Since its launch in 2019, the Casio G-Shock GA-2100 “Casio Ak” series has been a runaway success for the Japanese giant, with devotees drawn to its ana-Digi layout, renowned durability, and Royal Oak-esque appearance. Casio has capitalized on the line’s success and released a slew of GA-2100 versions over the last few years, positioning this relative newcomer as one of the most famous lines in the vast G-Shock stable. With solar charging and Bluetooth connectivity, the company returns to this successful concept for its latest edition. The Casio G-Shock GA-B2100 series comprises the Casio G-Shock GAB2100-1A, Casio G-Shock GAB2100-2A, Casio G-Shock GAB2100-3A, and Casio G-Shock GAB2100C-9A, improve functionality and adds new colourways to one of the brand’s most popular models.

Despite packing in additional components, the resin cases of the Casio G-Shock GA-B2100 series are nearly identical in size to the original GA-2100, measuring 45.4mm wide and 11.9mm thick. The GA-2100’s broad octagonal bezel, ridged case sides, and integrated lugs are all present and correct, with a quartet of colourways that harken back to the original G-Shock colour offerings in pictures. The GAB2100-1A is the most classic of the bunch, with a crisp black-on-black colour scheme dating back to the first G-Shock models. The GAB2100C-9A’s highly saturated hazard yellow case is another early G-Shock series mainstay and an excellent choice for those searching for a more significant statement on the wrist. The company chooses a muted, desaturated navy blue for the GAB2100-2A, giving this recognizable style a more reserved personality on the wrist.

Similarly, the GAB2100-deep 3A’s forest green case appears more mature in first photographs and should mix nicely with military-inspired aesthetics. Casio’s durable Carbon Core Guard inner case adds shock protection and durability to the already robust G-Shock standard. Each four is rated for a hefty 200 meters of water resistance.

The dials of the Casio G-Shock GA-B2100 series are mainly identical to their “Casio Ak” stablemates in appearance. Still, the brand adds a layer of quality finishing that lifts these models above their predecessors. All four models include a black sunburst base dial surface, which adds a pop of texture to the classic layout that works in tandem with the brand’s revolutionary Tough Solar charging mechanism. Each model, though, adds its specific flavour to the mix. The GAB2100-striking 1A’s red multifunction subdial hand at 9 o’clock offers the most classic colourway of the group, a particular feature in images, while its sloping applied indices in medium grey keep the design basic and focused. The more vivid presentation of the GAB2100C-9A’s case is echoed by a case-matching 9 o’clock subdial hand and a wide sword handset in white, as well as paler indices to match the lighter hue in photos. The GAB2100-2A and GAB2100-3A have darker monochrome pictures, with inverted LCD subdials at 5 o’clock and case-matching hands and indices in muted navy blue and olive drab, respectively.

Casio’s in-house Module 5689 quartz movement powers every model in the G-Shock GA-B2100 series. Module 5689, like all G-Shock motions, has many difficulties. The Module 5689 adds solar battery charging and smartphone connectivity through Bluetooth to the regular GA2100 series’ suite of a global timer complication, a 1/100-second chronograph, a countdown timer, five programmable daily alarms, and LED dial lighting. Each model in the Casio G-Shock GA-B2100 series has an accordion-style resin strap that matches the case.

The new Casio G-Shock GA-B2100 series lifts the standard for the more cheap end of the G-Shock spectrum by adding new capabilities to one of its most famous lines without scarcely affecting the dimensions or price. In June 2022, authorised dealers will be able to purchase the Casio G-Shock GA-B2100 series. The MSRP of each model in the Casio G-Shock GA-B2100 series is $150, except for the GAB2100C-9A, which is $160 at the time of publication. For more details, please visit the website.