G-SHOCK has never been a stranger to innovation, from the very first model in 1983 which was the first to promise its level of durability, combined with water-resistance and longevity. Today, G-SHOCKs are still among the most indestructible on the planet. Over the years, however, the company has experimented with different materials and combinations of materials, which we’re seeing now with its Fine Metallic series. The shiny new watches, offered in both the 5600 and 2100 templates, are the first-ever appearance of the Japanese watchmaker’s innovative new Tough Silicone Band.
Similar to the Full Metal series, the new Fine Metallic series utilizes stainless steel on the bezel. However, this time, the metal doesn’t extend to the case itself. Rather, it’s made from glass fiber-reinforced resin (the Full Metal only uses resin sandwiched between the steel). Colored in either silver or gold, the steel bezel of the Fine Metallic watches is “crafted using meticulous forging, cutting, and polishing processes” and given a combination of hairline and mirror finishing. But what’s really special here is what holds these watches on your wrist.
After ten years of R&D, G-SHOCK is finally able to unveil its Tough Silicone Band, which takes the classic flexibility of a standard silicone surface and bolsters it with the durability of urethane resin. From there, the strap is coated with a clear film that’s been vapor-deposited to look like it’s integrated to the case and bezel, and even made of the same material. The new method also allows the strap to look more reflective than the typical metallic paints used on these types of bands in the past.
Rather than merely coating the bands with a metallic coloring, the hue is incorporated more reliably into the resin itself. Also, the straps do get matching stainless steel band loops. The innovative new material process aims to give the strap more durability and abrasion resistance. Meanwhile, the band retains the soft comfortability of a standard silicone band against the skin.
Essentially, these G-SHOCK watches aim to fool onlookers who think you’re wearing a pricier steel timepiece. But unbeknownst to them, you’ve only paid around half the price!
Everything else here is business as usual, with the four references being the classic-styled GM-5600YM-8 (silver) and GM-5600YMG-9 (gold), along with the analog-digital “CasiOak” GM-2100YM-8A (silver) and GM-2100YMG-9A (gold).
The Fine Metallic Series includes the origin-style silver GM-5600YM-8 and gold GM-5600YMG-9 and the analog-digital GM-2100YM-8A and GM-2100YMG-9A. The series was announced in Japan with a January 24 release date, with a wider release expected to follow.
Case Size: 49.6mm × 43.2mm (5600), 49.3mm x 44.4mm (2100)
Case Material: Glass fiber-reinforced resin with stainless steel bezel
Water Resistance: 200m
Movement: Quartz
Band: Tough Silicone (with urethane resin)
Limited Edition?: No
Set to arrive later this month, the Fine Metallic series with Tough Silicone Bands are all expected to be priced below the $300 range, judging by the early info from the Japanese press materials. This is far less expensive than the Full Metal versions, which hover around the $550 mark. Stay tuned for more info from G-SHOCK.
G-SHOCK debuts its Fine Metallic series, bringing more affordability to metal-like watches. The series also introduces the innovative Tough Silicone Band after ten years of development.
