Why the Nickname, “CasiOak”, Doesn’t Tell the Full Story.

The “CasiOak” (Casio G-shock GA2100) was launched in 2019 but its roots go back well before that, and it is not just about the famous AP Royal Oak.

The “CasiOak” seems to have been a big success for Casio. It’s style, reminiscent of the first luxury sports watch, the Royal Oak by Audemars Piguet, has generated a marketing boost for the company. 

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak

Casio G-shock GA2110ET-8A "CasiOak"

The classic octagonal case style was introduced by the luxury Swiss watchmaker, Audemars Piguet in 1972. It was called the first luxury sports watch and has graced many high profile wrists as it achieved legend status in the watch world.

The Original Octagonal
G-Shock DW5000C

Casio probably don’t begrudge the connection but in fact they can trace their own octagonal influence back to 1983 and an equally iconic watch, the DW5000C. This was the first G-shock and launched a brand that has also had a huge influence on the watch world. When it comes to volume and distribution, the Casio octagon design had a far more important influence than any single luxury sports watch.

The original G-shock octagonal established the “square” look for Casio and its digital display roots. The emphasis on protection and ruggedness resulted in a boxy shape that protected the inner workings brilliantly. As the brand developed it introduced more traditional analogue style watches and the “CasiOak” is a result of that evolution.

This wonderful world of horology is full of twists, turns, stories, connections, and design comparisons. However perhaps we shouldn’t forget that the G-shock GA2100 range is more an evolution of the original Casio square design than it is of any other watch.