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| Pictured - a side render of the Casio G-Shock GMW-BZ5000D-1, against a black/grey gradient background. |
A new leak suggests Casio is planning a vibrant, limited-edition addition to its premium G-Shock lineup, potentially adding a flash of color to the tool watch world.
If you thought the iconic G-Shock square had reached its peak with Casio's full-metal BZ5000 series, think again. Fresh industry whispers point to an even more eye-catching future for the rugged timepiece. According to a leak from a prominent fan account, Casio is reportedly preparing a rainbow-ion-plated, limited-edition model that could arrive as soon as 2026.
The rumor, which has set watch forums and social media alight, specifically mentions a reference number GMW‑BZ5000RC‑1. This model is described as a "rainbow ion-plated version" of the recently launched GMW-BZ5000, the brand's latest high-end interpretation of the classic square-shaped G-Shock.
The Source of the Speculation
The leak originates from the Instagram account @geesgshock, a well-known source for G-Shock news and rumors within the enthusiast community. The account shared details pointing to a limited-edition release window of early-to-mid 2026.
Important to Note: The image shared in the initial post is explicitly a fan-made mock-up, designed to illustrate the concept, not an official product photo. No specific details about the dial layout, exact color gradient, or case finish have been confirmed. Any visual expectations should be treated as speculative until Casio makes an official announcement.
You can see the conceptual mock-up that sparked the discussion here.
What Would a Rainbow BZ5000 Bring to the Table?
The GMW-BZ5000 series itself is Casio's current flagship "full-metal square." It builds upon the legendary DW-5000C design with a complete stainless steel case and bracelet, yet retains the core G-Shock DNA of shock and water resistance.
Key features of the base series include:
- Full-Metal Construction: Stainless steel case and bracelet with a fine resin cushion for impact protection.
- Advanced Display: A high-contrast, easy-to-read MIP (Memory in Pixel) LCD.
- Tough Solar Power: Never needs a battery change with adequate light.
- Connected Timekeeping: Bluetooth smartphone connectivity and Multi-Band 6 radio control for atomic clock accuracy.
So far, the BZ5000 line has been available in more traditional finishes: sleek silver, bold black, and rich gold. A rainbow-ion-plated "RC-1" edition would act as a dramatic "halo" piece for the collection. This move would follow a pattern set by Casio with previous limited editions, like the radiant rainbow MT‑G and GMW‑B5000 models, which became instant collector's items.
What We Know (And What We Don't)
As with any leak, it's crucial to separate confirmed details from hopeful speculation.
Reported Facts:
- Model Reference: GMW‑BZ5000RC‑1
- Design Treatment: Rainbow ion plating
- Edition Type: Limited Edition
- Target Release Window: Early-to-mid 2026
Still Unknown:
- Official Confirmation: Casio has not listed the model on any regional website or its limited-edition hub.
- Pricing & Availability: No MSRP or market distribution details have been circulated.
- Design Details: The exact execution of the rainbow gradient, dial color, and production volume remain a mystery.
- Press Material: No official press releases or high-resolution images exist.
The Waiting Game Begins
For now, G-Shock fans and watch collectors will have to adopt a familiar posture: patience. The purported 2026 release date means official information likely won't surface for some time. However, the leak successfully builds anticipation for the next chapter in the BZ5000 story, promising a blend of rugged utility and unapologetic flair.
If the rainbow BZ5000 follows the path of its predecessors, it will likely sell out quickly upon release. In the meantime, those looking for a more accessible and colorful G-Shock can explore current options like the Casio G-Shock GA-2100 series.
What do you think about a rainbow metal G-Shock? Is it a bold step forward or too flashy for the tool watch purist? Let us know in the comments below. Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.