Casio G-Shock DW-5600BB-1 'Black Out' (Square)
Tool Watch / Digital Quartz · Casio (Casio Computer Co., Ltd.). Tier: Mid-range Tool/Streetwear. Reputation: Renowned globally as the 'world's toughest watch' with a massive enthusiast following.
Period: Modern Utility (Current version of the 1983 Original Design). The 'Square' silhouette is a direct descendant of the DW-5000C, featuring a minimalist 'Black Out' colorway trendy in the late 2010s to present.
Type
Tool Watch / Digital Quartz
Brand
Casio (Casio Computer Co., Ltd.). Tier: Mid-range Tool/Streetwear. Reputation: Renowned globally as the 'world's toughest watch' with a massive enthusiast following.
Movement
Quartz Caliber: Casio Module 3229. Accuracy: +/- 15 seconds per month. Features: 24-hour stopwatch, countdown timer, multi-function alarm, 12/24-hour format, and full auto-calendar.
Dimensions
48.9mm Case length (lug-to-lug), 42.8mm Case width, 13.4mm Thickness, 16mm Lug width (standard G-Shock strap fitment). It wears smaller than its specs due to the compact square shape.
Description
The DW-5600BB-1 is a monochromatic take on the original 'Square' G-Shock. By removing all color from the dial and using a negative display, Casio transformed a utilitarian tool into a sleek, streetwear icon. It maintains the legendary 'Triple 10' resistance criteria: 10-meter drop resistance, 10-bar/100m water resistance (exceeded here), and a 10-year battery life (though actual battery life is rated for 2 years).
Key Features
Monochromatic 'Black Out' aesthetic; Negative LCD display; Square case design; 200m water resistance; High-shock resistance architecture.
Dial Description
Negative LCD (light numerals on a dark background). The dial is extremely minimalist with 'stealthed' grey text for 'Adjust', 'Mode', 'Start/Stop', and 'Light'. Displays HH:MM:SS, day, and date.
Case Material
Matte black Resin with a stainless steel inner case structure. Finishing is a bead-blasted, non-reflective texture designed for stealth and durability.
Crystal Type
Mineral Glass, flat, recessed below the bezel level for impact protection. Condition appears to indicate light surface debris or minor micro-scratches.
Bezel Details
Fixed, integrated Matte Black Resin bezel with embossed 'PROTECTION' and 'G-SHOCK' branding. Features high-impact shock resistance geometry.
Crown & Pushers
Four recessed stainless steel side pushers (Adjust, Mode, Start-Stop, Light). These are protected by the resin case architecture to prevent accidental activation or impact damage.
Bracelet or Strap
Standard Matte Black Resin strap with a single-prong stainless steel bucket. Features the signature G-Shock accordion-style ripples at the lugs for flexibility and shock absorption.
Caseback Details
Stainless steel caseback secured by four screws. Typically includes engravings of the G-Shock logo, module number (3229), model name (DW-5600), and water resistance rating.
Movement Type
Quartz Caliber: Casio Module 3229. Accuracy: +/- 15 seconds per month. Features: 24-hour stopwatch, countdown timer, multi-function alarm, 12/24-hour format, and full auto-calendar.
Water Resistance
200 Meters (20 Bar). Suitable for swimming, snorkeling, and high-impact water sports. Not intended for professional saturation diving.
Origin & Provenance
Brand Origin: Japan. Manufacture: Likely China or Thailand (overseen by Japanese quality control). In-house digital module design.
Age Estimate
Circa 2012–Present. This specific unit shows signs of active use, likely produced within the mid-to-late 2010s.
Cultural Significance
The DW-5600 is an undisputed horological icon, bridging the gap between professional tool use (military/first responders) and global fashion (sneakerhead culture and street style).
Condition Notes
Good / Daily Wearer. Visible dust and skin oils on the resin surfaces. No significant deep gouges visible on the bezel, and the crystal appears intact. The resin shows typical 'shine' from friction on the corners.
Value Estimate
Retail (MSRP): $99 USD. Secondary Market: $40 - $70 USD depending on condition. It is a mass-produced model with high availability.
Care & Maintenance
Wash with mild soap and water to remove sweat and debris. Avoid chemical solvents. Resin straps eventually 'dry rot' after 5-10 years and are easily/cheaply replaced. Battery change required every 2-3 years.
Similar Watches
DW-5600E-1V (Standard positive display version), GW-M5610 (Solar/Atomic version), GMW-B5000 (Full-metal luxury version).
Interesting Facts
The 5600 series is the only watch line flight-qualified by NASA for space missions. Its shape is based on the G-Shock concept creator Kikuo Ibe's original prototype which was tested by throwing it out of a third-story window.