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| Casio’s AE-1600HX-3A watch |
After weeks of speculation, Casio has officially listed the olive-green AE-1600HX-3AV on its European online stores. Here’s everything we know about the extra-long strap, the €39.90 price tag, and when you can actually buy it.
If you’ve been following the rumor mill this year, you’ve probably heard whispers about a new addition to Casio’s popular AE-1600 family. Well, the wait is almost over. The Japanese brand has just confirmed that the Casio AE-1600HX-3AV – a rugged, oversized digital watch with a striking dark olive green resin case – is heading to Europe.
Initially spotted on Casio’s international website in early April 2026, the model has now appeared on official online storefronts across key EU markets, including the Netherlands, Spain, and Germany. The listings confirm what leaked pricing suggested back in March: the AE-1600HX-3AV will retail for €39.90, matching the exact RRP of its siblings, the AE-1600H-1AV and AE-1600H-8BV, which launched in early 2025.
But when can you actually get one on your wrist? While Casio hasn’t announced a firm release date for the region, French retailer David et Philly is pointing to May 2026 as the target launch window. For now, eager buyers can hit the “Coming soon” button on the product page to join the brand’s mailing list and be the first to know when stock drops.
A closer look at the AE-1600HX-3AV: what makes the “X” different?
At first glance, you might mistake this new variant for the standard AE-1600H series. But Casio has made two key changes that set the AE-1600HX-3AV apart.
First, the color. The oversized resin casing comes in a deep, dark olive green (Casio’s “-3AV” suffix typically denotes green tones), giving the watch a distinct outdoorsy, almost tactical vibe. The case dimensions remain chunky but wearable: 54.1 mm wide, 49.7 mm tall, and 15.9 mm thick. Surrounding the large LCD with its light background, the green frame makes the digital display pop without sacrificing legibility.
Second – and this is the headline feature – the extra-long strap. The “X” in the model number stands for exactly what you’d expect: an extended-length band designed to fit over thick jackets, wetsuits, or bulky winter gear. Casio hasn’t published an exact measurement, but a promotional image clearly shows the new strap dwarfing the one on the older AE-1600H-1AV. The rally-style strap also features side-by-side holes for a more secure, adjustable fit – a thoughtful touch for anyone who needs to wear their watch over sleeves or gloves.
For a deeper dive into the specs and to sign up for availability alerts, check out the official Casio France product page for the AE-1600HX-3AV – that’s where you’ll find the “Coming soon” button and the mailing list sign-up.
Under the hood: dual time, 10-year battery, and 100m water resistance
Beyond the cosmetic and strap upgrades, the AE-1600HX-3AV inherits everything enthusiasts love about the AE-1600 platform. This is a dual-time digital watch through and through, meaning you can track two time zones simultaneously – perfect for travelers, remote workers, or anyone coordinating across continents.
The feature set is surprisingly deep for a sub-€40 watch:
- Stopwatch (1/100-second resolution up to 24 hours)
- Countdown timer
- Five daily alarms (one with snooze)
- Amber LED backlight – press a button to illuminate the display in a warm, eye-friendly glow
- 100-meter water resistance – swim, snorkel, or shower without worry
- 10-year battery life powered by a single CR2032 cell
That last point is worth emphasizing. A decade of battery life from a watch that costs less than a takeout dinner for two is classic Casio value engineering. You can basically strap it on, forget about maintenance, and still have it ticking when you’re replacing your phone for the third time.
Will Europe get the black version? And what about North America?
Casio’s international website also briefly listed a second model – the AE-1600HX-1B – which appears to be a black-on-black variant of the same extra-long-strap design. As of now, there’s no confirmation that this version will make its way to European retailers. The company has kept quiet about any wider rollout, so fans of the stealthier aesthetic may need to wait or import.
As for North America? Details are even scarcer. Casio USA has not announced any plans for either the AE-1600HX-3AV or the -1B. Given that the original AE-1600H models eventually reached US shelves a few months after their European debut, it’s reasonable to expect a similar pattern – but nothing is official yet.
Final thoughts: a budget beast for outdoor enthusiasts
The Casio AE-1600HX-3AV isn’t trying to be a smartwatch or a fashion piece. It’s a tool watch in the truest sense: tough, legible, long-lasting, and affordable. The extra-long strap solves a real problem for people who wear watches over gear, and the olive green color gives it just enough personality without screaming for attention.
At €39.90 with a May 2026 release window, this is shaping up to be one of the most practical budget digital watches of the year. If you’ve been holding out for a rugged beater that can handle a wetsuit or a winter parka, the AE-1600HX-3AV is worth the short wait.
Source: Casio
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| A comparison of the strap lengths of the Casio AE-1600HX-3A (upper) and AE-1600H-1AV (lower) watches |
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| The Casio AE-1600HX-3A watch |
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| The Casio AE-1600HX-3A watch |