Hands-On With The New Casio G-Shock Rainbow Brick Wall Collection

One of the most recognizable elements of the early G-Shocks is the famous brick-wall pattern. Did you know the pattern was deliberately chosen to emphasize the toughness of G-Shock’s timepieces? It’s a fun visual play on one of the brand’s key features. G-Shock has created six new references with a rainbow brick pattern to celebrate that toughness in style. First, there are three versions of the G-Shock “Square” 5600, and second, the brand created three similarly themed versions of the G-Shock “CasiOak” 2100. I had a chance to check out five of the six new models to find out which one is my favorite.

When five new G-Shocks land on your desk, it can be overwhelming. Your instincts tell you to look for differences that might lead to a preference. But with the new G-Shock Rainbow Brick Wall collection, I was first intrigued by the story. As it turns out, it is as straightforward as I put it in the intro. The designers at G-Shock decided to celebrate the unique style of the brick-wall pattern. The presence completely changes by adding a rainbow-hued gradation to the pattern. Instead of being an integrated and decorative part of the face of the watch, it becomes the standout feature. However, the effect on both series is different. Let me explain why.

The G-Shock Square 5600-series Rainbow Brick Wall models

Let’s kick things off with the two Square 5600 models. We had two of the three available references in for review. The first is the DW-5600RW-1, which is the standard resin version. It has a 42.88 × 48.9 × 13.4mm resin case and comes on a resin strap. The second and third models are variants of the GM-5600 with a 43.2 × 49.6 × 12.9mm case made of resin and stainless steel.

The one we didn’t have for review is the GM-5600RW-1, which has an unplated stainless steel outer case. The last one is the GM-5600BRW-1, a variation of the same model that has a black ion plating on the stainless steel parts. It gives the watch a stealthier presence, similar to the standard resin model.

All three watches feature a similar rainbow-colored brick-wall pattern surrounding the negative display. The rainbow gradation is created by using vapor deposition and black printing. When applied to the glass, the vapor deposition process makes every pattern unique. In these watches, the pattern is also a nice marriage of elements from the past and a modern execution.

The Casio 3525 module powers all three watches. It’s a basic G-Shock module that offers a standard set of functions, including a stopwatch, countdown timer, a multi-function alarm, a full calendar accurate until 2099, and the Super Illuminator LED backlight. Additionally, the module has an accuracy of ±15 seconds per month. 

Regarding pricing, the resin DW-5600RW-1 is €119, the standard stainless steel GM-5600RW-1 is €199, and the black IP-treated GM-5600BRW-1 is slightly more expensive at €219. Overall, the watches are a fun play on the regular black G-Shock models that put the brick pattern in the spotlight.

The G-Shock CasiOak 2100-series Rainbow Brick Wall models

The second series of three watches consists of a similarly executed trio, but this time, they are variations of the popular CasiOak 2100 series. G-Shock’s designers applied the brick pattern across the dial’s surface for these three models. Here, the pattern is created using silver vapor deposition partially removed through laser peeling. In the last step, the rainbow hues are created with multicolor printing.

The first of the three models is the black resin GA-2100RW-1A. Essentially, this is a standard blacked-out CasiOak with a 45.4 × 48.5 × 11.8mm resin case and a special rainbow dial. It features a combination of analog and negative digital displays. Other than the rainbow bricks, the only lighter shades you will find are in the silver printing and the off-white lume used for the hour and minute hands.

The second and third models are variations of the GM-2100 that feature a 44.4 × 49.3 × 11.8mm steel outer case. First, there is the standard stainless steel GM-2100RW-1A. Second, there is the GM-2100BRW-1A, which has a black ion plating. As a result, it follows the stealthy presence of the all-resin version.

But there is more to it than that. The resin version features black hour markers, whereas the two stainless steel versions feature dials with indexes that shimmer in the light. This combination nicely complements the materials and the finish of the stainless steel case, giving the watch a more exclusive presence.

The Casio 5611 module

Casio’s 5611 module powers all three of these CasioOak Rainbow Brick Wall models. It’s the standard module for the CasiOak collection and features a stopwatch, countdown time, five daily alarms, world time with the option to choose from 48 global cities, and a Super Illuminator double LED to ensure readability in the dark.

In regards to pricing, the resin GA-2100RW-1A is available for €129. The stainless steel GM-2100RW-1A comes in at €219, and lastly, the black ion-plated stainless steel GM-2100BRW-1A is €239. So overall, the CasiOaks are slightly more expensive, but the price difference alone will probably not be enough to sway potential buyers toward one series or the other.

Wearing the Casio G-Shock Rainbow Brick Wall models

Remember when I said that having five G-Shocks land on your desk can be daunting? After figuring out the story behind them, putting them on the wrist was a fun experience. It allowed me to compare the classic Squares with the popular CasiOak models. Additionally, I fairly quickly gravitated toward one specific version. Let me start by pointing out the big differences I noticed between the two model series.

What quickly stood out is that the rainbow-hue effect on the G-Shock Squares was a lot more vibrant, making them feel more special. The difference between dark and light is greater, and the metallic effect of the pattern has a bigger impact. This gives the Squares a slight edge if you ask me. On top of that, the brick-wall pattern is right at home on the Square models.

It’s part of the legacy of the original G-Shock, and that’s why it feels it has a purpose. On the CasiOak models, it is quite clearly an extra element to spice up the dial, and I like the natural integration on the Squares slightly better. Having said that, if you like a bit of color added to your CasiOak dial, it suits all three versions well.

Final thoughts on the Casio G-Shock Rainbow Brick Wall collection

Now you know that I preferred the Squares out of the five watches we had. The only choice left was between the two blacked-out models. In all honesty, it would have been nice to have the unplated stainless steel version in as well, but it would not have affected my top pick. Once I put the two Square models on my wrist, the GM-5600BRW-1 in blacked-out stainless steel stood out.

The finish of that specific model elevates the Square to something special. The interplay between the rainbow effect and the brushed and polished parts works so well. On top of that, the quality feel of that model is impressive.

This made choosing my top pick fairly easy, and in all honesty, that surprised me. Having said that, if you like this new Rainbow Brick Wall concept, there is no right or wrong. There is only the choice of your favorite version, and I found mine.

After wearing the five watches, I love that Casio decided to focus extra attention on one of G-Shock’s characteristic design elements. It tells a story that links back to the brand’s beginnings. Because of this, it will resonate with many people, which is why this series will be another popular addition to the G-Shock lineup.

If you want to learn more, visit the dedicated G-Shock Rainbow Brick Wall website for more info.