Casio is introducing the new Pro Trek PRW-50 series in June 2019. The PRW-50 is very much like the PRW-60 that was released in Japan and Europe, offering the same functions (Tough Solar, Multi-Band 6, Triple Sensor) as the large PRW-6100 in a smaller watch designed for climbing.
The PRW-50 is the same size (50.5 x 47.2 x 13.3 millimeters) as the PRW-60 and the features are expected to be similar if not the same. Based on a new video from Casio, it has 100-meter water resistance and full auto dual LED lights with the Neon Illuminator black light. (Full specifications have not yet been released.)
Differences from the PRW-60 include a numbered index, slimmer hands, and a textured bezel edge. The overall design appears to be a more conventional, mainstream style. Like the PRW-60, the bands are easily removable without tools using the slide levers.
In Japan, the debut Pro Trek PRW-50 models will have a price range of 54,000-64,000 JPY.
Pro Trek PRW-50Y-1AJF (MSRP 54,000 JPY): Black dial, black bezel, black Duro Soft silicone band
(Photo coming soon)
Pro Trek PRW-50Y-1BJF (MSRP 54,000 JPY): White dial, chrome bezel, black Duro Soft silicone band
Pro Trek PRW-50T-7AJF (MSRP 64,000 JPY): Dark gray dial, silver bezel, titanium band
Pro Trek PRW-50YFE-2AJR (MSRP 64,000 JPY): Navy blue dial, chrome bezel, changeable black Duro Soft silicone band and cloth band
Photos via news.mynavi.jp
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.
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.