The Iconic “Red Frame” G-SHOCK|Comparing the Original Color Models: DW-5000R / DW-5600RL / GW-M5610U

Speaking of G-SHOCK, It’s the “Red Frame”

When people think of G-SHOCK, one design immediately comes to mind — the iconic red frame.

In this article, we’ll compare several models that feature the famous first-generation G-SHOCK color scheme, often called the “red frame.”

Model	(Original) DW-5000C	GW-M5610U	DW-5000R	DW-5600RL
Appearance
Raised Bezel Step	No Step	Step	No Step	Step
Case Back	Screw-Back Case	Panel-Back Case	Screw-Back Case	Panel-Back Case
List Price	¥11,400 (1983 release price)	¥24,200	¥33,000	¥14,300
Features	Incandescent Backlight Battery Powered Tire-Pattern Strap	LED Backlight Tough Solar Multi-Band 6 Radio Timekeeping 5600-Series Resin Strap	LED Backlight Battery Powered Tire-Pattern Strap	LED Backlight Battery Powered 5600-Series Resin Strap
Where to Buy	*This model was released in 1983 and is difficult to obtain today.

What Is the G-SHOCK “Red Frame”?

The very first G-SHOCK, the DW-5000C, was released in 1983.

Its most recognizable feature is the red frame around the dial.

Other distinctive design elements include:

Because this watch was released more than 40 years ago, its functionality is limited compared with modern models.

For example:

• No radio-controlled timekeeping
• No solar power
• The light is a small incandescent bulb, not EL or LED

By modern standards, the specifications may feel a bit basic.

Another feature that many dedicated G-SHOCK fans love is the screw-back case.

A screw-back case is a type of case back that is tightened by rotating it into place.

Many modern G-SHOCK models instead use a panel-back case secured with screws.

Both provide excellent water resistance, but panel-back cases have some practical advantages:

• Slightly thinner case construction
• Reduced weight

Panel backs come in two main types:

1. A smaller rectangular plate used on radio-controlled solar models
2. A round panel commonly used on battery-powered models

In the photo below, the watch on the left has the round panel, while the one on the right uses the solar-model panel.

Now, let’s compare several modern G-SHOCK models inspired by the original “red frame.”

The “Perfect” G-SHOCK According to Its Creator

First up is the GW-M5610U, one of the most popular G-SHOCK models available today.

AAt first glance, the design looks almost identical to the original model.

However, there are a few differences:

• The red frame remains, but the brick pattern is gone
• The case back is panel-back, not screw-back

That said, the panel back also offers advantages such as lighter weight and a thinner case.

Interestingly, the GW-M5610U also has a slightly updated design compared with the original.

It is often described as a more refined and modern version of the classic square G-SHOCK.

Among G-SHOCK fans, two design families are often discussed:

• The 5600 series (closer to the original design)
• The 5610 series (radio-controlled solar models)

Both are extremely popular.

Button placement difference

For example, the buttons on the 5610 series are spaced slightly farther apart, making them easier to press.

Another interesting fact is that Kikuo Ibe, the creator of G-SHOCK, is known to have worn this model frequently in interviews.

It was also selected as one of his five most memorable G-SHOCK models.

“It has the perfect combination: durable, reliable, and accurate.
I use it every day because it’s extremely convenient.”

Strictly speaking, the model Ibe selected was the GW-5600.

However, that watch evolved through several updates:

GW-M5600 → GW-M5610 → GW-M5610U

This makes it one of the rare G-SHOCK models that has been continuously refined over many years.

If you want a G-SHOCK with the classic look and modern features, this is an excellent choice.

DW-5000R A Faithful Recreation of the Original

The DW-5000R is an extremely faithful recreation of the original G-SHOCK.

Not only does it feature the red frame, but the brick pattern is also faithfully reproduced.

Another important detail is the bezel lettering.

The white “PROTECTION” and “G-SHOCK” text on the bezel is flat, with no raised step.

What is the “step”?

The “step” refers to the raised section found on many modern G-SHOCK bezels.

Most current models — such as the DW-5600UE — include this feature.

However, the original DW-5000C did not have this step.

Because of this, the flat bezel design is considered a distinctive element of the original model.

According to the official CASIO website:

• The case size increased from 41.6 mm to 42.3 mm
• The lighting was upgraded to LED

Aside from these changes, the watch has been reproduced almost exactly like the original.

According to the official CASIO website

Faithful to the Original — Which Means Fewer Modern Features

Because the DW-5000R recreates the original so faithfully, it does not include modern functions like:

• Radio-controlled timekeeping
• Tough Solar

Instead, it uses a traditional battery-powered movement.

This even allows the yellow “Lithium” text on the dial to match the original design.

If you prefer modern convenience such as radio-controlled solar power, the GW-M5610U introduced earlier may be the better choice.

DW-5600RL The Original Color at an Affordable Price

Another model released around the same time is the DW-5600RL.

At first glance, it also looks very similar to the original.

The differences include:

• The red frame remains, but the brick pattern is absent
• The case back is panel-back, not screw-back
• It is essentially a color variation of the DW-5600UE

Because of this, the price is much more affordable.

• DW-5000R: ¥33,000
• DW-5600RL: ¥14,300

Another characteristic of the DW-5600 design is the light button located at the lower right, which improves dial visibility when pressed.

Many users are already familiar with this button layout.

The DW-5600UE itself is also a highly recommended entry-level G-SHOCK and remains one of the most popular square models.

Since the DW-5600RL simply adds the original color scheme, you can choose whichever design you prefer.

Battery-Powered Square G-SHOCK Models

Here are several battery-powered square G-SHOCK models.

DW-5600RL

Original red-frame color

DW-5600UE

The classic “Speed model” design

DW-5600UBB

All-black version with negative display

Even though G-SHOCK watches are extremely durable, scratches on the display can still be disappointing.

Applying a tempered glass screen protector is a good idea.

New Full-Metal Models in the Original Color

In June 2025, the iconic original color scheme also appeared in full-metal G-SHOCK models.

GMW-B5000D-1C

A full-metal square G-SHOCK with the original color accents.

GM-B2100SD-1C

Even the 2100 series (“CasiOak”) received the original color treatment.

Although it does not have the red frame, the color scheme is inspired by the first G-SHOCK.

And it looks fantastic in full metal.

Many fans will probably want both models.

Final Thoughts

In this article, we explored several G-SHOCK models that feature the iconic “red frame” design inspired by the original 1983 DW-5000C.

Whether you prefer:

• the modern functionality of the GW-M5610U
• the faithful reproduction of the DW-5000R
• or the affordable original color of the DW-5600RL

there is a model for every type of G-SHOCK fan.

Enjoy your G-SHOCK life!