Casio GMW-B5000SB-1A2 leak reveals lab-grown sapphire accents and black IP finish
A new leak has offered a closer look at Casio’s still-unannounced GMW-B5000SB-1A2, and this version of the iconic square G-Shock appears to be one of the more unusual full-metal-inspired releases in the lineup.
The latest image, believed to come from a dealer catalog, adds two important details to earlier reports. The watch is said to feature lab-grown sapphire studs on the bezel, positioned at the four front screw points, along with a black IP-coated case. That combination gives the model a more premium, jewelry-like twist while keeping the rugged G-Shock identity intact.
The GMW-B5000SB-1A2 is expected to launch in Japan in November with a reported price of 110,000 yen. Based on current conversion estimates, that works out to roughly $701. If accurate, this would make it significantly more expensive than the standard GMW-B5000-1JF, which is priced at 72,600 yen in Japan. That puts the leaked model about 52% higher than the regular version.
One surprising detail is the strap choice. While the GMW-B5000 series is often associated with metal bracelets, this leaked model reportedly uses a urethane band. That is not new for the range, as Casio has previously released GMW-B5000 models with metal cases and resin-style bands. However, paired with sapphire details and a black IP case, the urethane strap could give the watch a sportier and lighter feel compared with a full-metal bracelet version.
The biggest talking point is clearly the use of lab-grown sapphire. Casio has experimented with premium materials across its high-end G-Shock and MR-G models, but sapphire accents on a square GMW-B5000 would make this release stand out from the usual color and finish variations. The blue sapphire elements could also create a sharp contrast against the dark case, giving the watch a more distinctive collector-focused look.
There is also speculation that the GMW-B5000SB-1A2 could be connected to a broader sapphire-themed release strategy. A separate sapphire-equipped MR-G model has recently been discussed, reportedly created for the MR-G line’s 30th anniversary. That piece is said to be limited to just 20 units worldwide with an extremely high price of 10 million yen. While the GMW-B5000SB-1A2 would sit in a very different price category, the shared sapphire theme has led to questions about whether Casio is preparing a special series.
For now, none of this has been officially confirmed by Casio. The model name, price, November release window, lab-grown sapphire studs, black IP finish, and urethane band all come from leaked or unofficial information. Until Casio makes a formal announcement, details may still change.
If the leak proves accurate, the Casio GMW-B5000SB-1A2 could become one of the most talked-about square G-Shock releases of the year. With a premium black finish, sapphire accents, and a price well above the standard model, it seems aimed at collectors who want something more exclusive than a typical GMW-B5000 while still keeping the familiar digital G-Shock design.
