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The design of the new Casio G-SHOCK MRG-B2000B-1A4DR shows some parallels to the equipment of traditional samurai warriors. Casio has transferred the protective concept of historical armor to its shock resistant flagship G-SHOCK. Visually, this is flaunted by the red color accents. As always, we can look forward to a mass of functions. There is a lot to discover!
UNBOXING Video G-SHOCK MRG-B2000B-1A4DR
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A G-SHOCK inspired by the Samurai
For a few years now, Casio has been pursuing the concept of transferring design and function from the history of the samurai to its own watches. In particular, they look to the samurai warriors of the Sengoku period. Back then, it was the armor that the warriors wore for protection; today, it’s the shock-resistant case that protects Casio’s G-SHOCK models. To make the connection to the samurai and thus also to the roots of its own culture clear, the Japanese manufacturer relies on traditional colors.
In 2017, the MRG-G1000B-1A4 came onto the market. The generous use of crimson and armor motifs made the wristwatch nicknamed “Akazonae” from the high-end MR-G series famous. Now, Casio has evolved the model and presents the G-SHOCK MRG-B2000B-1A4DR alongside just two sister models. In contrast to the cheaper series, a conscious decision was made to offer few models to emphasize the premium character. There are many details to discover in the slightly updated design. However, we’ll take a closer look at that later.
Loyal Casio fans don’t have to do without the multitude of functions that the solar-powered premium watch offers. I already took a closer look at the Casio G-SHOCK MRG-G1000D-1ADR, a sister model of the old “Akazonae”, in a short watch review almost 3 years ago. Now I’m curious to see how Casio has further developed the successor.
The Casio G-SHOCK MRG-B2000B-1A4DR on the wrist
Similar to the MT-G models, which are also more expensive, Casio manages with the G-SHOCK MRG-B2000B-1A4DR to produce a watch that is less reminiscent of the design of digital watches, but rather of mechanical timepieces. In my opinion, this is mainly due to the analog dial, the selected materials and the circular case shape. Whether MT-G or MR-G: both series are interesting for those, who never really liked the digital display of other Casio timepieces.
After looking at the first pictures, I didn’t quite know what to make of the red and gold color combination. Now that I’m wearing the watch, I have to say that the colors definitely appeal to me. Against the 1A4DR, the two sister models in different shades of gray almost look a bit staid. I also think that the Casio G-SHOCK MRG-B2000B-1A4DR shows its Japanese roots. The color combination also has a share in this, which should not be underestimated.
As expected, the new MR-G with dimensions of 54.7 mm x 49.8 mm is not a discreet timepiece. Not quite as huge as my last tested MT-G, but still bulky. No question, you have to like this presence on the wrist. Size is an essential distinguishing feature of the G-SHOCK. 16.9 millimeters in height are also not particularly flat. In context to the diameter, however, the height seems very harmonious.
A light case
The fact that the Casio G-SHOCK MRG-B2000B-1A4DR weighs only 150 grams including the wristband, despite its dimensions, may come as a surprise at first. This is thanks to a case made of titanium. This high-tech material is now well established in the industry and is mainly used in high-priced sports watches. It has a number of advantages over stainless steel. Titanium impresses with its corrosion resistance and hardness. Shocks and vibrations can hardly harm the case. Nevertheless, it is light and flexible. And a third advantage: allergy sufferers don’t have to worry about skin rashes thanks to its good skin compatibility.
What we do notice at first glance, however, is the dark color of the case. This stems from the final refinement with a DLC coating. The so-called “diamond-like carbon” process gives the case even more hardness. The armor of the G-SHOCK MRG-B2000B-1A4DR is now complete! It only remains to emphasize how well the materials used are processed. This finish is something to be proud of! All surfaces are brushed and underline the sporty character.
