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The most versatile G-SHOCK?

So if you are new here, let me set the scene. I like G-Shock! As far as digital watches go Casio and it’s G-Shock have genuine, credible heritage, and some classic designs in their heritage squares range that are instantly recognisable and have been for decades. The G-SHOCK for me has become that grab and go watch that really can be relied on when things get rough. The design has changed little over the years, and in some ways I’m glad of that. But if you need more functionality or better screen legibility than the standard squares offer, then the GBX100 could be just what you're looking for. 

When I saw the initial pictures of the GBX100 range of G-SHOCK’s I was struck by what was a new LCD screen. I’m always a little sceptical when I see advert images because they are invariably perfect and in real life, these things sometimes just don’t match up to the expectation those images set. But as the G-SHOCK fan I am, I had to try this new one out. So after a few months of usage, what do I think?

Well, this isn’t an improved 5600 series G-SHOCK, it’s a distinct range. And this one as with many in the G-SHOCK line-up is aimed at a specific niche and in the case of the GBX100 that’s surfing. As such, it offers several additional features which you may or may not find useful. In my case, I never thought I’d have use for a tide graph, but as it happens on recent family holidays, it was helpful! Who knew! 

The GBX100 retains a similar square shape but looks quite different from the other squares in the G-SHOCK range. Dimensions on this one are 46mm by 50.9mm with a lug width on the resin straps of 22mm tapering down to about 20mm. The case has the standard four function buttons two each side, but these are much larger in terms of the buttons themselves and the cut-out case sections to access them. There is also one large button at the lower section of the case for using the back-lit display. All in all the changes are clearly aimed at people who need better access to the function with wet hands or who are wearing gloves as using the functionality on this GBX100 is much easier with this button setup.

The case construction is typical G-SHOCK resin but with a very nice brushed steel bezel layer with G-SHOCK engraved at the top. The functionality of the buttons is also engraved on the bezel, making it very easy to see at a glance. The screen sits underneath the usual G-SHOCK mineral glass but as it’s recessed below the level of that bezel I’ve had no issues with this in terms of scratching so it should be reasonably hard-wearing over time.

The display itself is genuinely a step up in terms of the standard square models. The GBX100 features Casio’s MIP (memory in pixel) high definition display, and it really is a leap in terms of clarity and legibility and feels much more premium in terms of display. This makes sense when you look at the list of functions this model offers. Moon phase, tide graphs, chronograph, sunrise and sunset, all based on your closest location to the 3300 positions around the world. As well as these additional features you have access to all the usual time and date function and world time options and a plethora of alarm settings in both loud and vibrate form.

If you're not a surfer or fisherman, have no fear though. The GBX100 has another trick up its sleeve, and that’s connectivity to the G-SHOCK Move App. This then turns the GBX100 into an excellent fitness tool allowing you to track your fitness goals like steps, calories and provides useful training analytics and planning into the mix. The Move App and the number of features available with this and the GBX100 combined really are quite bewildering, but it’s safe to say they cover everything I’m likely to need. I have no doubt some will find these very very useful in the GBX100 as an overall package. 

Along with the incredible array of functionality on offer, the GBX100 is still a G-SHOCK at heart, so there are no cutting corners in terms of construction sturdiness. The G-SHOCK website describes the watch being designed to withstand being crushed against rocks at sea. And although if I found myself in that situation, my watch would be the last thing on my mind. It's good to know the design principles of being nigh on indestructible, shockproof and waterproof to 200m hold true. 

I’ve had the GBX100 now for a couple of months, and in some ways it feels like a next-generation 5600 series. Yes, it wears slightly differently, and there is no denying the very nautical functionality this version offers. But I’m finding where I would have previously reached for the 5600 I now grab this. As I said at the start, I even found the tide graph useful on a recent holiday, where I needed to check low tide to take my son rock pooling on the beach. Sometimes you don’t realise how valuable a function is until you have access to it and that’s what I’ve found with my G-SHOCKs as a whole. 

I doubt I or many people will have a use for every single function that this watch offers but if there are a few that are really useful to you, then it’s hard not to consider this as an excellent watch for those sporting activities where it has so many applications. The GBX100 is about as smart of a watch I’m ever likely to need, and it doesn’t sacrifice any robustness in offering these functions, which is a fantastic proposition. Then there is the price. The GBX100 is priced at £149, which again really does make it quite the attractive package when you consider how functionality-rich it is compared to some of the standard heritage lines of squares some of which cost considerably more. Depending on your needs this G-SHOCK should definitely be one to consider on price alone.

Are there things I don’t like ? Yes. The strap is very secure with the double buckle pin, but the keeper then grips the strap with notches which can make it almost difficult to take off. This is perfect when you’re surfing, and you don’t want a wet watch accidentally coming undone, but for me, it’s just a little too grippy day to day. The GBX100 does also wear a little more significantly because it is bigger and you can tell this on your wrist. It’s not a massive difference, and it’s not uncomfortable, but it’s worth noting it’s not quite as compact a package as a standard square due in large part to the better screen that needs housing. The GBX100 also doesn’t feature the tough solar charging which would have been a great addition to really complete the package. I’m fine with these points overall, but I would love a version of this display with solar tough on a 5600 bodied G-SHOCK!

So, in conclusion, am I glad I brought the GBX100? Definitely. It does everything I’m ever likely to need and without too many compromises in terms of wearability. At the price point, this is another winner from G-SHOCK. I think you would be hard-pressed to find a more rugged feature-rich sports watch at this price point anywhere else on the market. G-SHOCK continues to offer digital watches for all sports and activities that are truly useful and up to the task.

Specifications

Case: Resin & stainless steel 

Strap: Resin & stainless steel with dual buckle and water-shedding cut-outs 

Case size: 46mm x 50.9mm

Screen: High definition MIP backlit LCD 

Crystal: Hardened mineral

Durability: fully ruggedized shockproof case

Water resistance: 200m 

Colours: black, black with white strap, turquoise

Additional functions: Tide graph, moon phase, dual time zone, stopwatch, average pace, G-SHOCK move app compatible.