When most people think of smartwatches, a high-tech device that can read you text messages or alert you of phone calls comes to mind. However, G-SHOCK has been making its own “smart” watches since the mid-’90s, featuring tide graphs that use the lunar cycle to predict patterns for surfers. The Casio sublabel did eventually get Bluetooth connectivity around 2012, and even launched an actual smartwatch in 2021.
Today, we’re shining light on the non-traditional smartwatch that’s still pretty darn smart. Debuting in 1999, the G-LIDE series began as surfing-focused timepieces that tracked waves but quickly evolved to include moon data, sunrise/sunset times, and other environmental metrics. This month, G-SHOCK is coming out with the GBX-100S series, another evolution of the lineup and arguably the most stylish surf watch ever.
A Wave-Inspired Renaissance
The reason why the GBX-100S caught our eye isn’t just its surf-related features — because those have already existed — but how the new watches reimagine the visual language of G-SHOCK’s G-LIDE line. Where previous G-LIDE models emphasized function but with a rugged identity, these new variants embrace a see-through aesthetic in a way that evokes Y2K styling and even looks a bit futuristic. The bezel construction combines mirror-finished stainless steel with translucent resin designed to look like the shimmer of sunlight dancing across ocean waves.
G-SHOCK has been making moves toward sustainability across several collections, including the 2100 line. And they’ve brought their bio-based resin material to the G-LIDE as well, in the way of the strap for the GBX-100S series. Featuring ventilation slits down the side, the material is known for its durability and comfort but also still brings environmental consciousness to younger outdoor enthusiasts.
Evolved Functionality
Dive into the feature set and you’ll find familiar G-LIDE territory enhanced by contemporary connectivity. Under the mineral crystal, the high-definition MIP LCD display remains one of the best implementations of this tech in the sub-$200 category, giving you fantastic readability when, say, checking tide patterns at dawn or reviewing training metrics.
Anyone who’s used the Casio Watches app before knows just how much it enhances the experience with the brand’s watches. Instead of manually programming tide data for your local break, you can select from approximately 3,300 surf spots worldwide and receive location-specific patterns automatically. Moon phase tracking, sunrise/sunset times, and tide levels will also sync from your phone, effectively creating a comprehensive surf forecasting tool on your wrist.
Technical Foundation
Available in either black or royal blue, the 46mm resin case is a bit smaller than your average G-SHOCK perhaps. And at 14.7mm thick and 66g total weight, it’s significantly more wearable than most sport-focused timepieces. Of course, G-SHOCK’s 200m of water resistance and impressive shock-resistance standards are implemented here as well, with around 2 years of battery life, which could admittedly be better compared to some of the brand’s 5- or 10-year cells.
Just like other G-SHOCK models, the cool thing about the GBX-100S is its ability to become a legit everyday watch, with or without training tools. While not necessarily revolutionary compared to your top-shelf fitness watches, the G-LIDE’s ability to monitor distance, speed, pace, and calories is serviceable enough for most everyday athletes or even just Ordinary Joes. Also, the watches are also compatible with Strava, a third-party app that’s like a social network for athletes, but with tracking and fitness metrics built in.
Spec Sheet
Model: GBX-100S-1 (Black), GBX-100S-2 (Blue)
Case Material: Resin and stainless steel
Case Size: 46mm
Lug-to-Lug: 50.9mm
Case Thickness: 14.7mm
Weight: 66g
Movement: Quartz, Bluetooth-enabled
Display: High-definition MIP LCD
Crystal: Mineral glass
Water Resistance: 200m
Strap: Bio-based resin
Battery Life: Approximately 2 years
Key Functions: Tide graphs, moon data, sunrise/sunset times, training metrics, smartphone connectivity, world time (38 zones), alarms, stopwatch, timer
Price: $170
Pricing & Availability
Both the G-LIDE GBX-100S-1 (black) and GBX-100S-2 (blue) retail for $170 and are available through G-SHOCK’s website.
Recap
G-SHOCK G-LIDE GBX-100S
G-SHOCK evolves the look of its G-LIDE surfing watches with the GBX-100S series, featuring partially transparent cases and a bright MIP LCD display.
