Casio’s black‑out CasiOaks may arrive in June – first leaked images and what they mean
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Casio’s black‑out CasiOaks may arrive in June – first leaked images and what they mean

Laptops Reporter
4 min read

Leaked Instagram photos suggest Casio will add two all‑black variants to its GM‑2100 line in June 2026. The GM‑2100LXB‑1A is a pure monochrome version, while the GM‑2100LXB‑1A9 adds gold‑tone accents. We break down the design tweaks, compare them to existing GA/GM‑2100 models, and assess whether the expected price premium can be justified.

What’s new?

Two fresh references of Casio’s popular CasiOak platform have surfaced on Instagram via leaker @geesgshock. The pictures show the GM‑2100LXB‑1A and GM‑2100LXB‑1A9, both slated for a June 2026 launch. Their most obvious difference is the finish:

  • GM‑2100LXB‑1A – an all‑black package. Case, dial, hands, indices and the digital display are coated in a matte IP‑black layer. No secondary colour appears anywhere on the watch.
  • GM‑2100LXB‑1A9 – shares the black case but re‑introduces gold‑tone accents on the inner dial ring, hour markers, hands and the LCD text. The contrast gives the model a “luxury” feel while retaining the stealthy silhouette.

Both references keep the octagonal stainless‑steel bezel that defines the GM‑2100 series, but the usual smooth resin strap is swapped for a ribbed, textured resin band. The strap’s pattern is meant to echo the matte finish and provide a better grip for daily wear.

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How it fits into the existing lineup

Model Case material Bezel Strap Colour scheme Notable features
GA‑2100 Resin Plastic Smooth resin White/blue/black Entry‑level, 200 m water resistance
GM‑2100 Resin + steel bezel Steel Smooth resin Black/blue/green Steel‑covered bezel, 200 m water resistance
GM‑2100LXB‑1A Resin + steel bezel Steel (IP‑black) Ribbed resin All‑black First full‑black CasiOak in the series
GM‑2100LXB‑1A9 Resin + steel bezel Steel (IP‑black) Ribbed resin Black + gold accents Gold‑tone dial ring and hands

The new LXB suffix mirrors earlier “Luxury Black” codes that appeared in an Asian retailer database for the GA‑2100LXB and GM‑2100LXB models. Those earlier entries were never confirmed, but the pattern suggests Casio is experimenting with a premium, monochrome sub‑line.

Design trade‑offs

  • Aesthetic – The all‑black treatment gives the watch a stealth look that matches the aesthetic of many modern smart‑watch bands. The gold‑accented version offers a subtle upscale cue for users who want a hint of luxury without a full‑metal case.
  • Weight – Because the case remains resin‑based with only the bezel in steel, the weight stays close to the original GM‑2100 (≈ 70 g). This is lighter than the full‑metal G‑Steel variants, which can exceed 90 g.
  • Durability – The IP‑black coating is a thin polymer layer applied over the steel bezel. In theory it adds a scratch‑resistant surface, but long‑term wear may show micro‑scratches where the coating wears thin. The ribbed strap, while stylish, is still resin and will not match the durability of a metal bracelet.

Pricing speculation and market context

Casio has not released any pricing, but the community is already debating the premium. Historically, the GM‑2100 line sold for roughly $120 – $150 USD depending on the colour and strap. The G‑Steel versions, which feature a full steel case and bracelet, typically command $200 – $250 USD.

The leaked references keep the resin case, so a modest uplift—perhaps $10 – $20 over the standard GM‑2100—seems plausible. The argument from @geesgshock that the price bump may be hard to justify stems from two points:

  1. Aftermarket bezel market – Third‑party steel bezels for the GA/GM‑2100 are widely available for under $30. Users can upgrade a base model themselves, which undercuts the value of a factory‑installed steel bezel.
  2. Brand dilution – Casio recently folded its metal‑covered models under the G‑Steel umbrella. Adding a “Luxury Black” sub‑line could blur the distinction between a true G‑Steel (full metal) and a partially metal watch, making the premium feel less earned.

If Casio wants to position the LXB models as a true premium offering, they may need to bundle extras—such as a higher‑grade sapphire crystal (the standard GM‑2100 uses mineral glass) or a longer warranty.

Who should consider these watches?

User type Why the LXB models might appeal
Minimalist fashion enthusiasts The all‑black version pairs with virtually any outfit and offers a sleek silhouette without the flash of a metal bracelet.
Collectors seeking rarity Limited‑run colourways often appreciate in secondary markets, especially when tied to a “Luxury Black” branding.
Everyday sport/watch users Retains the 200 m water resistance, lightweight feel, and durable steel bezel while adding a unique visual twist.
Budget‑conscious buyers May prefer to stick with the standard GM‑2100 and upgrade the bezel themselves, saving $20‑$30.

Bottom line

The leaked images give a clear glimpse of Casio’s next move: a black‑out CasiOak line that leans into a premium aesthetic without fully committing to a heavyweight metal case. If the price stays close to the current GM‑2100 range, the models could attract style‑focused users who appreciate the octagonal steel bezel but don’t need a full G‑Steel build. Should Casio add a sapphire crystal or other premium touches, the price could climb into the low‑$200 bracket, positioning the LXB series as a true step‑up within the CasiOak family.

Keep an eye on the official announcement in June, and watch the community forums for early pricing leaks. In the meantime, the standard Casio GA‑2100‑1A remains a solid baseline if you want the same core movement without the black‑out treatment.


Sources: Instagram leaker @geesgshock, Casio product databases, community pricing analysis.

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