In the realm of timekeeping, few names resonate as powerfully as G-SHOCK. Synonymous with resilience, innovation, and a bold aesthetic, G-SHOCK has carved a niche for itself that extends far beyond mere functionality. From its inception in 1983, G-SHOCK has consistently pushed the boundaries of what a watch can endure, earning a devoted following among adventurers, athletes, and anyone who demands unwavering performance from their gear. The latest addition to the G-SHOCK family, the GBM2100RH-1A, is a testament to this legacy, marrying the brand's signature toughness with the dynamic spirit of professional basketball player Rui Hachimura.
The G-SHOCK story begins with a simple yet ambitious goal: to create a watch that would never break, even when subjected to the harshest conditions. This vision was brought to life by Kikuo Ibe, a young engineer at Casio, who was driven by a personal quest to overcome the fragility of traditional timepieces. After countless prototypes and relentless testing, the first G-SHOCK, the DW-5000C, was launched in 1983. Its groundbreaking shock-resistant construction, featuring a unique "floating module" design, set a new standard for durability, proving that a watch could indeed withstand the test of time – and gravity.
Courtesy of Casio
Over the years, G-SHOCK has continued to evolve, incorporating cutting-edge technologies and expanding its range of styles to cater to diverse tastes. From the iconic square-shaped models to the sleek and sophisticated G-STEEL line, G-SHOCK has consistently demonstrated its ability to blend ruggedness with refined design. The brand's collaborations with athletes, artists, and fashion icons have further cemented its status as a cultural phenomenon, transcending its utilitarian origins to become a symbol of individuality and self-expression.
Born in Toyama Prefecture, Japan, Rui Hachimura's basketball journey is a testament to his unwavering dedication and exceptional talent. From his early days honing his skills on local courts to his history-making achievements in the NCAA and the NBA, Hachimura has consistently defied expectations and shattered barriers.
Hachimura's passion for basketball ignited in middle school, and by the time he reached Meisei High School, he was already a force to be reckoned with. Leading his team to three consecutive victories in the All-Japan High-School Tournament, Hachimura quickly garnered national attention. His decision to attend Gonzaga University in the United States marked a pivotal moment in his career, providing him with the opportunity to compete against some of the best collegiate players in the world.
At Gonzaga, Hachimura's star continued to rise. His combination of athleticism, skill, and relentless work ethic earned him a starting position on the Bulldogs, and he played a key role in their success, including a memorable run to the Elite Eight in the NCAA tournament. Hachimura's outstanding performance earned him the prestigious Julius Erving Award, recognizing him as the top small forward in college basketball.
Courtesy of Casio
In 2019, Hachimura made history once again, becoming the first Japanese-born player to be selected in the first round of the NBA draft. Joining the Washington Wizards, he quickly established himself as a valuable asset, showcasing his versatility and scoring ability. Hachimura's impact extended beyond the court, as he became an inspiration to aspiring basketball players in Japan and around the world. His move to the Los Angeles Lakers in 2023 further solidified his status as a rising star in the NBA.
The G-SHOCK GBM2100RH-1A is a fitting tribute to Rui Hachimura's remarkable journey. This timepiece embodies the spirit of both the athlete and the brand, combining G-SHOCK's signature toughness with Hachimura's signature style and unwavering determination. The watch's design is a harmonious blend of bold colors and intricate details, reflecting Hachimura's passion for both sport and fashion.
The GBM2100RH-1A is built on the foundation of the G-STEEL 2100 series, known for its sleek profile and robust construction. The watch's black ion-plated bezel exudes a sense of understated sophistication, while the gold-colored dial, featuring a basketball-court motif, adds a touch of sporty flair. Accents of red, a signature G-SHOCK color, further enhance the watch's visual appeal, symbolizing Hachimura's fiery spirit and competitive drive.
