Casio G-Shock GMW-B5000SB-1A2JF tipped for November launch with unusual sapphire details

More details about Casio's mysterious new GMW-B5000 variant have now surfaced, days after its existence was first reported. Great G-Shock World has identified the watch as the GMW-B5000SB-1A2JF, and it appears to have a rather unusual design feature. 

The Casio G-Shock GMW-B5000SB-1A2JF reportedly uses blue sapphire elements at the four front screw positions on its case. Existing GMW-B5000 models only have recesses in these locations rather than actual exposed front screws. The newer variant will be one of the first to introduce functional front screws.

While no images exist at the time of writing, the publication adds that the sapphire detailing will be complemented by blue accents on the watch face. The rest of the timepiece is said to use a predominantly black colour scheme, including a black IP finish and negative LCD display. As previously reported, Casio will pair the metal case with a urethane band instead of the stainless-steel bracelet commonly associated with the GMW-B5000 line.

The new G-Shock is reportedly scheduled to launch in Japan in November 2026 for ¥110,000 ($715). That is remarkably pricier than the existing GMW-B5000-1JF variant that retails for about  ¥72,600 ($472) in Japan. The unusual materials and relatively high price suggest the GMW-B5000SB-1A2JF will be sold as a Casio Watch Partner Shop model, although Great G-Shock World has not confirmed this.