The backlight is a dial illumination that allows you to use this watch in the dark. Over the past decade, the internet has ushered horology into pop culture. We now live in a world where Hollywood actors “talk watches” in YouTube videos, where hip hop artists rap about mechanical movements and where recherché Swiss dial names are social media hashtags. What’s more, just as luxury fashion has nuzzled up to streetwear, so too are watchmakers chasing hypebeasts through savvy collabs, striking designs and, of course, limited edition production runs. You might have to adjust the hand zero position of your subdial. Press the a button for about 6 seconds and the screen should read “SUB”.
The light is positioned near the tiny digital screen. Dubbed the ‘Casioak’ due to its octagonal similarities to a Royal Oak, it looks like something Batman would have on his wrist. And he wouldn’t be worried about damaging it while fighting crime, as it’s as rugged as any Casio G-Shock in their stable. Rich blacks, lots of dial detail and an ana-digi display make this a joy to look at. But this joy is only achievable in lower light situations to those who have a good level of eyesight, or possibly their own set of night vision goggles like the Dark Knight himself.
Finishing on the kit is also very nicely done with the same vertical brushing from the top of the bezel through to the butterfly clasp on the bracelet. The sides of the bezel are well polished, and the bezel screws are polished and all perfectly aligned and seated. Overall it’s tough to fault the quality of this kit. The 316L stainless steel case and bracelet and good finishing should be hard to get wrong, so thankfully, Jinshu didn’t!
By far the most distinguishing feature for the CasiOak is the octagon-shaped bezel. It’s done in a soft way that’s not too angular or awkward. The GA-2100SU-A1JF is my favorite variation with a screen-printed camouflage pattern on top of the bezel. Fueled by the hashtag, the GA A1 quickly snowballed in social media popularity. By the time that hype-train rolled to a stop, they were all sold out.
For long-time Casio lovers, I think a Casioak model is a no-brainer. I love mine and, having had the GM-2100 in my hand and on my wrist, will certainly g shock watch consider adding a metal variation to the stable. Surely that’s what the people for whom Casio has made these watches desired, right?