Hands-on with the G-SHOCK G-Steel GSTB1000D-3A

The G-Steel GSTB1000 remains a G-SHOCK at heart. The timekeeping module, the heart of this watch, is protected by a carbon-reinforced resin case, visible only on the back of the watch. Special urethane buffers, also visible from the backside, are placed between the metal bracelet, reducing the stress that shocks and movement can apply there. The whole case is water-resistant up to 20 ATM/200 meters, making this G-SHOCK easily live up to the brand's legacy. 

The design of the G-Steel GSTB1000 is very pleasing, with a case that could have very well flowed out of the pen of Gérald Genta. Its shape makes it so that the watch sits very nicely and prominently on the wrist, with the bezel adding to the depth of the design. The case flows nicely to the bracelet, which made me think of the Omega Constellation. Not that the bracelet is a copy of that design, but more in the way that it closely follows the wrist, offering great comfort. While the watch looks heavy, this G-SHOCK is surprisingly light. So light that I had to check twice to see if they didn't make it from titanium; however, it is still stainless steel. Credits also go to the clasp, which is nicely finished, adding to the high-end look and feel of the G-Steel GSTB1000.

The dial is analog, but, in true G-SHOCK fashion, is designed so its many functions are easy to read. The wafer-style dial not only has an incredible play of light, making this watch interesting to look at from any angle, but also hides the solar cells that power the G-Steel GSTB1000. When fully charged, it can run for 5 months with normal use in the unlikely event that during those 5 months it is not exposed to any light to recharge. It even comes with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to connect your watch to the G-SHOCK app, which makes setting the watch a breeze. For those who don't want to set their watch with their phone, it can also be done with the pushers on the side of the case. They work quite intuitively, especially when you have handled G-SHOCKs before. This particular version has a green dial, but blue and black are also available. 

In terms of functions, this analog G-SHOCK doesn't give in to its digital siblings. From handy day and date indicators with a perpetual calendar to a countdown timer, stopwatch, and an alarm function, the G-Steel GSTB1000 has it all. While the main hands do have a luminous coating, you can light up the entire dial with the press of a button, activating an LED light hidden in the chapter ring between five and six o'clock. Then you realize that the whole dial design, including the finishes, is crafted to cleverly reflect light, allowing you to see what time it is quickly.  

So, is there anything to complain about? The only thing is the name: G-Steel GSTB1000 seems more appropriate for the latest washing machine than for such a beautiful, robust, and practical wristwatch. Especially one that is at $440 for either color, competitively priced when you take into account all it has to offer, especially when the only thing you might want changed about it is its name. 

For more info, visit G-SHOCK, here.