Top 5 Casio G-Shocks for Collectors: Tough, Timeless, and Totally Covetable
If you’ve ever accidentally whacked your wrist into a doorframe and thought, “My watch is definitely a goner,” then you were probably not wearing a G-Shock. Built like a brick (but a really clever, technologically advanced brick), Casio’s G-Shock line has become the go-to for watch fans who appreciate a blend of durability, design, and a dash of digital wizardry.
But this isn’t just about owning a G-Shock. Oh no. This is about collecting them, because, let’s face it, one is never enough. Whether you’re new to the game or knee-deep in your third custom storage case, here are five G-Shock models every collector should have in their arsenal. Spoiler alert: they're not just tough, they’re iconic.
Credit - Casio
1. GMW-B5000D-1: The Full Metal Legend
Ah, the one that started it all—well, sort of. The GMW-B5000D-1 is a full-metal tribute to the original DW-5000C from 1983, and it’s absolutely gorgeous. Polished stainless steel case, Bluetooth connectivity, solar charging—this isn’t just a reissue, it’s a reinvention.
Why Collectors Love It:
Retro design with modern tech.
That satisfying heft on the wrist.
It’s basically the G-Shock equivalent of a tailored suit—tough, but classy.
Collector’s Tip: Look out for the gold-tone and titanium variants if you want to level up.
Price: £450
Credit - Casio
2. DW-5600E-1V: The Cult Classic
Don’t let its humble price tag fool you. The DW-5600E is the spiritual successor to the very first G-Shock and still one of the most rugged pieces around. If this model were a person, it’d be the cool older cousin who’s been through some things but still looks sharp at every family BBQ.
Why Collectors Love It:
Simplicity at its finest.
Military vibes without the fuss.
It’s the one G-Shock purists must own.
Collector’s Tip: Custom modding is huge with this one. Swap in a colourful strap or go stealth-mode with blackout parts.
Price: £99.00
Credit - Casio
3. Frogman GWF-A1000: The Deep Diver’s Dream
The Frogman is G-Shock’s answer to the deep blue sea—and it's an absolute unit. The GWF-A1000 blends ISO-certified diving functionality with analog display coolness. It’s like James Bond, if James Bond was more into spearfishing than shaken martinis.
Why Collectors Love It:
It’s one of the few true dive watches in the G-Shock range.
Asymmetric case = serious wrist presence.
Limited runs and collabs make it a grail for many.
Collector’s Tip: Keep an eye out for the Love The Sea And The Earth editions. They sell fast and age like fine wine.
Price: £699
Credit - Casio
4. Mudmaster GWG-2000: Apocalypse-Proof Engineering
Imagine a watch designed by Bear Grylls on a caffeine bender. That’s the Mudmaster. Resistant to mud, dust, and shock, it’s essentially built to survive whatever the planet throws at it. If you’ve ever fancied a hike up Ben Nevis in January, this is your guy.
Why Collectors Love It:
Carbon core guard structure = big but wearable.
Triple sensor: compass, thermometer, altimeter/barometer.
Looks like it eats smaller watches for breakfast.
Collector’s Tip: The olive green version is a fan favourite, and the limited editions (like the British Army collab) are catnip for collectors.
Price: £325
Credit - Casio
5. GA-2100 "CasiOak": The Instagram Darling
You’ve probably seen this one everywhere—the GA-2100 (aka the “CasiOak”) went viral for its resemblance to the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak. And for good reason. It’s slim, stylish, and comes in more colourways than a box of Crayola.
Why Collectors Love It:
Sleek and affordable, with serious design chops.
Great for modding (carbon cases, resin swaps—you name it).
Its cult status exploded overnight.
Collector’s Tip: Nab the transparent models or the “Hidden Glow” editions for something truly unique.
Price: £99.00
Honourable Mentions
MR-G Series – Luxury G-Shocks that could pass for Swiss timepieces… if Swiss timepieces could survive being run over.
DW-6900 – Chunky ‘90s vibes and a long list of pop culture cameos (Eminem, anyone?).
MTG Series – A hybrid of analogue finesse and digital backbone.
Final Thoughts: Join the Cult (Responsibly)
Once you start collecting G-Shocks, it’s a slippery slope (and by slippery, we mean you’ll be Googling “G-Shock Japan-only editions” at 3am). But it’s a hobby full of community, colour, and indestructible joy.
Whether you’re all about the tech, the nostalgia, or the thrill of the hunt, G-Shock collecting isn’t just a pastime, it’s a lifestyle. And one with much fewer risks of smashing your watch.
