Casio returns to Hawkins with a dual release inspired by the Netflix‘s final season of Stranger Things, unveiling two limited-edition watches that fuse retro design, pop-culture mythology, and collectible craftsmanship. These pieces channel the unsettling energy of the Upside Down while honoring the franchise’s closing chapter.
This collaboration brings together G-SHOCK and Casio Vintage for a dual launch that merges pop culture with durable design. Both watches capture the eerie tension of the Upside Down while staying true to their identities.
This isn’t the first time Casio has leaned into nostalgia. The brand has long been associated with the 1980s aesthetic. However, this partnership feels different. It’s not just a retro revival. It’s a deliberate fusion of fiction and function.
The two models released here are distinct in form yet united by theme. They appeal to collectors who value storytelling and substance. They arrive as Stranger Things prepares to close the chapter on a generation.
The Casio Vintage AQ800EST1AER captures the series’ quiet unease. Its metallic case nods to 1980s minimalism. The steel bracelet has an ion-plated finish, giving it a subtle luster. At first glance, it appears to be a clean, digital dress watch. Look closer, and details emerge. Between four and five o’clock on the dial, a faint outline of the Demogorgon lurks in plain sight. Vein-like tendrils spread across the face, echoing Vecna’s creeping influence.
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The hour markers follow the distinctive Stranger Things lettering. The buckle is engraved with the number “001,” a direct reference to Henry Creel, the boy who became Vecna. Flip the watch over, and the show’s logo is etched into the case back. The collector-grade packaging is designed to evoke the series’ otherworldly atmosphere.
Technically, the AQ 800EST holds its own. It includes a second time zone display, a 1,100-second stopwatch accurate to one hour, and a daily alarm. The calendar runs automatically. Users can switch between 12- and 24-hour formats. Powered by a single battery, it promises up to three years of operation. Its acrylic crystal and ISO 22810 water resistance make it suitable for everyday wear, though not for deep submersion.
In contrast, the G-SHOCK DW-5600STT-1ER leans into resilience. It is a tool watch shaped by the chaos of the hallways at Hawkins Middle School. The iconic square silhouette remains intact. What changes is the mood. The red LED backlight mimics the pulsing glow of the Upside Down’s gateways. Vines crawl across the resin case and crystal surface, as if the world beyond is seeping through.
The buckle bears the number “011,” honoring Eleven. Her presence is further confirmed by the Stranger Things emblem, which is laser-engraved on the stainless steel case back. The box is also themed to mirror the inverted dimension, adding to the unboxing experience.
Beneath the dystopian styling is serious engineering. The DW 5600STT is shock-resistant and can withstand daily wear and tear. The Super Illuminator function ensures legibility in total darkness. It has a 24-hour chronograph, a countdown timer with auto repeat, multiple alarms, and hourly time signals. With water resistance reaching 20 bar, it is capable of withstanding pools and rainstorms. One battery powers the system for up to five years.
Both models will be released on December 2nd, 2025. The Casio Vintage edition retails for €129. The G-SHOCK version is priced at €149. Availability will be limited. They will appear at G-SHOCK stores, as well as select retailers. Production numbers are low, so early interest is expected.
What makes this release compelling is how precisely each model aligns with its lineage. The Casio Vintage piece feels like something Joyce Byers might wear. It’s restrained, yet haunted by hidden symbols. The G-SHOCK belongs on Mike Wheeler’s wrist after a night in the woods. It’s built to survive whatever the Upside Down throws at it.
