G-SHOCK DW-5000R-1A

Tyler Frederick

Manifest destiny

The irony that I mentioned in a recent review that I haven’t had much wrist time with certain watches from G-SHOCK–only to then have them on my desk–is proof that manifestation works. I’m not saying it works for everything, but sometimes the universe just makes it happen, and I’m not complaining. I’ve been up to my neck in all things G-SHOCK lately. It’s been awesome to experience these resin-cased classics, and in one instance, an all stainless steel model. Is this review going to be paired with nerdy stuff like video games and tech? Absolutely. So let’s not waste time. On my desk and wrist is the G-SHOCK DW-5000R-1A—a cool take on the classic rectangular G-SHOCK.

^{G-SHOCK DW-5000R-1A @horologyobsessed}

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Key Features of the G-SHOCK DW-5000R-1A

“A durable watch that would not break, even if dropped…” These were the words of Kikuo Ibe during his proposal for the very first G-SHOCK. On April 12, 1983, the watch was released—a watch designed with the intention of withstanding any and all conditions, and a watch so advanced that it stood the test of time, even 40+ years later.

The DW-5000R-1A is essentially a recreation of the original aesthetically and functionally (with some modern updates), and it just goes to show how timeless design will always stay relevant, regardless of era or contemporary trends, and has been a consistent staple of what it means to produce a rugged and reliable digital/tool watch.

Since the release of the first watch over 40 years ago, G-SHOCK has widened its spectrum of watches and designs, as well as functionality, through constant innovation. However, there’s nothing like going back to a classic, and the recreation of the DW-5000 is a true homage with some slight adjustments to cater to the modern G-SHOCK fan.

Like the original, the DW-5000R-1A features a stainless steel case with a resin coating, but this time it is coated in a more environmentally friendly and sustainable material, bio-resin, and is slightly larger at 42.3mm compared to the original 41.6mm. The design of the case, bezel, and dial is reminiscent of its precursor, even down to the brick pattern on the dial, originally chosen to represent its durability.

In terms of wearability, it feels great! The resin is soft and feels great on the wrist; there’s plenty of heft, but not so much that it feels cumbersome. There’s something so cool about having an exact “replica” of an original watch on your wrist. So many cool things I hold close to my heart came out in 1983: Mario Bros., Pole Position II, and many tech innovations like Apple releasing its first commercial personal computer (Apple Lisa), and on that list is the G-SHOCK DW-5000. These watches are heavily loved by tech nerds due to their reasonable price tag, design, and functionality, and for being such an icon in all spaces.

Quibbles

It’s cool to have the recreation of a timeless icon on your wrist that’s basically the exact same as the original, but here’s the thing: there are versions of this that look very similar and are more budget-friendly. Sure, the resin feels great on the DW-5000R-1A; it feels much more luxurious in comparison to those at a lower price point, and it’s a recreation of the OG. However, that only targets a demographic of those who genuinely love or collect G-SHOCK. That nostalgia value only resonates with so many, and I’m one of those people, but there are many who will look past that.

Final Thoughts

G-SHOCK is a brand that will forever live in my heart due to its timelessness and badass digital watches. I didn’t grow up in the era of its release, but as I’ve said in other write-ups, it’s cool to wear something that’s been around for so long and to see the brand recreate and pay respect to the original, especially since it’s such an icon and hit for them. While I appreciate the revival of a classic, from a “normal” buyer perspective, I think many will overlook the nostalgia and immediately look at the price tag and opt for the more budget-friendly options available that look the same. However, for those who are passionate about watches and G-SHOCK, this is a home
run.

Thank you, once again, to our friends at Gem Bijou for giving me the opportunity to check out the G-SHOCK DW-5000 Origin Revival – DW-5000R-1A. The watch retails for $270 CAD and you can check out Gem Bijou for more details. Thanks for reading!

About the author

Born into a family obsessed with motorsport, Tyler Frederick became enamoured with speed and beautiful cars at a young age. His love of Formula 1–and all things mechanical–eventually lead him to horology. You can follow him on Instagram.

Take Two articles are full-length, hands-on reviews of vintage and preowned watches and represent the opinion of the author only. All photos are original, unless specified otherwise.

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