G-Shock’s Striking New Watches Are Steeped in Japanese Tradition

In case you weren’t already aware, G-Shock is a Japanese watchmaker. And over the years, we’ve seen plenty of references inspired by their home nation. 

Notable models include the manga sketch-style GA-2100MNG and the highly coveted MRG-G2000HA “Hammer Tone” with a hand-hammered titanium bezel that uses traditional Japanese metal forging techniques. But there are countless others.

However, the Casio sub-brand’s latest capsule is one of the most overt examples we’ve seen to date.

G-Shock

Light reading

The new Aka-Chochin collection consists of two models — the DW-5600AKA-4 and DW-6900AKA-4 — that each boast the same striking aesthetic. They’re heavily inspired by those red paper lanterns you see frequently around Japan.

G-Shock

G-Shock

Dating back at least half a century, the chochin lanterns rose to prominence in the early Edo period (probably in the 17th century) when tavern owners wanted a way to attract patrons. Now, these lamps have made their way to a pair of iconic G-Shock streetwear staples, the 5600 and 6900.

A polarizing aesthetic

Keeping the same macro look and feature set of their respective families, the Aka-Chochin models are dressed in bright red for the resin cases, bezels and bands. However, you’ll easily notice the kanji characters calling your attention down the front of the watch.

G-Shock

The black symbols read “耐衝撃,” which is Japanese for “shock resistance,” a signature of G-Shock timepieces. When you turn on the LED light, the center of the characters fill in like a puzzle piece on the dial’s backdrop.

Unlike typical 5600 and 6900 models, the bezels feature hot-stamped grooves to mimic the lantern aesthetic even further. The motif extends around the edges of the strap as well.

G-Shock

G-Shock

Still boasting 200m of water resistance and, obviously, shock resistance, the quartz watches have one last nod to the chochin. On the stainless steel caseback, an image of a lantern is engraved. 

Both models are made in Japan.

G-Shock

Availability and pricing

Priced at $190 each, the DW-5600AKA-4 and DW-6900AKA-4 “Aka-Chochin” are available now from G-Shock’s website.

G-Shock

G-Shock DW-5600AKA-4 “Aka-Chochin”

• $190 at G-Shock

G-Shock

G-Shock DW-6900AKA-4 “Aka-Chochin”

• $190 at G-Shock

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