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New Casio G-Shock: retro feel combined with smartwatch features

Lorenz Keller
8.1.2024
Translation: machine translated

The new G-Shock Rangeman looks like it did back in the 1980s - but it contains state-of-the-art smartwatch technology.

They are indestructible, defy all trends - and still sell like crazy. Casio has sold over 100 million G-Shock watches since the 1980s. And you can currently find almost 150 model variants of the outdoor watch here too.

Now, shortly before the CES technology trade fair, the Japanese manufacturer has unveiled one of the most extreme variants of the watch to date, namely the new model generation of the G-Shock Rangeman. With a price tag of around 500 francs, it is one of the brand's more expensive models. Unfortunately, it remains to be seen when it will arrive here.

A bracelet like the caterpillar of an excavator

The G-Shock looks incredibly powerful - even more so in the yellow version than the black version, which is also available. The monochrome display with backlighting is framed by thick edges and the plastic strap is reminiscent of the caterpillars of an excavator. The watch is operated with large buttons on the side. It is specially protected against drops and dirt and is also water-resistant to 200 metres.

The control buttons on the side and the entire watch are specially protected against drops and knocks.
The control buttons on the side and the entire watch are specially protected against drops and knocks.
Source: Casio

What the G-Shock watches have been offering for decades in terms of watch features is of course also included in the new Rangeman: for example, stopwatch, timer, 38 time zones or the calendar, which is pre-programmed until 2099. Casio has also integrated functions such as an altimeter, temperature, air pressure and tide measurement for water sports activities. Incidentally, all of this works without the watch being connected to the mobile.

The new G-Shock Rangeman is also available in a slightly more discreet black colour.
The new G-Shock Rangeman is also available in a slightly more discreet black colour.
Source: Casio

GPS and six sensors integrated

What you don't realise at first glance are the watch's tracking and smartwatch functions. GPS and six sensors are built in, and you can also pair the G-Shock with your mobile. The outdoor watch measures your pulse, blood oxygen, steps and calories.

Sports or outdoor activities such as trekking, jogging, biking, swimming or working out can be tracked just like a smartwatch. The results can be analysed via the G-Shock app and synchronised with Apple Health, Google Fit or Strava.

The watch face is also a solar cell.
The watch face is also a solar cell.
Source: Casio

Battery life from 14 hours to 23 months - depending on use

You cannot install any apps on the Casio, so it is not a "real" smartwatch. However, it does have certain basic functions: you will be notified of incoming calls, emails or social media posts. Reminders or calendar entries can also be displayed - you can specify what exactly in the app.

The battery life varies greatly depending on use. With GPS and continuous tracking of all data, it lasts 14 to 19 hours. Without heart rate measurement, it lasts two months. If you only need the watch functions in power-saving mode, it's almost two years. Incidentally, Casio has calculated this data without solar energy. The G-Shock also has built-in solar cells, which can extend the battery life.

Cover photo: Casio

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