Casio has announced the release of a new addition to its G-SHOCK MR-G line, the MRG-B2000JS, a limited-edition timepiece inspired by the Japanese katana sword. Only 800 pieces of this special model will be available worldwide, each honouring the craftsmanship and design of the Jyuroku-Maru: San, a bespoke sword commissioned by Casio for this project.
The MR-G line represents the flagship range of G-SHOCK’s shock-resistant watches, known for their durability and precision engineering. The latest model, MRG-B2000JS, draws its aesthetic and technical design from the Juryoku-Maru: San, a katana created specifically for Casio by master swordsmith Kamiyama Teruhira. This collaboration blends the traditional strength and beauty of the katana with the advanced technology of the G-SHOCK brand.
The Juryoku-Maru: San katana embodies Japanese sword-making traditions and artistic elegance. The sword’s blade, forged by Kamiyama, is complemented by a stunning scabbard crafted by artisan Nomura Mamoru, who used the ancient “aogai” technique. This method involves embedding mother-of-pearl from various shells, including abalone and pearl oysters, to create a lustrous and intricate design on the scabbard.
The MRG-B2000JS timepiece is directly inspired by the craftsmanship of the katana. The watch’s bezel is made from a hybrid titanium material, featuring a recrystallised surface to replicate the distinctive temper patterns of the blade. Layers of Ti64 and pure titanium are subjected to high-temperature, high-pressure compression to achieve a durable yet refined finish. The result is a watch with a striking texture, mimicking the traditional patterns found on Japanese blades.
The band of the MRG-B2000JS is equally impressive, featuring the same “aogai” blue shell lacquer used on the sword’s scabbard. This unique design element not only adds visual flair but also creates dynamic reflections that change depending on the angle of the light. The band is made from DAT55G, a specialised alloy developed by Daido Steel Co., Ltd. This material is three times harder than pure titanium, providing both strength and a luxurious finish that elevates the watch’s appearance.
In a further nod to the ancient art of sword-making, each of the 800 timepieces in the MRG-B2000JS series is engraved by Kamiyama himself. The hand-engraved kanji character “燦” (San), meaning brilliance or radiance, is etched onto each watch, making every piece a unique and personalised work of art.
The MRG-B2000JS not only stands out for its design but also for its advanced functionality. As part of the G-SHOCK range, it includes all the technological innovations expected from the brand, such as shock resistance, solar power, and Bluetooth connectivity, ensuring both style and practicality for its wearers.
This fusion of traditional Japanese craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology marks another milestone for Casio’s G-SHOCK MR-G series, offering a distinctive watch that appeals to both timepiece enthusiasts and collectors of Japanese art.
The MRG-B2000JS is expected to be available in limited quantities later this year.
