Are Casio Watches Good?

When it comes to affordable yet reliable timepieces, Casio often emerges as a top contender. Known for pioneering innovations like the first digital watch and the virtually indestructible G-Shock series, Casio has carved out a significant niche in the global watch market. But with so many options available, from luxury brands to budget-friendly alternatives, you might be wondering: is Casio a good watch brand for you?

In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into Casio’s history, explore the quality and durability of their products, and examine the range of styles and technological features they offer. Whether you’re a seasoned watch enthusiast or someone looking for their first reliable timepiece, this guide will help you determine if Casio is the right choice for your wrist.

History and legacy

Casio’s story begins in post-war Japan, a period marked by both reconstruction and innovation. The company was founded in April 1946 by Tadao Kashio, an engineer with a knack for inventing. Originally named Kashio Seisakujo, the company initially produced mechanical parts and later, a cigarette holder that allowed smokers to smoke their cigarettes down to the last puff – a modest but successful product that provided the financial foundation for future ventures.

The company’s first major foray into electronics came in 1957 with the release of Japan’s first electric calculator, the Casio 14-A. This groundbreaking invention, which could perform complex calculations with ease, set the stage for Casio’s future as an electronics powerhouse. The success of the calculator gave Casio the confidence to expand into new areas, eventually leading them into the world of timekeeping.

Entry into the watch industry

Casio entered the watch market in 1974, during an era when digital technology was starting to revolutionize the world. This period, often referred to as the Quartz Revolution, saw the rise of digital watches, which offered greater accuracy and reliability than traditional mechanical watches. Casio capitalized on this trend by introducing the Casiotron, their first digital watch. Unlike other watches of the time, the Casiotron could automatically detect the number of days in a month and adjust the date accordingly – a simple yet innovative feature that highlighted Casio’s commitment to functionality.

This entry into the watch industry marked the beginning of Casio’s journey as a leading watch brand, combining their expertise in electronics with a keen understanding of consumer needs. The Casiotron was a success, and it paved the way for future innovations that would come to define Casio’s legacy.

Innovation and milestones

Throughout the late 20th century, Casio continued to push the boundaries of watch technology. In 1983, Casio released what would become one of its most iconic products: the G-Shock. Designed by engineer Kikuo Ibe, the G-Shock was built to withstand extreme conditions, from shocks and vibrations to high water pressure. Its rugged design, coupled with advanced features like a stopwatch, countdown timer, and world time function, made it an instant hit among adventurers, military personnel, and sports enthusiasts. The G-Shock series not only redefined durability in watches but also became a symbol of resilience and toughness.

Renowned watch collector and YouTuber TGV of The Urban Gentry channel also has praised Casio’s technological advancements.

“Casio has been at the forefront of watch technology for decades. From the first calculator watches to the latest solar-powered G-Shocks, they continue to innovate in ways that others often follow.”

TGV, The Urban Gentry

Another significant milestone came in the 1990s with the introduction of the Casio F-91W, a digital watch that became famous for its simplicity, affordability, and reliability. The F-91W was, and still is, one of the most popular watches in the world, known for its classic design and long battery life. Its popularity endures to this day, making it a timeless piece in Casio’s extensive catalog.

James Stacey of Hodinkee, a leading online watch publication, remarked an incredible Casio’s value for money.

“Casio has mastered the art of offering incredible value. For under $50, you can get a watch that does more than just tell the time – it’s a tool that you can rely on.”

James Stacey, Hodinkee

In addition to the G-Shock and F-91W, Casio also made strides in the realm of analog-digital watches with the launch of the Edifice series, blending traditional watch aesthetics with modern features like solar power, Bluetooth connectivity, and atomic timekeeping. This series catered to a more professional demographic, offering a balance between style and functionality.

Current market position

Today, Casio stands as a global leader in the watch industry, with a diverse portfolio that spans from basic digital models to advanced timepieces equipped with cutting-edge technology. The company has successfully maintained its reputation for creating durable, functional, and affordable watches, while also venturing into more specialized markets with lines like Pro Trek, designed for outdoor enthusiasts, and Baby-G, a more fashion-forward version of the G-Shock aimed at women.

Casio’s watches are sold and revered worldwide, with the brand having a presence in over 100 countries. The company’s commitment to innovation continues, with recent developments in smartwatch technology, including hybrid models that offer both traditional timekeeping and smart features like fitness tracking and notifications.

