Casio Unveils Two New Blue Sapphire G-Shock Watches, Including a Limited MR-G Edition
Casio has expanded its premium G-Shock lineup with two striking new blue sapphire models, bringing luxury materials and bold design details to two very different price points. The newly announced MRG-B5000SA-2JR and GMW-B5000SB-1A2JF both feature lab-grown blue sapphires, but they target very different collectors.
The standout model is the Casio MRG-B5000SA-2JR, a high-end MR-G watch limited to just 500 individually numbered pieces. Priced at ¥880,000, or roughly $5,590, this model is called “Super Blue,” a name inspired by the deep blue tones found in ice caves beneath Iceland’s largest glacier.
Casio has fitted the MRG-B5000SA-2JR with two large two-carat blue sapphires. These stones are carefully faceted to reflect light from multiple angles, giving the watch a vivid, jewel-like appearance. Casio chose lab-grown sapphires rather than mined stones because natural sapphires rarely achieve the exact shade of blue the brand wanted for this design.
The blue theme extends beyond the stones. The bezel features blue AIP treatment, the suspension components use blue IP coating, and the sapphire crystal has a blue deposition finish. Together, these elements give the watch a distinctive look while staying true to the rugged square G-Shock identity.
Under the surface, the MRG-B5000SA-2JR is built on Casio’s premium MRG-B5000 platform. The top bezel is made from Cobarion, while the case and buttons use Ti64 titanium. The watch measures 49.4 × 43.2 × 12.9 mm and weighs 103 g. Casio also redesigned the multi-guard structure specifically to protect the sapphire stones, reinforcing the watch’s durability despite its luxurious details.
The case back adds another collector-focused touch, featuring the MR-G 30th anniversary logo along with the individual serial number. The MRG-B5000SA-2JR is scheduled for release in December.
For buyers looking for a more accessible sapphire-accented G-Shock, Casio has also introduced the GMW-B5000SB-1A2JF. Priced at ¥110,000, or around $700, this model brings a similar blue sapphire concept to a stainless steel G-Shock at a much lower price.
Instead of two large stones, the GMW-B5000SB-1A2JF uses four smaller round brilliant-cut lab-grown sapphires. These are placed inside the bezel dimples, with each stone supported by a steel pedestal and rubber buffer. Casio also designed the structure with holes behind the stones, allowing light to pass through and enhance their blue sparkle.
The design is intentionally restrained. The watch uses a black IP bezel, a negative display, and a black urethane band, making the blue sapphires the only bright color accent. This creates a sharp contrast and gives the watch a stealthy, modern look.
The GMW-B5000SB-1A2JF has a stainless steel case and measures 49.3 × 43.2 × 13 mm, with a weight of 98 g. It is expected to arrive in November.
One important difference between the two models is the glass. The premium MR-G model uses sapphire glass, while the GMW-B5000SB-1A2JF comes with inorganic glass. This helps explain part of the wide price gap between the two watches.
With these two releases, Casio is clearly pushing the G-Shock line further into luxury territory while still offering options for different budgets. The MRG-B5000SA-2JR is built for serious collectors who want rarity, titanium construction, and large sapphire stones. The GMW-B5000SB-1A2JF, meanwhile, offers a more affordable way to own a blue sapphire G-Shock without stepping into ultra-premium pricing.
Both watches show how Casio continues to experiment with materials, finishes, and limited-edition craftsmanship while preserving the tough square design that made the 5000 series one of the most recognizable G-Shock silhouettes ever created.
