Introducing the Casio G-Shock Gorillaz Collection

The world of Casio G-Shock is enormous. With a history that spans nearly 40 years, it’s one of the deeper horological rabbit holes modern enthusiasts can become involved in. And become invovled, they do — the G-Shock community is one of the most active and robust on social media and the various watch forums where vintage and limited models are bought, sold, and traded.

If you’ve only experienced the G-Shocks that are readily available at department stores, you might be surprised to discover the breadth and variety of special and limited edition G-Shocks that have been produced over the years, including the collaboration that we’re discussing today with the Gorillaz. Yes, the Gorillaz — the British “virtual band” fronted by Blur’s Damon Albarn along with four virtual members created by artist Jamie Hewlett has actually collaborated with Casio on a G-Shock before, and the new watches that have just been announced are an artistic extension of the previous collaboration. Let’s take a closer look at what we have here.

Casio G-Shock Gorillaz Limited Edition Collection

• Case Material: Resin/Carbon
• Dial: Digital (DW-5600), Black with green accents (GA-2000)
• Dimensions: 42.9 x 42.8 x 13.4mm (DW-5600), 51.2 x 48.7 x 14.1mm (GA-2000)
• Water Resistance: 200 meters 
• Movement: Module 3229 (DW-5600), Module 5590 (GA-2000)
• Strap/bracelet: Resin 
• Price: $170
• Reference Number: GWB5600GZ-1, GA2000GZ-3A
• Expected Release: Available now in limited quantities

This new mini collection consists of two watches using the DW-5600 and GA-2000 references as a base. For the uninitiated, the DW-5600 is basically as classic as modern G-Shock gets, with the familiar square-shaped case, an all digital readout, and, naturally, the durability you’d expect from any G-Shock. The GA-2000 is a larger and more contemporary design, using a combination of analog and digital displays, a multi-layered dial, large buttons, and, in the main collection, a series of stylish and dynamic color options. 

Each model takes artwork associated with the Gorillaz and reimagines it into the design and color scheme of the watch. The DW-5600 is inspired by the band’s most recent release, The Now Now, and features prominent blue and pink tones. When the backlight is used, the word “NOW” floats on to the display, which is admittedly pretty useless, but also undeniably fun.The GA-2000 has an entirely different look. It uses a prominent camo pattern as a tribute to the artwork of the Gorillaz’ self-titled debut, which, if you can believe it, was released all the way back in 2001. This edition comes with two straps, both camo, but one in a much darker tone, which I think makes the green on the dial really pop. As you’d expect, both watches come in packaging that is replete with Gorillaz inspired artwork that matches the watch inside, with the DW-5600 coming in the traditional G-Shock tin, and the GA-2000 in a nice presentation box.

G-Shock limited editions tend to sell out quickly, and these are no exception. Both watches are available in small quantities at select retailers. G-Shock