Enduring legacy

Casio’s legacy in the watch industry is defined by its unwavering dedication to quality, innovation, and accessibility. The brand’s ability to blend technological advancements with practical design has allowed it to remain relevant in a competitive market for decades. From the first Casiotron to the latest G-Shock models, Casio watches have consistently offered consumers reliable and innovative timepieces that stand the test of time.

As a watch brand, Casio has not only shaped the digital watch market but has also become a cultural icon, with its watches appearing in movies, TV shows, and on the wrists of countless individuals across various walks of life. Whether for their toughness, their technological prowess, or their simple, classic designs, Casio watches continue to be a trusted choice for millions of people around the world.

Quality and durability

When it comes to evaluating the quality and durability of Casio watches, the brand has built a reputation that resonates with both casual wearers and serious watch enthusiasts. Known for their robust construction, reliable functionality, and long-lasting performance, Casio watches have become synonymous with value and dependability. Below, we delve into the various aspects that contribute to Casio’s enduring reputation for quality and durability.

Materials used

Casio’s commitment to quality starts with the materials they use across their range of watches. For most of their digital and analog-digital models, Casio employs durable resin for the watch cases and straps. Resin is favored for its lightweight nature, flexibility, and resistance to shocks and scratches, making it an ideal material for everyday wear and outdoor activities. The G-Shock series, in particular, is known for its reinforced resin structure, which adds an extra layer of protection against physical impacts.

For their more premium lines, such as the Edifice series, Casio incorporates stainless steel and mineral glass. Stainless steel is prized for its corrosion resistance and elegant finish, making it suitable for both professional and casual settings. The use of mineral glass, which is more scratch-resistant than regular glass, ensures that the watch face remains clear and legible even after years of use.

Some high-end models, particularly in the Oceanus and Pro Trek series, feature sapphire crystal, which is highly resistant to scratches and offers superior clarity. Additionally, Casio utilizes proprietary materials in certain models, such as the Carbon Core Guard structure in some G-Shock watches, which combines resin with carbon fiber for enhanced strength and reduced weight.

Build quality

Casio watches are good in terms of the build quality which is often praised for attention to detail and reliability. Every component is meticulously crafted to ensure that the watches can withstand various environmental stresses. Casio’s manufacturing process involves rigorous testing and quality control, which contributes to their reputation for producing tough, reliable watches. Watch enthusiast Ariel Adams, founder of the popular watch blog aBlogtoWatch, also highlighted the quality of Casio watches.

“Casio’s dedication to quality at every price point is impressive. Whether it’s a basic digital model or a high-end G-Shock, you know you’re getting a timepiece that will last and function as intended.”

Ariel Adams, founder of aBlogtoWatch

The G-Shock series, perhaps the most famous example of Casio’s build quality, is designed to endure extreme conditions. It is tested against shock, vibration, and even gravitational forces to ensure that it can survive harsh environments. Kikuo Ibe, the creator of the G-Shock, famously dropped prototypes from a third-story window to test their resilience – a testament to the rigorous standards Casio applies to its products. In particular, John Mayer’s sentiment echoes the widespread appreciation for the G-Shock’s unmatched durability, even among those who typically favor luxury brands.

“Casio’s G-Shock is the quintessential beater watch – it’s indestructible, functional, and costs next to nothing.”

John Mayer, watch enthusiast and collector

Durability tests

Casio’s emphasis on durability extends to the extensive testing that each model undergoes before reaching the market. For instance, G-Shock watches are subjected to a “Triple 10” development concept: they are built to withstand a 10-meter free fall, endure 10 bars of water pressure, and last for 10 years on a single battery. These tests ensure that the watches can perform reliably under conditions that would destroy ordinary timepieces. Jack Forster, Editor-in-Chief of Hodinkee, has also praised the G-Shock’s durability.

“G-Shock is the benchmark by which all tough watches are measured. It’s not just a watch; it’s a piece of gear you can depend on in any situation.”

Jack Forster, editor-in-chief of Hodinkee

The Pro Trek series, designed for outdoor adventurers, undergoes similar testing to ensure it can handle the rigors of hiking, climbing, and other outdoor activities. These watches often feature altimeters, barometers, and thermometers, all of which are tested for accuracy in various environmental conditions. The watches are also designed to be resistant to low temperatures, ensuring they function properly even in extreme cold.

Water resistance

Another critical aspect of Casio’s quality and durability is the water resistance offered across its watch lines. Casio watches are typically designed to meet or exceed standard water resistance levels, making them suitable for a wide range of activities, from everyday use to professional diving.

