Meet MR-G; the highest class watches from Casio G-Shock

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the G-Shock MR-G watch range. In these 25 years, only around 200 different MR-G watches have been released in small editions. In addition to exceptional craftsmanship, design and use of materials, this determines the exclusive character of MR-G. A great moment to take a closer look at the most special but least well-known line of the G-Shock range.

The Dream of Kikuo Ibe

Casio's chief designer Kikuo Ibe developed the first G-Shock in 1983 after dropping his late father's beloved pocket watch. His aim was to develop a watch that could survive a 10 meter drop, withstand 10 bar water pressure, and with a battery life of 10 years. And in that, as we all know, he succeeded magnificently. G-Shock is still one of the most popular and strongest watch brands in the world. But one thing kept gnawing at Ibe; his shock-resistance system watches were made entirely of plastic. A great material, but not with eternal value like his father's metal pocket watch.

From plastic to steel

Plastic is lightweight and easy to process, so it was used for all of the G-Shock's external components. Today we also know the G-Steel and the MT-G lines. These two G-Shock lines do indeed have a metal exterior, but the interior with the protective system is still made of plastic.

It was Ibe's dream to realize the same protective quality, but completely in metal, with its higher strength. The development process was extremely challenging, but all his work eventually yielded the MRG-100 in 1996. The all-metal shock-resistant structure was made possible by a variety of technological innovations, including a shock-resistant module, bumper construction for the bezel and a rubber suspension for the back of the forged stainless steel housing.

And all that for a very reasonable price. The first MR-G models were released in Japan only and are still highly sought after by collectors. Today the MR-G watches are available all over the world.

From steel to titanium luxury with respect for Japanese craftsmanship

The development of the MR-G didn't stop with the launch of an all-steel G-Shock. Over the years, MR-G has become G-Shock's luxury showpiece. Nowadays, the watches are usually made of lightweight titanium. Additional use of special materials and constantly innovative production techniques make the MR-G the premium brand of G-Shock.

The watches are exclusively manufactured in the Japanese Casio factory in Yamagata, where quality control is at a very high level. The few watchmakers who work there are trained for at least 5 years before they can use the title Meister  and only then are they allowed to work on this type of watch.

Advanced forging techniques are used to cast the complex shapes of the bezel, case and bracelet, and hairline and mirror surfaces were applied with intense attention to detail and craftsmanship.

Traditional craftsmanship is highly regarded in Japan. This craftsmanship is honored with the MR-G line. The inspiration for the latest editions is taken from the history of this country and Japanese craftsmen are involved in the production of the limited editions.

MRG-B2000BS-3 Hana Basara

Take, for example the MRG-B2000BS-3 Hana Basara. This unique MR-G was designed based on the concept of Hana-Basara, an expression of respect used for samurai commanders who broke convention with a rebellious style that combined strength and a bold, exuberant aesthetic.

The ring and band are made of the ultra-hard Cobarion with DAT55G alloy. As with gemstones, the ring is faceted by craftsman Komatsu Kazuhito to achieve a brilliant, glossy finish. An intricate process that elevates this metal watch to a true work of art. Working with such an ultra-hard alloy is very difficult to machine, so production was limited to only a few pieces per day.

The pattern on the dial is derived from the Kusari Katabira (chain mail) woven pattern and mirror-finished parts with a folding fan pattern.

The MRG-B2000BS-3 Hana Basara is now available at watch.co.uk.

More G-Shock MR-G  and special edition watches

The G-Shock MR-G watches are released in a very limited edition and it is very special that we always manage to obtain a few copies for enthusiasts. 

Of course we will continue to do our best to always offer you the latest and special edition G-Shocks in all price ranges. You will find all special editions and our range of MR-G on our page with special and limited G-Shocks.