INTRODUCING: The G-Shock G-LIDE tells both time and tide, surfers rejoice

Zach Blass

While there is certainly something emotional and special that is particular to mechanical timepieces, there are just certain things they will never be able to do as well as digital watches. Case in point: the new GBX100 models are the latest additions to the G-Shock G-LIDE lineup of sports watches, a known favourite among some of the world’s top surfers and ocean adventurers. 

These three new models come in a familiar robust G-Shock package … but with a twist. These models, in particular, have the ability to display information required by surfers, jet-skiers, boat barons, sea captains, and even those with a house near the ocean who may need to be prepared for possible flooding. 

What am I getting at here? The G-LIDE lineup stands out from other G-Shock models through its ability to give the wearer (whoever they may be) high tide and low tide times and levels. Through an easy-to-use mobile application, it is a simple process to select one of approximately 3300 locations and tide points around the globe. Its wide display and high-definition MIP (Memory In Pixel) LCD ensures absolute legibility for standard functions like Tide Graph, Moon Data, high tide and low tide times, and sunrise and sunset times. This watch will not only monitor and display information about the current water conditions, it will even allow you to monitor what you are doing in the water. The G-LIDE also provides the wearer with functionality built for measuring training elements, such as distance, speed, pace, lap and pitch, in turn providing plenty of support for surfers and swimmers who face new challenges around the globe. 

In addition to powerful functions, these new models also incorporate advances in design, structure and materials to create a new, yet familiar, wristwatch. The bezels of these models are made of both resin and metal, which work together to withstand the impacts above and below the surface of the water. The bezel has a stainless steel cover with a hairline vertical satin finish that blends aesthetic elegance with toughness. Resin pusher guards protect against impact from any direction. This extends to a button guard at 6 o’clock, which helps maintain the outstanding G-Shock level of protection users have come to love and respect. As if its case form and functionality did not scream that it was meant for the ocean, even the strap design has been thought out to consider the needs of ocean adventurers. The end of the soft urethane band at 6 o’clock has slits to allow the draining of water and sweat for improved comfort as well as prevent sweat, water, dirt and grime from building up on the wrist and caseback of the watch.

Getting back to the basics, the G-LIDE comes in a 50.9mm x 46.0mm x 14.7mm case and weighs only 66g, which really caters to water activities. The (approximate) battery life is 2 years, powered by its CR2032 battery, which can vary based on how often one activates the backlit LED display that G-Shock is known for.

Pricing and availability of the G-Shock G-LIDE

The RRP of this watch is $160 USD, making this a tempting offering for those who regularly visit the ocean or who remain curious about its movements.