[G-SHOCK Review] GBX-100TT-8 – lots of sporty features and a beautiful wave

Let’s take a closer look at a watch series that caught G-SHOCK fans off guard with its MIP display [the first in the G-LIDE collection]. After disappearing from the market for some time, the watch is now back on sale and receiving monthly updates from the manufacturer. The watch in question is the GBX-100 series, specifically the GBX-100TT-8 model. Even if you weren’t aware of its popularity, this watch is sure to impress.

Without the GBX-100, I would view the G-SHOCK G-LIDE collection as a neglected entity. It has not been updated with new series for a considerable time, and the current designs lack innovation in terms of styles and materials. It seems as though the Japanese have disregarded its significance, despite the DW-5600 being deserving of its continuation.

I personally find the G-LIDE representatives to be more visually interesting than the usual inexpensive G-SHOCK watches, and they are also more functional and durable in some ways. It’s important to note that the G-SHOCK G-LIDE collection is specifically designed for fans of surfing and winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. While the frost resistance in G-SHOCK digital watches is already high, the Japanese have added winter-specific features for marketing purposes. The watch also has professional functions for surfing, including moon & tides graphs, sunrise and sunset times, and a wave height indicator.

I have just listed the set of functions in the G-LIDE collection’s “base” category, which has had a functional blend since the collection’s inception. The GWX-5600, GLX-6900, are top-of-the-line modes and have always been deemed superior to the more basic versions of the G-SHOCK. 

The G-LIDE watch stands out not only for its functions but also for its visually appealing display. The functional curves for the waves and the bright circle for the moon phase display are fantastic. The iconic G-SHOCK digital display complements the watch perfectly. The dial is not only beautiful but also functional, with many lines serving a purpose. This feature makes the watch even more enjoyable to use.

As I examine today’s hero, the GBX-100TT-8 model, I wonder if modern technology will enhance or detract from its bright historical image. My expectations may be high, but let’s take a closer look at the details.

What is new in GBX-100? Compared to the old G-LIDE, there are significant improvements such as a MIP display, Bluetooth connectivity, steel bezel, and better information presentation. Additionally, new features have been added through an app on your phone. It may seem like a whole new world, but it’s worth noting that other G-SHOCK watches with MIP displays have already set the standard for these upgrades.

The default screen of the GBX-100TT-8 appears fairly basic, displaying the current time in large font along with the date, day of the week, and seconds. As a representative of the G-LIDE brand, I had hoped for more exciting features such as “waves” and “moon phases.” However, I discovered a way to modify the time feed by pressing the bottom right button, and voila! The eagerly anticipated “waves” are now visible even without the app.

You have the option to select from various wave display formats and a separate screen that showcases sunset and sunrise times. It’s impressive that all the watch’s features can fit on one screen, thanks to the MIP display’s capabilities. However, the information displayed is quite small, which might pose a challenge for people with poor eyesight. I personally didn’t face any issues, but it’s best to assess it for yourself.

I found the Moon Phases display and wave level scale for the current moment. The GBX-100TT-8 seems to have everything the old series had and more, but there is a difference. In the old G-LIDEs, the current time stayed static, but in the GBX-100TT-8 it has become significantly smaller. With the old G-LIDEs, I could enjoy everything at once (the time and wave), but with the GBX-100, I have to choose between waves or time. Since I’m not an avid surfer, sacrificing the readability of the current time in normal life for the scale doesn’t make sense. This point is a bit confusing for me right now.

The amount of data displayed is overwhelming. Never before have shocks conveyed so much information on just one screen. The watch is now perceived as more than just a timepiece, it resembles a compact scoreboard for monitoring vital signs (though it is not actually so). This design is particularly fitting for G-SHOCK brand.

Let’s take a closer look at the watch’s “smart” features, specifically its ability to sync with your phone via Bluetooth. I’ve become accustomed to modern CASIO watches supporting the CASIO WATCHES app, so I added the GBX-100TT-8 to my list. However, it turns out that the app requires the G-SHOCK MOVE app to function properly. Despite feeling overwhelmed by the number of Japanese add-ons on my phone, I installed G-SHOCK MOVE, logged in with my CASIO ID, and began exploring this exciting new world.

First of all, it’s important to note that the watch may request access to the phone’s GPS. Despite not having a built-in GPS sensor, the watch is still capable of tracking running and other sports activities. By synchronizing with the phone’s GPS, the watch’s functionality is significantly enhanced. Personally, I have no issues with granting permission for this synchronization.

Honestly, I was quite surprised to discover that this watch is compatible with G-SHOCK MOVE. It appears that this app is no longer widely used in newer G-SHOCK models, as it was primarily designed for running and the GBX-100TT model does not have extensive running capabilities. It’s possible that the Japanese developers may even be looking to phase it out rather than continue developing it. However, it’s worth noting that the GBX-100 model is not the most recent release from CASIO, and at the time of its release, G-SHOCK MOVE was the only advanced app available. So it makes sense that it would be compatible with this older model.