The G-Shock and Pro Trek series often feature water resistance ratings of 200 meters or more, allowing them to be used for swimming, snorkeling, and even scuba diving. The Casio Dive series, while more affordable, also provides robust water resistance, making it a popular choice for those who need a reliable watch for aquatic activities.

The Edifice series, while more focused on style and precision, still offers water resistance that can withstand splashes and brief immersions, making it suitable for daily wear without the worry of water damage.

Customer testimonials and enthusiast praise

Casio’s reputation for quality and durability is further reinforced by testimonials from customers and praise from watch enthusiasts around the world. Teddy Baldassarre, a prominent watch reviewer and YouTube personality, has often highlighted the reliability of Casio watches, particularly the G-Shock series.

“It’s hard to find a more durable and feature-packed watch at this price point. Casio G-Shocks are virtually indestructible and offer amazing value.”

Teddy Baldassarre, YouTube blogger

Similarly, Ben Clymer, the founder of the influential watch publication Hodinkee, has expressed admiration for Casio’s ability to deliver high-quality watches at accessible prices.

“Casio has mastered the art of creating watches that are not only affordable but also incredibly durable and packed with features. It’s no wonder they have such a loyal following.”

Ben Clymer, Hodinkee

Longevity and performance over time

Casio watches are known for their longevity, with many owners reporting that their watches have lasted for decades with minimal maintenance. This longevity is a testament to the quality of materials, craftsmanship, and engineering that Casio puts into every watch. The F-91W, for example, has a battery life of up to 7 years, while many G-Shock models can last over a decade without needing a battery replacement.

The performance of Casio watches over time is generally excellent, with most models maintaining their accuracy and functionality even after years of use. The quartz movements used in Casio watches are known for their precision, often deviating by only a few seconds per month, which is more than acceptable for most users.

Collections

Casio consistently ranks among the top watch brands globally, with significant sales contributions from regions like Japan, the U.S., and Europe. For instance, the company’s integrated report for 2023 highlights that Casio’s Timepiece Business generated approximately ¥122.3 billion in net sales in the fiscal year 2022.

Casio is renowned for its diverse range of watches, catering to various needs, preferences, and price points. From rugged outdoor timepieces to sleek, professional watches, Casio’s extensive product lineup ensures that there is something for everyone.

G-Shock

The G-Shock series is perhaps Casio’s most iconic and successful line known for its extreme durability and rugged design. In my opinion, G-Shocks are the best Casio watches of all time. Introduced in 1983, G-Shock watches were engineered to withstand mechanical shock and vibration, making them ideal for outdoor activities, sports, and tough environments.

G-Shock watches are primarily aimed at sports enthusiasts, military personnel, adventurers, and those who require a watch that can endure harsh conditions. Over the years, G-Shock has also developed a strong following among fashion-conscious individuals, thanks to its wide range of designs and collaborations with fashion brands.

Key features:

• Shock resistance: All G-Shock models feature shock-resistant construction.
• Water resistance: Most models offer at least 200 meters of water resistance.
• Advanced functions: Models include features such as solar power, atomic timekeeping, altimeters, barometers, and more.
• Design variants: The G-Shock series includes over 3,500 models, offering a vast array of colors, materials, and designs.

As of 2023, Casio has sold over 100 million G-Shock watches worldwide, underscoring the series’ global popularity. The G-Shock brand alone contributes significantly to Casio’s annual revenue, with strong sales in North America, Europe, and Asia. Casio’s G-Shock series, known for its durability and toughness, has sold over 100 million units worldwide since its launch. This figure represents the enduring popularity of the model and its resonance with consumers looking for reliability and resilience in a watch.

Edifice

The Edifice series represents Casio’s commitment to precision and style, targeting professionals and individuals who appreciate sophisticated, multi-functional watches. Launched in the early 2000s, Edifice watches are characterized by their elegant design, advanced technology, and robust build quality.

Edifice watches are designed for professionals, particularly those in business and corporate environments. The series appeals to individuals seeking a watch that combines functionality with a refined appearance.

Key features:

• Chronograph functionality: Most Edifice models feature chronographs for timing events.
• Smartphone link: Some models are equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to sync their watch with a smartphone for automatic time updates and other functions.
• Solar power: Solar-powered models are available, offering sustainable energy solutions.
• Materials: The Edifice series often uses stainless steel cases and sapphire crystal glass, providing durability and a premium feel.

