G-SHOCK has been synonymous with indestructible and rugged timepieces for decades, but their latest model, the G-SHOCK GA-V01 "CoolEyes," is such a bold departure from tradition that it could easily be a prop from a futuristic sci-fi movie. First released exclusively in China in February 2025, this retro-futuristic monster has become a hot item among collectors in no time. And honestly, it's not hard to see why.
G-SHOCK GA-V01 has been synonymous with indestructible and rugged watches for decades, but their latest model, the GA-V01 “CoolEyes,” is such a bold departure from tradition that it could easily be a prop from a futuristic sci-fi movie. First released exclusively in China in February 2025, this retro-futuristic monster has quickly become a hot item among collectors. And honestly, it’s not hard to see why.
Imagine a cross between a classic G-SHOCK watch, the neon aesthetic of the early 2000s, and the alien fashion accessories from the movie The fifth element – and you’ll get something roughly similar to the GA-V01. It’s time to delve deeper into this product that looks like it was brought from the future by Marty McFly.
Y3K is calling: a design that has skipped the entire future
G-SHOCK has dubbed the new model “Open V World,” which translates to… we don’t really know. But regardless of the marketing buzzword, the watch is a true explosion of design imagination. It features an incredible 3D dial where raised hour markers are placed above curved mineral glass – which is something we haven't seen in watches before.
Then there is also distinctive “CoolEyes” display, which visually resembles the connected eyes of a cartoon character. Remember Sonic? They are exactly like that. The digital display is arranged in a “butterfly” shape, which further emphasizes the futuristic look.
The overall design is heavily inspired by Y2K aesthetics and futuristic elements. If you were obsessed with Oakley glasses in the early 2000s Over The Top, worn by Ato Boldon at the Sydney Olympics, you will immediately recognize a similar visual philosophy.
Technical specifications: Underneath the fierce exterior, it's still a true G-SHOCK
No matter how unusual the design, the G-SHOCK GA-V01 retains all the key features that made G-SHOCK legendary.
- Indestructibility: 200-meter water resistance and shock resistance. This watch will survive the apocalypse.
- Material: Housing made of lightweight but practically indestructible resin.
- Battery: 10-year lifespan (which is well above the average for similar models).
- Functions: World time (48 digits), 5 daily alarms, stopwatch, countdown timer and LED lighting.
It is also special magnetic minute hand function, which absorbs shocks – an engineering trick hidden under a futuristic casing.
A size that demands confidence
If you prefer subtle and discreet watches, then the GA-V01 may not be for you. With a diameter of 58.2 mm and a thickness of 19.6 mm this watch takes up space – literally and stylistically.
However, the integrated strap makes it more comfortable to wear. But make no mistake – this is a watch that demands attention. If you are not ready for the looks and questions like “is this the new Tesla watch?”, then stick with the classic models.
Color variants and price
G-SHOCK has released the GA-V01 in four cool colors:
- Black (GA-V01-1A): The classic and most discreet choice.
- Purple (GA-V01-2A): Perfect for fans of cyberpunk aesthetics.
- Neon green (GA-V01-9A): If you want to be visible from space.
- Silver (GA-V01A-8A): The one that most emphasizes futuristic design.
The price in China was at the time of release 990 yuan (about 120 USD), but since the watches are not yet officially on the global market, they are already appearing on the secondary market at much higher prices.
Conclusion: Crazy or genius?
The GA-V01 “CoolEyes” is one of those models that people either love or don’t understand. Is it a completely different approach to watch design? Yes. Is this the wildest G-SHOCK of the last decade? Also yes.
If you're looking for something bold, futuristic, and with a distinctly retro feel, this might be one of the most interesting G-SHOCK watches in recent years. However, if you're more of a traditional watch lover, this one will likely remain just an interesting curiosity.
Regardless, we can't help but feel like we'd love to try it out – because sometimes we need a little futuristic madness on our wrist.
