[G-SHOCK Review] GW-9500-1 — a new alternative to PRO TREK?

I am uncertain whether the GW-9500-1 is a new PRO TREK watch or a replica of a G-SHOCK made by Chinese craftsmen. I apologize for my aggressive tone, but the display on the GW-9500 is unlike the displays commonly seen on digital G-SHOCK watches, which is confusing. I will have the watch for two weeks, providing ample time to determine if it is innovative or not. Let’s explore this in a traditional MAG review. 

Even though many people wanted a new RANGEMAN, the GW-9500 from the MUDMAN collection was a satisfying alternative in some regards. It’s a brand new digital G-SHOCK with a triple sensor – who wouldn’t appreciate a follow-up to the RANGEMAN?

I am mostly satisfied with this alternative. However, the question remains whether the Japanese have created an improved version of themselves.

Let’s focus on the appearance. While round display form-factors for G-SHOCK watches are common, the design of the PRO TREK is refreshingly unique. A comparison to the PRW-35 will demonstrate this.

The layout of the indexes is nearly identical. In fact, the modules seem to be essentially the same, just with different exteriors. This isn’t necessarily bad, as the PRO TREK’s presentation of information is reliable and effective. I had hoped for more innovation in the new G-SHOCK designs for 2023 [the GW-9400s still look impressive than GW-9500].

The thickness of the numerical indices immediately catches the attention. It is worth noting that they are quite thin, which may not appeal to everyone. Personally, the GW-9500 reminds me of cheap watches advertised on social media platforms. However, this is simply a personal association, and the actual quality of the watch is certainly not compromised. 

The third point worth mentioning is the readability of the information displayed. The contrast between the hour indexes and the background color of the display is not very clear. I have not used the term “foggy” before in my reviews, but it seems fitting in this case. The lack of STN LCD display may be the reason for this issue, as digital information is not presented with a distinct black color. Instead, everything appears very gray and low contrast, as if in a fog.

I compared it to my GW-B5600s and noticed a significant difference. Perhaps the variants with inversion are better, but the GW-9500-1 is still 7/10.

At this point, I stop being skeptical because the watch starts to amaze me…

The GW-9500 has undergone some exciting updates to its case design. While all G-SHOCK watches are known for their durability, the MUDMAN model is even stronger! 

Although it may not be immediately noticeable, the design of the watch face is quite unique compared to other “shock” models. The glass is positioned very close to the bezel, rather than recessed like many others. 

This new design is achieved through a cutting-edge technology that reduces the height of the bezel and utilizes a new gluing method. As a result, the watch appears visually narrower, measuring just 14.8 mm, which is atypical for MUDMAN/MUDMASTER models. However, the watch still fits largely around your wrist with dimensions of 56.7 × 52.7 mm.

This watch may not be suitable for a formal office attire due to its non-classic style. However, it would fit perfectly under a loose denim shirt. Despite the close proximity of the glass to the bezel, the numerical indexes are still located at a depth, so they may not appear as close as they seem.

The buttons on the watch have additional seals and cylindrical interlayers, making it even more dirt-proof, suitable for use in aggressive environments. This is typical of the MUDMAN style.

Though the seals are impressive, the GW-9500 has a unique feature – a Duplex LCD, also known as a dual-layer LCD display. It only works in compass mode.

Wow! It’s really bright. When you activate the compass, the side indicators are positioned significantly closer to the main mineral glass, hence the reason for the depth of the main indexes [there’s just another extra glass there].

Fans of the PRO TREK range will be familiar with this feature, but it’s a first for G-SHOCK. While the compass function is well-executed, it’s worth questioning where else the secondary display could be useful. I tested all the modes and found that it’s not particularly helpful in most cases [but there is some unusual activation in the barometer mode].

If you frequently rely on the digital compass, you’ll likely appreciate the GW-9500. However, if you don’t use it often, the dual LCD may not be worth the investment.

As you may already know, the GW-9500 boasts a triple sensor: compass, barometer/altimeter, and thermometer. With proper calibration, these sensors can certainly serve their intended purposes.

As I explore the various modes, I can’t shake the feeling that I have a PRO TREK watch on my wrist. The numerical style is nearly identical, with the exception of thickness. The mode sequence and display segmentation are also similar. It’s almost as if the Japanese simply approached the PRO TREK development team and requested that they encase everything in a shockproof shell.

