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| The Casio G-Shock DW-5600CH25-2 watch, and a closeup of the strap - pictured against a white background. |
If you blinked, you probably missed it. Casio has just launched a special collaboration G-Shock in Japan with cult-favorite Tokyo streetwear brand Challenger, and true to form for both labels, it sold out almost immediately. The watch takes the iconic, virtually indestructible DW-5600 square case and reimagines it with Challenger's distinctly minimalist, text-driven aesthetic.
Priced at ¥39,000 (approximately $249), the new release is a masterclass in subtle co-branding. It sticks faithfully to the G-Shock DW-5600 formula that fans love: a tough resin case and strap, legendary shock resistance, and 200-meter water resistance. The core digital functions—timekeeping, alarms, stopwatch, and calendar—remain unchanged, ensuring it’s every bit the reliable tool watch.
What sets this model apart is the design narrative woven by Challenger. The watch features a muted navy blue colorway that exudes a quiet, utilitarian cool. The most striking detail is on the resin strap, which is printed with a daily schedule-inspired text, listing blocks of time for activities like "Up," "Chill," "Eat," and "Sleep." It’s a clever, wearable nod to routine and subculture lifestyle.
On the dial, the Challenger branding is present but restrained. The real surprise comes when you press the light button. The EL backlight activates to reveal custom graphics, replacing the usual G-Shock animation with unique Challenger imagery—a special touch for those in the know.
For those seeking a classic, solar-powered G-Shock square available now, the popular Casio GWM5610-1 remains a stellar choice on Amazon.
To see the sold-out collaboration details directly from the source, you can view the official listing on Challenger's website.
The Brand Behind the Collab: Why Challenger?
For those less familiar, Challenger is a Tokyo-based streetwear label founded by designer Daiki Suzuki. The brand is deeply rooted in motorcycle culture, American workwear and casual styles, and graphic-heavy apparel. It has cultivated a dedicated following through strategic limited releases and collaborations, often favoring a more subdued, graphic-and-text-based approach over loud logos.
This philosophy is perfectly executed in this G-Shock release. Instead of bold colors or dramatic overhauls, Challenger imposes its identity through typography and subtle brand markings. The result is a collaboration that feels authentic to both partners—a functional piece of gear that also serves as a piece of understated streetwear culture.
The quick sell-out was all but guaranteed. Between G-Shock's enduring legacy in both fashion and utility circles and Challenger's reputation for coveted drops, this watch was destined to fly off shelves and straight onto the wrists of collectors and style enthusiasts. For now, those who missed the initial release will have to scour the secondary market or hope for a potential restock.
