At G-Shock’s core is their dedication to adventurers who need a watch to take them through any climate, and any situation. Their commitment to adventurers has now been solidified in a new collection of watches that are made to resemble various minerals and stones. Specifically, they have chosen materials used as guideposts for pioneers since the Middle Ages.
These Casio timepieces offer never seen before designs that are sure to impress with their amazing detail. The three watches form the Adventures Gem Collection and launched in January of 2023.
As a testament to celebrate 40 years of G-Shock, we are treated to 4 engraved stars on the clasp along with a ‘since 1983’ tag, which is a great feature for avid collectors. This can be found on all three pieces.
The timepieces are thoughtfully constructed with world-class techniques to create realistic mimics of the materials, including texture and colour, to embody their muse. The three models are taken through a special forging process to create a unique finish across the bezel, and the textured ‘rock face’ areas are given a glossing polish to really stand out.
A two-step ion-plating process is used with masked areas after the initial plating and before the piece is plated again to add depth and dimension with multicoloured tones and textures. Moreover, each piece has a different finish depending on the stone or mineral that inspired it to ensure that the design is as accurate as possible.
Overview:
- G-Shock GM-5640 Gem Sunstone
- G-Shock GM-2140 Gem Cordierite
- G-Shock GM-114 Gem Calcite
- Final Thoughts
G-Shock GM-5640 Gem Sunstone
The digital, square version of the gem collection boasts the beautiful sunstone colourations. The smooth translucent grey band pairs effortlessly with the multicoloured look of the gem, and the dark backdrop really helps the pattern and texture to stand out. The forged rainbow bezel has a lovely sheen that looks fantastic in the light, and the metallic finish of the case helps to maintain its authenticity. From every angle, the colours of the piece reflect and change, one of my favourite aspects of this design.
The digital display is a negative display, tying in effortlessly to the case and strap. Even amongst the eye-catching design, the display is easy to read and has a great clarity.
G-Shock GM-2140 Gem Cordierite
The GM-2140 replicates the striking blue colour of the cordierite stone, and has the IP-finished bezel and moulded resin band. It’s in this watch that the colour and texture combination really shows off. The metallic finish reflects differently in various lighting and the rock texture across the case and bezel exacerbates its effect. The fun doesn’t stop there! The dial itself is set with polarised vapour deposition to create different colour effects from every angle - an impressive part of this timepiece.
I am a fan of the resin band and metal case combination, which ensures that the watch isn’t too over the top and still comfortable to wear. Enjoy 200m water resistance, a 48-city work time feature, double LED light along with identical functionality to the metal Casio-Oaks in the GM-2100 series. Measurements for this piece come in at 49.3mm lug-to-lug with a 44.4mm width and 12.1mm height which helps its wearability.
G-Shock GM-114 Gem Calcite
Finally, there’s the GM-114 which in my opinion, is the most ‘on the nose’ out of the three pieces. The textured motif is continued in the GM-114, with the placement of the gold edging really demonstrating the nature of its inspiration. The combination of black and gold is always a hit, but I find it refreshing to see this newest model take a different approach to a palette that has been done so many times.
The dial continues the black and gold look with both analogue and digital displays that are easily legible. The resin band has been carefully crafted with heat treatments to give the band its uneven texture, a great addition to the overall design.
It seems fitting that this timepiece is the biggest of the three, coming in at 91.9mm lug-to-lug with a 48.8mm lug and 16.9mm height - which makes the piece more of a statement piece on the wrist.
Final Thoughts
There’s a lot to love within the G-Shock Adventurers Gem collection, and we are spoiled for choice with this release. Timepieces like nothing else, if you’re looking for a watch design unlike anything else, then you really can’t look past the Adventurers Gems. For watch enthusiasts, owning a 40th Anniversary timepiece is a no-brainer and a pretty special piece that we know you’ll treasure for a lifetime.
