Casio G-SHOCK recently released their ‘Hidden Glow’ series, which consists of five models with a gray base to evoke dark and luminescent dials and white accents. One of them is the G-SHOCK GA-700HD.

G-SHOCK’s GA-700 series is one of the most prominent models if you’re looking for a large analog-digital watch that is sporty and rugged. Other styles are available, but the ‘Hidden Glow’ model is for those who want a monotone, glow-in-the-dark look.

The bezel and band are made with bio-based resin, which Casio says is produced using renewable organic resources. It has a matte finish but doesn’t have the softness of a fluoroelastomer. Everything about it exudes “toughness” both in looks and feel.

It’s shock resistant, has textured buttons, uses mineral glass, and has a 200m water resistance. You’ll most likely wear this watch during outdoor activities or DIY projects at home.

Like most G-SHOCK models, a lot is happening in the GA-700’s dial but that’s understandable given its features. It has a world timer with support for 31 time zones, a calendar, a stopwatch function, a timer, up to 5 daily alarms, and a hand shift feature (moves the hands out of the way for an unobstructed view of the digital display).

One of the main features of the ‘Hidden Glow’ series is illumination in the dark. Press the button at the bottom and the white LED between the 6 and 7 positions will light up. It’s called the Super Illuminator and is common in G-SHOCK watches and is just bright enough to glimpse the hands and know the time.

The ‘Hidden Glow’ part appears when you expose the dial to a bright light source (best if UV). Do that and the white dial will provide a green glow in the dark. Its peak brightness will only last a few seconds and gradually fade after a few minutes. It would have been nicer if the hands also glowed, like the other models in the series.

Luminous phosphorescent glowing solutions applied on watch dials are nothing new. However, for G-SHOCK to introduce an entire series for that feature gives the watch a new character. Design-wise, the gray color palette doesn’t attract much attention, but maybe that’s the point. It’s a stealthy watch, that is until the lights go out. Then you’ll realize a particular appreciation for the watch that is both nostalgic and new.

The Casio G-SHOCK GA-700HD-8A is priced at PHP 7,770. See the listing here. You can check the whole Hidden Glow series here.