Casio is introducing the all-new Pro Trek PRW-50 series in June 2019. The PRW-50 is very much like the PRW-60 that was released in select countries, offering the same functions (Tough Solar, Multi-Band 6, Triple Sensor) as the extra-large PRW-6100 in a smaller case designed for climbers.
The PRW-50 is the same size (50.5 x 47.2 x 13.3 millimeters) as the PRW-60 and has the same functions including 100-meter water resistance and full auto dual LED lights with the Neon Illuminator black light. Other notable features include an STN LCD display, (barometer) pressure trend information alarm, low temperature specification (-10°C/14°F), compass needle position automatic correction, and a needle retraction function when using the LCD for altitude, air pressure, and temperature measurements.
Differences from the PRW-60 are cosmetic and include numbered markers, slimmer hands, and a prominently textured bezel edge. The overall design appears to be a more conventional style. Like the PRW-60, the bands are easily removable using the quick-release slide levers.
In Japan, the debut Pro Trek PRW-50 models will have a price range of 54,000-64,000 JPY.
Update: The PRW-50Y-1A and PRW-50Y-1B are also being released throughout Asia.
Update 2: The PRW-50T-7A and PRW-50Y-1A are now being sold in North America by Amazon.com
Pro Trek PRW-50Y-1A (Japan MSRP 54,000 JPY): Black dial, black bezel, black Duro-Soft silicone band, 70 grams
Pro Trek PRW-50Y-1B (Japan MSRP 54,000 JPY): White dial, chrome bezel, black Duro-Soft silicone band, 70 grams
Pro Trek PRW-50T-7A (Japan MSRP 64,000 JPY): Dark gray dial, silver bezel, titanium band, 100 grams
Pro Trek PRW-50YFE-2AJR (MSRP 59,000 JPY): Navy blue dial, chrome bezel, changeable black Duro-Soft silicone band and cloth field loop band to attach to equipment and clothing, 70 grams
Photos via news.mynavi.jp
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Casio always frustrates me with the numbered indexes on their Pro Trek line. There are always some numbers getting cut due to the LCD or sensor/mode dial placement. The only model with numbered indexes that, to my eyes, does it right as a “field watch” is the PRW-6600 (I really like the variant with the orange accents and green nylon strap), but even that has the 10 blocked out.
i totally agree with you
Do you believe the release of the prw-50 in the Japan market might signal a potential release of the prw-60 in the U.S market? Both are very nice but the 60 is my preference.
It’s hard to say. Pro Trek releases in the U.S. are rather unpredictable. I think it is more likely that the U.S. would get a newer model than an older one.
Tough Movement?
Automatic pointer calibration?
Tough Movement (which is basically analog movement with Tough Solar and Multi-Band 6): Yes, like the PRW-60
Automatic pointer calibration: Yes, like the PRW-60 “bidirectional calibration and magnetic declination correction”
You can see official specs now: https://casio.jp/wat/watch_detail/PRW-50Y-1A/
Is there a way to get a stainless/titanium wristband for a PRW60? I got an aftermarket in black but would be nice to have the actual casio.
Yes but it is expensive
Titanium: https://www.pacparts.com/part.cfm?sku=91087240149
Casio USA just listed two variations of the watch on their site. The PRW50T-7A and the PRW50Y-1A. It’s not on the micro site yet and no real information under the description, but do you think this means it’s coming to the US? I have had my eye on the black 1A for quite some time!
Not sure which site you are referring to, but yes, that probably means they are coming to the U.S.
https://www.casio.com/products/watches/pro-trek/prw50y-1a
https://www.casio.com/products/watches/pro-trek/prw50t-7a
I found this model today while walking about and the most significant aspects of this watch are
1. Lightness
It is really very light indeed. So light that it demands a re-adjustment from “Standard G-shock Protocol.” My initial reaction was disappointment, followed by a concern about durability. After some thought, I realised that lightness is the point.
2. Smallness
As a Casio fan, I have owned…well far more watches from this company than I care to admit. This is, for Casio, a small, discrete, thin, conventional watch which does not look like a Casio; Pro-Trek, G-Shock or otherwise. This is a good thing.
3. Unique construction.
This is unlike any Casio (or watch) I have ever seen. It is really clever.
I suggest that any Casio fan approaches this watch with an open mind and remembers why it has been built. It is a tool. It doesn’t feel like “a quality watch.” It is light, small, discrete and unassuming. And that is the point.