G-SHOCK 5600: Where it all began
Published on 19 May 2022
5600. A number with special meaning for G-SHOCK. It is used only in the names of models that have inherited the DNA of the very first G-SHOCK among all the thousands that have succeeded it. The square design that is said to symbolize the origin of all G-SHOCK provides evidence of the tireless efforts and continuous innovation born from a developer’s belief that he could create a watch that would not break, even if dropped, and represents the final form every G-SHOCK aims to achieve.
DW-5600 series
This square design, still loved by many people, continues to express G-SHOCK's identity without being influenced by the times or trends. The material used is urethane resin, which is both flexible and robust. This is the most basic model among G-SHOCK and is also recommended as a gift.
GM-5600 series
The metal-covered series of the square model is the origin of G-SHOCK. Pursuing quality as a watch, we are refining the evolution of the exterior and wearability. This series can be worn on any scene with the casualness of resin and the luxury of metal.
GMW-B5000 series
A full metal series born from "origin" and "evolution". G-SHOCK has been continuing to evolve. Pursuing essence and universality, the main model of G-SHOCK is faithfully reproduced with full metal by advanced technology.
GM-S5600 Series
The iconic 5600 series is downsized and is a model with a high-class feel of metal. The square design GM-5600, which has been adopted since the first model, has been downsized to achieve a lightweight and comfortable fit.
THE ORIGIN OF G-SHOCK
"UNBREAKABLE" WATCH
"I want to make a timepiece that will not break, even if dropped." Watches are delicate precision instruments, and, at that time, it seemed only natural that they should break when falling to the floor. The concept of a tough watch seemed not only unconventional, but even nonsensical. Nevertheless, the proposal was accepted. A project team comprising just three people was formed — and development of the new watch began.
HARD DAYS
They first assumed it would be best to cover the entire watch with a soft material. A few dropping experiments put that idea to rest without delay. They found that a watch would break no matter how much shock-absorbent rubber was adhering to the case exterior. And the more cushioning material they attached, the more the size increased. The experimental model soon swelled to the size of a large softball.
The strength of the electronic components also became a problem. This unanticipated process of trial and error continued day after day: The developers would drop a prototype with reinforced parts from the window of the 3rd-floor men’s room and watch it break on the ground 10 meters below. They would then analyze the broken parts, strengthen them and try again. The cycle seemed endless.
BREAK THROUGH
Ibe made a decision in despair. In one final effort, he would set a time limit of one week on his own initiative and spend all his waking hours on research. If that were not enough, he would consider resigning from his job. After another week without success, the fateful day arrived. Ibe stepped outside the laboratory building to catch a breath of fresh air in a park next door, where he saw a child bouncing a rubber ball. Suddenly, an inspiration struck him: “If you attached a watch to that ball, it could endure severe shocks.” The idea that sprang to mind in this miracle moment expanded to complete a unique structure in which the module at the heart of the watch floats in the air within a hollow structure inside A Tunnel with the case.
"BIRTH OF G-SHOCK"
It was not long before the first G-SHOCK, the model DW-5000C, was launched in 1983. The square design with its symbolic importance was created in pursuit of shock resistance alone, with nothing wasted. The ultimate form for achieving this single function, has been handed down to the present as an eternal standard.
