Casio’s new calculator watches will take you back to 6th grade math class
Why it matters: Casio has introduced a modern version of its iconic calculator watch, itself based on the Casio Mini personal calculator first released in the early 70s. The new creation is a blast from the past. It utilizes green text on a negative LCD, and a keypad with original fonts that are separated by grid lines. Even the mode button, colored red, is a nod to the calculator’s power indicator.
The watches’ calculator function can add, subtract, multiply, and divide up to eight digits. As for watch functions, you get dual time, an alarm, stopwatch functionality, and more. Casio said the watch’s band is made of bio-based resin, which should minimize the impact on the environment.
The wearable is water resistant and is good for up to five years of runtime on a single battery. It utilizes CR2016 coin cell batteries, which are readily available for just a few bucks.
Casio’s original personal calculator debuted in 1972, and cost $59.95. It featured a six-digit display, was a quarter the size of its competitors, and cost just a third of rival products. The calculator was an instant hit for Casio, selling a million units in the first 10 months on the market and more than six million units over the span of the series.
In 2008, the calculator earned the prestigious Future Technology Heritage designation from the National Museum of Nature and Science in Tokyo.
The Casio calculator watch no doubt holds a special place in the hearts of tech nerds of a certain age. Few things were cooler than having a calculator strapped to your wrist, and with a modern version now available, you can relive the 80s and 90s all over again.
The new Casio watches, models CA-53WB-1B, CA-53WB-3B, and CA-53WB-8B, are offered in black, blue / green, and ivory colorways, respectively. They are priced at a very reasonable $35.95, although it’s unclear exactly when they’ll be available to purchase. With any luck, they’ll be ready in time for the holidays.
