Casio Unveils New W-738H Digital Watches with 10-Year Battery Life

Casio is officially expanding its digital watch lineup with the new W-738H series, set to launch in Japan this May alongside the latest G-Shock models. The Japanese timekeeping giant introduces two models in this series: the W-738H-1AJF with a black finish and the W-738H-3AJF featuring a khaki-green casing. Both watches maintain the practical functionality Casio is known for while introducing subtle design updates that differentiate them from their predecessors.

The most noticeable change comes in the form factor, with the new W-738H series adopting a square case measuring 47 x 42.8 x 13.5 mm. This represents a refined design compared to the W-735H model while maintaining a similar footprint that fits comfortably on most wrists. The watches feature typical light-background displays with clear, legible digits that Casio has perfected over decades of producing digital timepieces.

Functionality remains a strong suit for the W-738H series. Both models include dual time capability, allowing users to track two different time zones simultaneously—a practical feature for travelers or those coordinating with contacts across the globe. The stopwatch function offers impressive precision with 1/100-second measurement capabilities, along with useful features like elapsed time, split time, and first/second place time recording. The auto-start functionality adds convenience for timing events that begin at regular intervals.

Additional practical features include a 24-hour countdown timer, daily alarm, hourly time signal, and a full auto-calendar that extends through 2099—ensuring users won't need to adjust the date for decades. Perhaps most impressive is the claimed 10-year battery life, which significantly reduces the frequency of battery replacements and makes these watches exceptionally low-maintenance timepieces.

The watches boast 100 m (10 bar) water resistance, making them suitable for swimming and snorkeling but not deep-sea diving. A unique feature in this price range is the vibration alarm, which provides a subtle but noticeable alert without disturbing others with sound.

Priced at 7,700 yen each in Japan (approximately $50 USD), these watches offer exceptional value for their feature set. The affordability positions them as accessible timepieces for students, professionals, and casual wearers alike.

Global availability appears imminent, with both models already listed at European retailers and on Casio UK's official website at £45. Reports suggest a June 2026 release for European and UK markets, indicating Casio is rolling out these new models across multiple regions shortly after the Japanese debut.

For those interested in purchasing, pre-orders are already available through Casio Japan's official website. The combination of long battery life, practical features, and reasonable pricing makes the W-738H series a compelling option in the entry-level digital watch market, continuing Casio's tradition of producing reliable, functional timepieces that don't break the bank.