In a unique artistic collaboration, G-Shock has paired with the legacy of Katsushika Hokusai, one of Japan's most famous artists of the Edo Period. The newly released limited edition models, the DW-5600KHK24-1JR and DW-5600KHG24-1JR, incorporate designs from Hokusai's celebrated works, "The Great Wave off Kanagawa" and "Fine Wind, Clear Morning." These timepieces seamlessly fuse iconic Japanese artwork with G-Shock’s enduring digital watch design.
The G-Shock DW-5600 series, first introduced in 1983, is renowned for its distinctive octagonal shape and resilient construction. The inclusion of Hokusai’s motifs adds a layer of cultural significance to the watches, making them a testament to the fusion of traditional Japanese art with contemporary technology. These motifs have been widely popularized, appearing in various forms of modern fashion and media, highlighting their enduring appeal.
Katsushika Hokusai was a master of the ukiyo-e art form, which involves woodblock print techniques to create vibrant scenes that capture the fleeting beauty of the natural world and human endeavors. His works not only depict captivating landscapes and folklore but also embody the essence of the Edo Period's artistic prowess.
These limited-edition watches do more than just tell time; they tell a story. Each timepiece showcases special design elements such as a LED backlight imprinted with the Kanji character for “Japan,” emphasizing the watches' authentic Japanese craftsmanship. Accompanied by a specially designed collector's box that includes further artistic representations, these models are as much a piece of art as they are a functional accessory.
Constructed from durable resin, the watches measure 48.9mm by 42.8mm by 13.4mm, maintaining the classic DW-5600 dimensions. They feature a comprehensive suite of functionalities including shock resistance, 200-meter water resistance, multiple timers, and stopwatches. Currently, these models are exclusive to the Japanese market, retailing for ¥17,600 JPY (approximately $112 USD), with international availability yet to be confirmed.
The G-Shock DW-5600 Hokusai Limited Editions are a celebration of Japanese heritage and modern watchmaking. While the "Fine Wind, Clear Morning" model has already sold out in Japan, the ongoing appeal of these watches highlights the global desire for timepieces that combine cultural richness with technological resilience. For more detailed information and potential international release dates, enthusiasts are encouraged to visit the official G-SHOCK website or look at alternative sites such eBay where some of the models started to appear online.
Specification | Details |
---|---|
Release Date | January 2025 |
Price | Manufacturer's suggested retail price ¥17,600 (tax included) |
Case Size (H × W × D) | 48.9 × 42.8 × 13.4 mm |
Weight | 52 g |
Case/Bezel Material | Resin |
Band | Resin Band |
Structure | Shock Resistant (Shock Resist) |
Water Resistance | 20 bar water resistance |
Battery Life | Approximately 5 years |
Glass | Inorganic glass |
Band Wearable Size | 145–205mm |
Stopwatch | Stopwatch (1/100 sec (0'00"00 to 59'59"99), 1 sec (1:00'00" to 23:59'59"), 24 hours), with split) |
Timer | Timer (set unit: 1 sec, max set: 24 hours, measured in 1 sec increments, auto-repeat) |
Alarm | Multi alarm (1) with hourly time signal |
Flash Alert | Flash alert (alarms/hourly time signal/timer linked light) |
Light | LED backlight (Super Illuminator, with afterglow) |
Light Color | LED: White |
Calendar | Full auto-calendar |
Accuracy | Average monthly difference: ±15 seconds |
Timekeeping Format | 12/24 hour format display switchable |
Explore the enduring popularity and historical significance of G-Shock watches through in-depth articles. For a comprehensive overview of the most beloved models and what makes them stand out, check out "Popular Casio G-Shock Watches." Additionally, delve into the origins and impactful debut of one of the foundational models with "Casio G-Shock DW5000R: Origin Revival 1983," which explores the resurgence of a classic that set the standard for durability and innovation in watchmaking.