Mobile Suit Gundam is known for its mecha, with these iconic giant robots appearing across countless anime, manga and merchandise. These usually take the form of action figures and plastic model kits, but now, mecha fans can style their wrists in the Earth Federation tradition thanks to a new branded item.
Watch manufacturer Casio is teaming up with the Gundam lifestyle and fashion brand G-SHOCK on a new mecha-inspired watch. Of course, the design is based on the giant robot that most fans associate with the brand itself. Unfortunately, it’s currently set for release in a specific Asian country, but a wider release might be in the cards, given the franchise’s popularity worldwide.
Casio’s New Gundam Watch Brings Anime’s Most Famous Mecha to Your Wrist
The new G-SHOCK x Mobile Suit Gundam watch uses Casio’s square-shaped DW-5600UE as its canvas, meant to feel classic while bolstering the piece’s rugged durability. The watch itself is clear, but when combined with the blue center and the yellow and red elements, it matches the white, yellow, blue and red color scheme of the classic RX-78-2 Gundam.
This was the main mecha used in the original Gundam anime and famously piloted by Amuro Ray. These aren’t the only references to the mecha anime, with the backplate bearing the White Base’s Pegasus logo. The Earth Federation Space Force (EFSF) branding is on the strap, along with military-style engravings. There’s even “Since 1979” text that flashes whenever the backlight is on, evoking the Gundam’s long history.
Coming in a special Mobile Suit Gundam-themed box, the watch is shock-and water-resistant (up to 200 meters) and boasts features such as an automatic calendar, 12/24-hour time format, a 1/100-second stopwatch with a 24-hour counter, and a multifunction alarm. Along with an hourly time chime, the battery life is rated for 5 years.
This all gives it a unique appearance that’s sure to attract both mecha anime fans and watch enthusiasts seeking a nostalgic style. Its classy appearance and the craftsmanship of the Casio brand mean that they’re almost certain to sell out fast, but unfortunately, die-hard fans will have to go the extra mile to obtain one.
The G-SHOCK x Mobile Suit Gundam watch was just released, but so far, it’s scheduled to be exclusive to South Korea, of all places. It sold out there, but its popularity may lead to it being restocked and brought to other countries as well.