Beyond its striking aesthetics, the GBM2100RH-1A is packed with features that cater to the demands of an active lifestyle. Solar-powered technology ensures reliable timekeeping, eliminating the need for battery replacements. Bluetooth® connectivity allows for seamless synchronization with a smartphone, enabling automatic time adjustment, easy watch setting, and access to a range of other convenient functions. The watch's shock-resistant structure and 200-meter water resistance provide peace of mind, whether you're on the court, in the gym, or exploring the great outdoors.
Courtesy of Casio
The GBM2100RH-1A is more than just a collaboration; it's a reflection of Rui Hachimura's personal identity and aspirations. Hachimura's original "Black Samurai" logo is engraved on the case back and the side button at the 8 o'clock position, serving as a constant reminder of his roots and his journey to the NBA. These subtle yet meaningful details elevate the watch from a mere timepiece to a wearable symbol of Hachimura's legacy.
The GBM2100RH-1A is a visual treat, striking a perfect balance between boldness and refinement. The watch's 49.4 × 43.2 × 12.9 mm case, crafted from stainless steel and resin, boasts a sleek, octagonal silhouette that's both modern and timeless. The black ion-plated bezel adds a touch of understated elegance, while the gold-colored dial, featuring a subtle basketball-court motif, injects a dose of sporty dynamism. The pops of red on the dial and hands, reminiscent of the iconic G-SHOCK branding, further amplify the watch's visual impact.
The GBM2100RH-1A isn't just a pretty face; it's built to withstand the rigors of an active lifestyle. Its shock-resistant structure, a hallmark of G-SHOCK watches, ensures that it can handle bumps, drops, and other unexpected impacts. The watch is also water-resistant up to 200 meters, making it suitable for swimming, snorkeling, and other water-based activities.
Under the hood, the GBM2100RH-1A is powered by Casio's Tough Solar technology, which harnesses the power of light to charge the watch's battery. This eliminates the need for frequent battery replacements, ensuring that your watch is always ready for action. The watch also features Bluetooth® connectivity, allowing you to sync it with your smartphone for automatic time adjustment, easy watch setting, and access to a range of other useful functions.
Courtesy of Casio
The GBM2100RH-1A is more than just a timekeeper; it's a versatile tool that can enhance your daily life. The watch's world time function lets you keep track of time in 38 different cities, making it ideal for frequent travelers or those with international connections. The 1/100-second stopwatch is perfect for timing workouts or tracking your performance on the court or field. The countdown timer and five daily alarms help you stay organized and on schedule, while the double LED light (Super Illuminator) ensures that you can read the time even in low-light conditions.
The watch's Smartphone Link functionality further expands its capabilities. By connecting to the
Casio WATCHES app, you can access features such as automatic time adjustment, easy watch setting, world time, time & place recording, reminders, and even a phone finder function. This seamless integration with your smartphone makes the GBM2100RH-1A an indispensable companion for the tech-savvy athlete.
The GBM2100RH-1A is crafted from a combination of high-quality materials that are both durable and sustainable. The case and bezel are made from stainless steel, ensuring long-lasting strength and resistance to corrosion. The band is constructed from bio-based resin, a material derived from renewable organic resources. This eco-friendly choice reflects G-SHOCK's commitment to reducing its environmental impact.
The GBM2100RH-1A is a testament to Casio's dedication to precision engineering. Every component of the watch, from the intricate dial details to the robust case construction, is meticulously crafted to ensure optimal performance and longevity. The watch's movement, a marvel of miniaturization, is designed to deliver accurate timekeeping under the most challenging conditions.
Courtesy of Casio
The GBM2100RH-1A isn't just a watch; it's a symbol of Rui Hachimura's journey and his unwavering pursuit of excellence. Hachimura's signature "Black Samurai" logo, prominently displayed on the case back and side button, serves as a constant reminder of his roots and his inspiring story. This personal touch elevates the watch from a mere timepiece to a wearable emblem of ambition and perseverance.
The G-SHOCK GBM2100RH-1A is priced at $370.00, making it an accessible luxury for those seeking a high-performance sports watch with a unique story behind it. The watch is set to be released in August 2024, and as a special bonus, early buyers will receive a free Rui Hachimura bandana with their purchase.