Top 20 Casio Watches Of All Time – The Ultimate List of Affordable Casio Watches
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If you’re looking to get a great wristwatch for very little money, you can’t go wrong with Casio. They have a legendary reputation for making some of the cheapest and most durable digital watches on the planet. You’ve probably seen classic watches like the F91 before, but did you know, their exploits don’t stop there? In fact, they have a truly colossal number of watches in all sorts of shapes and sizes – most of which, I never knew existed!
In this post, I’ll run you through my top 20 Casio watches of all time which I think you should consider checking out. All of these watches are linked in the buttons below, so you can take a look for yourself. I’m going to be grouping these watches based on their design, so you can find what you’re after easily.
DIGITAL WATCHES
Casio is most famous for digital watches, so let’s begin with those.
Casio A1100
I lost a little confidence in Casio after the launch of the underwhelming A1000; the first steel digital they’d released in decades. It was rather large for a ‘unisex’ digital, had an incomplete look, and the negative display fitted to the better-looking version was sadly bordering on illegible. Enter the A1100. This follow-up looks wildly different from the A1000, with a rectangular shape comprising a slim display at the top and a quad pusher arrangement beneath. Thankfully, this model also uses stainless steel and mineral crystal, rather than the plastic components of most lower-tier Casio models.
The A1100 is a refresh of the classic 52QS-14B, and the silver version, in particular, looks like it could adorn the wrist of a Rebel Alliance fighter jetting out of Echo Base on a gung-ho mission. It’s got a sleek, vertically brushed finish with polished flanks and inscribed button indicators, a true blast from the past. While it only has basic splash resistance and a mediocre (though just about servicable) night light, it looks awesome on wrist, and the bracelet adds to the niche charm, catching the light as you rotate the watch during wear. The clasp does have three micro-adjustment holes, so unlike many Casios, you will be able to get a precise fit. Nevertheless, it is still rather rudimentarily constructed, with folded links that will nip your arm hairs every once in a while; it’s also a little tricky to remove links with this system.
At present though, I’d say this is still the steel digital to get. In recent months, Casio launched (and quickly sold out of) its Casiotron TRN-50, a steel reissue of its first-ever digital wristwatch. However, that model was an eye-watering $500/£449 at launch and far more from greedy second-hand scalpers on eBay. Despite the less impressive construction and finishing, the A1100 looks just as good for a whole lot less.
A700
My favourite daily watch, the A700, packs the great features of the other Casio models into a sleek and slim package (read the full A700 review I did here). It not only houses a better backlight than most other digital offerings but also comes on a better quality bracelet too.
Casio A700 (Mesh Bracelet)
Casio A700 (Alternative Colourway)
For those with thinner wrists, this is a great-fitting and rather classy digital watch. I’ve found it easy to wear this completely casually or surprisingly with more dressy outfits too, where the light grey colourway looks particularly at home.
There is an alternative colourway as well, offering more of a traditional retro look; though the strap isn’t quite as good. I’d say either are worth the slight price increase over cheaper Casio alternatives, as the level of finishing is clearly better.
Royale
Next up, we have two feature-packed watches that could come in very useful if you require information about multiple time zones.
First up is the venerable Casio AE1200, also known as the Casio ‘Royale’; a play on the James Bond movie title Casino Royale. The design taking inspiration from the earlier Seiko G757, worn by Roger Moore in the movie Octopussy.
While I doubt Bond would ever want to wear such an affordable watch, it does feel like a gadget on your wrist nonetheless. In addition to the typical backlight, stopwatch and timer functions, you also get up to 5 alarms and quick access to the time in 48 different cities, covering all time zones. This even stretches to cover daylight saving time (DST), which takes into account time changes during the year.
At 45mm, it’s a big watch meant for larger wrists; though has a rightful reputation for its durability.
A500
The A500 offers a very similar package, with more up-to-date visuals and a smaller case size of just 39mm. It does have less water resistance, though is much lighter and more comfortable than the AE1200.
For those with average to slim wrists who want to jump on the World Time bandwagon, this could prove to be a better alternative. However, I doubt it’s quite as durable.
G-Shock DW-5600
G-Shock is generally marketed as a separate entity than regular Casio; so I’m only including one in this roundup. Perhaps they deserve their own list at some point.
The DW-5600 is the classic square design from the late 1980s, which really got the whole G-Shock brand started.
With shock-resistant construction, 200m of water resistance and a plethora of timekeeping functions, it’s the perfect option for those after the ultimate rugged companion. When it comes to pure durability, G-Shocks are about as tough as it gets, you’ll find plenty of videos of people attempting to destroy these online. I think the DW-5600 is still the best looking of these too, as it looks clean and simple. Some of the alternatives look a bit too busy, so this is my pick for sure.