Leaving the skepticism aside, the GW-9500 series is the perfect solution for those who can’t get enough of the ruggedness of the PRO TREK, or want a triple sensor in a G-SHOCK. The GW-9500 series covers these needs with 100%.

The GW-9500 watch is reliable and has reinforced protection, but it does not have Bluetooth technology. However, I do not think that this is a critical issue. In my opinion, it is an ordinary G-SHOCK watch that we are accustomed to. Connecting Bluetooth to it only for checking the time and setting the alarm clock seems like a primitive decision, especially since it is not necessary for the watch’s basic functions. Furthermore, the GW-9500 is not a smartwatch or a multisport watch.

Being the owner of GW-B5600 with Bluetooth, I can confidently say that I simply played with it and forgot about it. This is not a watch where Bluetooth is needed [forgive me if those who like this approach]. 

But it has solar power and radio synchronization – an excellent alternative to Bluetooth, which makes the watch practically “eternal” and perfectly accurate. 

The G-SHOCK watch’s backlight button design is like a work of art. 

Plus, it automatically activates at night [checked].

The case, bezel and strap are made of bioplastic. I’ll be honest – you can’t feel the difference. The material is just like the material.

If earlier I tried to find some differences [e.g. no odor, lightness], now I accepted it as a basis. 

The back cover of the watch is engraved with the legendary character – the MUDMAN mole.

The updated design expresses the new evolution of the MUDMAN series.

Conclusions

I have mixed feelings about the new MUDMAN GW-9500 watch. While it is undeniably attractive, practical, and resistant, it lacks any groundbreaking features that would truly impress me. It’s possible that my expectations were simply too high, and that’s why my review has a somewhat negative tone. However, I’m certain that the watch will still find a loyal audience, as it includes all the beloved features and technologies that consumers have come to expect from this series.

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New features in GW-9500 *in comparison with previous series
The first MUDMASTER with Duplex LCD (mostly for compass)
The largest digits in the MUDMASTER collection
The first MUDMASTER ProTrek-like dial
The first digital MUDMASTER with Bio-based resins (case, bezel, and soft urethane band)

What we like in GW-9500 *by casiofanmag editors with 10+ years of experience writing about CASIO watches
Big screen with large digits (mudmaster watches usually have more compact digits)
The watch is quite slim if compared with other watches in the collection (14.8 mm while the previous series has 16.1 mm)
Military look and tactical features (meant for reliable work under harsh conditions)
Extraordinary compass operation (the duplex LCD creates fantastic directional lines)
Convenient operation via the front button and three direct sensor buttons (you can also set the timer (and other functions) in two directions, not only in one)
Carbon Core Guard structure (makes the watch slimmer, compact with a comfortable fit, and even more shock resistant)
Radio-controlled Watch / Multiband 6 (ideal time accuracy. The watch adjusts the time automatically)
Tough Solar / Solar powered. It’s an ideal solution for a reliable watch. There is no need to recharge it with the cable.
ABC Sensor (Digital compass, Altimeter/Barometer, Thermometer).
Sunrise, sunset time display (for specific dates as well)
Stopwatch (with a big measuring capacity: 999:59’59.9”)
Countdown timer (we use it every day)
Hourly time signal (a primitive feature, but we like it)
Full auto LED light (1.5 seconds or 3 seconds). A must for such a watch.

What we don’t like in GW-9500 *by casiofanmag editors with 10+ years of experience writing about CASIO watches
Despite a large screen & large digits, the display looks quite foggy, washed out (indistinct)
It is still not a small watch (56.7 × 52.7 × 14.8 mm while a traditional G-SHOCK is 48.9 × 42.8 × 13.4 mm (DW-5600) )
The watch has only essential, though advanced, traditional functionality, which may look insufficient in the modern world (no step tracker, no calorie consumption data, etc.). With other more advanced features, it couldn’t be so reliable.
Negative display versions may not be suitable for individuals with eyesight issues.
Reduced glass protection (Slimmer design comes at the cost of less protected glass).
It is hard to press buttons because of advanced mud resistance
The quick-start stopwatch is missing
It is more like a Pro Trek watch than a G-SHOCK

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Other G-SHOCK listings GW-9500 is in!

*you may find similar watches there

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