Casio’ latest addition to its famous, shock-resistant sports watch is the G-Shock MT-G MTG-B4000 that was designed with the aid of artificial intelligence (AI). According to Casio, the new MT-G’s design was refined by AI using factors like shock resistance and machinability, resulting in an sleeker profile that departs from the chunky and flat style of the typical G-Shock.

As part of the higher-end MT-G line that combines metal with resin, the solar-powered MTG-B4000 has a stainless steel inner case along with an outer case in carbon composite. More notably, the bezel has been polished with the Sallaz flat polishing technique that’s also known as Zaratsu and more often applied to premium mechanical watches by other Japanese watchmakers.

The new MT-G is made in Japan like all high-end G-Shock models

Initial thoughts

Casio’s first attempt at an AI-designed G-Shock was the G-D001 Dream Project #2 in solid, 18k gold made to mark the 40th anniversary of the G-Shock. It was a one-off, unlike the limited edition vintage remake that was also in 18k gold. While the Dream Project #2 was impressive in its form and heft, the open-worked design was a little weird. It looks both sci-fi and fantasy, but with the wrong proportions of each.

The new MT-G, on the other hand, looks more conventional and appealing. It still looks like a G-Shock, but different enough to be distinct. In fact, AI has argued improved the MT-G style, evolving it from the robot-like form of before to something sleeker while retaining the necessary G-Shock look.

The G-Shock G-D001 Dream Project #2 sold for over US$400,000 at Phillips New York in November 2023. Image – Phillips

The use of Sallaz polishing for the bezel is also notable, since it’s a technique more often found in pricier mechanical watches. This no doubt reflects Casio’s continued push upmarket with its digital watches.

The new MT-G starts at US$1,250. That’s more than the average G-Shock, but good value considering the build quality and high-spec “ana-digi” movement.

The new MT-G is available in blue (left), and black

AI aesthetics

According to Casio, the new MT-G started with a concept penned by human designers that was then given to an AI programme to refine. Using historical shock resistance testing data and factors “such as structural strength, material characteristics and machinability”, AI then proposed new designs. The AI creations were then returned to the humans who then finalised the design, resulting in the new MT-G.

The resulting design is a traditional two-part case construction that’s a G-Shock signature, but with improvements in styling and construction. It’s made up of an inner stainless steel case with an outer shock-absorber frame in carbon composite.

Amongst the technical improvements suggested by AI is the strap attachment according to Casio. Here the lugs are integrated into the outer carbon composite frame, allowing stress on the strap to be absorbed into the frame.

The carbon composite frame is made up of laminated carbon and glass fibre sheets in a polymer, which is then machined into a single piece.

Like other higher-end G-Shock models, the new MT-G also has a multi-part dial. The raised triangular hour markers are part of a chapter ring that sits on top of the dial base.

The new MT-G is powered by the module 5743, a multi-function movement with analogue time display along with various digital functions including world time, perpetual calendar, and alarms. The movement is solar powered and will run for five months with constant use, but 18 months on power-saving mode.

It also has Bluetooth connectivity, allowing it to be connected to Apple and Android smartphones. And like many G-Shock movements, 5743 has a radio-wave sync capability.

The facetted case back was also designed for shock resistance

Key facts and price

Casio G-Shock MT-G MTG-B4000
Ref. MTG-B4000-1A (black)
Ref. MTG-B4000B-1A2 (blue)

Diameter: 56.6 mm by 45.3 mm
Height: 14.4 mm
Material: Stainless steel and carbon composite
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 200 m

Movement: Module 5743
Functions: Digital, multifunction, Bluetooth connectivity
Winding: Solar
Frequency: Battery
Power reserve: 5 months with constant use, 18 months with power-saving function

Strap: Synthetic rubber strap

Limited edition: No
Availability: At G-Shock stores and G-Shock.com starting August 2025
Price: US$1,250 in black; US$1,350 in blue

For more information, visit G-Shock.com.