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| The Casio G-Shock GW-BX5600 lineup's newest member has a strap made of recycled fishing nets. |
The G-Shock community has been buzzing ever since Casio Japan quietly listed the new GW-BX5600 family, and now we finally have our first real-world look. Thanks to @geesgshock on Instagram, clear photography of the upcoming Casio G-Shock GW-BX5600CBG-2 has appeared online, and it’s already turning heads for more reasons than one.
If you’ve been following Casio’s recent innovations, you know the GW-BX5600 series marks a significant shift: replacing those old-school LCDs with a modern MIP (Memory in Pixel) display. The CBG-2 variant takes things a step further by wrapping that cutting-edge screen in a design that screams sustainability from every angle. Let’s break down everything we know so far, from the eco-friendly materials to the real-world performance of that gorgeous negative MIP display.
A Closer Look at the “Untangle It” Initiative
Casio has been gradually introducing bio-based resins and recycled materials across its lineup, but the GW-BX5600CBG-2 feels like a statement piece. The watch is part of the brand’s “Untangle It” initiative, which focuses on reducing ocean plastic waste. And it shows.
The bezel and case are molded from bio-based resins, but the real star is the strap. Instead of the usual resin band found on most 5600-series watches, Casio has crafted a cloth cross-band using recycled fishing nets. Close-up photography from @geesgshock reveals a dark navy or teal fabric with a repetitive, textured geometric pattern that’s meant to evoke the surface of the ocean. It’s not just a visual gimmick—the texture adds grip and breathability, making this one of the most comfortable square G-Shocks we’ve seen in years.
For collectors tired of the same glossy resin straps, this fabric band will easily be one of the biggest selling points. It gives the watch a premium, almost artisan feel while aligning perfectly with the growing demand for sustainable products.
Why the MIP Display Changes Everything
Let’s talk about that display. The GW-BX5600CBG-2 runs on module 3578, featuring a negative MIP LCD. If you’ve ever struggled to read a traditional STN or TN panel at an angle or under harsh sunlight, you’ll appreciate what MIP brings to the table. Unlike standard LCDs that lose contrast when viewed off-axis, MIP retains sharpness and clarity from virtually any angle.
In the real-world images, the negative display looks crisp and deep, with characters that pop against the dark background. No more squinting or wrist-twisting to check the time. The watch also includes Tough Solar power (so you never need a battery change), Multi-Band 6 radio-controlled timekeeping for atomic precision, and Bluetooth smartphone link functionality.
Through the Casio Watches app, owners can toggle between two font styles: “Standard” and “Classic.” That’s a nice touch for purists who want the retro digital look versus those who prefer a more modern readout. Bluetooth also simplifies time syncing when you’re outside radio tower range.
Embedded Deal: Grab a G-Shock Classic While You Wait
Can’t wait until April to add a new square to your collection? The Casio G-Shock GW-M5610U-1 is a legendary alternative with many of the same core features—Tough Solar, Multi-Band 6, and that iconic 5600 design. You can check the current price and availability here on Amazon. It’s a great way to experience the durability and functionality of the family before the new sustainable MIP model lands.
Dimensions, Durability, and Pricing Details
Despite the new display technology and fabric strap, Casio hasn’t compromised on toughness. The GW-BX5600CBG-2 retains the standard G-Shock durability you expect, including 20-bar water resistance (good for 200 meters). The case dimensions are:
- Length: 49.1 mm
- Width: 44.1 mm
- Thickness: 13.4 mm
That’s very much in line with other 5600 models, so it should wear comfortably on most wrists. The fabric strap might actually make it feel lighter than the resin counterparts.
As for pricing and availability, Casio Japan has the watch listed with a retail price of ¥35,200, which converts to roughly $221 USD. Official sales are expected to begin sometime in April 2026. While international release dates haven’t been confirmed yet, past experience suggests a global rollout shortly after Japan’s launch.
Final Thoughts: A New Direction for the Square
The Casio G-Shock GW-BX5600CBG-2 isn’t just another colorway. It represents a genuine evolution—both in display technology and material philosophy. The MIP screen solves one of the longest-standing complaints about negative LCDs, while the recycled fishing-net strap offers a fresh tactile experience that also tells a story.
If you’re a fan of the square G-Shock form factor but want something that feels modern, sustainable, and highly legible, this is shaping up to be one of the most exciting releases of the year. Keep an eye on Casio’s official website and follow @geesgshock on Instagram for more real-world photos as the April launch approaches.
Source: @geesgshock on Instagram | Casio Japan product page
