In 2022, the MRG-B5000, a reproduction of the first G-SHOCK model (DW-5000C) with the quality of MR-G, G-SHOCK's highest-end line, was released. Since then, the MRG-B5000 has continued to gain popularity with each new variation added. Two years later, the new MRG-B2100B was released as an MR-G model in the "ORIGIN" lineage. The base is the GA-2100 series, designed in 2019 for the younger generation. It was released as an analog-digital watch that reinterpreted the characteristic octagonal form of the first model. With the same inherited philosophy, it has now grown to become a fundamental G-SHOCK model alongside the 5000 series. However, in this MRG-B2100B, unlike in the MRG-B5000, the design of the base model has been rearranged. In response to the growing demand for a simple three-hand model in the MR-G lineup, the GA-2100 was designed as a ‘subtraction’ and stripped down to achieve a look that could only be described as a new direction for the MR-G series.
However, a major obstacle emerged in adopting a minimalist three-hand design for the MR-G. Reflecting on the current analog display models of the MR-G, including the MRG-B2000, reveals multiple subdials dominating most of the dial space. Despite utilizing a dial with high light transmittance, crucial for solar power generation, the overall sense of luxury remained largely intact. Moreover, this model adopts a simplified layout, with subdials positioned solely at the 7 o'clock and 8 o'clock positions. To preserve the luxury and boldness inherent to the MR-G series, a three-dimensional dial with metallic texture inspired by the traditional Japanese technique of "Kigumi" was chosen. At the 12 o'clock index, two parts with distinct color tones and finishes converge to create a unified piece.
The idea of using woodworking in the design of the MR-G has actually existed since the time of the MRG-B5000. When this model was developed, the structure of the cover parts of the case, which were subdivided into smaller parts, was described as looking like “Kigumi.” This time, the concept of Kigumi was pushed to the forefront when the dial shape was also incorporated with this element. This lattice-like Kigumi structure is not only suitable for securing the amount of light required for solar power generation through its gaps, but also improves the texture of the dial. This solution addressed the aforementioned issues effectively, leading CASIO to finalize the design of the MRG-B2100B.
In this model, the dial is given a structured unevenness to create a geometric pattern reminiscent of kumiko craftsmanship (a Japanese technique involving braided or woven material, often wood), and the resin dial is finished in metallic black to achieve a sense of luxury. However, the intricate three-dimensional structure of the Kigumi lattice is more difficult to manufacture than it looks, and the development team initially voiced doubts that it would even be possible. The complicated shape with numerous microscopic holes was expected to distort the shape or collapse the holes by ordinary manufacturing methods. Many trials were carried out before the size of the holes were determined, and finally a balance was achieved between aesthetics and feasibility. This would not have been possible without Yamagata CASIO’s nano-processing and precision molding technologies. CASIO persisted with the Kigumi structure and retained the solar power generation function, despite challenges, due to their strong commitment to promoting environmentally friendly products while maintaining high quality exteriors.
CASIO subdivided the exterior into 27 parts, just like the same structure as the MRG-B5000. This segmentation allowed CASIO to polish areas that would be difficult to access in a monolithic molding process, such as the uneven shapes of the four corners of the case. This made it possible to express the lustrous texture befitting the MR-G, down to the smallest details. The Multi-Guard Structure was used to ensure shock resistance due to the division of the bezel parts. By incorporating a buffer between the T-shaped parts and other subdivided parts and the case, the structure protects the internal module from impacts from any direction.
The bezel is made of COBARION, the material used in the MRG-B5000. Developed in Japan, this alloy is approximately four times harder than pure titanium and has excellent scratch resistance. When polished, it has a luster comparable to that of a precious metal, which is why CASIO chose it for the exterior of the MRG-B5000. The molding process is particularly challenging when working with COBARION. Commonly, stainless steel is forged to form the base shape and then cut into that shape. However, due to its hardness, COBARION cannot be forged and must be cut from bare metal. Additionally, COBARION is more demanding on cutting tools than other metals, causing them to wear out more quickly. Despite its attractive characteristics as an exterior watch material, a bezel made of COBARION can only be crafted in a very time-consuming process. But of course, its high aesthetic value and durability as a material are worthy of MR-G, the pinnacle of G-SHOCK.
While the materials and structure of this model follow those of the MRG-B5000, the company also focused on making the case thinner to match the slim form unique to the GA-2100. The one reviewed and adopted here is the Clad-Guard structure, which incorporates α-gel (Alpha-gel) in the crown unit to reduce the impact transmitted from the crown to the watch's interior. CASIO downsized this unit, and the watch was made approximately 3 mm thinner than the MRG-B2000 series, with a similar mechanism. At the same time, this also led to a reduction in the weight of the entire watch.
The MRG-B2100B uses separate parts to represent the dimples on the bracelet, giving it the careful craftsmanship you expect from an MR-G model. In addition, the locking mechanism on the buckle is not gold-colored like the previous MR-G models, but is unified in the same black as the case and bracelet, giving the whole watch a bold look. On the other hand, the case back has been changed to a screw-back instead of screw-fastened case like the B5000, in order to prevent the inside of the case back from interfering with the crown unit. CASIO adopted this structure to reduce the thickness of the case, achieving the precise proportions typical of the 2100 series. The watch exemplifies meticulous attention to detail, enhancing and building upon the strengths of the base model.
The MRG-B2100B is a game-changer. It has a simple display style never seen in previous MR-G models. At the same time, it has a high-quality, elegant, and intrepid look. The case size of 44.4 mm in width and 13.6 mm in thickness may seem significant for a typical 3-hand watch, but it is much more compact than the existing MR-G. Combined with the lightness of the 64-titanium case and the DAT55 bracelet, it feels great to wear despite its heavy appearance.
MR-G is not just a watch that applies traditional Japanese techniques or incorporates advanced materials from Japan. It is a collection full of craftsmanship that maximizes the appeal of designs and materials while making full use of advanced manufacturing techniques that have been cultivated for many years at production facilities centered around Yamagata CASIO. The MRG-B2100B, a new addition to the collection, is a formidable watch that combines creativity with a simple three-hand design and slim proportions, both of which CASIO has long sought with G-SHOCK. There are not many examples of G-SHOCK making such a design simplification, and the development team was worried about taking on the challenge when the project was launched. However, the lineup was greatly expanded by introducing designs that set it apart from existing models, such as the MRG-B5000, which follows the original design, and the MR-G FROGMAN, which emphasizes a tool-like appearance. The MRG-B2100B represents a new wave for the MR-G line, appealing to new fans while also offering fresh value to existing enthusiasts.
