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The First Generation "G-SHOCK" Gets a Faithful Revival with Modern Technology! Unveiling the Evolution of a Masterpiece
The original G-SHOCK that debuted in 1983, known as the “first model,” was re-released at the end of last year, reborn with the latest technologies.
Why launch the “first model” now? Let’s explore what makes this revival so appealing by looking at the differences between the original and the new edition.
Aiming for a Perfect Visual Recreation
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In 1983, Casio proudly launched the G-SHOCK as a "tough watch that won’t break even if dropped." More than 40 years later, its famed durability and unique style continue to make it a worldwide favorite and secure its place as a true icon in the history of timepieces.
Through years of numerous spin-offs, the original “first model” DW-5000C has been revived at the end of 2024 with modern technology as the DW-5000R-1AJF.
In the photo, the left is the revival model "DW-5000R-1AJF" (from now on, 5000R), and the right is the original "DW-5000C" (hereafter, 5000C). At first glance, they’re nearly indistinguishable—the design has been recreated with remarkable fidelity.
We spoke in detail with Shinji Saito, currently head of product planning at Casio Computer Co., Ltd., about the revival process for this model.
"Our goal was a completely faithful visual recreation. While there are now many G-SHOCK spin-off models, we wanted people to rediscover the value of the original model by revitalizing it through today’s technology.
For generations who remember its debut, the appeal is obvious, but for younger fans who may not know its history, we felt it was essential to reintroduce G-SHOCK’s unique charm.
To avoid any criticism from dedicated collectors, we scoured every bit of documentation we could find! (laughs)"
The red frame and brick pattern inside the bezel and the absence of upper and lower bumpers—trademark details of the "5000C"—are perfectly reproduced here.
The blue water resistance marking at the bottom left of the display uses different wording due to current standards, but replicates the overall design in a contemporary style.
The placement and depth of the pair of dimples at the connection between body and band are also meticulously restored. The size is almost identical to the original 5000C.
The strategy to boost a brand’s value through the enduring presence of its original models is a classic move for watchmakers with long histories.
Forty years on, G-SHOCK now stands shoulder-to-shoulder with other respected heritage brands, which is no understatement.
“Rather than releasing an anniversary edition, we made it a regular product so all generations could enjoy it for years to come.
Of course, owning a vintage ‘first model’ as a pre-owned item is nice, but when you take modern standards of durability into account, we want people to experience the unique charm of the original by wearing the ‘5000R’ as an everyday watch.”
This is why the "5000R" focuses on faithfully recreating the original rather than including the many features that have evolved over time.
Eco-Friendly: Adapting to the Times with Biomass Plastics
In terms of design, the "5000R" is faithfully reproduced, but there are three major differences from the original "5000C."
1) Adoption of biomass plastic for the resin parts
2) Switch to an LED backlight
3) Equipped with the latest movement
Among these, the use of biomass plastic is arguably one of the highlights of this reissue.
"We needed to demonstrate the evolution of the modern wristwatch. In reality, after more than 40 years since its debut, its performance has also improved.
On the other hand, we also needed to address sustainability, so the adoption of biomass plastic was an unavoidable path."
By adopting plastic that uses renewable organic resources such as castor oil and corn as raw materials, the brand helps reduce environmental impact.
"G-SHOCK has been using it since 2022. Because the properties differ from conventional resin, there have been challenges, such as ensuring stability in injection molding.
At the same time, we have built up expertise for using this material in watches."
Repeated testing, such as for durability, revealed difficulties in bringing the product up to standard for commercialization.
This was also a significant point for maintaining the shock resistance value that G-SHOCK has established.
"When it comes to molding this material into molds, conditions differed from conventional resin in terms of fluidity. After much trial and error, we made improvements and finally brought the product to market.
Specifically for the '5000R,' we wanted a full reproduction, so our designers painstakingly compared hand-drawn diagrams with the actual product to make detailed refinements.
Since the band in particular has a lot of texture on its surface, it tended to stick to the mold, requiring detailed design adjustments in cooperation with the Yamagata team to bring it to mass production without affecting its appearance.
Based on today’s production standards, these design conditions were actually quite inefficient for manufacturing."
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Additionally, as a performance evolution, the adoption of a brighter LED backlight and a newly evolved movement suited to today’s era are highlighted.
These should be viewed as natural progressions with the times, inheriting the traditions of G-SHOCK watches since their debut in 1983.
The shock-resistant structure arrived at by engineer Kikuo Ibe, the father of G-SHOCK, after repeatedly dropping prototypes from the third-floor window of the R&D Center, has evolved over time.
While incorporating these evolved details, they aimed for a faithful reproduction, noteworthy for the decision to create a brand-new mold from scratch.
"At first, we underestimated and thought we could achieve commercialization by simply tweaking an existing '5600' model’s details and making slight adjustments. (laughs)
However, to realize our vision for the '5000R,' we ultimately needed to make new molds from the ground up."
Faithful Japanese Manufacturing at Casio Yamagata Factory
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In terms of "faithfulness," this also applies to Japanese manufacturing, as was the case with the "5000C."
The production line for this model is set up at Casio's Yamagata Factory, which also manufactures G-SHOCK’s flagship "MRG" line.
"At this point, you’d want to reproduce even the 'JAPAN' engraving on the underside of the pin buckle, right?
Since this is the foundational model, we managed to get it produced—though in small numbers—on the prestigious Yamagata factory line in Japan."
It is precisely because the "back to the origins" approach was so thoroughly executed in every detail that the reissue "5000R" has become a "hard-to-get model."
"The essence of G-SHOCK is its functionality. While it has earned popularity as a fashion item throughout its long history, I believe it is the functional beauty that comes from the pursuit of practicality that has earned it support around the globe.
That's why I want people to experience the reissue of that origin—'5000R'—and rediscover the outstanding utility-driven essence that defines G-SHOCK watches."
Today, many G-SHOCK models are "evolutionary versions" equipped with features like solar charging, smartphone link functions, or radio wave reception technology.
However, we deliberately excluded such additional features and stuck to the original specs for a very specific reason.
If you want to truly appreciate the value of "G-SHOCK"—something Japan can proudly showcase to the world—this "5000R" is your best entry point.
"It's quite difficult to purchase from the official online store.
We apologize for the inconvenience, but please try contacting any of the nine nationwide G-SHOCK STORE locations, the seven G-SHOCK CONCEPT SHOP EDGE perennially available at select watch retailers, or official G-SHOCK authorized dealers. As this is a standard model, production will continue!"
So, in reality, the only way to obtain one is to inquire with brick-and-mortar stores directly.
Even so, since it isn't a limited edition model but a regular production item, consider keeping up your search efforts and do your best to acquire one. This watch is truly worth the pursuit.
Text by Masashi Takamura
PROFILE
Shinji Saito
Casio Computer Co., Ltd. Hamura Technical Center
Head of Watch BU Product Planning Department
Joined the company in 1998. After working on the planning of BABY-G and general watch lines such as EDIFICE, has been in charge of G-SHOCK planning since 2007. Since 2019, has overseen all brands, serving as a key person directing Casio's entire wristwatch business.
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