G-SHOCK has long been a brand that marches to the beat of its own drum, but even by their standards, the new GA-V01 is something truly out of left field. First released exclusively in China just a few weeks, this otherworldly timepiece immediately caught the attention of G-SHOCK collectors worldwide with its radical departure from anything the brand has previously produced. In an era when most G-SHOCK releases are minor variations on established designs, the GA-V01 feels like a breath of fresh air – or perhaps more accurately, like a transmission from a distant planet. And, while it might be a rather bizarre departure (or perhaps evolution?), we’re not entirely mad at it.
Y3K Called, It Wants Its Watch Back
The GA-V01 – where “V” stands for “Vision” and “01” represents “Breakthrough” – embodies what G-SHOCK China describes as an “Open V World.” Marketing jargon aside, what we’re looking at is an almost cartoonishly bulbous design that seems lifted straight from late ’90s sci-fi movies but pushed even further into a Y3K aesthetic – a futuristic fashion style that blends Y2K nostalgia with sci-fi influences. In fact, the design language is reminiscent of the wild (yet awesome) Oakley Over The Top sunglasses that were first worn by Trinidadian runner Ato Boldon during the 2000 Sydney Olympics.
While we’re not quite sure we could pick a “most striking feature,” as the overall package is pretty jaw-dropping across the board; one of the most striking features has to be the raised 3D hour markers that sit on the outside of the curved spherical glass rather than underneath it – a design quirk I’ve never seen before in any watch, let alone a G-SHOCK.
Then there’s the butterfly-shaped digital display that G-SHOCK has dubbed “CoolEyes,” which look like the conjoined eyes of a cartoon character (Sonic the Hedgehog comparisons aren’t entirely off-base). Combined with the integrated resin case and strap design reminiscent of the GA-B001, the overall effect is simultaneously retro and futuristic – like something Marty McFly might have brought back from an even more distant future.
Still a G-SHOCK at Heart
Despite all its alien aesthetics, the GA-V01 remains fundamentally a G-SHOCK through and through. All the hallmark durability is present: shock resistance, 200-meter water resistance, and the robust construction we’ve come to expect. The case is still crafted from the brand’s signature lightweight yet nearly indestructible resin, ensuring it can take whatever punishment your daily adventures dish out.
What’s particularly impressive, however, is the 10-year battery life – a significant upgrade from the typical 3-year lifespan of comparable models. This makes the GA-V01 one of the longest-lasting battery-powered (non-solar) G-SHOCKs ever created.
Functionally, it’s business as usual; world time with 48 cities, 5 daily alarms, a 1/100-second stopwatch, countdown timer, and auto LED illumination. The minute hand features a magnetic design that helps absorb impacts – a clever engineering touch hidden beneath the wildly avant-garde exterior.
A Design That Demands Attention
At a substantial 58.2mm wide and 19.6mm thick, this is not a watch for the faint of wrist. The GA-V01 makes no apologies for its size, embracing its chunky proportions as part of its distinctive character. The integrated strap design helps mitigate some of the bulk, but make no mistake – this thing looks like a giant in some of the early wrist shots we’ve seen floating around the web.
The launch collection features four colorways: a stealthy black (GA-V01-1A), a vibrant purple (GA-V01-2A), an eye-searing lime green (GA-V01-9A), and a futuristic silver (GA-V01A-8A). Each comes in special packaging designed to resemble the rubber ball used during the original G-SHOCK’s development testing – a clever nod to the brand’s heritage amid all this forward-looking design.
Spec Sheet
Case Size: 58.2mm width
Case Thickness: 19.6mm
Lug-to-Lug: 49.1mm
Case Material: Resin
Water Resistance: 200m
Weight: 74 grams
Movement: Quartz with 10-year battery (CR2025)
Functions: World time (48 cities), 5 daily alarms, 1/100-second stopwatch, countdown timer, auto dual LED light
Strap: Integrated resin
Crystal: Curved mineral glass with external 3D hour markers
Limited Edition: No
Pricing & Availability
The G-SHOCK GA-V01 “CoolEyes” collection was initially released exclusively in China in February 2025, priced at 990 yuan (approximately $120). While not officially available internationally yet, the watches have begun appearing on secondary markets at premium prices. Given the enthusiastic reception, it seems likely G-SHOCK will expand distribution globally in the near future, and we’ll definitely be looking to get hands on with one these as this is one of those watches we’d love to see in person.
Recap
G-SHOCK GA-V01 “CoolEyes”
G-SHOCK’s wildest design in years combines alien-inspired aesthetics with traditional G-SHOCK toughness, featuring external 3D hour markers, a butterfly-shaped “CoolEyes” display, and an impressive 10-year battery life in an oversized 58.2mm integrated case that looks straight out of a sci-fi movie.
