What Kind of Watch Is the MQ-24-7BLL, Known as the Pope's Watch?
CASIO MQ-24-7BLL is an exceptionally simple 3-hand analog watch with a white dial, black case, and black resin band.
Despite its affordable price, it has enjoyed lasting support for its legibility, lightness, and the story of its association with Pope Francis.
Why Is It Called the Pope's Watch?
Pope Francis was reported to favor this watch deliberately over luxury watches.
His avoidance of extravagance and willingness to use only what he needed resonated with many people.
It attracted attention as a symbol of his humility—a remarkably simple, sincere watch.
Because Pope Francis wore this series for many years, in Japan, the MQ-24-7BLL became widely known as the Pope's watch.
Note: Some overseas media identify it as the "MQ-24-7B2", in articles reporting that Casio supplied the model number by email. However, photographic comparisons favor the BLL identification.
Where to Buy the Casio MQ-24-7BLL
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Roman Numerals on the Dial? Explaining a Common Misunderstanding
The Verdict: It Is the Pope's Watch, but It Does Not Use Roman Numerals (I, II, III…)
The MQ-24-7BLL dial has black Arabic numerals on a white background. Minute markers run around the perimeter, and
its greatest appeal is how easily you can read the time.
Why Did the Misunderstanding Spread?
- the Pope's watchThe nickname Roman numerals can lead people to think of
- Some overseas articles reported a different model number, 7B2, causing confusion when compared with photos.
A Watch with a Deep Connection to G-SHOCK
The MQ-24 series actually has a deep connection to G-SHOCK.
The product planning involved Kikuo Ibe, the developer of the original G-SHOCK, working on the MQ-24.
In a YouTube interview, Ibe revealed that he was involved in planning the MQ-24 and spoke of his strong attachment to the watch.
Furthermore, the official Casio website features photos of Ibe himself wearing the MQ-24-7B2.
G-SHOCK pursues shock resistance, while the MQ-24 pursues simplicity.
They seem like contrasting watches, but the fact that Ibe was involved in both is an interesting story for G-SHOCK fans.
An affordable Casio developed with input from G-SHOCK's creator, who also enjoys wearing it himself.
Seen that way, this watch has a special appeal too.
The Appeal of the MQ-24-7BLL
- Legibility: White Dial × Black Hands × Arabic Numerals
It is a clean, classic design that makes the time readable at a glance.
It works equally well in business and casual settings.
- Exceptionally Light and Thin
Approximately 20g / 7.8mm thick, making it so light that you can forget you are wearing it.
It remains comfortable over long periods. (Source: Official Casio specifications.)
- Excellent Value
Even at a street price of around ¥2,000, the battery lasts approximately 3 years.
It is an ideal everyday companion. (Source: Official Casio.)
Compared with the MQ-24-7B2, Also with a White Dial and Arabic Numerals
Both feature a white dial and black Arabic numerals, but the style of the printing and the placement and weight of the numerals differ.
The model widely introduced in Japan as the Pope's watch is 7BLL.
Where to Buy the Casio MQ-24-7B2LL
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Reputation and User Comments: A Summary
- "The large numerals are easy to read; it works for people of any age."
- "Exceptionally light and easy to wear for work or on days off."
- "I bought it after learning that Pope Francis wore it."
Japanese and overseas sales pages repeatedly mention the easily readable numerals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Does the MQ-24-7BLL Use Roman Numerals?
A.No, the dial uses Arabic numerals.
Its Pope's watch nickname can cause confusion, but the actual dial has black Arabic numerals on white, making it very legible.
Q. What Is the Difference Between the MQ-24-7BLL and MQ-24-7B2?
A.Both have white dials and Arabic numerals, but small differences exist in the typeface and layout of the printed markers.
G-SHOCK creator Kikuo Ibe is known for being involved in its launch and for being particularly fond of it.
The 2 models are the same inside, but their dial designs differ.
Where to Buy the Casio MQ-24-7B2LL
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Q. Can I Replace the MQ-24-7BLL's Battery Myself?
Yes.
The battery is an SR626SW, with a life of approximately 3 years. Opening the case back with a small screwdriver makes replacement relatively straightforward.
If you are not confident, a watch shop or electronics retailer can handle it for peace of mind.
Video Guide: MQ-24-7BLL
Conclusion: Choose the MQ-24-7BLL for Legibility and Its Story
The white dial and black Arabic numerals offer legibility, a light weight of approximately 20g, together with the background story of being known as the Pope's watch.
A representative affordable Casio that offers long-term satisfaction beyond its price.
Where to Buy the Casio MQ-24-7BLL
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Key Specifications
- Case size: Approximately 38.8 × 34.9 × 7.8mm
- Weight: Approximately 20g
- Water resistance: Water resistant for everyday use
- Battery life: Approximately 3 years
- Approximate list price: ¥2,200, including tax
Sources and References
- Official Casio (Japan): MQ-24-7BLL Product Page
- Official Casio (US/International): MQ-24-7BLL Product Page／MQ-24-7B2 Product Page
Additional Notes: Key Supporting Evidence
- Primary Evidence for the Arabic-Numeral Description: Casio's US product description explicitly says "white dial with small/black numbers."
Photos of the Arabic-numeral dial are also consistent across retailers' pages. Casio - Official Specifications: Size, Weight, Water Resistance, and Battery Life: See Casio Japan's official MQ-24-7BLL page. Casio
- Japanese Coverage of Pope Francis Wearing the Watch: WebChronos specifically identifies Ref.MQ-24-7BLL.
Chronos Japan Luxury Watch Magazine [webChronos] - Reports Identifying It as the 7B2 in Some Overseas Media: ReligionUnplugged reports that Casio identified it as the 7B2 in its response.
It also notes that photographic comparisons favor the BLL identification. Religion Unplugged - Practical Evidence for the 16mm Band Width: Multiple replacement bands and genuine-compatible straps are listed as 16mm.
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