August 28th 2024
Casio’s new G-Shock reference GW6900NASA241 is part of a celebration marking the brand’s 50th anniversary of creating wristwatches. So, how does this connect to NASA? Interestingly, this is the fifth G-Shock watch to feature NASA branding, although the connection is somewhat loose. NASA engineers and scientists have used Casio calculators over the years, which makes sense since Casio is known for its expertise in calculation devices — and digital watches are essentially that. To celebrate 50 years since Casio’s first watch, the Casiotron, the brand is highlighting its history in a fun way. The watch would be cool even without the NASA branding, but the added association gives it a unique appeal.
A Nod to Casio’s Origins
To provide some thematic context, Casio’s marketing images for the GW6900NASA241 include a vintage “Casio Mini” calculator from 1972, two years before Casio released its first wristwatch. The G-Shock GW6900NASA241’s design is clearly inspired by the colors of the Casio Mini Calculator. Another promotional image shows the watch on a wrist surrounded by schematics and formulas, suggesting a connection to the kind of people who work at NASA – and at Casio. Perhaps Casio is hinting that their engineers see themselves in a similar light to those at NASA, creating an amusing parallel between the two organizations.
A Step Up in Features
While many of Casio’s themed watches are entry-level models with basic features, the GW6900NASA241 offers a bit more. It includes the “Tough Solar” module, which allows solar-powered charging, and Multi-Band 6, which connects to atomic clock radio signals for precise timekeeping. Although it lacks Bluetooth, these features make the watch practical and appealing without sacrificing too much technology.
Design and Comfort
The GW6900NASA241 features a matte-black resin case and strap, making it lightweight at just 63 grams. With a 50mm width, 53.2mm lug-to-lug distance, and a 17.7mm thickness, the watch is comfortable on the wrist. It also has a mineral crystal over the dial and is water-resistant up to 200 meters. A subtle graphic behind the backlight, depicting the term “Gravity” and its mathematical formula, adds a unique touch, along with “Impact” etched on the steel caseback and a small American flag motif on the strap loop. These details, while a bit arbitrary, contribute to the watch’s charm and its loose NASA connection.
Final Thoughts
Priced at $170 USD, the Casio G-Shock GW6900NASA241 stands out for its aesthetic design, its combination of essential and slightly advanced features, and its affordability. The quirky design elements and the ambiguous connection to NASA only add to its appeal, particularly for those who might have worn a pocket protector in their day. This watch is a unique nod to both Japanese calculators and the professionals who use them.