TOKYO, July 12, 2010 — Casio Computer Co., Ltd., announced today the release of a bold new addition to its G-SHOCK family of shock-resistant watches—the GX-56, an extra-sized watch featuring a uniquely powerful design that exudes pure shock-resistance.

Since introduced in 1983, Casio’s G-SHOCK watches have remained true to a tough basic construction* that not only delivers shock-resistance but also naturally lends itself to a variety of unique designs. Meanwhile, their functionality and performance have continued to evolve, making the G-SHOCK one of the most popular watch brands in the world. In 2009, total worldwide shipments of G-SHOCK watches passed the 50 million mark.

* The unique shock-resistant construction of G-SHOCK watches includes a bezel designed to prevent direct impact to the glass face and buttons if the watch is dropped, a hollow structure inside the case with only a few points that support the timekeeping module so that it effectively floats in the space, and an interior layered with cushioning material to protect key parts such as the crystal oscillator.

The GX-56 features a bold design that takes the individuality of G-SHOCK watches one step beyond with a shape that practically explodes with presence. While drawing on the square-shaped face motif of the original G-SHOCK, the DW-5000C, the GX-56 features a boldly enhanced size about twice the volume of the DW-5000C. All told, the GX-56 makes a dramatic new statement about the strength and boldness of the G-SHOCK brand.

The GX-56 employs all the features of the basic construction of other G-SHOCK watches while introducing a new twist on the shock-resistant design by using functional materials to cover every part of the watch. Casio’s newly developed double-layered urethane-resin bezel covers the case, button areas and watchband bindings with soft plastic, which is then overlaid with hard plastic. This construction not only absorbs shocks, but also keeps mud or dust out of the watch. Along with these features, the plastic inner protector encasing the timekeeping module is cornice-shaped to provide a high degree of structural resiliency, and a shock-resistant gel material has been fitted to four points of the watch face at the 12, 3, 6, and 9 o’clock positions. In addition, the watchband is connected to the case and buckle by screws to provide even greater reinforcement against shocks.

Of course, the GX-56 is also equipped with Casio’s Tough Solar power system, which runs the watch on energy from either sunlight or fluorescent light. The GX-56 comes in three models: black with a white LCD readout on a dark background; black with a gold LCD; and an even more striking orange with the white LCD readout.

Specifications