Casio Watches: How A Tech Giant Took Over Our Wrists
7 min read
Casio is a name that resonates across the world, known not just for its innovative watches but for a diverse range of electronic products, from calculators to musical instruments. For decades, this Japanese brand has remained at the forefront of technological advancements, revolutionizing the watch industry with groundbreaking designs. But Casio’s journey didn’t start with timepieces; it's a tale of innovation, resilience, and an unrelenting pursuit of excellence.
Just In Time, an Indian retailer, recognises the grit and resilience of this iconic brand, stocking more than 500+ models within its inventory. We recently visited a Just In Time store and were amazed by the variety it showcased. But to understand why this Japanese brand is such a beloved brand among watch lovers, we first need to understand its history and past in detail. We give you a gist of the brand’s roots right from its origins to its position as a global icon today. We also list down some of the best selling Casio watches available at Just In Time-House Of International Watch Brands.
1946: Casio’s Humble Beginnings
Founded in 1946 in post-war Japan by Tadao Kashio, Casio’s roots were not in watches but in mechanical parts. Kashio, along with his brothers, soon ventured into the world of electronics, and by 1949, they were manufacturing calculators. Their groundbreaking achievement came in the 1950s when they introduced Japan’s first electronic calculator, which was not only functional but compact enough to fit on a desk.
1970s: From Calculators to Timepieces
With the success of their calculators, Casio expanded its focus to electronic products, including early computers and wrist-calculators. By the 1970s, the company had become a household name. Then, in 1974, Casio unveiled a game-changer: the Casiotron.
1974: The Birth of the Casio Watch
Casio’s first-ever wristwatch, the Casiotron, was not just another quartz watch—it was a technological marvel. Featuring a digital display with an automatic calendar function, the Casiotron stood out in an era when most watches still relied on analog dials. It was a glimpse into the future of timekeeping and marked the beginning of Casio’s dominance in the digital watch market.
The power of the original Casiotron QW02 model, aside from its advanced calendar capabilities, was representative of the larger switch to quartz-powered movements writ large – as well as the brand's keen foresight in riding the quartz wave as it was cresting. The QW02 utilized the technology Casio originally designed for its calculators to rid its wearer of the hassle of resetting calendar settings at the top of each month and adjusting for shorter months. The initial success of the Casiotron would encourage the brand to dive further into its watchmaking endeavors. Without this model, we might not have seen the G-SHOCKs of the world come to fruition – which would be a very stark world indeed.
50 years later, in 2024 Casio returned to the source, and revived its preeminent digital watch with all the style of the heritage model and equipped with the tech capabilities of today. Taking the form of a 4,000 piece limited edition, Casio announced the return of the Casiotron. The ultimate intention of this reissue is to pay proper homage to the legacy of the original Casiotron in its look, feel, and functionality.
1983: The G-SHOCK Revolution
Building on the success of their digital watches, Casio set out to create something even more revolutionary: a watch that could withstand extreme conditions. The result was the G-SHOCK, released in 1983. This rugged, shock-resistant, and water-resistant watch changed the industry forever. Suddenly, watches were no longer delicate accessories—they were durable tools designed for adventure. The G-SHOCK became the gold standard for tough, reliable watches, finding fans among athletes, military personnel, and outdoor enthusiasts worldwide.
1990s: Enter the Baby-G
The 1990s saw Casio capitalizing on the G-SHOCK'S popularity by introducing the Baby-G, a more compact and fashion-forward version of its predecessor. While the G-SHOCK remained a staple for extreme conditions, the Baby-G became a style icon, appealing to a younger audience with its vibrant colors and trend-driven designs. Casio also mastered the art of pop culture marketing, with its watches making appearances in films like Back to the Future—solidifying their status as cultural icons.
The 21st Century and Beyond
As Casio watches became global sensations, the company continued refining and expanding its product lineup. From high-tech smartwatches to sophisticated hybrid models that combine analog elegance with digital functionality, Casio has never stopped innovating. Meanwhile, its legacy in other fields, calculators, musical instruments, and digital technology remains as strong as ever.
In India, bridge to luxury retailer Just In Time- House Of International Watch Brands, is your go to if you are looking to buy a Casio watch. Here, you will find more than a plethora of Casio models that will delight the watch enthusiast in you and surely left us spoilt for choice. We were delighted to see some models from the brand’s vintage collection as well. Here is a list of 5 best-selling Casio watches available at Just In Time.
This sleek and stylish Casio digital watch features a 36.3mm octagonal case crafted from resin with chrome plating, giving it a modern yet durable appeal. The black digital dial is powered by a reliable quartz movement and protected by a sturdy resin glass. With a slim 9.6mm case thickness, the watch offers a comfortable fit, complemented by a 20mm grey stainless steel strap with a sliding clasp for easy wear. Water-resistant up to 3 ATM, it is designed for casual occasions and daily use. Weighing just 50 grams, this lightweight timepiece combines functionality with timeless design and comes with a 2-year warranty. Made in Japan, it reflects precision craftsmanship and quality.
Featuring a sleek 38.8mm rectangular case with an elegant beige analog-digital dial, offering both style and functionality. Powered by a precise quartz movement, the watch is lightweight at just 47 grams and has a slim 8.1mm case thickness for a comfortable fit. The grey stainless steel strap, secured with a buckle clasp, enhances its modern aesthetic. Crafted with a durable resin dial, this versatile watch is designed for everyday wear and comes with a 2-year warranty, ensuring reliability and long-lasting performance.
Make a statement with this bold watch D362, featuring a striking 45mm rectangular case and a vibrant green analog-digital dial crafted from durable resin. Powered by a precise quartz movement, this timepiece seamlessly blends style with function, offering both classic and modern appeal. The stainless steel strap in silver, fastened with a secure buckle clasp, ensures both comfort and durability. With a lightweight design of just 52 grams and a slim 8.7mm case thickness, it's the perfect everyday companion. Backed by a 2-year warranty, this watch is built to stand out while offering reliability and flair for any occasion.
This chic unisex digital watch features a 35mm rectangular resin case with a stunning rose gold dial, exuding a modern yet timeless appeal. Powered by a reliable quartz movement, it’s designed for both style and functionality, with a water resistance of up to 5 ATM for everyday durability. The rose gold stainless steel strap adds a sophisticated touch and is secured with a folding clasp for a comfortable and secure fit. Weighing just 49 grams, this lightweight timepiece offers an 18mm strap width and a 10mm case thickness, making it perfect for casual wear as well as a special occasion.
This lightweight and stylish watch boasts compact dimensions of 30.8 × 26.3 × 7.9 mm and a weight of just 32 grams, making it a perfect blend of comfort and design. The case and bezel are crafted from durable resin with chrome plating, adding a sleek touch to its overall look. The stainless steel band available in both yellow and rose gold finishes is secured with an adjustable clasp, ensuring a secure fit, while the watch offers water resistance for added practicality. Powered by a CR1216 battery with an approximate 2-year battery life, this watch combines functionality with a modern aesthetic.
So, what’s next for Casio? With a brand ethos rooted in pushing the boundaries of technology, the future is undoubtedly bright. Whether through advancements in smartwatch capabilities or new materials that redefine durability, Casio remains committed to shaping the next generation of timekeeping. From calculators to G-SHOCK, Casio has proven that innovation is timeless. And if history is any indication, they’re just getting started. Explore all the latest Casio watches online at the Just In Time website or discover them at your nearest Just In Time watch Boutique.
