Casio’s new colorful watches with Seiko Time Sonar-style translucent dials are finally available

Casio’s highly anticipated MTP-E740 series is officially out now. The lineup, which consists of five colorful models, was originally announced in early August. Shortly after, two models appeared on Casio UK as “coming soon.” Now, about a month later, they’re finally available for purchase — at least in the UK.

But there's a small catch. Casio has only put two of the five watches up for sale: the bright orange MTP-E740-4AV and navy-blue MTP-E740-2A1V. Both are priced at £85 and are available through Casio’s UK website. The watches aren’t available in Japan yet, making the UK the only market where you can currently buy one.

That’s a shame, because this is easily one of Casio’s more interesting affordable releases of the year. The MTP-E740 takes inspiration from Seiko’s 1970s Time Sonar, most notably with its translucent dial. The unusual treatment lets you see the day and date wheels beneath the dial, turning what is normally a fairly mundane calendar display into the watch’s main visual attraction.

The rest of the design is decidedly traditional. Each model gets a stainless steel case and bracelet, applied baton hour markers, three hands, mineral glass, and a framed date window at 3 o’clock. The day display supports both English and Spanish, too.

Inside, Casio uses its 5339 quartz movement, which is rated to within ±20 seconds per month. An SR920SW battery provides roughly three years of power, while 50-meter water resistance gives the watches enough protection for everyday wear. The 39.8mm case measures 8.7mm thick and weighs 103 grams.

Casio originally announced five colorways, with teal, bright blue, and brown versions joining the orange and navy models. Those three remain conspicuously absent from the UK launch, and Casio hasn’t said when they’ll arrive. There’s also no word yet on when the MTP-E740 lineup will make its way to other markets, including the US.