[G-SHOCK 2023] GW-9500 — Made By Professionals, For Professionals

Born in 1995 as part of the LAND lineup in the MASTER OF G series, the MUDMAN emerged. It boasted not only the shock resistance of G-SHOCK but also a design specifically tailored for desert use. With its large buttons covered in urethane material, it offered exceptional resistance against dust and dirt. This ruggedness made it a valuable asset in the world of rallying. For instance, the G-9000, which debuted in 2006, fearlessly tackled the treacherous Paris-Dakar Rally, renowned as one of the most grueling races on the planet. Since the GW-9300 in 2011, CASIO had not unveiled a new MUDMAN model. Meanwhile, the MUDMASTER, also part of the esteemed MASTER OF G’s LAND category, saw a continuous stream of fresh iterations, showcasing advancements in functionality and performance. Notably, the GWG-2000 launched in 2021, retaining the category’s signature resilience against dust and mud. It introduced a forged carbon bezel and carbon core guard structure, resulting in a reduction in size and weight. While recent G-SHOCK models, including the MUDMASTER, heavily emphasized analog-digital combination displays, CASIO recognized the need to evolve the digital display models that served as the foundation for the G-SHOCK line. This realization became the catalyst for the development of the new MUDMAN, the first of its kind in 12 years.

In the pursuit of creating a timepiece suitable for the challenging Dakar Rally, CASIO introduced the GW-9300 MUDMAN. This rugged watch boasted specifications that catered to the needs of the multi-day desert event. Among these features were a dependable solar power supply, ensuring continuous operation as long as sunlight was available, and a compass capable of providing accurate direction readings, even in the absence of specific targets.

Throughout the evolution of the MUDMAN, significant efforts were made to update its mud-resist structure. The goal was to enhance its core performance in resisting dust and mud while simultaneously improving overall operability. One particular challenge was the potential interference caused by splashed mud or dust entering the watch’s interior through the gaps between the case and buttons. The compression of these particles during button operations hindered the watch’s functionality.

To overcome this issue, the GW-9500 drew inspiration from the structure employed in the MUDMASTER GWG-2000. By modifying the shape of the front and direct sensor buttons and incorporating soft, doughnut-shaped components internally, the sliding performance of the button-linked shaft was significantly improved. This innovative solution created a mechanism that allowed the circulation and quick discharge of muddy water and dust, even during button operations.

CASIO’s commitment to maintaining the iconic, robust design of G-SHOCK watches was evident in their approach to slimming down the GW-9500. Rather than compromising on the distinctive and imposing form associated with G-SHOCK, CASIO employed a technique that involved combining multiple components to create a three-dimensional effect for the sleek body. The outcome is a bulky yet stylish design that stands out even among the rugged timepieces of the MASTER OF G series, designed to withstand extreme conditions.

While CASIO has been actively promoting compactness through technological advancements in recent years, this pursuit of smaller size does not diminish their unwavering dedication to toughness in design. The brand’s commitment to preserving the durable essence of G-SHOCK watches remains steadfast, reflecting their genuine desire to cater to users who appreciate both the aesthetics and functionality of these timepieces.

The new MUDMAN from the MASTER OF G series showcases a thoughtful update by incorporating bio-based resin in its case, bezel, and strap. This eco-friendly choice aligns perfectly with the series’ commitment to promoting coexistence with nature, making it a fitting addition to the collection. Furthermore, the caseback of the watch features an intriguing illustration of a mole holding a compass, creatively symbolizing the evolution of the MUDMAN. This visual representation, combined with the large display, adds an artistic touch to the timepiece.

To enhance practicality, the new MUDMAN is equipped with a super illuminator, ensuring excellent visibility in dark conditions. This practical detail further highlights the watch’s attention to user convenience and functionality.

The long-awaited return of the MUDMAN after 12 years has been met with awe-inspiring comfort, despite its bulky appearance. This can be attributed to the thoughtfully designed case and band, which are angled to accommodate wrists of all sizes and thicknesses. Additionally, the watch itself is remarkably thin and lightweight, further enhancing the overall comfort.

One notable improvement in the new GW-9500 is the larger dual-layer LCD display, which greatly enhances readability. This display provides clear and easy-to-read information on various parameters such as time, barometric pressure, altitude, and azimuth. The buttons for accessing this information have also been designed for effortless operation.

The MUDMAN has a well-established reputation for exceptional performance, having been worn in rallies since its initial release in 1995. With the introduction of the GW-9500, this outstanding performance is set to be highlighted once again.

Source: Hodinkee.

GW-9500 Profile / Casio G-Shock
Average Amazon Price: $400 (yes, we may earn a commission on qualifying purchases from our links to Amazon). Check the Price on Amazon →
Year of first release: 2023
The most distinctive specs:
— Mud-resistant construction (The front button and three direct sensor buttons are protected by cylindrical stainless-steel parts and feature large, easy-to-operate forms designed to keep mud and water out. The button shafts are also equipped with gasket fittings to prevent contamination with mud and dust.)
— Duplex LCD (The dual-layer LCD allows compass graphics to be shown on the top layer, while the bottom layer offers a large display of the time and various measurements.)
— Triple Sensor Measurements (keep you updated with direction, altitude, barometric pressure, and temperature readings)
— Digital compass (measures and displays direction as one of 16 points)
— Thermometer (can measure and display the outside temperature in a range from -10 C to 60 C)
— Barometer (measures the air pressures and displays tendencies in the weather)
— Altimeter (The electronic mechanism “estimates” the altitude based on the air pressure)
— Solar-powered (CASIO’s original solar-charging system converts not only sunlight but also light from fluorescent lamps and other sources into power)
— Radio-controlled Watch; Multi band 6 (additional way for time sync. This watch receives time calibration radio signals that keep the displayed time accurate)
— Carbon Core Guard Structure (protects the module with a carbon case. Highly durable carbon fiber-reinforced resin is added not only to the center case, but also to the front and side button guards, providing even stronger resistance to shocks from above or below, or from any side)
— Biomass plastics in the case and band (the environmentally friendly biomass plastics are produced using materials derived from castor seeds and corn, as well as other raw materials)
— Sunrise, sunset time display (Sunrise time and sunset time for specific date, daylight pointers. Good if you want to know to stop after durable hiking or smth of the kind)
— 200-meter water resistance (good for swimming but not for deep diving)
Other colors and full specs: GW-9500 Wiki Page

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