F-91W
No Casio list would be complete without one of the most legendary watches of all time; the F-91W. Worn by presidents and terrorists alike, this piece holds the record as the most popular digital watch of all time. It’s simple design and super low price point have sealed this model’s place in the history books.
Need a watch for work? The F-91 can handle it. Need a watch for sports? The F-91 can do that too.
Yeah, you get the picture. It’s small, hardy and easily replaceable if by some miracle it does break. Your dad probably already has one. Why don’t you?
W-86
Well, maybe it’s because you’ve seen my article comparing the F-91 alternatives a while back. My pick ended up being the W-86; which is similar to the F-91 but better in almost every perceivable way. It isn’t quite so small but features improved water resistance and a much better backlight system, which is readable in low light.
It’s still comfortable on-wrist and also features an improved default strap for a slight price increase over the original. If you like the F-91 but want something that does the job even better, this could be it. It doesn’t yet have the same cult following; though it may in a few years.
Calculator Watch / Databank
Want to cheat in a maths test? Ben’s Watch Club has you covered. Slip one of these under your shirt sleeve and you’ll be getting full marks in no time.
Of course, I’m talking about the legendary calculator ‘databank’ watches. These give you the iconic Marty McFly 80s look, along with the 8 digit calculator occupying the lower half. You can either grab the original 80s styled models, including the famous gold-tone version, as well as some modernised alternatives; though currently, these vintage options are retailing for a premium, possibly due to COVID shortages.
As far as I can tell, they all utilise the same type of resin construction, though it’s worth noting that the newer models (CA-53WF) feature improved backlight technology and more responsive buttons.
I’ll list the two types below, as there are several that you can choose from; all providing similar functionality.
MULTIPURPOSE ANALOGUE
Next, we move on to some daily analogue watches that could be ideal for those looking for a single watch to suit multiple occasions.
Edifice EFV-100 series
Let’s begin with a great all-around set of watches that I covered a couple of months back on the blog. That being the Casio Edifice EFV-100 series. If you’re after a single analogue watch that you could wear for virtually anything, this is one of the best cheap options out there. You get a sporty overall appearance, somewhat resembling a budget Rolex Explorer, with a set of striking faceted indices and hands that give great legibility.
Over the dial, this has a mineral crystal but more impressively houses a 100m water resistance rating and screw-down crown. When paired with the fully stainless-steel construction, this really doesn’t look or feel like a sub-£100 watch, yet remarkably it is!
It even features a half-decent steel bracelet, which was better than I expected, considering I paid under £60 for the watch.
This is a great pickup and interestingly it comes in two sizes and three colours. There’s the smaller, unisex 110D, which I have; that comes in at just over 35mm. You could also opt for the traditionally men’s 100D, which sits at just over 40mm if you have a more average-sized wrist. My favourite is the black option with the yellow-tipped second hand.
Lineage (Radio Controlled)
If you’re willing to drop a bit more money in the pursuit of accuracy, it could be worth looking at some of the radio-controlled Casio’s.
I’ve been testing out the LCW-M100TSE, from the Lineage line-up. Not only is this solar-powered, ensuring no battery replacements, but the multi-band technology ensures pinpoint accuracy at all times, across multiple time zones; using the world time function. This precision is also echoed in the alignment. The unit I tried had a perfect second-hand alignment, with the least wobble and variance in any affordable watch I’ve tested before.
Not only that, but this watch is incredibly lightweight and comfortable, thanks to the full titanium construction and is a very crowd-pleasing size, at a shade under 40mm across and just 9.5mm in thickness.
When paired with the sapphire crystal, 5bar water resistance and the impressive level of finishing, this undoubtedly had to make the list. For under £200 at the time of writing, this is possibly the best Casio I’ve come across.
The mini digital display at 6 o’clock provides an appropriate way to see the functions the watch provides and the titanium bracelet is serviceable for the price. It features an unusual and convenient link removal system, which involves simply rotating a screwdriver 90 degrees to remove or attach links. While I’d like to see this system on more watches, unfortunately, the 2 micro-adjustment holes aren’t enough for me to find a perfect fit with this bracelet; which is a shame. It’s either a touch too tight or too large.
Either way, I still think the watch is still a bargain for the money and it looks awesome on-wrist too, with the multicoloured sunburst effect when under direct light.
EFR-S108
Some of you may have heard of the ‘CasiOak’ Octagonal G-Shock; which you can modify to give a look that pays homage to the AP Royal Oak. The only issue with that watch is that it’s very hefty indeed, so much so that I could never wear it.
