G-SHOCK DW-5600MS-1 review: Batman’s choice for a G-SHOCK Square?
“Matte-black everything” — that’s probably what the designers were thinking of when conceptualising the G-SHOCK DW-5600MS-1 (MS-1). It has the exact same physical dimensions as the regular G-SHOCK Squares, save for some visual cues. Featuring a blacked-out colourway and negative display, this watch screams military from the off. Additionally, the buttons and buckle are ion-plated to a black finish to fit the overall aesthetics. A stealth package to say the least, let’s see how the MS-1 could be Batman’s choice for a G-SHOCK Square.
Case and strap
- Diameter: 42.8 mm
- Thickness: 13.4 mm
- Lug-to-lug: 48.9 mm
- Lug width: 20 mm
- Water resistance: 200 m
While not the thinnest G-SHOCK available (that accolade now goes to the GA-2100), the MS-1 fits like how a G-SHOCK Square would — probably the only type of G-SHOCK that would fit smaller wrists. Unlike its bigger and bulkier siblings, the MS-1 should have no problems fitting under a shirt cuff (although that shouldn’t be your concern in the first place if you’re looking at G-SHOCKS).
The case and strap are made from a matte black resin that hides scratches and marks relatively well. As with other G-SHOCKS, you can expect the resin strap to turn brittle over time. Strap replacements are readily available and if resin is not your jam, adapters are also available to strap it on a NATO. The numerals “3229” are printed in dark grey on the interior strap as shown above. As far as I know, this refers to the module of the watch. An older model of the MS-1 with the numerals “1545” was produced previously and they are basically the same watch, except that the calendar function of the 1545 runs till 2039 while the 3229 runs till 2099. Since neither watch displays the year, this is essentially a non-issue as the year reverts back to factory setting when 2039 or 2099 comes around, and an adjustment then to align the day/date would set it right again.
The MS-1 shares the same case design as the regular DW-5600 — a square/rectangular case with integrated lugs. Similarly, the corners are flared out with grooves for a rugged look and the buttons are recessed in the case, protecting it from accidental pushes. Where is differs however, is blacked-out branding on the case and ion-plated hardware to keep with the overall “stealth” theme.
Similarly, the crystal sits recessed in the case to protect it from bumps. I did experience a build up of dirt and debris on the edges of the crystal occasionally due to this, but a quick run under the tap would solve the problem. Aftermarket bull bars are also a common upgrade for added protection if you need it.
Movement and Display
- Movement: Casio module 3229 quartz digital movement
- Crystal: Mineral glass
As with the regular DW-5600, the MS-1 has the same functions of time with day/date display, stopwatch, countdown timer with auto repeat, alarms and backlight illumination. However, don’t expect multiple daily alarms or world time zones as this is one of the simpler modules from G-SHOCK.
The negative display of the MS-1 may be difficult to read in certain lighting conditions, but I think it’s a necessary trade-off to achieve the “stealth” look. As you would expect, the time is prominently displayed with the day-date information posted above in the default screen. Legibility in the dark is excellent as you can expect from the backlight illumination. A neat trick with the 3229 module is that you’re able to set the the backlight illumination to accompany several features such as the countdown timer or hourly chime.
Built like a tank, you can expect the MS-1 to take whatever life throws at it and keep on ticking. With the plethora of G-SHOCK Square models available, there’s bound to be one to everyone — even Batman.
