Casio is a name synonymous with digital watches, affordable quartz innovations, and cult-favorite collections like the G-SHOCK and F-91W. For decades, Casio has been one of the pillars of quartz technology, often celebrated for its accuracy, toughness, and technological creativity. That’s why the arrival of the EFK-100 series, Casio’s first foray into mechanical automatic watches, is such a landmark moment. While most enthusiasts associate affordable mechanical craftsmanship with Seiko, Citizen, and Orient in Japan, Casio has now officially joined the conversation.

The EFK-100 Collection at a Glance

The EFK-100 collection introduces Casio’s first-ever self-winding mechanical watches under the Edifice line. These models are equipped with the tried-and-true Seiko NH35A automatic movement, feature sapphire crystals, and boast a sporty yet versatile design. With water resistance up to 100 meters and a transparent caseback, the watches deliver both practicality and refinement. Importantly, Casio has kept pricing accessible: models start at around €279, with the top-tier forged carbon limited edition coming in at €449.

The launch lineup includes three stainless steel variants and one limited-edition forged carbon version, offering a mix of classic and bold aesthetics to suit different tastes.

Model Breakdown

EFK-100D-2A (Blue Dial)

A sleek stainless steel model with a deep blue sunburst dial. This version balances sportiness and elegance, making it a versatile daily wear option. The blue dial reflects light beautifully and pairs well with the polished and brushed steel case.

EFK-100D-3A (Green Dial)

If you love a splash of color without going loud, the green dial variant is a sweet spot. The rich sunburst green shifts from forest to emerald under light, adding depth while staying tasteful. It keeps the same refined steel case and bracelet, and it’s a natural match for brown leather or a casual NATO if you like to switch straps.

EFK-100D-7A (White Dial)

For those who prefer a more understated look, the white dial version delivers crisp minimalism. With its clean layout and silver-tone markers, it’s an excellent choice for those who want a go-anywhere timepiece with casual sophistication.

EFK-100CD-1A (Carbon-Style Dial)

This variant features a dial that mimics the texture of forged carbon, giving the watch a motorsport-inspired vibe. It’s perfect for those who want something a bit more daring than the classic options.

EFK-100XPB (Forged Carbon)

The flagship of the collection, this model features an actual forged carbon case paired with a resin strap. The unique carbon patterns ensure no two pieces are identical, making it stand out. Its stealthy all-black design amplifies the sporty, high-tech character of the collection.

Inside the Watch: The Movement

At the heart of the EFK-100 collection is the Seiko NH35, a movement that’s become a workhorse in the affordable automatic watch world. Known for its reliability and ease of servicing, the NH35 offers a 41-hour power reserve, hacking seconds, and both automatic and manual winding capabilities. This choice makes sense for the brands first automatic release: it keeps costs down, offers a know and reliable movement, while still letting Casio test the waters of the automatic space.

Through the sapphire exhibition caseback, wearers can see the rotor and inner workings of the movement, a first for Casio. For those stepping into mechanical watches for the first time, this visual connection to the beating heart of the watch adds an extra layer of charm.

Design and Wearability

Casio has taken a thoughtful approach with the sizing of these watches. Most models measure around 39mm in diameter, with the forged carbon version coming in slightly larger at 40mm. This strikes a sweet spot for modern tastes: substantial enough for presence, yet comfortable for a wide range of wrist sizes.

The cases combine brushed and polished finishes, showcasing a level of refinement often seen in more expensive models. Sapphire crystals provide scratch resistance, and the 100 meters of water resistance means these are ready for everyday adventures.

On the wrist, the stainless steel versions carry a timeless versatility. The bracelet is solid, with a mix of polished center links and brushed outer links, giving off a refined yet sporty feel. Meanwhile, the forged carbon model on a urethane strap caters to those with an active lifestyle, offering lightness and comfort without sacrificing toughness.

Dial layouts are straightforward and functional: three hands with applied hour markers, a date at three o’clock, and luminescent treatment for low-light legibility. The motorsport influence is clear, especially in the carbon-style dials, but Casio has avoided overcomplication—these are clean, practical, and easy-to-read watches.

Market Context: Why This Move Makes Sense

Casio’s entry into mechanicals under the Edifice line initially caught many off guard, but in hindsight it fits the current watch landscape well. Mechanical watches have seen renewed interest among younger buyers, especially those seeking affordable alternatives as prices from legacy brands — most notably Seiko — continue climbing. Where an entry-level Seiko 5 once cost under $200, today even their most basic models often hover closer to $300–500.

This shift has created space for other Japanese makers: Citizen’s Tsuyosa has become a sub-$300 cult favorite, while Orient continues to deliver strong value with the Kamasu, Mako, and Bambino. At the same time, Chinese brands have aggressively targeted the budget mechanical segment with flashy specs, though concerns remain around long-term reliability and brand trust.

Here’s where Casio has a unique advantage. With its global reach, strong reputation for value, and deep retail presence, Casio can offer something entry-level enthusiasts have been waiting for: a trusted, widely available mechanical watch.

That said, early reactions to the EFK-100 suggest pricing remains a sticking point. At $350, the watch sits in a highly competitive bracket — above the “gateway” range that Casio could have dominated. Still, the debut has generated plenty of buzz, and with Casio’s scale and reputation, this could mark the start of a serious new chapter for the brand.

Pricing and Availability

The Casio EFK-100 collection is positioned as an accessible entry point into automatic watches without compromising on quality. Prices vary slightly depending on the specific colorway and strap options, but the collection generally falls in the €279–€449 range, making it an attractive option for enthusiasts looking for a mechanical watch from a trusted brand at a reasonable cost.

You can grab the EFK-100 from For You Bijouterie, which ships across Europe, with U.S. shipping available on request. Don’t forget to use code WRISTFINDS5 at checkout for 5% off your order.

Final Thoughts

The Casio Edifice EFK-100 Collection is more than just a new line of watches—it’s a statement. By introducing its first automatic timepieces, Casio has entered a space long dominated by rivals like Seiko, Citizen, and Orient. But Casio’s approach is distinct: blending the trusted build quality of Edifice with a proven Japanese mechanical movement, all while keeping prices remarkably accessible.

For enthusiasts, these watches represent a historic moment in Casio’s journey. For newcomers, they offer an inviting entry point into mechanical watch ownership without breaking the bank. With sapphire crystals, solid finishing, practical water resistance, and a reliable movement, the EFK-100 series strikes an impressive balance of value, style, and mechanical charm.

Casio EFK-100 – Specs

• Case Diameter: 39mm (40mm for XPB)
• Lug-to-lug: 43.5mm (45mm for XPB)
• Thickness: 12.5mm
• Movement: Seiko NH35A automatic
• Power Reserve: ~41 hours
• Case Material: Stainless steel or forged carbon (XPB)
• Crystal: Sapphire
• Water Resistance: 100 meters / 10 bar
• Dial Variants: Blue (2A), White (7A), Green (3A), Carbon-style (CD-1A), Forged Carbon Limited (XPB)
• Strap/Bracelet: Stainless steel or resin(XPB)
• MSRP: €279–€449