Just the Watch highlights the drilled lugs of the GA-2300, which offer easy band swapping.
While the new G-Shock GA-2300 series has been somewhat divisive among fans (probably mostly due to its smaller size and unisex approach), it’s been generally well-received by YouTubers. Dave of Just the Watch (youtube.com) points out in a recent video that the lugs, which have the appearance of oversized strap adapters, are actually drilled lugs in which the spring bars can be easily removed. (It requires a tool, but a paper clip would probably suffice.) This is unique for a G-Shock and allows the band to be easily swapped out with standard watch bands, such as 24-millimeter NATO or ZULU straps, and without the need for an aftermarket strap adapter. Dave tries on several NATO straps, including a 22-mm strap, as well as an elastic parachute strap.
The black GA-2300-1A looks great with NATO straps, and they seem to make those large lugs look less conspicuous, or at least more purposeful. Unfortunately, the debut GA-2300 colorways aren’t exactly ideal for true tool watch use, and we would have liked to see more options with contrasting hour markers and positive LCD displays. Imperfections aside, some may find the NATO straps to be more comfortable than the resin band, and NATO straps are available in a variety of colors and patterns, which opens up many styling options.
Regarding Western countries, the GA-2300 series was recently released in the U.K., Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. It hasn’t been confirmed for the U.S. yet. (Update: As of May 1, it looks like the the U.S. may not be getting the GA-2300 series at all.)
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