After examining the G-SHOCK MOVE’s features, I found nothing entirely new concerning the GBX-100. However, it came to my attention that the GBX-100 can be utilized for running purposes. It possesses all the characteristics of other advanced G-SHOCK watches, such as customizable workouts, advanced timers, and screen customization during a workout. It even allows you to import your workout into Strava and Google Fit. Despite not being advertised as a running watch, I was surprised to discover these features. Although the watch lacks an optical heart rate sensor or its own built-in GPS, it can transform into a dependable running assistant when paired with a phone.

I was expecting the “smartwatch” to focus mainly on surfing, but it only allows you to select a geo-point on the map and view the wave level at that location through a graphical wave displayed on the dial. There are 3300 other popular locations available as well. This is the extent of the functionality for surfers. However, all these features work based on clear data – the tide calendar, which is calculated based on the distance between the moon and Earth. It’s a simple function in terms of logic, but I love how it’s visually represented on the watch display.

I want to point out that the GBX-100TT-8 watch comes with a pedometer that uses wrist vibrations and smart CASIO algorithms to accurately count your steps without draining the battery. You can see your step count displayed on the watch as a graph and find more detailed activity stats in the accompanying app. 

Overall, the watch has a sporty look that’s perfect for active lifestyles, but it still pays homage to the surfing community. It’s a great choice for anyone who loves riding the waves.

The Japanese take pride in the monochrome display [MIP], particularly in the G-LIDE collection. It evokes a sense of nostalgia for black and white photographs and “old school” surfing leaders. While it is part of the marketing strategy, they appreciate the history behind it. Overall, it’s a beautiful watch.

It’s no surprise that the GBX-100TT-8 watch is made of bioplastic! The strap and components of the watch’s case are crafted from organic materials, bringing it one step closer to nature – a particularly notable feature for the G-LIDE collection.

However, the makers of the GBX-100TT-8 didn’t take the risk of using bioplastic for the back cover. Instead, it’s a simple metal cover held in place by screws. This decision is understandable, considering the weight of the large steel bezel and back cover. Nonetheless, other watch brands like PRO TREK have managed to utilize bioplastic in their back cover designs.

I really like how the strap feels, it’s very pleasant to the touch. 

As for the backlight, it’s pretty typical for the MIP format. While it’s not exactly perfect, it gets the job done and you can see everything clearly. Perhaps it could be a little stronger, but overall it’s pretty good.

Cons: no solar power [battery lasts for two years], slow dynamics in the MIP display [e.g. no milliseconds in the stopwatch], “outdated” G-SHOCK MOVE app.

Pros: sports functions, plenty of screens with various information displays, pedometer, BLUETOOTH.

Conclusions

The GBX-100TT-8 watch truly embodies the essence of G-SHOCK’s iconic design with its square form-factor and impressive range of functions. Its reliability and versatility make it a standout timepiece among its peers. What sets it apart is the stunning MIP display, which beautifully showcases the captivating “wave” design and provides the convenience of displaying the time of sunrise and sunset right on the main screen.I find the GBX-100TT-8 to be a remarkable and unique addition to the G-SHOCK G-LIDE lineup. Despite the abundance of information displayed, the watch manages to retain its allure. If you are a fan of wave-inspired designs and appreciate the blend of style and functionality, this extraordinary watch from G-SHOCK is definitely worth considering.

---

New features in GBX-100 *in comparison with previous series
The first G-LIDE G-SHOCK with MIP Display
The most functional G-LIDE G-SHOCK
The first MIP G-SHOCK in a Square Case
The first G-LIDE G-SHOCK that can be used for Running
The first G-LIDE G-SHOCK that contains Tide information and sunrise/sunset time for about 3300 locations around the world

What we like in GBX-100 *by casiofanmag editors with 10+ years of experience writing about CASIO watches
Amazing SQUARE G-SHOCK Look with a Tide Graph and Moon Data
Excellent readability (very distinct numbers even in the shadow)
There is much additional information on one screen (High/Low tide time, Sunrise/Sunset time, Moon Data, Tide Graph) apart from the current time. The watch is meant for surfing
Accelerometer (for distance, speed, pace, and step count)
Forged Stainless Steel Bezel (not all G-SHOCKs have it)
Vibration notification
Auto-repeat Timer (number of repeats settable from 1 to 20). Good for functional activities
Super Illuminator Light (a high-brightness LED that automatically lights up in the dark when the wearer’s arm is tilted)
Smartphone Link/App Connectivity Features (for time sync and watch adjustments)

What we don’t like in GBX-100 *by casiofanmag editors with 10+ years of experience writing about CASIO watches
No Solar Power and No Solar Assisted charging (only two years on CR2032, but it is a good duration for such a functional watch, and the battery can be easily replaced manually)
No in-built GPS (you can only use an in-built accelerometer, which is not as accurate as GPS)
No in-built Heart Rate Sensor
It looks like the G-SHOCK MOVE APP will be outdated soon
Only 60 minutes timer
MIP display functions have fewer dynamics in comparison with traditional TN-LCD or STN-LCD (slower refresh rates, no milliseconds)

---

---

Other G-SHOCK listings GBX-100 is in!

*you may find similar watches there

---