If you weren’t aware that this year is G-SHOCK’s 40th anniversary then you just weren’t paying attention. The jubilee year also so happens to coincide with the 30th anniversary of the watchmaker’s Frogman line of dive watches. So far in 2023, we’ve seen three celebratory Frogman releases, with a fourth one now rolling out. Its official name is MRG-BF1000E-1A9, but you can also call it the limited-edition yellow-and-black Frogman MR-G.
Debuting in 1996, the MR-G series is the designation for G-SHOCK’s premium watches across all models. A few months back, we got the most luxurious Frogman we’ve ever seen in the MR-G BF1000R. Debuting as a new model, it was the first-ever analog Frogman with a titanium case and bezel, and it looked decidedly beautiful for a robust tool watch. Like the BF1000R, the yellow anniversary BF1000E sports that same titanium case structure and analog design, as well as 200m of depth resistance, shock resistance, and magnetic resistance. Other features returning are Tough Solar power, Multi-Band 6 time adjustment, and Bluetooth smartphone link.
Paying homage to the first Frogman from 1993, ref. DW-6300-1A, which was also yellow, this new version has more anniversary qualities than the other year’s releases. Gold ion plating has been given to the crown, pushers, and screws. Likewise, the commemorative titanium caseback has anniversary markings on top of the gold vapor deposition. Sold inside a special wooden box with anniversary badging, the watch also gets a secondary strap option made of titanium, which can be swapped with the yellow Dura Soft Fluoro rubber band fairly easily thanks to the included mounting tool.
The MR-G BF1000R is also limited in edition size, with only 700 being released worldwide, which helps put the price at $6,400 (compared to the $5,000 price tag of the BF1000E). Head to G-SHOCK’s website to purchase one for yourself.
