Casio launches new G-Shock series with magnetic Shock Release Hand

Casio has officially unveiled its G-Shock GMC-2500 analog watches, days after YouTube channel Gi-Shock-Go published an early hands-on of the then-unreleased steel GMC-2500D. Enthusiasts have nicknamed the series the “CasioNaut” for its resemblance to the Patek Philippe Nautilus. Casio confirmed the watches on October 22, 2026, describing them as an analog take on the DW-5000C, the first G-Shock, released in 1983.

The range comes in five versions across two builds. The GMC-2500D pairs a stainless-steel case and bracelet with either a black dial (GMC-2500D-1A) or a blue dial (GMC-2500D-1A2). The GMC-2500 uses a metal-clad case made from resin, bio-based resin, and stainless steel on a textured bio-based resin band, and comes with a black dial (GMC-2500-1A), a silver dial (GMC-2500-1A8), or a gold dial matched to a gold ion-plated bezel (GMC-2500G-9A). Casio’s product pages list the watches under its G-Steel 2500 Series.

The DW-5000C was built around the idea of a watch that would not break if dropped, and the new series carries its outline into an analog format. Casio has softened the original’s lines with more rounded contours across the case. The company says the curved surfaces create a shifting play of light and shadow depending on the viewing angle, while the simple dial and sharply defined indexes keep the time easy to read.

The watches introduce a feature Casio calls Multi-Mission Date. A three-cell window at 3 o’clock displays the date in everyday use and switches to elapsed stopwatch minutes or setting information when those functions are active. Once the owner enters the year, month, and day, the window runs a full auto-calendar that Casio programs through to 2099, so the date never has to be corrected by hand.

A small seconds hand sits opposite the date window at 9 o’clock and carries a “Shock Resist” mark on its tip. Owners can stop the hand when they do not need it and restart it at any time. Casio says this sleep function reduces power consumption, helping the CR1025 battery reach its rated life of about two years. None of the models has Tough Solar charging or Bluetooth connectivity, both of which feature on Casio’s existing full-metal GMC-B2100 watches.

Casio calls the minute hand a Shock Release Hand. Instead of being fixed rigidly to its shaft, it is attached magnetically so it can absorb the force of a hard impact. Casio notes that the hand may shake or briefly shift out of position after a knock and returns to its correct place within a few minutes. A separate hand shift function moves the hands aside to give an unobstructed view of the dial.

All five versions share a 46.7 × 43.8 × 12.9mm case, a mineral crystal and 200m water resistance. Casio rates accuracy at ±15 seconds per month. The watches also carry a 1-second stopwatch that measures up to 29 minutes and 59 seconds, along with an amber LED light with an afterglow effect.

The steel GMC-2500D weighs 138g, and its bracelet fastens with a one-push three-fold clasp to fit wrists from 150mm to 205mm. The GMC-2500 weighs 68g, and its resin band fits wrists from 145mm to 215mm. Its brass dials take a sunray or honed finish depending on the color, with the date window matched to the dial.

The GMC-2500-1A and GMC-2500-1A8 cost ¥37,400 (about $238) in Japan, while the gold GMC-2500G-9A costs ¥39,600 (about $252). The GMC-2500D-1A and GMC-2500D-1A2 are priced at ¥49,500 (about $315) each. All five models go on sale in Japan in November 2026, and Casio has not announced pricing or release dates for other markets.

Antony Muchiri - Tech Writer - 416 articles published on Notebookcheck since 2025

I’ve been obsessed with tech for as long as I can remember, so much so that I’ve become the unofficial "tech support" for my entire family. Whether it’s fixing gadgets, explaining specs, or recommending the best buys, I love breaking down tech for everyday people. That passion led me to writing about tech. When I’m not testing gadgets or writing reviews, you’ll probably find me hiking or doom-scrolling car listings (still hunting for my first ride, wish me luck, lol).