Chapter 1
1983
The Birth of G-Shock
In 1981, Casio’s head of watch design, engineer Kikuo Ibe, initiated the development of G-Shock after a personal mishap: dropping his mechanical watch, a cherished family heirloom, which shattered upon impact.
Push The Boundaries
Inspired by this incident, Ibe envisioned a timepiece that could withstand the rigors of daily life. Forming a small project team dubbed “Team Tough,” consisting of just three members, Ibe set forth three key design criteria, famously known as the Triple Ten: endure a 10-meter drop, withstand 10 atmospheres of water pressure, and boast a battery life of 10 years.
Over the course of two years, the team encountered numerous challenges as they worked towards the release of the first G-Shock watch. Ibe’s determination led to a breakthrough when he observed the resilience of a rubber ball’s center during impact on a playground visit. Drawing inspiration from this observation, the team integrated similar shock-absorbing principles into the watch’s design.
This innovative approach culminated in the launch of the inaugural G-Shock, the DW-5000C, in April 1983.
Eventually, Ibe was able to solve the size issue by devising a five-stage shock-absorbing structure designed to protect the core components of the watch with five cushioning materials.
Prototype & Test
The problem, however, then became that just one of the electronic components would break in the drop test. A vicious cycle took hold: when he strengthened the component that had broken, it would cause another one to break instead.
Despite initial setbacks, Ibe’s determination led to a breakthrough when he observed the resilience of a rubber ball’s center during impact on a playground visit.
Drawing inspiration from this observation, the team integrated similar shock-absorbing principles into the watch’s design.
The seemingly endless days of this trial and error stretched on and on. Over the course of two years, the team encountered numerous challenges as they worked towards the release of the first G-Shock model, the DW-5000C.
Chapter 2
1993
Commitment to Innovation
Over the years, G-Shock watches have continued to push the boundaries of technology and design.
In 1993, Casio unveiled the DW-6300 Frogman, heralded as the inaugural ISO 6425 certified diver’s watch within the G-Shock series. This release also inaugurated the MAN, or “master of G,” lineage within G-Shocks, serving as a platform to introduce novel features and functionalities to the product line.
Triple 10 Concept: G-Shock watches are designed to withstand a 10-meter drop, have a 10-year battery life, and offer 10-bar water resistance.
Shock Resistance: The G-Shock's shock-resistant structure includes a hollow case design and floating module.
Tough Solar Technology: Many G-Shock models feature solar-powered rechargeable batteries, reducing the need for frequent battery replacements.
Multiband 6 Technology: G-Shock watches can synchronize with atomic time signals from six different transmitters worldwide for unparalleled accuracy.
Bluetooth Connectivity: Recent G-Shock models feature Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to connect their watches to smartphones for additional functionality.
Tough Movement: G-Shock watches are equipped with a quartz movement system designed to withstand strong impacts and vibrations.
Carbon Core Guard Structure: The integration of carbon fiber reinforcement in the case improves strength and durability.
Chapter 3
2000s
Fashion and Pop Culture
G-Shock's robust and edgy designs have not only appealed to professionals and adventurers but have also gained immense popularity in the world of fashion and pop culture. The brand's association with music, sports, and celebrities has elevated its status to a global phenomenon.
Numerous musicians and DJs, including Eminem and Pharrell Williams, have endorsed and worn G-Shock watches. Limited-edition collaborations with famous music artists have become collector's items.
Did You Know?
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The Origin
The G-Shock 35th Anniversary "The Origin" collection featured reissues of iconic models, including the DW-5035D, paying homage to the first G-Shock.
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Material Challenges
G-Shock's love for innovation extends to materials like sapphire crystal, ceramic, and titanium in their premium models.
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Collector's Gems
G-Shock's rugged and stylish designs have been embraced by fashion-forward individuals, from streetwear enthusiasts to high-fashion designers. Collaborations with fashion brands such as Stüssy and Comme des Garçons have further solidified G-Shock's place in the fashion world.
