What's the difference between the GM-5600UG-9DR (gold) and the GM-5600UB-1DR (black)?
Both share identical specs — same Module 3525, same 200m water resistance, same case dimensions and weight. The difference is purely aesthetic. The GM-5600UG-9DR has a brushed gold ion-plated bezel with gold text and gold corner screws on a black base. The GM-5600UB-1DR has a black ion-plated bezel for an all-dark stealth look. Choose gold if you want your G-Shock to stand out; choose black if you prefer something that disappears into darker outfits.
Which GM-5600 should I buy? A quick buying guide.
The GM-5600 line offers the same metal-covered 5600 shape in different colourways. The GM-5600UG-9DR (gold/black) is the most visually bold — it works as a statement piece. The GM-5600UB-1DR (all-black) is the most versatile everyday option. The GM-5600U-1DR (silver/black with inverted LCD) splits the difference with a cooler, more industrial tone. All three run the same Module 3525 with LED backlight and 5-year battery life.
Is the GM-5600UG-9DR the same as the "CasiOak"?
No. The "CasiOak" nickname refers to the GA-2100 and GM-2100 series, which have an octagonal bezel shape inspired by a famous luxury sports watch. The GM-5600UG-9DR belongs to the square 5600 family — the original G-Shock silhouette dating back to 1983. Both come in metal-covered versions, but they are entirely different case shapes and movements.
How is this different from the older GM-5600G-9DR?
The GM-5600G-9DR looks nearly identical but runs the older Module 3229, which uses an EL backlight (dimmer, blue-green tint) and has only a 2-year battery life. The GM-5600UG-9DR's Module 3525 upgrades to a white LED Super Illuminator with afterglow and extends battery life to approximately 5 years. If both are available, the UG is the smarter buy.
Will the gold plating wear off?
The bezel uses ion plating (IP), which bonds gold-coloured material to stainless steel at a molecular level. It's significantly more durable than traditional gold plating. With normal daily wear, the finish will last years. Avoid abrasive surfaces and harsh chemicals (bleach, chlorine-heavy pool water) to extend its lifespan.
Can I swim with this watch?
Yes. The GM-5600UG-9DR is rated to 200 metres (20 BAR), which covers swimming, snorkelling, and recreational surface water sports. It is not rated for scuba diving. Rinse with fresh water after saltwater or pool exposure.
Is the LCD display inverted (white on black)?
No. The GM-5600UG-9DR uses a standard positive LCD — dark digits on a grey-green background. This is deliberately easier to read in bright daylight than an inverted display. If you want the inverted look, the GM-5600U-1DR offers that in a silver-bezel variant.
What size wrist does it fit?
The resin band adjusts from 145 to 215 mm, covering most wrist sizes. The case dimensions are 49.6 × 43.2 mm — compact by G-Shock standards. It wears well on smaller wrists without the bulk of a round G-Shock like the GA-110.
What warranty does this watch come with?
The GM-5600UG-9DR comes with Casio's official 1-year warranty when purchased from City Chain Singapore, an authorised Casio retailer.