Casio, known for its iconic digital watches, is taking a bold step into the world of wearable tech with the introduction of its first-ever smart ring. The new device, the CRW-001-1JR, celebrates Casio’s 50th anniversary in the digital watch business, and it’s packed with innovative features that set it apart from traditional smartwatches and fitness trackers. However, it also takes a minimalist approach, focusing on simple functionality without the usual health and fitness tracking features found in many modern wearables.
A Tiny Digital Watch on Your Finger
Unlike most smart rings, which typically focus on fitness monitoring, Casio’s CRW-001-1JR is more of a functional digital watch shrunk down into a wearable ring. Measuring just under an inch in size, this smart ring incorporates a retro six-segment LCD display that shows hours, minutes, and seconds—similar to the digital watches that made Casio famous decades ago. The small, yet sleek, screen offers additional features such as a stopwatch, the ability to display the current date, and even the time in another time zone.
One of the most standout aspects of the CRW-001-1JR is its alarm system. Instead of a traditional sound, the ring will flash the display as a visual alarm—a unique and subtle way to alert the wearer. It also has a built-in light to illuminate the display, making it easier to read in low-light conditions.
The ring is powered by a single, replaceable battery that Casio claims will last about two years, making it a relatively low-maintenance device compared to other wearables that require frequent charging. The CRW-001-1JR is also waterproof, adding an extra layer of durability for users who might want to wear it in various environments, from the gym to the pool.
Design and Fit: A Stylish but Fixed Size
While the CRW-001-1JR impresses with its tech, it has some limitations when it comes to fit. Unlike other smart rings that offer adjustable bands or stretchable designs, Casio’s smart ring is fixed at a US size 10.5. To accommodate smaller fingers, the company includes a pair of spacers, allowing users to adjust the fit for greater comfort. However, if your fingers are larger than a size 10.5, you’ll either need to find an alternative ring or adjust the fit with custom modifications.
The ring’s casing and bezel are made from polished stainless steel, giving it a sleek, high-quality finish. Casio has employed a metal injection molding process to craft the ring from powdered metal, ensuring durability and an intricate design that mirrors the look of its classic digital watches. This attention to detail highlights Casio’s dedication to maintaining its signature design while introducing a fresh twist.
A Functional Ring for Digital Watch Lovers
Casio’s new digital ring watch is a far cry from the fitness-focused wearables dominating the market today. There’s no heart rate monitor, step counter, or calorie tracker—features common in many smart rings on the market. Instead, the CRW-001-1JR offers a compact and stylish way to check the time, set a stopwatch, or receive a discreet visual alarm. It’s a functional fashion statement for those who appreciate the nostalgia of digital watches but want something more compact and unique than traditional timepieces.
The release of the CRW-001-1JR follows Casio’s previous venture into ring design, which included a series of non-functional ring watches inspired by the brand’s most iconic digital models. This new version, however, delivers a fully functional wearable that combines the charm of Casio’s vintage watches with the convenience of modern technology. The CRW-001-1JR is set to launch in Japan this December at a price of ¥19,800 (around $128).
A Future of More Compact Wearables?
With the CRW-001-1JR, Casio is carving out a niche in the growing wearable tech market by offering a simpler alternative to the more complex and fitness-centric devices available today. While it may not appeal to those looking for advanced health tracking or connectivity features, it’s a solid option for digital watch enthusiasts who want a more discreet, everyday wearable that blends nostalgia with practicality.
As wearables continue to evolve, Casio’s introduction of a miniaturized digital watch ring raises the possibility of even more compact, function-first designs in the future. Could we see a calculator ring or even a tiny game controller ring to celebrate future milestones? For now, the CRW-001-1JR offers a unique glimpse into what wearable technology could look like when pared down to its simplest, most elegant form.
As wearables continue to diversify, Casio’s smart ring offers a fun, retro-inspired addition to the growing world of tech accessories. For those who appreciate simplicity, style, and functionality, this ring could be a perfect blend of classic Casio design with a modern wearable twist.