The Edifice series has seen steady growth, particularly in Asia and Europe. Casio’s strategy of positioning Edifice as a high-tech yet stylish option has resonated well with the target demographic, making it a strong competitor in the mid-range watch market.

Pro Trek

The Pro Trek series is designed for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring watches equipped with various sensors and functions to assist in activities such as hiking, trekking, and climbing. Introduced in the 1990s, Pro Trek watches are known for their robust functionality and reliability in extreme conditions.

Pro Trek watches are aimed at adventurers, hikers, and outdoor sports enthusiasts who require accurate and reliable instruments during their expeditions.

Key features:

• Triple sensor technology: Pro Trek watches often include altimeters, barometers, and compasses.
• Solar power: Many models are solar-powered, ensuring long battery life and environmental sustainability.
• Water resistance: Typically, Pro Trek models offer water resistance suitable for outdoor use, often around 100 meters.
• Durability: These watches are built to withstand harsh outdoor environments, including extreme temperatures and rough handling.

While more niche compared to G-Shock, the Pro Trek series has a loyal following among outdoor enthusiasts. Sales have been particularly strong in regions with active outdoor communities, such as North America and Europe.

Vintage

The Casio Vintage Collection taps into the retro trend, offering digital watches with classic designs reminiscent of the 1980s and 1990s. These watches are simple, affordable, and highly nostalgic, appealing to both older generations and younger consumers drawn to vintage fashion.

The Vintage Collection targets a broad demographic, from older adults seeking nostalgia to younger consumers interested in retro and minimalist fashion.

Key features:

• Digital displays: Classic digital interfaces with basic functions such as alarms, stopwatches, and calendars.
• Affordability: These watches are among Casio’s most affordable, often priced under $50.
• Iconic designs: Models like the F-91W are globally recognized and have remained virtually unchanged for decades.
• Compact size: The Vintage Collection typically features smaller, lightweight designs, suitable for everyday casual wear.

The Casio Vintage Collection has maintained consistent sales due to its affordability and timeless appeal. The F-91W model alone has sold millions of units globally, making it one of Casio’s most enduring and popular watches.

Baby-G

The Baby-G series is a counterpart to the G-Shock line, designed specifically for women. Launched in 1994, Baby-G watches retain the rugged durability of G-Shock but are smaller, lighter, and available in more vibrant colors and feminine designs. Baby-G watches are aimed at women who lead active lifestyles and need a durable watch that also complements their style.

Key features:

• Shock resistance: Like G-Shock, Baby-G watches are built to be shock-resistant.
• Water resistance: Most models are water-resistant up to 100 meters, making them suitable for swimming and other water activities.
• Fashion-forward designs: Baby-G watches come in a variety of colors and styles, often featuring playful and trendy designs.
• Compact size: The watches are designed to be smaller and more comfortable on the wrist, appealing to women and younger consumers.

The Baby-G series has been particularly successful in Asia, with strong sales in Japan and South Korea. It remains a popular choice for women seeking a durable yet stylish watch.

Oceanus

The Oceanus series represents Casio’s foray into the luxury watch market. These watches combine traditional craftsmanship with modern technology, offering high-end timepieces that compete with established luxury brands.

Oceanus watches are designed for affluent consumers who appreciate both luxury and technology in their timepieces. The series targets professionals and watch collectors who value premium materials and advanced features.

Key features:

• Premium materials: Oceanus watches often feature titanium cases, sapphire crystal glass, and fine leather straps.
• Advanced technology: The series includes features such as GPS hybrid radio-controlled timekeeping, solar power, and high-precision movements.
• Elegant design: Oceanus watches are sleek and sophisticated, with a focus on minimalist design and craftsmanship.
• Limited editions: The Oceanus line occasionally releases limited edition models, further enhancing its appeal among collectors.

While the Oceanus series is a relatively small segment of Casio’s overall portfolio, it has gained recognition in the luxury watch market, particularly in Japan. Its blend of traditional watchmaking with Casio’s technological expertise has attracted a niche but loyal customer base.

Style and Design

Casio’s approach to watch design is a harmonious blend of functionality, innovation, and versatility, resulting in timepieces that cater to a broad spectrum of consumers. Despite the diversity in its product lines, certain overarching design principles characterize Casio watches as a whole, contributing to the brand’s widespread appeal.

