1974 is the sort of year the Swiss prefer to forget because Japanese watchmakers like Casio and Seiko were driving consumers away from mechanical timepieces because of the accuracy of quartz or the fun of having a digital LED watch on their wrists.
This was the year that Casio introduced its iconic Casiotron, which added an automatic calendar for the first time to a digital watch.
Fifty years on, Casio is reissuing the watch as a meticulously reproduced limited edition in its original size and design.
“When Casio introduced the Casiotron in 1974, it marked a pivotal moment in the history of timekeeping. The Casiotron was not only the world’s first digital watch to feature an automatic calendar, but it also represented a ground-breaking shift in the industry, introducing digital technology into the realm of personal timekeeping,” says Tom Kato, chairman of Casio America.
“The release of the Casiotron set a new standard in watchmaking, paving the way for innovations that have since become ubiquitous.”
Today’s Casiotron TRN50-2A, measuring 42.7 × 39.1 × 12.3mm brings together the best of the past and present.
Unlike its pre-smartphone original, the new watch connects via Bluetooth, with an app ensuring precise timekeeping, automatic updating of world time zone information, alarms, countdown timer, and more.
“The TRN50-2A is not just a commemoration of Casio’s historical breakthrough with the Casiotron, it’s a fusion of heritage and technological advancement,” Mr Kato suggests.
“In reimagining the Casiotron for the modern era, we’ve integrated contemporary features like smartphone connectivity, radio wave reception and solar power, furthering our commitment to innovation. This blend of tradition and cutting-edge technology underlines our dedication to setting new standards in timekeeping while honoring our rich legacy.”
The Casiotron TRN50-2A is available now for $500.