Hands-On With The Colorful G-Shock MTG-B3000PRB Aurora Oval

The G-Shock Rainbow IP series always gives us a reason to smile. This colorful line of watches was first introduced in 2019 and has seen several new introductions every year since. With bright, dynamic colors, the effect of ion-plated cases is impressive, to say the least. As the newest addition to the Rainbow IP series, G-Shock introduces the MTG-B3000PRB Aurora Oval. This eye-catching design is inspired by the colors of the aurora borealis. Does it capture a piece of the northern lights perfectly on your wrist? It’s time to find out.

I have a huge soft spot for the G-Shock Rainbow IP series. Two years ago, I had the pleasure of going hands-on with the brand’s MTG-B2000PH2A “Blue Phoenix.” That watch was bonkers in its appearance, but it brought a grin to my face every time I wore it. It’s that effect that characterizes the Rainbow IP line. Lex also experienced it with the MTG-B2000XMG “Rainbow Mountain.” Once you have worn one of these pieces, a certain magic to them is disarming and fun. And in a world where we tend to take watches way too seriously, they remind us that watches should always be enjoyable too.

It all starts and ends with colorful looks

The new MTG-B3000PRB Aurora Oval is quite the looker. It immediately stands out because of its bright color combination. The remarkable thing about the Rainbow IP series is that the colors are at the forefront of creating a concept. Usually, in the world of watches, there is a concept first before the watches are designed, prototypes are made, and the final watches are produced. However, this process works the other way around. In the design world, we used to call this “strategy by design.” Essentially, the design leads the story, with the overall concept and message following it.

But there is more to the story of this special piece. If you have followed the string of releases for G-Shock’s 40th anniversary, you might have heard of the Recrystallized Series. Lex wrote an article on the series not too long ago. In it, he explained the special treatment these pieces got. It’s a combination of recrystallization and deep hardening treatment of the stainless steel, leading to a unique texture. This frosted touch is also applied to the bezel of this new Aurora Oval.

The MTG-B3000PRB is big but not bulky

While the texture is just applied to the bezel, the entire case features a unique color pattern. The Aurora Oval has a green base crossed with yellow and pink. These colors mimic the colors of the northern lights as seen from the sky. The case is matched with a translucent purple rubber strap with a purple buckle and a brown “copper-ish” keeper that matches the pushers on the sides of the case. As a result, the watch combines an impressive set of colors.

The case design aligns with the MTG-3000 series that I reviewed late last year. It translates into a case that is 50.9mm wide, 51.9mm long, and 12.1mm thick. As such, it is a piece that is definitely substantial in size. Having said that, the 12.1mm thickness creates a very wearable and slim profile. And as we know, G-Shock makes even bigger and bulkier models, so while this one stands out from a mile away, that’s not due to a big, bulky case. This one is created in the MTG’s tradition of hybrid cases in metal, resin, and carbon, and it is water resistant to 200 meters.

An analog dial display with a ton of functions

The case is combined with a predominantly black dial graced with red and purple elements. The analog dial is busy but a drastic improvement from the previous MTG-B2000 series. In a way, it feels almost traditional with its 3-6-9 chronograph layout. As you can see, the designers integrated multiple functional displays into the three sub-dials. Overall, though, they are fairly easy to read if you know what you are looking for.

And this model, like every G-Shock, boasts a wide array of different functions. The MTG-3000 series, including this model, is powered by Casio’s 5672 module. It features a dual-time function with 27 different time zones, a countdown timer, chronograph functions, multiple alarms, and a full auto calendar up to 2099. It also features an energy-saving mode that stops the hands from running when the watch is left in the dark.

Always accurate thanks to Bluetooth connectivity

The solar-powered watch also features Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to pair it with the G-Shock app. This will ensure that the watch automatically syncs upon arrival in a new time zone. Additionally, the app offers a multitude of different functions that let you easily adjust and use the watch if you are traveling the world. The module is also accurate to ±15 seconds per month if not synced.

Wearing the new MTG-B3000PRB Aurora Oval

During my previous encounter with the regular MTG-B3000 models, I was pleasantly surprised by how comfortable these watches wear. Needless the say, it’s no different for this new colorful Aurora Oval. In all honesty, I enjoyed wearing this new model even more than the regular ones for two very simple reasons. First, the translucent purple strap is not only a spectacular sight but is also very comfortable. It is connected to end links that are placed at an angle, making it easy to put the watch on and allowing the strap to wrap nicely around the wrist.

Second, the colors of this watch are spectacular. While I wasn’t a fan at first, simply because the colors are not necessarily my favorite, they are impressive in the sunlight. On top of that, they actually did remind me of the aurora borealis. It’s a phenomenon that I hope to experience in real life at some point for a true comparison. All jokes aside, from the images that I have seen, the watch creates a very nice and colorful representation that jumps off the wrist.

Final thoughts on the G-Shock MTG-B3000PRB Aurora Oval

The watches are produced in Casio’s famous Yamagata factory, which only makes the brand’s high-end products. As a result, as I’ve said in previous reviews and will say once again, the finishing and colors make the Rainbow IP series nothing short of impressive. The finishing level is much better than on many other more classically styled timepieces from renowned brands.

Granted, this G-Shock MTG-B3000PRB Aurora Oval is a watch for true fans. Not only the colors but also the €1,400 retail price make this a timepiece for people who love their bold and colorful G-Shocks. But what you get in return is impressive in its quality and finish, colorful in its appearance, and unique as an overall concept. Whether this is a timepiece for you or whether you think it’s too pricey, I compliment G-Shock for creating these extravagant pieces. Once again, I had a blast wearing a model from the Rainbow IP series. The Aurora Oval didn’t seem like a watch for me, but I’d gladly have one to find out how close the colors are to the real aurora borealis.

For more information, please visit the official G-Shock website. Let us know in the comments section whether you would ever wear a colorful piece like the Aurora Oval.