We’ve seen watches that are resistant to external elements such as water, shocks, dust, and altitude. However, we often don’t see items equipped to handle extreme heat and humidity, which is why wristwatches are typically removed prior to entering a sauna. Not to mention, a timepiece isn’t the most comfortable item to wear in hot, sweaty conditions.
Commencing its three-month crowdfunding campaign, Casio’s new CPP-002 is a watch designed to handle saunas, with some functions specific to the activity as well.
A Unique Definition of Durability
I was surprised to discover that this project wasn’t placed under the G-SHOCK umbrella, considering the label’s reputation for ruggedness and durability, as well as innovation. However, the CPP-002 fits more the design mold of a Casio watch, and thus isn’t restricted by the visual limitations of a given G-SHOCK family. As such, we’re able to discuss the functionality and capability of the timepiece rather than its physical design. But that’s not to say Casio didn’t give it a cool aesthetic either (more on that in a minute).
Weighing just 24.5g (~0.86oz), the watch benefits from a lightweight black resin case measuring 35.4mm across with 50m of water resistance, which is more than enough for sweat and humidity. Meanwhile, the battery on the inside is heat-resistant as well and boasts a 5-year lifespan. You’d think some of this new tech will surely make its way over to the G-SHOCK lineup at some point, but there’s no mention of that yet.
More Than Just Heat-Resistant
Aside from its durability, the analog watch has a cool sauna-ready function. You can set its mode so that it switches to a 12-minute timer to keep track of your sauna session. This will be set and reset via a pair of pushers at the top of the case, bullhead-style (although I’d say it’s more reminiscent of a bear here).
The watch comes in three dial styles: white with black numerals, black with white numerals, and white with blue numerals — a collaboration with Sauna Ikitai, which is a sauna search website. Perhaps the most interesting part of the design is the stretchy band, similar to the one found on some locker keys. These come in orange, black, and blue, respectively. While the first two references feature black hour hands with orange minute hands, the Sauna Ikitai variant sports a red hour hand with a black minute hand.
Spec Sheet
Case Size: 35.4mm
Case Material: Resin
Water Resistance: 50m
Weight: 24.5g
Movement: Battery
Band: Expandable plastic strap
Pricing & Availability
The Casio CPP-002 is currently being crowdfunded on the Japanese site Makuake, with Early Bird prices starting at ¥7,840 (~$53) and a full price of ¥9,800 (~$66) once it reaches the public.
Recap
Casio CPP-002 Sauna Watch
Casio’s CPP-002 is a watch made for sauna use, with heat-resistant properties, an expandable wristband, and a 12-minute mode to time sauna sessions.
