Casio’s New Sub-$60 Masterclass Puts Much More Expensive Tool Watches to Shame

With so many handy functions and sleeker styling, you’d expect these reliable timepieces to cost two or three times more than they do.

By Sean Tirman

Published April 28, 2025

·

Updated April 28, 2025

Every product is carefully selected by our editors. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Learn more

When it comes to ultra-affordable, reliable watches, virtually no brands hold a candle to Casio (Timex perhaps being the closest comparison). However, the Japanese outfit has also proven time and time again that inexpensive doesn’t necessarily mean cheap.

As if anyone needed further proof, the brand has just announced the impending launch of the Casio AQ-S820W watches. A handsome evolution of the longtime AQ series, these incredibly budget-friendly timepieces pack a ton of value.

A style all its own

The original watches in this series date back decades. However, the older models closely resembled another of Casio’s offerings: G-Shock. Models like the AQS810W-1A4V looked almost identical to those of Casio’s ultra-tough sub-brand.

These new offerings, by contrast, are much more toned-down, lacking the chunky cases of their G-Shock cousins. That bodes quite well for this series, as it allows the watches to shine independently without the obvious comparisons.

It’s important to note that, despite their stylistic differences, these are still very large watches. The cases measure a whopping 52.5 millimeters — large by anyone’s standards.

Still, their sleeker styling, built-in tech and array of features make up for that sizing. Their shockingly low price point also helps.

Casio AQ-S820W Watch back — This watch’s no-nonsense styling extends to its simple, reliable integrated strap.

Packs a punch

Like previous editions of this series, these watches boast a solar-powered quartz movement. That makes them remarkably reliable and makes maintaining their functionality far simpler than that of their siblings.

With these watches, there’s no need to swap batteries every few years. Instead, you can take them outside (or under lights), where they can recharge without any additional human intervention.

Especially with comparably priced offerings, it would be tough to find another watch so loaded with value.

Furthermore, they have the added benefit of a dual analog-digital display, making for more classic, easy reading and simple access to the watch’s additional functions.

That’s still not all. These watches also have dual countdown timers, a stopwatch, five daily alarms, and a world time function — a hell of a punch in a sub-$60 watch. Especially with comparably priced offerings, it would be tough to find another watch so loaded with value.

Pricing and availability

For now, only UK pricing (£54.90) and availability have been announced for the Casio AQ-S820W watches. However, we expect more information about a USA release soon.

As the UK pricing falls below £60, we also expect USA pricing to be under $60 (as has been the trend with previous watches in this line).