However, I tracked down an alternative that gives a similar look in a much slimmer package. The EFR-S108 comes in at just 8mm in thickness paired with a sub-40mm diameter; making it much more wearable for thinner wrists. Despite being smaller, it still packs multiple punches; including full stainless-steel construction, sapphire crystal and 100m water resistance.
The dial houses a surprising level of detail including a vertical grained texture, a raised chapter ring and applied faceted indices that combine with the handset to give a surprisingly upmarket look. The case also features a well-finished mixture of brushed and polished surfaces, which you wouldn’t expect from a sub-£200 watch.
My only frustration is the solid lugs which eliminate the possibility to fit third party straps.
Edifice EFR-107
If that sounds a bit on the small side for your wrist, it could be worth looking at the alternative EFR-107. This is a near-identical watch to the previous but comes in with a 42mm diameter, whilst maintaining the same slim profile. While the overall look is very comparable, this model features turquoise accents instead, alongside standard 20mm lugs; allowing you to swap the default option out for something of your choosing.
You can grab this watch either on a bracelet or a leather strap, but like the previous edifice, it also houses the same sapphire crystal and solid 100m water resistance rating.
Oceanus OCW-S100
Probably the highest-quality and best-looking Casio I’ve reviewed to date, the OCW-S100 is part of the (normally) Japan-exclusive ‘Oceanus’ range. These high-end and high-specced watches are some of the best finished on the market, with some models rumored to be finished in the same factory as Grand Seiko, though don’t quote me on that!
These are an additional step up from the mid-tier Lineage watches and boast many of the same features, including solar-powered movements and world-time abilities. Sapphire is used across the board, and some models, like this S100, are even constructed of titanium, with additional scratch-resistant coatings. While I have also reviewed other Oceanus models, like the T150, the S100 is much more attractive and feels like a higher-quality product, partly due to the more attractive markers and the sleeker case shape.
With insane radio-controlled accuracy, solid water resistance, and a high-contrast color scheme, the OCW-S100 is a particularly versatile watch, though it does have some shortcomings. The case has peculiar fixed bracelet end links latched on, meaning the band cannot be replaced with a third-party one. Additionally, this model only comes in a single size and color.
DRESS WATCHES
While typically known for more casual pieces, Casio does have some great value dress watches that could more than do the job for formal occasions, should you not want to splash the cash on something expensive.
Casio MTP-B145D ‘PRX’
While I don’t think the MTP-B145D is technically very impressive, with mediocre build quality and case finishing, it is undeniably a looker for the money. The design is reminiscent of the Tissot PRX...very reminiscent in fact. I discussed this connection in my review of this piece and while the B145 may not be a straight copy-and-paste job, some of the colors were clearly introduced in response to capitalize on the integrated bracelet trend kickstarted by the PRX.
Now, this isn’t actually an integrated watch, as the standard bracelet can be detached and swapped, though it sure looks like one, with angled hooded lugs that could have you fooled at a distance. Aside from the Tissot resemblance, this model has become a major hit for two main reasons. First, the case material. Unlike the brass Casio Datejust, whose similar Tiffany dial was the only noteworthy feature, the MTP-B145 is made entirely of stainless steel. It may only be 304 steel, not the industry-standard 316L, however, this is passable and will ensure better longevity over the aforementioned ‘fakejust’. Secondly, this watch is thinner than my chances of becoming president. It is so sleek (and small, at around 35mm) that it wears similarly to the legendary Casio digital watches; that is, to say, it virtually disappears on wrist.
With a string of enticing colors and reasonable water resistance, this is a desirable Casio fashion watch, no doubt. Just be aware that the bracelet here is nothing special and may tug arm hairs. Given its small size and lightness, there’s also no weighty, quality feel out of the box.
Sapphire MTS-100L
Referred to by some as possibly the best £50 watch you can buy, the Casio MTS-100L is one of the best affordable quartz dress watches that you can buy for the price of a meal out. I featured this in a post in mid-2020 and complimented the subtle detailing of the chapter ring, along with the great alignment and specifications. Sapphire crystal, 50m of water resistance and another 10-year battery put this a step above most comparably priced dress watches.
This comes in 3 colours, blue, black and white. Each reminds me of the SNKL20 series of automatic Seiko watches, though come in at a lower price point.
The finishing isn’t quite on the level of the Edifice watches, however, at a glance, it still looks like a much more expensive watch.
DIVE WATCHES
While most people reading this won’t have deep-sea diving listed as a hobby, some of you may like the security of a high water resistance watch that you can swim in. That’s where dive watches come in. Fortunately, Casio has some respectable low-cost options that perform well when submerged.
Duro Dive Watch
Arguably the best cheap dive watch around, the MDV-106 has a cult following. Sometimes known as the ‘Duro’, this is known to be one of the most durable watches for the price tag.
