June 19th 2025
Why This Release Matters
Casio’s announcement of the Edifice EFK‑100 is a milestone: it’s the first mechanical watch from a company synonymous with durable, cutting‑edge quartz. Though it may not rival Swiss haute horlogerie, for a brand built on accessibility, this is a logical step.
Under the Dial
Powered by the Seiko NH35 (Module 5755), this entry provides manual and auto winding, 40 hours of reserve, hacking seconds, and 21,600 beats/hour. Accuracy of -35/+45 sec/day is modest, but consistent with its low-cost positioning.
Aesthetic & Material Highlights
The collection offers five variations: steel-cased with colored or forged‑carbon dials, plus the EFK‑100XPB‑1AJF with full forged‑carbon case and resin strap. Dials feature textured finishes; cases are slim (~12.5 mm); water resistance rated at 100 m; sapphire crystals and 39 mm diameter ensure everyday usability.
Value Proposition
Estimated pricing: steel models ¥49,500 ($340), carbon-dial ¥55,000 ($379), full-carbon ¥74,800 ($515). European leaks suggest €279–499 ($317–$509). Launched in Japan July–August 2025, global release likely later.
Casio’s Evolution
The EFK‑100 bridges Casio’s tech-driven legacy with traditional watchmaking. It delivers day‑to‑day practicality and opens the door to future mechanical endeavors. The use of a proven Seiko movement keeps costs manageable, though purists may wish for higher precision. Still, this debut shows Casio is serious about exploring mechanical territory.