I never really got how Casio could sell the G-Shock in Japan. A lot of their watches reminds me of the stuff I grew up wearing, like the iconic Timex Ironman, which basically resembled a hideous plastic stopwatch strapped to the wrist.

So in these past few years, every time that I’d see an ad campaign for a new G-Shock model, I’d shake my head in disbelief that Casio could sell such a thing. How, in the land of Louis Vuitton handbags and Prada sneakers, could the people of Japan accept such an unsightly 1980’s inspired accessory?

Well, to begin with, streetwear in general has always shown a fascination for military inspired gear and high-spec outdoor apparel. The G-Shock series timepieces easily fit such categories, and with Japan’s insanely diverse fashion tastes, the watch has tapped a surprisingly large market that is accepting of its muscular, almost cheesy looks.

Further contributing to the G-Shock’s success is Casio’s relentless release schedule. Debuting special edition G-Shocks on a seemingly monthly basis and refreshing the entire line biannually, the company has basically turned the G-Shock into the Pokemon of wristwatch collectables. Since its debut in 1983, the Casio G-Shock has continued to amass a worldwide legion of fans that buy, sell and chat about anything related to the brand.

But clever marketing and rising fashion trends aren’t the only driving force behind the line’s overwhelming success. People love G-Shock watches because they offer something unique.

Famed for its use among Special Forces units around the world, the G-Shock has gained a reputation for being able to withstand all sorts of harsh climates and extreme conditions. From soldiers to schoolgirls, wearers of the watch know that their timepiece has been tested in all sorts of extreme situations.

Water resistant to 200 meters, capably of surviving a 10-meter drop, and featuring a minimum 10-year battery life, the G-Shock is hardly a toy watch for snotty nosed brats. But having said that, you may want to think twice about wearing one on formal occasions. Well, unless of course you’re on-call for the Delta Force!

Citizen presents their finest quartz driven mechanical watch. Normally costing thousands more for a time piece of this design, Citizen has managed to price this affordably, starting at around $1500. Each watch from this collection has been impeccably handcrafted and features a distinct look. Nowadays, it is rare to find a mechanical watch this cheap and of this quality. Import this watch from 21 Jewels in Singapore, or Higuchi San in Japan.

I like the day and night indicator. I know there’s a fancy word for it, but the rest of my browser windows are loading porn. The funny Moon Man looks trapped inside the watch, but every night he gets a chance to peer out at your dresser and wonder why anyone would need the entire line of Axe deodorant. You’d think that by getting ‘roof duty’ at your job everyday would be a clear enough message from your co-workers. Yes, you’re watching for airplanes. Even terrorists hate the Sharper Image.