“Casio’s ability to create watches that are both utilitarian and stylish is part of what makes the brand so enduring. They understand that form and function can coexist beautifully.”

Elizabeth Doerr, a watch journalist at Quill & Pad

Functionality-driven design

At the core of Casio’s design philosophy is functionality. The brand is renowned for its focus on creating watches that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly practical. This practicality is evident in the user-friendly interfaces, clear displays, and robust features integrated into the watches.

Key elements:

• Legibility: Casio watches often feature large, easy-to-read numerals and hands, making them accessible for users in various conditions. Whether digital or analog, the focus is on ensuring that time and other data are visible at a glance.
• Durability: Durability is a hallmark of Casio’s design ethos. The watches are engineered to withstand the rigors of daily use, with many models featuring water resistance, shock resistance, and robust materials that enhance longevity.

Technological integration

Casio has consistently embraced technological advancements in its watch designs, setting it apart as a leader in innovation. This integration of technology is seamless, ensuring that even the most advanced features are presented in an intuitive and user-friendly manner.

Key elements:

• Digital innovation: Casio was a pioneer in digital watchmaking, and this legacy continues to influence its designs. The brand often incorporates digital displays that provide multifunctional capabilities, including world time, alarms, and chronographs.
• Hybrid designs: Many Casio watches combine analog and digital displays, offering the best of both worlds. This hybrid approach allows for traditional timekeeping alongside modern functionalities, appealing to a broad audience.

Versatile aesthetics

One of Casio’s strengths is its ability to produce watches that suit various lifestyles and occasions. The brand offers everything from sporty and casual designs to more refined and elegant options, ensuring that there is a Casio watch for everyone.

Key elements:

• Minimalist to bold designs: Casio’s design spectrum ranges from minimalist, understated styles to bold, eye-catching designs. This versatility allows the brand to cater to different fashion preferences, from those who prefer classic simplicity to those who enjoy making a statement with their accessories.
• Material diversity: Casio uses a variety of materials in its watch designs, including resin, stainless steel, leather, and more. This diversity not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the watches but also provides consumers with options that match their specific needs, whether it’s durability, comfort, or luxury.

Timeless appeal

Despite its commitment to innovation, Casio maintains a sense of timelessness in its designs. The brand strikes a balance between modern trends and classic watchmaking traditions, resulting in timepieces that remain relevant and stylish across generations.

Key elements:

• Classic design elements: Many Casio watches incorporate classic design elements such as clean lines, neutral color palettes, and traditional shapes. These features ensure that the watches are versatile enough to complement a wide range of outfits and settings.
• Enduring popularity: Casio’s ability to blend contemporary features with classic design has contributed to the enduring popularity of its watches. Models from decades ago are still sought after today, a testament to the brand’s success in creating timeless designs.

User-centric design philosophy

Casio’s design process is deeply rooted in understanding the needs of its users. The brand places a strong emphasis on creating watches that enhance the user experience, whether through ergonomic design, intuitive functionality, or thoughtful features that cater to specific needs.

Key elements:

• Ergonomics: Casio watches are designed with comfort in mind. The brand carefully considers factors such as strap design, case size, and weight distribution to ensure that the watches are comfortable to wear for extended periods.
• Accessibility: Casio’s commitment to accessibility is evident in its wide range of prices and features. Whether a consumer is looking for an affordable, basic watch or a more advanced model with cutting-edge technology, Casio offers a design that meets those needs without sacrificing quality or style.

Target audience

Casio watches are designed to appeal to a diverse range of audiences, thanks to the brand’s wide array of watch models that cater to various lifestyles, preferences, and needs. Casio is a good watch brand for tech enthusiasts and adventurers, professionals and fashion-conscious youth, budget-conscious consumers and nostalgia seekers. The brand’s ability to combine advanced technology with stylish, durable, and affordable designs makes it a versatile choice for a wide range of individuals. This diversity in appeal is a key factor in Casio’s enduring success in the global watch market.

Tech-savvy consumers

Individuals who appreciate the integration of technology with traditional watchmaking. Casio is known for pioneering innovations such as digital timekeeping, atomic time synchronization, and solar power technology. These features attract consumers who are looking for watches that offer more than just timekeeping, including functions like GPS, alarms, and world time.

Outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers

People who spend a lot of time outdoors, including hikers, climbers, and sports enthusiasts. Casio’s rugged and durable models, particularly the G-Shock and Pro Trek series, are designed to withstand harsh environments. These watches offer features like shock resistance, water resistance, altimeters, barometers, and compasses, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

Young, trend-conscious consumers

Younger demographics, particularly those in their teens to early 30s, who are fashion-forward and trend-conscious. Casio’s ability to combine function with style appeals to this group. The brand frequently releases bold, colorful designs and limited-edition collaborations that align with current fashion trends, particularly within the G-Shock and Baby-G lines. These watches are also seen as a statement accessory in streetwear culture.

Professionals and business executives

Men and women in the professional sphere who require a watch that is both functional and elegant. The Edifice series and certain models within the Casio Collection offer sophisticated designs that suit a business environment. These watches combine stylish aesthetics with features like chronographs and world time functions, appealing to those who need a reliable yet refined timepiece.

Budget-conscious consumers

Individuals looking for reliable watches at an affordable price. Casio is well-known for offering high-quality watches at accessible price points. The Casio Collection and Retro series provide dependable timepieces with essential features, making them popular among students, casual wearers, and anyone looking for value for money.

Nostalgia seekers and collectors

Those who appreciate retro designs or have an interest in watch collecting. The Retro series, featuring iconic models like the F91W, appeals to consumers with a love for vintage styles. Additionally, collectors are drawn to Casio for its rich history of innovation and the availability of limited-edition models.

Comparison with competitors

Casio’s primary strength lies in its exceptional durability and technological innovation. The G-Shock series, in particular, is widely recognized for its toughness, being able to withstand extreme conditions that would likely damage other watches. Casio has also been a pioneer in integrating advanced technology into its watches, such as solar power, atomic timekeeping, and digital multifunctionality. These features make Casio a top choice for individuals who need a robust, reliable watch for active or outdoor lifestyles.

However, Casio’s focus on durability and technology sometimes comes at the expense of aesthetic refinement. While the brand offers a wide range of designs, many of its watches, especially in the G-Shock line, have a bulky, utilitarian look that may not appeal to those seeking a more classic or elegant timepiece. This is where Seiko and Citizen often outperform Casio, as both brands are known for their sophisticated designs and superior craftsmanship. Seiko, in particular, is renowned for its high-quality mechanical movements, even in more affordable models, and offers a blend of precision, durability, and classic aesthetics. Seiko’s ability to produce reliable, stylish watches at a variety of price points makes it a favorite among those who value both form and function.

Citizen, on the other hand, shines with its Eco-Drive technology, which allows watches to be powered by light, eliminating the need for battery replacements. This innovation has made Citizen a leader in eco-friendly watchmaking, and the brand’s focus on sustainability resonates with environmentally conscious consumers. Citizen also offers a wide range of styles, from sporty to dressy, making it a versatile option for many different occasions. However, while Citizen watches are generally well-made, they may not have the same rugged reputation as Casio’s G-Shock or the horological prestige of Seiko.

Timex, often positioned at a lower price point than the others, is celebrated for its affordability and reliability. The brand’s watches are straightforward and functional, making them a go-to choice for those who need a dependable watch without spending a lot of money. Timex’s Indiglo technology, which provides excellent nighttime readability, is a standout feature. However, in terms of technological innovation and build quality, Timex often falls short when compared to Casio, Seiko, and Citizen.

Is Casio a good watch investment?

Casio watches, particularly models from the G-Shock series, hold a unique position in the second-hand market. While they are not typically seen as high-end luxury items, some models have garnered significant attention from collectors and enthusiasts, leading to strong resale value for specific limited editions or rare models. For example, certain G-Shock models, especially those released in collaboration with designers or featuring limited production runs, can appreciate in value over time. 

While most Casio watches are not considered traditional investment pieces, certain models have become collector’s items, particularly within the G-Shock line. Limited editions, anniversary models, and collaborations with artists or designers can command higher prices on the second-hand market. For example, the G-Shock DW-5000C, one of the first models released in 1983, is highly sought after by collectors and can fetch a premium price if in good condition. Another example is the G-Shock Frogman series, particularly the early models, which have become desirable among collectors due to their rarity and iconic design.

However, the majority of Casio watches are designed as affordable, functional timepieces, which means that they generally do not see significant increases in value in the resale market. The investment potential of Casio watches is generally limited compared to luxury watch brands like Rolex or Patek Philippe. The value of Casio watches typically remains stable rather than appreciating significantly, and their primary appeal is their functionality and durability rather than their potential as a financial investment.