Casio’s CRW-002 smart ring taps into retro tech trend

Casio is set to launch the CRW-002, a second-generation digital watch ring, in November 2026. The new model follows the sell-out success of its predecessor, the CRW-001, and draws design inspiration from Casio’s iconic A168 watch series. It reflects a broader trend of retro, privacy-focused wearables gaining traction in the market.

Casio’s Next-Gen Digital Watch Ring

Casio is reportedly developing a second-generation digital watch ring, the CRW-002, following the sell-out success of its first model, the CRW-001. According to TechRadar, the new version is inspired by Casio’s iconic metal A168 watch series, a design that dates back decades and remains popular for its retro aesthetic.

The CRW-001, released in December 2024, has continued to sell out during periodic restocks, indicating strong consumer demand. The CRW-002 is expected to build on this momentum with updates to its design and functionality.

Design and Features

The CRW-002 is reportedly set to launch in November 2026 with a $135 price tag. It will be available in steel and gold finishes, aligning with the A168 series’ premium look. Key features are expected to include dual time, a 60-minute stopwatch, an LED backlight, and a calendar function. The device will also support 12- and 24-hour time formats and include Casio’s Time Flash feature, which blinks the LED on the hour or at a user-set time.

The design will reportedly retain retro elements from the original A168, such as phrases like 'Chronograh', 'Illuminator', and 'Water Resist' on the ring’s face. The band is said to be an injection-molded replica of the A168’s strap, preserving the vintage feel while updating the form factor.

Broader Trend in Wearable Tech

The CRW-002 isn’t Casio’s only retro-inspired device gaining traction. The company’s F-B100W smartwatch, which features Bluetooth connectivity, a basic step tracker, and Find My Phone functionality, has been a sell-out hit in Japan and the UK. It recently launched in the US, where it has also seen strong demand.

This trend aligns with growing consumer interest in low-tech, privacy-focused wearables. According to TechRadar, retro-style devices like these are part of a counterculture movement pushing back against surveillance capitalism and anti-consumer practices in the tech industry.

What this means

Lazyfounder analysis — our interpretation, not reported fact.

Casio’s move to expand its digital watch ring lineup signals a calculated bet on the appeal of retro, minimalist wearables. Founders should note the demand for products that blend nostalgia with practicality—especially those that avoid the data-hungry pitfalls of mainstream smart devices. The success of the CRW-001 and F-B100W suggests there’s room for innovation in the wearable space beyond high-spec, high-surveillance offerings. For startups, this could mean exploring analog-digital hybrids or privacy-centric devices that resonate with consumers wary of constant connectivity.

Key takeaways

• Casio’s CRW-001 digital watch ring continues to sell out despite periodic restocks since its December 2024 launch.
• The upcoming CRW-002 is based on Casio’s iconic A168 watch series and will feature retro design elements and practical functions like dual time.
• The CRW-002 is priced at $135 and is expected to release in November 2026.
• Casio’s F-B100W, a retro-inspired smartwatch with Bluetooth and step tracking, has been a hit in Japan, the UK, and the US.
• Consumer interest in low-tech, privacy-focused wearables is growing as pushback against surveillance capitalism intensifies.

FAQ

What is the CRW-002?

The CRW-002 is the second-generation digital watch ring from Casio, inspired by the company’s iconic A168 watch series. It is expected to include features like dual time, a stopwatch, and an LED backlight, with a retro design aesthetic.

When will the CRW-002 be available, and how much will it cost?

According to reports, the CRW-002 is set to launch in November 2026 and will be priced at $135.

Why is Casio’s retro wearable tech popular?

Casio’s retro-inspired wearables, like the CRW-001 and F-B100W, appeal to consumers looking for minimalist, privacy-focused devices. This trend reflects a growing pushback against surveillance capitalism and the complexities of modern smart devices.

What features does the F-B100W smartwatch offer?

The F-B100W is a retro-inspired smartwatch with Bluetooth connectivity, a basic step tracker, and Find My Phone functionality. It has seen strong demand in Japan, the UK, and the US.

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