes the GA-100 and GA-110, both of which have been a major component in G-Shock’s resurgence in the premier watch industry. These watches are bold in look and offer supreme functionality, making them a preferred edition for the fashion-savvy man and professionals alike. For wearers that prefer a bold, larger-sized watch, the big case models make for the perfect statement piece. 

Japanese domestic market models

Casio G-Shock Square GW-5000-1JF, Japanese Domestic version G Shock watch.
Japanese G-Shock series Colin Hui / Shutterstock

One of the most sought-after editions on the market, G-Shock’s Japanese domestic market models include the GW-5000-1JF and the GXW-56. Referred to as “The King,” the GXW-56 possesses a unique design and offers functionalities that are only available in Japan. Today, due in part to online sellers, fans of these editions can access them anywhere in the world. 

Mid-range to premium level G-Shock watches

A watch Casio GWG1000-1A9 Mud Master of G Triple Sensor Men’s Watch
G-Shock Mudmaster GWG1000-1A9 Caesar2013 / Shutterstock

The G-STEEL and Gravitymaster Aviation series are an enigmatic blend of the tough and sophisticated, one of the most refined lines from G-Shock. These are analog-digital models that are durable as well as stylish. The Master of G series, which includes the Rangeman, Frogman, and Mudman, (all found within the extensive G-Shock buying guide) have been designed with professionals and nature lovers in mind, complete with advanced sensors to check for altitude, temperature, and much more. 

Limited-edition and luxury G-Shock watches

G-SHOCK watch model MTG-B1000D-1ADR.
G-Shock MTG-B1000D-1ADR Dontree_M / Shutterstock

Even more popular are G-Shock’s limited-edition models created in partnership with artists and other luxury brands. Watches in this series often include unique designs, custom engravings, and special packaging. The MT-G series and MR-G series are the top tier of G-Shock craftsmanship. Handmade in Japan, these timepieces include titanium and sapphire crystal and other advanced features, such as GPS timekeeping, making them an excellent selection for collectors. 

How to select the right G-Shock watch

There are many options available across the G-Shock series, which can be more than a bit daunting. To help you come to a decision and select the best G-Shock watches, first consider your needs as you can decide between the basic and affordable or the luxury and premier. There’s the simple ruggedness of the DW-5600 or the technological wonders of the MR-G series. G-Shock has timepieces for every lifestyle and they are built to stand the test of time. 

Since becoming an iconic symbol in the ’80s, G-Shock is a brand that pushes boundaries and elevates what watches are capable of. Explore the Casio G-Shock series and discover which in its stock fits your sense of style. 

Topics
Triston Brewer
Triston Brewer is a journalist, creative director, fashionisto, and jetsetting digital bon vivant. Brace yourself!
New Ming 37.02 Ghost watch draws inspiration from architectural finishes
Ming's latest platinum watch is reminiscent of architectural components
Ming 37.02 Ghost

Popular for its minimalist aesthetic, Ming is now setting the standards with a new titanium watch, based on a previous 2024 model, the Ming 37.02. While the latest model has the same design as the 2024 edition, it is accentuated by a brushed finish that reflects light stylishly, making the watch look more modern. Ming’s main inspiration for the new watch was metallic finishes from different architectural components—baffles, claddings, struts, and buttresses.

Every Ming watch aligns with a certain theme. The LW.01 model, for instance, is made from a lightweight material and holds the title of the lightest model from the brand. Given that architectural finishes inspire the new Ghost model, the casing is made of Grade 2 titanium, a material that can be molded to align with the architectural theme.

Read more
Jaeger-LeCoultre brings the 1931 Polo Club Traveling Collection to the US
The Jaeger-LeCoultre 1931 Polo Club Traveling collection will be exhibited in May
1931 Polo Club Traveling Collection

Watches and Wonders 2025 was quite immersive—every brand had unique collections that brightened everyone’s world. We are still enjoying every single watch that was brought to the table.

Jaeger-LeCoultre introduced various novelties at Watches and Wonders, including the Reverso Minute Repeater, Reverso Hybris Artistica Calibre 179, and Reverso Tribute Geographic, as well as other timepieces inspired by retro watches from the 20th century. To immerse everyone in their beautiful horological world, the brand will bring the 1931 Polo Club Traveling collection to the US and showcase both heritage and new models in select boutiques in New York and Los Angeles.

Read more
Rolex Submariner: A prestige watch that’s more than just a timepiece
Discover the iconic Submariner: A timeless symbol of luxury and adventure
Rolex Submariner Ref 5512 1972 showing the dial and case

Introduced in 1953, the Rolex Submariner is recognized as the first purpose-built dive watch on the market, boasting water resistance up to 100 meters. In addition to this amazing feature, Submariner Rolex watches also come equipped with other extras that I particularly appreciate, including rotating 60-minute timing bezels, stainless steel cases, stainless steel three-link Oyster bracelets, black dials, and black bezels.

The earliest editions of Rolex Submariner watches featured 37 mm steel cases, no crown guards around the winding crowns, and radium-based luminescence. Eight references were manufactured during this initial phase of the series, ranging in water depth ratings, crown sizes, and dial styles. These early experimentation models only ensured that Rolex perfected a formula that combined elegance and precision. Are you ready to enter the world of Rolex Submariner? Here, we break down the full details of the iconic series.
Key features of the Rolex Submariner

Read more