In the US, these are often available for under $50, it really is an astonishing achievement considering the level of finishing and the 200m water resistance rating.
They recently released two color variants, including a blue option and the gold variant I have obtained. At 44mm, this is a beefy watch not for the slim-wristed. However, should the size suit your needs, you’re getting a beast of a watch that will serve you well on land or at sea.
Importantly, it’s worth avoiding the tempting recently released ‘38mm’ MDV-10 Duro. We reviewed that version, and it’s a letdown for multiple reasons.
Should that not be to your taste, or size for that matter, some alternatives also give you the diver aesthetic, albeit with a slight reduction in aquatic performance down to 100m.
EFV-120D & EFV-130D
Two alternatives include the EFV-120D and 130D. These are a modern take on the diver design, with full stainless steel construction, rotating bezels and a better level of finishing than that on the Duro.
Casio EFV-120D
Casio EFV-130D
They’re both also fitted with steel bracelets by default and are sized slightly smaller than the MDV-106, so are both options worth considering. I particularly like these two blue variants which pop nicely without looking cheesy.
The 120D has an angular structure, akin to that on the aforementioned Royal Oak homage, but with the chunky coin-edge bezel on top. Meanwhile, the 130D has a much more classic, swooping shape, which integrates very nicely with the stock bracelet.
Both have a decent 10bar water resistance, which is good enough for swimming and are great buys for under £70 at the time of publishing.
I think the 130D, in particular, is a great-looking piece, it’s just a shame my wrist isn’t larger.
Casio MTD-1053D
I recently labeled this watch ‘the most underrated Casio ever,’ and that still stands true. The MTD-1053 is a very capable Blancpain-inspired diver, often available for less than the legendary Duro, especially outside of the US.
With a high 200m water resistance rating and a ratcheting bezel (albeit only 90-click) it competes with the best aquatically, and crucially, it’s a more wearable size. The proportions listed on Casio’s official site and at most retailers are incorrect for this model. The diameter is actually only 40.5mm, with a 39.8mm bezel and a palatable 48mm lug to lug; meaning this will suit a far wider range of users.
While it’s a strong performer, the 1053D isn’t the most aesthetically pleasing design, with an unusual bezel shape and unconventional ridged lugs that do leave it looking a little dated. If style isn’t top of your priorities, there’s no denying it’s a true bargain pick.
OTHER WATCHES
AQ-230
For a quick dash of ‘bling-bling’, it might be worth looking at the gold-coloured AQ-230. This one combines a shrunk analogue clock face with a mini digital display beneath; providing a cool retro look for a very low price.
This watch can be programmed to show two times at once, which could be a useful feature for those who travel to visit relatives regularly. Unlike some other Casios, it features drilled lugs, allowing you to easily switch the bracelet out for an alternative strap.
There are several colourways available, though be warned some of these are known to be fake; so pay attention to who the seller is. Unbelievably, faking cheap Casios is a thing and this model is renowned for it.
As with other lower-end watches, this only has resin construction and acrylic over the dial, so it will mark and scratch heavily over time. However, it’s an iconic look for the price of a few beers so you can hardly complain.
SGW-100
A great choice for the more adventurous of you out there, the beefy SGW-100 is one of the smartest non-smart watches that you’re likely to find. While it’s massive, at 48mm, it does pack in a bunch of useful features, including a compass; accurate to +/- 12 degrees and a thermometer.
As you might expect, it performs particularly well in extreme conditions, boasting a 200m water resistance rating; alongside a specified operating window of down to -10 degrees Celcius. While it lacks the shock-resistant technology found in G-Shock watches, it’s undoubtedly a beast of a watch and will likely serve you very well in the field. It’s also a fraction of the price.
The display is also one of the best on the market, with large clear numbers and a bright screen to boot. This typically comes fitted with a resin strap, though some versions have fabric options instead.
‘Day-date’
Fancy a Rolex on your wrist, but can’t justify the price tag? Well, you can get a dash of that day-date aesthetic with the MTP-1370D. This crafty Casio bears more than a passing resemblance, with a near-identical case shape and dial arrangement to the original; only this time with the date window occupying the 6 o’clock position.
Casio MTP-1370D
Casio MTP-1302
For even less money you can grab an MTP-1302, which looks even closer to the Rolex Datejust, featuring the fluted bezel and a similar handset. The trade-off is plated brass construction; which isn’t as premium or durable as stainless steel. Still, it’s very well sized for average wrists, at 38.5mm in diameter and it has a surprisingly nice dial for a dirt-cheap timepiece.
Both options are available in a variety of colours, though stock seems to be limited on all of them.
