Introducing The New Edifice EFK-100, Casio's First Automatic Watch

Casio is very much known for its affordable quartz watches, from the iconic F-91W to the  G-Shock line, which we are sure you have at least one of them in your collection. For over 50 years, the Japanese electronics giant has built its name on durability, and digital innovation. But in a surprising turn, Casio has now stepped into the world of mechanical watchmaking with the debut of the Edifice EFK-100 series, the brand’s first-ever automatic watches, with a functional design, and as you probably expected an accessible price.

The collection includes 4 references housed in a 39mm stainless steel case that measures 12.5mm thick. These variants weigh around 148 grams and feature polished and brushed surfaces. The exception is the 5th reference, which introduces a bolder look and feel with a 45 by 40mm case crafted from carbon fiber reinforced plastic paired with stainless steel. Despite its increased presence, it maintains the same 12.5mm thickness while reducing weight to just 87 grams thanks to the composite construction. All models come equipped with a sapphire crystal treated with anti-reflective coating on the underside.

At the back, a see-through sapphire caseback offers a view of the automatic movement inside. Each watch is rated to 100 meters of water resistance and also features basic magnetic resistance to JIS Class 1 standards, which is a collection of national standards that specify criteria for products in Japan.

The dial of the carbon reference is also made from forged carbon. However, the other references come in blue, green, and white, but rely on electroformed textures to simulate the appearance of carbon where a metal layer is built up on a conductive surface using an electrical current. These dials are detailed with applied indices and multi-faceted hands, which include luminous inserts for legibility in low light. All models incorporate a date window at 6 o’clock.

Casio refers to the movement as Module 5755, which is based on the well-known Seiko NH35. It’s an automatic movement with a frequency of 21,600 vph (3Hz), and a 40-hour power reserve. The steel models are paired with a stainless-steel bracelet that integrates seamlessly into the case. The carbon-cased variant, on the other hand, comes with a black resin strap and a folding clasp.

For now, the EFK-100 series does not appear to be a limited edition. However, availability is still somewhat regional, with all references initially launched in Japan. Three models, EFK-100CD-1AJF, EFK-100D-2AJF, and EFK-100D-7AJF, have since made their way to North America.

The EFK-100XPB-1AJF with its forged carbon is priced at USD 515, approximately AED 1,900. The forged carbon dial variant in steel, reference EFK-100CD-1AJF, is offered at a price of USD 379, approximately AED 1,400. Meanwhile, the electroformed dial models in white, green, and blue are priced at USD 340, approximately AED 1,250. 

For more information, visit Casio’s official website.