A Dream Comes To Fruition: The G-Shock MRG-D5000 In Blue Sapphire

Casio is expanding its MR-G collection with the MRG-D5000, a limited-edition G-Shock featuring a bezel and outer case made of blue sapphire crystal. Its screwless, multi-component construction aims to make the material compatible with the G-Shock ethos of durability and shock resistance. Casio will release just 20 pieces worldwide under the Blue Rose Project.

The MRG-D5000 continues the MR-G collection’s unique approach to materials and finishing. Launched in 1996, MR-G represents the top tier of the G-Shock range. Its mission extends beyond just applying premium materials to familiar designs. The collection also explores how advanced technology, Japanese craftsmanship, and traditional metalworking techniques can work together to push the limits of G-Shock construction. Today’s release strikes us as rather poetic and all the more impressive for it.

A screwless structure

The MRG-D5000 is the first MR-G to feature an outer case made of blue sapphire crystal. Its proprietary Multi-Guard Structure combines a bezel and case made from multiple separate elements. Casio assembles them without screws, which can create stress points that risk cracking the sapphire crystal. The construction also draws inspiration from traditional Japanese timber framing, in which interlocking joints provide structural support without screws or nails. If you were wondering how you can make a watch with an outer case made of “glass” that is still incredibly tough, this is it.

The development of this structure has a history of its own. In 2018, G-Shock’s Dream Project produced the G-D5000 in 18K gold and unveiled a sapphire crystal prototype in Basel. That prototype could not yet meet G-Shock’s shock-resistance standards. After Kikuo Ibe retired, the MR-G team continued the work. Its research led to the Multi-Guard Structure, first introduced in titanium with the MRG-B5000 in 2022. The team named its ongoing effort to achieve a shock-resistant sapphire construction the Blue Rose Project. In 2026, that work culminates with the MRG-D5000.

Bringing the Dream Project to life

The blue sapphire starts as ingots produced over several months. Casio then selects sections with the desired color concentration and transparency. The material is very difficult to machine into small components, so the R&D team shaped the parts to resist chipping and removed screw holes and other features that could cause cracking.

The blue sapphire crystal also appears in the screw-lock case back, which is Grade 5 titanium with a DLC coating. Each back carries a unique number (from 1/20 to 20/20) as well as a “Dream Project” inscription. The “D” in MRG-D5000 also pays tribute to the original initiative.

Its dial features a stainless steel brick pattern that references the original G-Shock design and is finished with a blue PVD coating. The MR-G mark, “Shock Resist,” and other lettering are rendered in 24K gold.

A specially developed Dura Soft rubber strap carries the same brick pattern, with raised details set at different angles to play with the light. G-Shock has also developed a new titanium clasp with a release button designed to provide a refined tactile response.

The feature-packed module inside the 20-bar-water-resistant construction uses Gallium Tough Solar and offers radio-controlled timekeeping via Multi-Band 6, with five world time zones selectable from 38 cities. It also includes a stopwatch, a countdown timer, five daily alarms, and a full-auto LED backlight. The MRG-D5000 will cost €80,000.

Two more G-Shock models with blue sapphire

Alongside the MRG-D5000, Casio is introducing two additional blue-sapphire-equipped watches. Both form part of the Blue Rose Project, but each takes a different approach to incorporating the material. If you prefer something a little more subtle, these are likely a better fit.

The MRG-B5000SA-2DR, named Super Blue, features two 2-carat facet-cut blue sapphire crystals set at the top and bottom of the case. It pairs these stones with a Cobarion (a super-hard cobalt-chrome-molybdenum alloy) bezel and blue arc ion plating.

The model also marks the 30th anniversary of the MR-G line, with “MR-G 30th” engraved on the case back. Limited to 500 pieces worldwide, it will be available from November 2026 for €6,600.

The GMW-B5000SB-1A2, meanwhile, is a full-metal G-Shock with four round brilliant-cut blue sapphire stones set at points on the bezel. The “Gem Accents” model will also go on sale in November 2026. It has the friendliest price of the trio, at €779.

First impressions

G-Shock’s MRG-D5000 puts this eye-catching new use of sapphire crystal at the center of its design. Its screwless construction addresses a specific challenge in using the material in a shock-resistant watch and gives it a unique place in the MR-G collection. Its richly saturated blue bezel, paired with golden accents, gives the model a distinctive look. The story behind the Blue Rose Project also adds another dimension to the watch, connecting it to an effort that began with the Dream Project in 2018. At €80,000, it sits well above the two accompanying releases.

And though this ultra-limited model certainly won’t be for everyone (just 20 lucky folks), we’re glad to see G-Shock making two additional, less limited models with more down-to-earth price points (relatively speaking).

Let us know your thoughts on these latest G-Shocks in the comments section below.