+ D Style published an interview with one of the designers at Casio behind the development of the MR-G series of G-Shocks. The MR-G line really stands out with their metal tough metal construction, so it's nice to see what the designers at Casio are thinking when designing these models.

The MR-G line has been pushing the boundaries of G-Shock technology since the late 90's. The signature feature of these models is the rugged metal construction of the band and bezel, instead of the usual resin materials. The introduction of the DLC (Diamond Like Carbon) coating makes for some of the toughest G-Shocks ever. They've also been pushing the boundaries of affordability, with the new MRG-8000G selling for over $5,000 USD.

Mr.井崎

What's the background on the birth of the MR-G?

The MR-G line basically has "G-Shock for adults" as the main design concept. So, keeping with the tradition of G-Shock, it must be based on elements of toughness. Casio has strived to pursue the development of new metal technology in every new MR-G model. The current models have the superior protection of DLC, that also makes them black in color. However, the new technology will be priced at around 80,000 yen. 150,000 yen is uncharted territory, but it is the price for new materials. The toughness alone does not cause the high price, but also these are designed to be a work of art. And no expense is spared as these are part of the luxury market.

Is the high price connected to materials and features?

Yes. Honestly, "the price is up to luxury goods" idea was actually meant to create a luxury watch. The manufacturer has to talk and listen. "Luxury goods" and "luxury products", there is a big difference between these and other watches So in the end, even with a 100,000 yen watch, high-quality product manufacturers have to choose the appropriate direction, and know the skills of how to do it. So it is with these high quality products. MR-G offers superior impact-wear-resistant models without compromise, and as a result they are expensive. This time the "price to match the finish" makes it hard to change

Also, on the sales end there are things to consider. Department stores and luxury retailers, who handle these models are involved in feedback. Luxury models like this require the after-sales service to match the quality of the product.

What part does high-level loyalty play in the MR-G?

Until the MRG-7500 model the design was based on molding of plastic and metal, but that has now been replaced. Certainly the classic G-Shock shape is important, but the metal case is a part of luxury. It stay strong "in the face of distortion" or looks like a "beautiful mirror". This is something people ask for. The G-Shock body includes a "bulge", and it's part of the beauty. Each part must be grinded out with machinery. So this model, is made up of three to five body parts, and each is customized for polishing. The MR-G models use the highest level of finishing and polishing that can be achieved.

The thick shape of the G-Shocks is required to keep they're shock absorption qualities intact.

What does the design process boil down to?

Until now, designers thought "I want to make this kind of thing". The based on the design, processing and classic G-Shock design elements came together to make it happen. But to make these new metal models we have had to change the design based on the metal worker's opinion. "Do not make the form's upmarket" is something I said from the start.

What's the difference between the limited editions and the MRG-8000G models?

MRG-8000G who is made to emphasize the beauty of the bezel using contrast (MRG-8000B is a plus service). The decorative parts must function properly There is a negative service using traditional tools and we don't want to make a defective product. In addition, the movements must be waterproof. It must withstand torque to squeeze a big impact on performance. So it is fitting service workers have a negative tool to use only one hand at it. Other than to say mass production, hand-made manufacturing makes sense. With the 18 cities and a solid gold ring material there is a big difference. The dial is a little different in design, and the uses parts that a gold-plated.

What's the impact of the 18-carat gold ring?

Aiming to expand as a luxury model, because it was so different parts of the past and thought it was going to use it. In fact, impact on performance when the call for parts of "heavy" materials. Until now, therefore, they did not affect the appearance of lighter material to be used as much as possible. 8000B is however, apparently when painted in black does not work. I can tell, the metal ring used by the city code. The reason is that such variations are just part of the manufacturing process. And the cost to use a part, the weight of material, and it's softness or durability also must be considered. There could be an impact on the decision because the money spent to build a prototype machine and special assembly parts can be repeated in similar experiments.

Is there a contradiction between G-Shock toughness and the luxury goods market?

That's right. The MR-G design will be based on unyielding toughness, persistence, but also as a luxury model. A match is always necessary between goals. In addition to materials and know-how to make changes, there must not be a departure from the original design. Crash-worthiness and new performance measures were necessary. The movement is important, it requires metal parts to be used to test and evaluate.

So the 8000 series has high-quality precision and movement then?

Even if you do not receive the atomic sync radio waves, the difference is only plus or minus 15 seconds in accuracy. And not only the accuracy of Quartz, but also the needle in terms of their accuracy until the last minute.

When it comes to these high-end models, are the parts be similar to other models?

MR-G is part of the G-Shock line. The GIEZ model of the GS-1000J issued hours, and we were changed. The design is based on the GS-300, two analog and digital displays a combination of a needle, was KASHIORASHII dial design, and this is the chronograph. We expected a reaction from the G-Shock fans. Customers who purchase the dial gazed at the "other dude changed me."

In one by one…… confirmed that they are looking at what I thought, but the subtle shift in the needle to the entire check to the idea. This is in response to the request must be made so that the MR-G in particular must do that to the hilt. This is just a matter of precision needle bats, but a print or dial the city code, marking the ring, missed the meaning of it. All the elements are perfect fit, to make the manufacturer's name plate and urban code maker has a ring to make it impossible to get a higher accuracy.

And you you pay attention to different regions?

I guess so. Data from past sales and face-to-face communication with customers and and companies is important. There is less of these models, but this model is a luxury watch to be sold at a premium. It is a great finish to see what the buyer is interested in and all of the feedback those parts of it. Also, while maintaining performance and impact-resistance, to reach the highest levels of appreciation is very pleasing.

What about sales of the 8000 Series overseas?

Let's think carefully. But also assess overseas have been able to receive radio waves in Japan, Taiwan, but sells a small amount. China, also downplayed the highest mountain needs a strong model.

What about a new model?

What will come out and when it is not what I do (laughs). Our luxury models will continue to evolve and improve as time goes by.

What about G-Shock and digital still images? The digital expansion of luxury models?

Now there are analog lines in the MR-G line, but we're not limited to them. So the possibility is there. Since the 1990s, the heyday of popular Frogman, the idea has been to create a special model. But ultimately they need to be able to sell. I also had the opinion that frivolous things are something I do not need. G-Shock from the beginning has been digital, high-end digital still, and that call for appropriate models as an idea continues.

Note: this is a pretty quick translation. There's bound to be a few errors.