The "fully metal" G-Shock B5000 family (including many variants) is one of my favorites among Casio models seen on wrists in everyday life.
Owners of these metallic G-Shocks with bracelets clearly appreciate both style and functionality. These watches are not the most expensive among G-Shocks (though there are very costly models with similar designs), but they represent a conscious step up from the more sporty G-Shock models commonly seen. In other words, those who choose these watches want the reliability and performance of Casio but in a more "mature" and stylish form.
One of the newest models in the digital fully metallic series is the Casio G-Shock GMWBZ5000 (reference GMWBZ5000GD9 shown in the photo with a gold-toned steel case). This model offers a slightly modified case shape and one of the first uses of Casio's MIPs (Memory in Pixel) technology - a screen replacing the traditional LCD. It is important to note that MIPs is a type of LCD that Casio calls STN-LCD. The screen is complemented by a photovoltaic element for solar charging.
Despite its high-quality construction and one of the most robust cases in the GMW-B5000 family, it is difficult to claim that this model is a significant improvement over traditional Casio LCD screens. Some believe that MIPs will eventually completely replace LCD, but I am not sure. Rather, MIPs is not so much an upgrade as just a different type of screen with certain potential that Casio has not yet fully revealed. So what is the real advantage of the new display in the GMWBZ5000? According to Casio, the screen has higher contrast and therefore better readability, especially in bright lighting. This may be true, but these improvements do not seem obvious and are not groundbreaking.
Features and Comparison with Other Casio G-Shock Models with MIPs
Casio also offers a more affordable G-Shock model with a black resin case and the same MIPs screen. At the time of writing, it is almost unavailable for sale, indicating buyer interest in Casio's new technologies. However, there is no urgent need to switch to MIPs, considering LCD outdated. Practically, LCD screens are almost as readable (though MIPs win in contrast) and provide longer battery life. For example, a similar G-Shock with an LCD lasts about 10 months without low power mode, whereas the MIPs version lasts about 6 months. Both versions have solar charging, significantly extending battery life. This indicates that Casio still needs to improve the energy efficiency of MIPs compared to LCD.
Graphics Capabilities and User Interface of the MIPs Screen
One of the potential advantages of MIPs is higher resolution, allowing for more varied graphical interfaces. Theoretically, Casio could develop new time display options and user interfaces for the GMWBZ5000. In practice, there are few changes. One of the innovations is the "Standard" font for digits, which looks smoother and differs from the traditional stencil font of LCD screens. There is also a second font - "Classic", mimicking the familiar LCD style. There are no other font options and graphic layouts, although there are a few new options for displaying information on the main screen, such as the ability to show a second time zone for quick viewing.
Font Settings Management and Interaction with the App
Switching between "Standard" and "Classic" fonts cannot be done directly on the watch - this function is not even mentioned in the manual. The setting is only available through Casio's proprietary mobile app with Bluetooth support. This app is convenient for connecting and setting up the watch, updating time, and managing the display. However, it is unclear why Casio did not implement the ability to change fonts directly on the device, forcing users to use a smartphone.
Prospects for MIPs Development and Design of Casio Digital Displays
I believe Casio should more actively use MIPs technology in combination with new graphic designs and interfaces. The company traditionally invests significant efforts in creating creative and stylish analog-digital and fully analog displays. Casio has all the resources to develop interesting time display concepts. It's time to update digital displays by offering fresh fonts and layouts while preserving the classic options that users already love.
Model Range and Features of the GMWBZ5000 Case
At launch, the fully metallic G-Shock collection includes only two models with MIPs: the gold-toned GMWBZ5000GD9 with a regular light display and the steel GMWBZ5000D-1 with a dark "negative" screen. It is unclear why screens cannot switch between light and dark modes at the user's discretion. MIPs do not appear to have the hardware limitations characteristic of LCD, so restricting the mode seems unjustified. This is one reason I cautiously recommend switching to MIPs - the technology is not yet fully refined, and the price is higher without revolutionary improvements.
The glass over the screen is mineral, as in the previous generation. In more expensive Casio models, sapphire glass is usually used, which is more scratch-resistant. The mineral glass here is protected by a recessed metal bezel, but at this price level, Casio might consider switching to sapphire if they can keep costs down.
Comparison with the GMWB5000GD9 Model and Case Specifications
For clarity, I compared the GMWBZ5000GD9 with the MIPs screen and the very similar GMWB5000GD9 with a negative LCD display. The references differ by just one letter. The cases have some differences, but it is unclear if they are significant improvements. Casio redesigned the DLC-coated back cover, which looks solid and reliable. The case retains water resistance up to 300 meters and approximately the same dimensions: 43.6 mm in width, 13 mm in thickness, and 49.3 mm lug-to-lug length. However, the watch appears larger due to non-flexible bracelet links, increasing the distance to 60 mm. Therefore, the GMWBZ5000 is not the best choice for thin wrists. The MIPs model is heavier - 172 g compared to 167 g for the LCD version.
Software and Watch Functions
The software of the GMWBZ5000 includes all the features of the previous generation, without significant innovations. Among them:
- Full calendar
- Stopwatch
- Countdown timer
- Up to five alarms
- World time
- Bluetooth connection
- Radio-controlled timekeeping across six bands
- Tough Solar charging
- Automatic screen backlight when lifting and turning the wrist (not available in all G-Shock models)
Impressions of Design and Color Scheme
The gold-toned metal case gives the watch a special charm. Although it would be better if it were real gold (Casio has released such models), the combination of the noble metal color and minimalist digital display looks ironic and stylish. Casio is known for its reliable and functional watches, but it also knows how to make them attractive and interesting. Many users may not notice all the details of the metal case, which is impact and dirt-resistant, has no exposed plastic, and looks more formal than sporty.
Development Prospects and Conclusion
Casio will likely need a few more product generations to widely implement MIPs and make them more accessible. I would like to meet with a Casio engineer to better understand the advantages and limitations of MIPs technology, as well as the company's plans for its future development. The GMWBZ5000 is an ambitious and somewhat confusing product that has sparked interest among Casio fans. The price of the GMWBZ5000GD9 model is around $720 USD.
Thus, the Casio G-Shock GMWBZ5000 is a high-quality, reliable, and stylish watch with a new type of screen that has not yet been groundbreaking but has potential for further development. Users who value traditional reliability and functionality do not have an urgent need to switch from LCD to MIPs, but the future is in new technologies in Casio digital watches.