The Verdict: Choosing Among 4 Models
Choose A158 if Unsure
Thin, light, and affordable—a classic affordable Casio.
Choose A164 for a Slightly More Rugged Design
Almost the same functions as A158; choosing by design preference is fine.
Choose A159 if Made in Japan Matters
Very similar to A158, but with the distinction of Japanese production.
Choose A168 if Backlight Legibility Matters
An EL backlight; among the 4 models, it has more thickness and presence.
1. Comparing A158, A164, A159, and A168
First, see the comparison table of their most important differences.
| Model name | A158 | A164 | A159 | A168 |
| Design | Classic | Slightly rugged | Classic | More presence |
| Size impression | Thin | Slightly thicker | Thin | Thicker |
| Case size | 36.8×33.2×8.2mm | 36.8×35.0×8.2mm | 36.8×33.2×8.2mm | 38.6×36.3×9.6mm |
| Weight | 46g ◯ | 51g ◯ | 44g ◯ | 51g △ |
| Case material | Plated resin | Plated resin | Plated resin | Plated resin |
| Crystal | Plastic Resin glass | Plastic Resin glass | Plastic Resin glass | Plastic Resin glass |
| Water resistance | Water resistant for everyday use | Water resistant for everyday use | Water resistant for everyday use | Water resistant for everyday use |
| Light | LED light Orange, from one side | LED light Orange, from one side | LED light Orange, from one side | EL backlight, blue-green illumination across the display |
| Country of production | Overseas production | Overseas production | Made in Japan Manufactured by Yamagata Casio | Overseas production |
| Main features | A classic standard Choose this if unsure | A slightly more linear, sharper face Design-focused | Uncommon Japanese production and a slim band with a multirow appearance | Easy-to-read EL backlight at night |
| Appearance |  |  |  |  |
If Unsure, Choose the Classic A158
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Choose A164 for a Slightly More Rugged Design
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Choose A159 if You Want Japanese Production
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2. A Closer Look at Each Model's Features and Differences
①A158WA-1: The Classic Standard, a Dependable Choice
The best-known model, practically synonymous with affordable Casio watches.
- Features: Light, thin, and plain enough to suit any outfit.
- Recommended For: For people wanting to start with a classic or find the simplest, least expensive, high-value option.
Where to Buy the Casio A158WA-1
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The very well-known Aimyon model is also an A158 color variant.
Where to Buy the Casio A-158WEA-9
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Where to Buy a Screen Protector for Casio A158
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CASIO has recently focused on A158 variations, releasing many types such as mesh bands and simpler dials.
If interested, see this article.
②A164WA-1: A Slightly Sharper, Angular Design
Similar to A158 at first glance, but different case-side lines and edge finishing create a linear, sporty sharpness.
- Features: Slightly wider than A158, it has a little more presence on the wrist.
- Recommended For: For people wanting a slightly different classic or an angular, sharp case.
Its broad blue frame and slightly retro font appeal strongly to people who like that design.
Where to Buy the Casio A164WA-1Q
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A158 vs. A164
The A158 and A164 functions are very similar; the main differences are design details such as case shape and size.
If deciding only between these 2, see the following detailed hands-on comparison.
→ A158 and A164 Compared in Detail
③A159WA-N1: A Connoisseur's Watch with JAPAN on the Dial
Almost the same apparent size as A158, but the small JAPAN lettering at the lower back identifying its Japanese production is the major difference.
- Features: A specification that satisfies enthusiasts who care about Japanese production.
JAPAN on the Case Back Stands Out!
- Recommended For: For people who care about details and background or want an affordable Casio slightly different from everyone else's.
Where to Buy the Casio A159WA-N1
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There is also the A159WEVJ with a seigaiha wave pattern emphasizing its Japanese identity.
Surprisingly, its crystal uses scratch-resistant mineral glass rather than resin!
Where to Buy the Casio A159WEVJ-2
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Where to Buy the Casio A159WEVJ-7
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A158 vs. A159
The biggest A158/A159 difference is that A159 is made in Japan.
Both measure approximately 36.8 × 33.2 × 8.2mm, with few major differences in functions or usability.
The Japanese-made A159 also has slight differences in band and dial design.
"A158 for price and classic appeal; A159 if Japanese production adds value for you" is the recommended approach.
Where to Buy the Casio A158WA-1
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Where to Buy the Casio A159WA-N1
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④A168WA-1: Excellent Night Legibility with an EL Backlight
Among the 4, its case is slightly larger and thicker. The main difference is an EL backlight illuminating the entire LCD brightly.
- Features: Compared with the A158 LED lighting orange from an edge, its entire dial glows beautifully blue-green, greatly improving night legibility.
- Recommended For: For people wanting to check the time at night or unwilling to compromise on practical functions even in an affordable Casio.
Note: A168 production has ended. It is very difficult to obtain, but various overseas versions remain available.
Where to Buy the Casio A168WA-1A2WJR
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Why Was the A168 Discontinued?
Current LED models with Illuminator or Super Illuminator specifications have advanced considerably.
High-brightness LEDs illuminate the whole LCD brightly and evenly, providing night legibility comparable to the earlier EL backlight, or even brighter.
I think that is why A168 production ended.
However, it is still sold overseas and can be obtained through parallel imports.
Many color variants are available, making it enjoyable.
Overseas, wearing this retro digital watch as a stylish vintage gadget rather than something cheap-looking became a major fashion trend.
Where to Buy the Casio A168WEGB-1B
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Where to Buy the Casio A168WERG-2A
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Where to Buy the Casio A168WEM-1
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Where to Buy the Casio A168WG-9
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Where to Buy a Screen Protector for Casio A168WA
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A158 vs. A168
The main A158/A168 differences are size and backlighting.
A158 is thin and light at 8.2mm and 46g, while A168 has more presence at 9.6mm and 51g.
The A158 LED lights from one side, while A168 has an EL backlight illuminating the entire LCD.
"A158 for thinness, lightness, and price; A168 for nighttime legibility" is my recommendation.
3. Which Should You Choose? Recommendations for You
Here is the selection summary.
If Unsure, Choose the Classic A158
The safest of the 4, for people wanting a thin, light, classically styled affordable Casio.
Where to Buy the Casio A158WA-1
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Choose A159 for Japanese Production
For people wanting an A158-like feel with the attraction of Japanese production.
Where to Buy the Casio A159WA-N1
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Choose A168 for Its Light
If checking the time often at night, choose the EL-equipped A168.
Where to Buy the Casio A168WA-1A2WJR
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Where to Buy the Casio A168WG-9
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Like the A164 Design? Choose A164
A choice based on design rather than function differences.
Where to Buy the Casio A164WA-1Q
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All have retro, smart-looking designs. Choose for your lifestyle and preferences, such as checking the time at night or wanting Japanese production.