G-SHOCK celebrates 40 years: G-D001 in 18-carat gold created by artificial intelligence

G-SHOCK

G-SHOCK celebrates 40 years: G-D001 in 18-carat gold created by artificial intelligence

Asher Brown

Asher follows the latest trends and fashions. He is fond of luxury clothing and accessories, especially watches. Asher’s interests include tennis and travel.

03 May 2024

G-SHOCK celebrated its 40th anniversary with the realisation of Dream Project #2. Recall that the first edition of the project took place in 2018, with the creation of the extraordinary G-D5000 model in 18-carat gold, limited to 35 pieces. The second edition of the project proved to be no less stunning. The result is the limited edition G-SHOCK G-D001, also made entirely of gold, but to create a lightweight yet shock-resistant design, the designers used... artificial intelligence.

 
  • G-SHOCK is celebrating its 40th anniversary.
  • To mark the occasion, the second edition of the Dream Project programme was realised.
  • As part of it, an 18-carat gold model was created with the help of artificial intelligence in its design.
  • For more information on the watches, visit our blog.
 

Artificial intelligence in the design of the G-SHOCK G-D001 watch

This unique design features an innovative, exploratory use of generative design - a computer-aided design technique that uses artificial intelligence to optimise the design process. The all-metal, shock-resistant design with its original shape was created through a co-creation process between developers and artificial intelligence. In this case, generative design using artificial intelligence technologies was applied to the design process of the watch's external appearance.

 

G-SHOCK G-D001 overall

 

Based on the design framework created by the designers, data collected over 40 years of development of the G-SHOCK line was applied to the AI system to generate an optimised 3D model taking into account factors such as structural strength, material characteristics and machining methods. The original components and structural forms seen in the barrel, bracelet and dial completely change the look of the G-SHOCK we are used to, but also contribute to weight reduction and increased shock absorption. As a result of this creative process, a steel, shock-resistant construction has been achieved without the use of resin cushioning elements or other similar materials. All shiny elements of the watch are hand-polished.

 

G-SHOCK G-D001 dial

 

Innovative artificial intelligence design realised using an ancient casting method

The Casio G-Shock watch features a massive 45.1 mm diameter envelope. The bezel and the original openworked bracelet are made using the lost-wax casting method, which has been known since ancient times, used around 3000 BC in ancient Egypt. Today, it involves making a model from wax and pouring several layers of a substance similar to plaster over it. When a hard mould is formed from the mass, it is heated so that the wax flows out of it. The resulting free space is filled with molten gold and, once it has cooled, the mould is removed.

 

G-SHOCK G-D001 bracelet and bezel

 

Skeleton dial, ruby bearings and space technology of the G-SHOCK G-D001 watch

The skeleton dial of the watch reveals a mechanism specially designed for this model. It features a metal main plate, gears made of silicon and bearings made of natural rubies. In addition, solar panels have been built into the periphery of the dial, which is based on technology used in satellites. Using the expertise of the space industry, it has been possible to create a system that significantly increases the efficiency of energy generation compared to traditional solar panels. This energy powers the various functions of the watch including radio wave reception. The time on this watch is synchronised via six atomic time relays around the world. On the dial of the model, in addition to the date display, you will also find dual zone time indications and a stopwatch.

 

G-SHOCK G-D001 mechanism

 

G-SHOCK G-D001 in original, functional packaging.

Such a sophisticated Casio G-SHOCK model had to be packaged appropriately. It is a gold and black tower-shaped structure with openworked walls, which have been created from historical and contemporary G-SHOCK model numbers. An LED lamp has been placed inside, so that the packaging can also be used as a bedside lamp. With the original design of the box, the lamp creates an enchanting atmosphere of intertwining lights and shadows.

 

G-SHOCK G-D001 packaging

 

Limited to one piece, G-SHOCK G-D001 sold at charity auction

This historic model is the only watch of its kind in the world, its limitation is therefore limited to one piece. The G-SHOCK G-D001 was put up for sale at a charity auction organised by one of the world's leading auction houses, Phillips. The watch was sold for the not inconsiderable sum of USD 400 050. All proceeds were donated to environmental organisation The Nature Conservancy.

 

G-SHOCK G-D001 bezel


Asher Brown

Asher follows the latest trends and fashions. He is fond of luxury clothing and accessories, especially watches. Asher’s interests include tennis and travel.