Casio Turns To Ancient Japanese Woodcraft For This Beautiful G-SHOCK Watch
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Casio has turned back the clock to make its latest addition to its G-SHOCK Mr G series, the MRGB2100B-1A, a reality. This watch draws its design inspiration from the traditional Japanese art of intricate wood joinery, known as kigumi.
Maintaining the comfortable fit and size typical of the series, the new MRGB2100 features a full-metal exterior made from advanced materials. Each component undergoes painstaking hand-finishing by master craftspersons, ensuring that the final product is both sophisticated and robust. The multi-component structure is polished prior to assembly, highlighting the fine details that contribute to the watch’s tough beauty.
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The dial design pays homage to traditional Japanese kigumi techniques, with a corrugated base surface and a series of intricate openings that form a geometric pattern. These apertures not only create a visually stunning latticework effect but also allow sufficient light to pass through for solar power generation, giving the dial a profound metallic black finish. The index mark at 12 o’clock features a complex two-part structure, a nod to the precision craftsmanship of Yamagata Casio.
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Kigumi, a construction method dating back to the Heian period (794–1185), involves creating wooden joinery without nails or metal fittings. This technique, used in building shrines, temples, and wooden fixtures, emphasizes structural strength and artistic design. The intricate geometric patterns produced by this method are considered a high form of artisanal craftwork.
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Elsewhere, the MRGB2100B-1A includes radio-controlled calibration and smartphone connectivity via Bluetooth, ensuring accurate timekeeping and modern functionality.
Measuring 49.5 x 44.4 x 13.6 millimeters and weighing 122 grams, the watch is slightly thicker but significantly lighter than its predecessors, thanks to its titanium construction. The case and bezel are made from Ti64, a durable titanium alloy, while the bezel’s top is crafted from COBARION, an alloy four times harder than pure titanium with a shine comparable to platinum. The band is made from DAT55G, another tough yet workable titanium alloy. The bezel alone consists of 27 distinct components, each polished to perfection.
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Launching in June 2024, this timepiece is the first in the MR-G series to feature a full analog display and to be based on the 2100 line. Due to the love and care invested in this piece, it will warrant a rather precious amount of US$4,800.
