Casio is taking its expertise in watches to a whole new (and smaller) level with the CRW-001-1JR—a ring that tells the time. Created to celebrate the brand’s 50th anniversary in the watchmaking business, this ring isn’t a smart device but a nostalgic nod to Casio’s iconic digital watches.
A Watch… But for Your Finger
The CRW-001-1JR is essentially a miniaturized wristwatch designed to fit snugly on your finger. It features a classic six-segment LCD display that shows hours, minutes, and seconds. Functionality-wise, it packs in a stopwatch, backlight, alarm, and date features, controlled by tiny buttons on the side. It’s a fun and quirky piece of wearable tech, though notably, it lacks Casio’s signature calculator feature—a logical omission given the space constraints.
Premium Design with a Catch
Crafted from a single piece of metal through injection molding, the CRW-001-1JR exudes a sleek, premium look. However, this approach comes with a limitation: it’s only available in a US size 10.5. For anyone whose fingers don’t fit that size, Casio provides silicone adapters to ensure a comfortable fit.
This contrasts with Timex’s approach to wearable rings, which uses a flexible band to accommodate a range of sizes.
What It’s Not: A Smart Ring
Despite its wearable nature, the CRW-001-1JR isn’t a “smart” ring. Unlike competitors like the Oura Ring or Samsung’s Galaxy Ring, it doesn’t track steps, monitor your heart rate, or offer fitness insights. Instead, it stays true to Casio’s roots, focusing solely on telling time—something it does with style and simplicity.
Durability and Price
The CRW-001-1JR offers a battery life of up to two years, with a replaceable battery that’s easy to swap out. Additionally, the ring is fully waterproof, making it durable for everyday wear.
Available in Japan for ¥19,800 (approximately $128), the CRW-001-1JR is a unique piece of tech. While it won’t rival today’s health-focused smart rings, it’s a fun celebration of Casio’s 50 years in the watch game—and a nod to fans of retro design.
Would you rock a time-telling ring?