Casio will launch the Pro Trek PRW-3400 outdoor adventure watch in July, a dual LCD watch with navigation tools made of durable "biomass plastics."
First reported by Casio's G-Central fan blog (opens in a new tab) and outdoor site Advnture (opens in a new tab), the watch brings back the two dual-layer LCD screens, seen on previous Pro Trek models. The deepest integrated layer displays the time like a standard digital clock, but the top layer reveals information for the included altimeter/barometer, compass, and thermometer, as well as sunrise and sunset times.
Compass direction is displayed on the entire round screen, with large direction markers that rotate with the watch bezel. It won't plan your route for you like some of the best running or adventure watches would, but it will help you read a map much more accurately by calculating your location and elevation, as well as the temperature and amount of sunlight you get. . left to reach your goal.
The Pro Trek PRW-3400 also comes with battery extension solar charging technology, ensuring you don't get caught out in the wild. It also features Multi-Band 6 radio auto time setting, 100-meter water resistance, and full LED light. It is custom made for the outdoors.
However, one of the biggest attractions of this watch that we have only mentioned is the materials with which it is made. The watch case, urethane strap, and caseback are made from biomass plastic, a renewable material made from oils derived from castor and corn seeds. Other Pro Trek models also use this material instead of petroleum-based plastics, like the Pro Trek PRW-6611Y-1 and PRW-6621Y-1 released earlier this year.
The watch will only launch in Japan in July, priced at 44,000 yen (about €320 in the US and €260 in the UK) and will arrive in black and brown colours. However, like the other Pro Trek models, we expect it to hit other markets later this year.
Analysis: The digital revolution continues
As digital watches become more advanced without relying on smart but potentially invasive fitness metrics, it looks like we're on the cusp of another digital watch revolution. This latest Casio Pro Trek's built-in compass, barometer, sunrise and sunset times provide plenty of specialized tools for adventurers without access to notifications, the Internet, GPS, and all the usual smart features.
There's something to be said for the shift towards 'dumb' digital watches instead of smart offerings: you're in the wilderness to get away from most of your screens, after all. There's an element of satisfaction in returning to a more analog lifestyle, but digital watches let you pack some useful tools for the outdoors, or cruising and running, as was the case with these G-SQUAD and G-LIDE watches. that we covered last month.
All of this is compounded by the usual durability concerns of buying electronics. However, this digital watch has some green credibility thanks to its use of biomass-derived plastics and a solar-charged battery. While you are in nature, you are also kind to her.
It's a great Casio story, built around what is sure to be a watch popular with beefy dudes as they swim, hike and head to other lands. Then all you need is a pair of inexpensive running shoes and you're ready to hit the trails.