 |
| Casio is giving its classic G-Shocks a small but meaningful upgrade. Pictured: G-Shock GW-6900-1 from 2009) |
While the spotlight often shines on Casio's flashy new releases like the GA-2100K and MTG-B4000, the brand hasn't forgotten its roots. In a move that will delight purists and practical users alike, Casio is rolling out a quiet but meaningful update to several of its most enduring and popular G-Shock digital models. The change? A long-overdue swap from the classic greenish Electro-luminescent (EL) backlight to a modern, high-brightness LED.
This isn't a redesign or a feature-packed overhaul. Instead, it's a thoughtful modernization of proven workhorses, ensuring these fan-favorite watches are more efficient and readable for years to come.
The Iconic GW-6900 Gets a 2024 Heart
First in line for the update is a true legend: the G-Shock GW-6900. The new reference, GW-6900U-1JF, directly succeeds the GW-6900-1 that has been a staple since 2009. At its core is Casio's updated 3547 module, which brings the crucial upgrade of a power-efficient fluorescent LED backlight.
For more detailed specifications and official images, you can check out the GW-6900U-1JF on Casio's website.
The familiar, beloved silhouette and all its core features remain perfectly intact. This means you still get the legendary G-Shock shock resistance, 200-meter water rating, and the brilliant convenience of Tough Solar charging and Multiband 6 atomic timekeeping. The watch continues to automatically sync with radio time signals from six transmitters worldwide, ensuring flawless accuracy.
A Two-Pronged Update for the Versatile GW-2310 Series
Casio is also refreshing the versatile GW-2310 series, offering two distinct versions to suit different display preferences.
The new models, GW-2310U-1 and GW-2310UFB-1, replace the GW-2310-1 (2009) and GW-2310FB-1 (2012), respectively. The GW-2310U-1 keeps the standard, easy-to-read positive LCD display, now illuminated by the new high-brightness LED.
For those who prefer a stealthier look, the GW-2310UFB-1 features an inverted negative display. Both models are otherwise feature-identical, packing a serious punch for their class: Tough Solar power, Multiband 6 auto-time correction, world time for 48 cities, a stopwatch, automatic calendar, and the standard 200-meter water resistance.
You can explore the differences between the standard and inverted display models for the GW-2310U-1 and the GW-2310UFB-1 on Casio's official product pages.
What’s Changed (And What Hasn’t)
It's important to set expectations correctly. This is an understated refresh. The new modules do not introduce Bluetooth connectivity for smartphone syncing via the G-Shock Connected app, nor do they add multi-date format support. The LED backlight is the headline act.
However, that single change brings a tangible benefit: improved battery efficiency. The more modern LED illumination slightly extends the operating time on a full charge. For example, the updated GW-6900U is now rated for up to 10 months of operation without solar exposure, a one-month improvement over the nine-month rating of its 2009 predecessor.
Pricing and Availability
The updated models are poised to hit shelves soon. In Japan, the G-Shock GW-6900U-1JF will carry a price tag of ¥24,200. The GW-2310U-1 and GW-2310UFB-1 will be priced at ¥22,000 each.
Following the Japanese launch, all three models are expected to see a wider global release in the coming months, arriving in markets like the UK, Europe, and the United States. For collectors and users who value proven reliability with a touch of modern efficiency, these subtle updates make classic G-Shocks more compelling than ever.