Casio is giving its iconic square G-Shock a modern comfort upgrade with three brand-new DW-5600 models that replace the usual resin strap with a stretchable cloth “cross band” and a magnetic buckle. The idea is simple: keep the classic DW-5600 look and toughness, but make it faster to put on and take off—and more comfortable for all-day wear.
The new lineup includes the DW-5600MNC-1, DW-5600MNC-7A8, and DW-5600MNC-8A2. Casio groups them under its “New Cloth Band” series, built around an adjustable fabric strap paired with a magnetic buckle made by FIDLOCK. Casio says this setup significantly improves convenience for attaching and removing the watch, and it’s designed to work smoothly with one hand. The buckle combines magnets with a mechanical locking mechanism so it snaps into place securely instead of relying on magnetism alone.
Each model brings a distinct color style while keeping the same core watch specifications. The DW-5600MNC-1 goes for a stealthy all-black, monochrome finish and is the only one in the trio with an inverted LCD display. The DW-5600MNC-7A8 adds more pop with light gray accents and a neon yellow and gray band for a brighter, street-ready look. The DW-5600MNC-8A2 leans sporty, mixing a gray bezel with a navy-and-orange band.
Beyond appearance, these DW-5600 cloth band models share the same build and features. They measure 48.9 x 42.8 x 13.4 mm and weigh 53 g. The case and bezel use biomass resin, and the display is protected by inorganic glass. As you’d expect from a G-Shock, they’re shock resistant and rated for 200 meters of water resistance, making them suitable for swimming, outdoor wear, and everyday knocks and bumps.
Functionally, you’re getting the familiar DW-5600 toolkit: a 1/100-second stopwatch, a 24-hour countdown timer, multi-alarm, hourly time signal, full auto calendar, and an LED backlight with Super Illuminator for better visibility in low light. Accuracy is rated at ±15 seconds per month. Power comes from a standard battery rather than solar charging, with an estimated battery life of about five years.
Casio is launching the DW-5600MNC series in Japan first, priced at ¥19,800 (around $127), keeping it firmly in affordable G-Shock territory. Preorders are already open, with sales expected to begin later in March. A broader rollout to other regions is expected to follow soon after.