Casio guarantees you a water resistance up to 20 bar. Thus, the Casio G-SHOCK MRG-B2000B-1A4DR survives every (normal) dive. The fact that the case is anti-magnetic and thus prevents magnetic fields from influencing the precision of the movement in everyday life, for example, is pleasing. Especially with the Casio G-SHOCK MRG-B2000B-1A4DR, which is often used with a cell phone, this is an advantage.
Bezel, crown and glass
The more you look at the new MR-G, the more often the excellent choice of materials catches your eye. In line with DLC and titanium is sapphire crystal, which protects the dial on the front. In addition to its high scratch resistance, it also impresses with good clarity. The dial can be read perfectly.
A technical-functional character of the case is softened by golden accents. The four screws of the bezel, the very large crown and the lower pusher stand out with gold tones. Personally, I like this much better than on the sister models, which look quite dull in contrast to the MRG-B2000B-1A4DR. The crown and pushers can be operated flawlessly thanks to their enormous size.
An environmentally friendly drive
What actually powers the Casio G-SHOCK MRG-B2000B-1A4DR? The answer is hidden under the dial. Here, Casio has installed solar cells, which ensure the energy supply of the G-SHOCK. They drive a conventional battery and thus the functions. Convenient: if you wear the watch in sunlight or daylight for a longer period of time, the solar cells absorb more energy than the watch needs to maintain its functions. The excess energy is stored in a separate battery and then used when you store the MRG-B2000B-1A4DR in a drawer for a longer period of time, for example.
I must confess that I usually prefer mechanical movements to battery-powered watches. But now I’m familiar with Casio’s solar-powered operation from several test watches and I’m always impressed.
How to use the functions of the Casio G-SHOCK MRG-B2000B-1A4DR
Speaking of functions – the Casio G-SHOCK MRG-B2000B-1A4DR has quite a few of them. The nice thing is that you decide which functions you want to use and to what extent. Thus, the timepiece is interesting for digital nerds as well as for fans of analog timekeeping. The functions can be conveniently controlled via Bluetooth connection using an app on the smartphone. However, that is not a must. The crown and pushers can also be used for this.
I have been familiar with the G-SHOCK Connected app for a while. Setting the stop functions, world time, second time, flight mode, date and weekday display or alarm is intuitive. Another advantage: the time can be set automatically. So no matter where in the world you are, the G-SHOCK always shows the correct time. An automatic hand adjustment also checks the position of the hands every hour and corrects them if necessary.
And that’s not all. A timer, a flight mode and a phone finder are also on board. It’s best to spend a little time with the app. That’s worth it!
It’s practical to be able to do so much with a watch. However, it is important to put the information on a small dial in a way that is easy to understand and read. Casio has managed this well. For darkness, the indices have been coated with fluorescent paint and glow.
The individual elements of the dial are thematically based on historical Japan. You’ll find fan patterns, surfaces inspired by armor, and shapes reminiscent of swords. The richness of details is impressive and was made with care.
Made of titanium: comfortable to wear, secure fit
Matching the case, the bracelet is also made of titanium and is encased in a DLC coating. The quality does not drop in comparison to the case. At the end of the bracelet there is a folding clasp with a secure closure, which ensures a perfect hold and prevents you from opening the clasp accidentally. The wearing comfort is excellent.
My conclusion about the Casio G-SHOCK MRG-B2000B-1A4DR
Casio has developed its high-end series MR-G sensibly and intelligently. Little has changed in terms of design, which means you can still recognize the collection at first glance. Thanks to the traditional Japanese red and gold tones, the watch looks much more exciting than some of its predecessors.
Besides the design, however, quality also counts. In addition to the high-quality choice of materials, the workmanship is just right. Casio shows all its know-how here and produces a G-SHOCK watch that can almost be counted among the luxury segment. Numerous functions and the control options via smartphone raise the concept of the G-SHOCK to a new level. What I like about it is that you can use it, but you don’t have to.
Casio is calling a price of £ 2400,-
More about Casio and the G-SHOCK MRG-B2000B-1A4DR
Here you can find the watch in the store
My Casio watch reviews at a glance
