When shopping for a new timepiece, it’s hard to go past G-Shock watches. First introduced by the Casio brand in 1983, they have since become a street-style icon synonymous with their toughness, sleek design, and advanced features. G-Shock watches are designed to withstand extreme conditions and are popular among athletes, outdoor enthusiasts, and military personnel. Their watches are built to last and can withstand shock, water, and even the most extreme of temperatures.
They are also packed with a myriad of handy everyday functions such as a stopwatch, alarm, countdown timer, and multiple time zones, so again, it’s not to see why this Japanese watch brand is constantly on the top of people’s lists when looking to make a new purchase. Unfortunately, with a reputation like G-Shock’s, it leaves them vulnerable to opportunists who are keen to jump in on their success by producing counterfeit models. And with technology getting better, it is becoming harder to decipher what is the real deal and what is fake. So, this makes learning how to know if your G-Shock watch is original or not even more difficult.
If you’re keen to invest in a G-Shock for your next watch purchase, read on to learn all the tell-tale signs a G-Shock watch is fake so that you don’t get duped when buying your timepiece.
Overview:
- How to Know if Your G Shock Watch is Original
- How To Avoid Getting Duped
- Our Favourite G-Shock Watch Models
How to Know if Your G Shock Watch is Original
G-Shock watches have become an iconic symbol of toughness and durability in the world of timepieces. These women's and men's watches are renowned for their shock-resistant features, making them popular among outdoor enthusiasts, military personnel, and those who work in extreme environments. However, as with any popular product, there is always the risk of counterfeit versions flooding the market. Fortunately, there are some telling signs that can be used to triple-check the authenticity of your G-Shock and Casio watches.
Look for a Serial and Model Number
All G-Shock watches come with a unique serial number engraved on the back of the watch. This number is typically eight digits long and can be used to verify the authenticity of the watch. You can check the serial number against the official G-Shock database to ensure that it matches the correct model and production date. In addition to the serial number, all G-Shock watches also come equipped with a model number located on the back of the watch or on the packaging. Make sure to verify the model number with the manufacturer or an authorized retailer you are purchasing from as. some counterfeiters may try to use a similar model number. This is why it is important to cross-reference the model number and verify that it matches the watch you are purchasing.
Examine the Quality of the Watch
G-Shock watches are renowned for their rugged and durable design. An authentic watch will have a high-quality finish, with no visible signs of poor workmanship or defects. The watch should feel solid and well-made, with no loose parts or rattling. The buttons should be firm and responsive, and the display should be clear and easy to read. G-Shock watches have specific buttons that are designed to be easy to use even when wearing gloves. If the buttons feel flimsy or don't work smoothly, it's likely a fake. Make sure to check that the buttons work smoothly and that they feel solid. You should also examine any logos or branding present on the watch to check that it is aligned with what is generally produced by the brand and that the lines and edging are not only smooth but also consistent. With the G-Shock Carbon Core Guard watches such as G-Shock CasiOak watches and the G-Shock Mudmaster watches, a telling sign that they are fake is if their exterior feels lightweight or flimsy in your hands. Because while G-Shock watches aren't overly heavy, the brand's carbon core watches have three layers of protection.
Check the Features
G-Shock watches come with a range of features, including alarms, timers, and world-time functions. An authentic watch will have all of these features working correctly and smoothly. If you notice any issues with the functionality of the watch, such as buttons not responding or the display not working correctly, it may be a sign that the watch is fake. All G-Shock watches, Casio watches and even Baby-G watches will generally also generally have a LED light built into them, which can be another telling sign that your watch may be a fake. A G-Shock LED light is designed to give you good visibility in low-light settings and so if the light is dull or makes it difficult to be able to see the digits, it could mean that your watch is inauthentic. However, if you sourced your G-Shock from the pre-loved market and it has been worn previously, you should rule out that the light isn’t just broken before striking it off as inauthentic.
Check the Packaging
One of the easiest ways to identify a fake G-Shock watch is by looking at the packaging. An authentic G-Shock watch will come in a sturdy box with the brand logo and model number clearly displayed while the colouring will also be quite vibrant as opposed to faded or completely solid and will often feature a smooth and shiny consistency. The packaging will also include a warranty card and instruction manual. Counterfeit watches often come in flimsy packaging with poorly printed logos and missing or incorrect paperwork. The cushioning featured on the packaging should also be made of high-quality material, and if the packaging of the G-Shock watch you are considering does not match this description, it is likely a fake.
How To Avoid Getting Duped
To avoid getting duped into buying a fake G-Shock watch, it's important to do your research and pay attention to the details. Only buy from a trusted retailer that has a good reputation for selling authentic watches. Look for companies that promote themselves as ‘authorised sellers’, as brands like Shiels which have this are licensed to sell watches produced under the G-Shock name along with other trusted watchmakers such as Seiko and Citizen watches. Avoid buying from street vendors or online sellers that you don't trust, as they may be selling counterfeit G-Shock watches and may not have the authorisation to sell their watches, meaning that they themselves cannot guarantee the authenticity.
Additionally, you should be wary of deals that sound as if they are too good to be true. Counterfeiters often sell their products at a lower price in order to lure in customers, so if you come across a G-Shock watch that is significantly cheaper than what you would buy it for at retail price, it's likely a fake. If you do choose to go down the pre-loved route, be sure to ask plenty of questions and focus on eliminating any tell-tale signs that the watch is fake. But the most full-proof method of all when making a purchase taking the time to research and carefully inspect a G-Shock watch before making a purchase can save you from getting duped into buying a fake watch. Have your guard up and be savvy.
Our Favourite G-Shock Watch Models
Now that you’ve learnt how to know if your G-Shock watch is original, allow us to take you through some of our favourite men’s G-Shock watches and women’s G-Shock watches in your collection. From the rugged Mudmaster additions that are perfect for all your outdoor adventures to the G-Shock G-Steel watches that make for a great office or companion, our G-Shock range caters to people from all walks of life.
