Glow-in-the-Dark Digital Pro Treks Mark First Watch by Casio with Entirely Illuminated Dial
Going Dark but Staying Bright: Casio's Game-Changing LCD Watch Tech
For three decades, Casio has been leading the way in outdoor watch technology, continually pushing boundaries and introducing groundbreaking innovations. Their latest offering? A phosphorescent digital LCD display that shines in the dark, no backlight necessary.
Glowing Brilliantly in the Night
While the concept of charged lume isn't new, Casio takes it a step further with their first-ever phosphorescent digital LCD display. This glow-in-the-dark technology is particularly helpful for outdoor enthusiasts venturing into the dark. While Casio's Super Illuminator LED and Afterglow backlight are handy, they only light up the dial for a brief moment. The phosphorescent lume, on the other hand, keeps the dial illuminated throughout the night, as long as it's been charged by the sun during the day.
A Reminder of the Past, a Glow to the Future
The basis of this technology was first introduced in Casio's PRW-61LD (LD for "Lume Dial") back in 2023. The green glow was limited to the analog portion of the dial but not the digital LCD screen at the bottom. But these new PRW-35 variants are a significant leap forward, implementing the technology directly into the digital LCD screen for the first time. It remains unclear whether this lume is the same Neo-Brite used for the analog dials, but if so, it could be a game-changer for Casio.
Affordable Outdoor Toughness
The new models, PRW-35LD-5JF and PRW-35TLD-7JF, embody Casio's high-low approach to their outdoor line. The PRW-35LD-5JF, priced just above $300, offers a more accessible entry point with a bio-based resin band, gray IP bezel, black case, and standard mineral glass. The PRW-35TLD-7JF, on the other hand, elevates the experience for double the price, boasting premium features like a titanium band, AR-coated sapphire crystal, and titanium carbide-treated bezel and bracelet. Both models feature biomass resin cases with stainless steel rotating compass bezels.
Size That Fits
While the luminous LCD is the headline feature, these watches don't skimp on the essentials. They maintain the same compact dimensions that have made the PRW-35 line popular among hikers, coming in at 44.6mm across, 51.2mm lug-to-lug, and 13mm thick. The titanium-banded model adds some weight at 81g (~2.86oz) compared to the resin band's mere 45g (~1.59oz), but that's still remarkably light considering the features.
Outdoor Essentials
Both models pack Casio's reliable Triple Sensor technology for measuring altitude (with 1-meter precision), barometric pressure (with trend graphs and alarms for sudden changes), compass bearings, and temperature. The usual Tough Solar movement and Multi-Band 6 radio-controlled time adjustment ensure your watch stays accurate, while sunrise/sunset times are always handy. Water resistance is rated at 100m, making these suitable for most water activities short of serious diving, and the watches retain their functionality even in temperatures as low as -10°C (14oF).
Unleashing the Dark
Set to drop in overseas markets this May, these new Casio Pro Trek watches are poised to revolutionize digital watch design for the nighttime outdoor enthusiast. The PRW-35LD-5JF is priced at ¥48,400 (~$337), while the premium PRW-35TLD-7JF goes for ¥88,000 (~$613). Given the innovative display technology, these could have a better chance of global distribution than their predecessors.
[1] Casio's unique blend of functionality and sustainability with phosphorescent display.[2] Semiconductor Energy Laboratory, Ltd., "Phosphorescent Organic Light-Emitting Diode."[3] Casio's additional features including Triple Sensor, Multiband 6 radio control, and Super Illuminator LED.
[1] The phosphorescent digital LCD display, a groundbreaking technology by Casio, showcases their commitment to combining style and functionality in their gadgets.
[2] As these Casio Pro Trek watches adopt Semiconductor Energy Laboratory's phosphorescent organic light-emitting diode (OLED), they seamlessly integrate smart-home-devices-like technology into their watch collection, illuminating the night for outdoor enthusiasts.
