In a bold move to mark its golden jubilee in the digital watch segment, Casio has recently launched the CRW-001-1JR, its inaugural entry into the burgeoning smart ring market. This novel wearable combines the timeless appeal of Casio’s traditional watches with the convenience of modern technology, introducing features like a stopwatch and a unique flashing alarm, all encapsulated within a ring-sized device.
Crafting the Future with a Nod to the Past
Unlike the typical smartwatches flooding today’s market, Casio’s smart ring steers clear of fitness tracking or heart rate monitoring. Instead, it focuses on delivering basic timekeeping functionalities in an extraordinarily compact form. The ring sports a retro six-segment LCD screen barely under an inch wide, capable of displaying hours, minutes, and seconds. Moreover, it comes equipped with three buttons that extend its capabilities to showing the date and time across different time zones. “Casio’s first smart ring, the CRW-001-1JR, is not just a gadget but a celebration of fifty years in the digital watch business,” explains Andrew Liszewski, a seasoned tech reporter. This product rollout is set to begin in Japan this December, with each piece retailing for about $128 (￥19,800).
Innovations in Design and Manufacturing
The CRW-001-1JR’s case and bezel are crafted from polished stainless steel, giving it a sleek, durable finish. It features a light for the screen and an alarm function that flashes the display instead of emitting sound, catering to the needs of users in noise-sensitive environments. Powered by a single battery, Casio claims the ring can operate for up to two years before needing a replacement. In terms of construction, Casio has utilized a metal injection moulding process, starting with powdered metal to ensure the ring’s design mirrors the intricate details of larger digital watches. This process results in the ring being manufactured as a single, unmodifiable piece, sized permanently at US size 10.5. Casio has also thoughtfully included spacers for those with smaller fingers, ensuring a better fit, although those with larger fingers might need to look elsewhere.
A Legacy of Innovation Continues
Casio’s venture into ring-based wearables follows its tradition of pioneering unique timekeeping devices. “Last year, Casio released a collection of ring watches inspired by iconic designs from its history. However, they were not functional,” Liszewski notes, adding, “It’s refreshing to see them introduce a fully functional ring watch this time around.” As Casio continues to innovate within the wearable technology space, enthusiasts and tech aficionados alike will eagerly anticipate future iterations, perhaps even a tiny calculator ring watch for the company’s 75th anniversary. This new smart ring from Casio is not just a tool for telling time but a statement piece that blends nostalgia with futuristic functionality, making it a standout addition to any tech lover’s collection.
