Ibe's idea was initially approved by his boss, but he still needed to test the watch's durability from an engineering standpoint. He started by focusing on the core component of the watch, called a module, and quickly realized that cushioning was crucial in protecting a wristwatch when dropped. After months of testing, Ibe came up with the idea of covering the timepiece with parts made of rubber and metal to absorb shocks.
Finally, after eight months of trial and error, Ibe discovered
that suspending the module in a ball-like structure might work. This discovery
led to the birth of the G-Shock, which hit the market on April 12, 1983. The
watch was almost twice as thick as ordinary ones, but Ibe decided to make it
appear slim by adopting a black-only model.
Despite its innovative design, annual sales of G-Shock watches
in Japan remained flat and as low as 10,000 units until fiscal 1990. However,
sales of the model started picking up after an unexpected development.
The G-Shock's popularity skyrocketed when Ibe discovered that construction workers in Japan had started using the watch because of its durability and shock resistance. This development opened up a whole new market for the G-Shock, and it quickly became popular with people who needed a watch that could withstand tough environments.
Today, the G-Shock is one of the most popular watch brands in
the world, and its toughness and durability have made it a favorite among
outdoor enthusiasts, athletes, and military personnel.
The story of the G-Shock is a testament to the power of
perseverance and innovation. From a simple idea to a worldwide phenomenon, the
G-Shock has become a symbol of toughness, durability, and style. It has been
worn by athletes, adventurers, and even astronauts. But what's next for the
G-Shock? With advances in technology and new materials being developed every
day, it's exciting to think about what the future holds for this iconic
timepiece. Will it continue to evolve and push the boundaries of what a watch
can be? Only time will tell.
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