You might love your smartwatch for all the detailed information it gives you, from health alerts to news to weather data – and, of course, the time. But don’t these annoying and incessant notifications annoy you? Maybe you find yourself fiddling with the device’s controls more than you’d like. Having to charge it all the time can also be annoying, right? For all their benefits, smartwatches aren’t perfect and it’s reasonable that someone would want to forgo another screen in close proximity at any time. In fact, recent data from Casio suggests that a growing number of people are turning to its simple, classic watches that echo watch designs from the ’80s.
In its recent fourth-quarter results for the fiscal year ending March 2026, the Japanese technology company reported net revenue of 68.3 billion yen (approximately $429 million), as well as a strong 163% overall increase in operating profits compared to the previous year. These impressive numbers are largely due to the success of its Casio watches, including watches like the A159 (pictured above) and the MTP-1302, both of which sport the aesthetic of the company’s watches from the ’80s – some of which might actually do more than you might expect, like set alarms and display calendars. Modern versions of these classic-looking gadgets appeal to buyers with their affordability, simplicity and stylish retro look, especially when compared to smartwatches.
These Casio watches are simpler and more economical
A quick look at online marketplaces shows just how vibrant the general market for retro gadgets still is. Indeed, this vivacity could very well be one of the reasons why Casio relaunched some of its classic watches from the ’80s. Their popularity is partly due to the fact that, compared to smartwatches, classic Casio models – and others like them – are simpler to use. And, with a lighter feature set, they’re less likely to waste valuable time with distracting interfaces and apps.
They’re also affordable: the Casio A159 and MTP-1302 watches retail at Walmart for around $29 and $66, respectively. Conversely, Apple’s cheapest smartwatch, the Apple Watch SE 3, starts at $249. Thanks to the affordable price of Casio watches, you are less likely to worry about damaging or losing them. Best of all, though, is the cargo room. Most smartwatches need a power boost every one or two days, while the Casio A159 can run for seven years – yes, seven – on a CR2016 battery. The MTP-1302 is no slouch either and can run for three years on an SR626SW battery.
Casio is a classic, beloved brand with retro appeal
Simplicity and affordability are just two features that make classic Casio watches attractive. But they have another, more culturally relevant advantage that works in their favor: the cool factor. Their bold, eye-catching retro designs stand out in a sea of ​​screen-based smartwatches, and they also follow a broader design trend in which analog objects and digital-first technologies are making a resurgence in youth culture.
Many of Casio’s classic watch designs look great on their own, but their appearances in popular shows and movies over the years have also helped galvanize them as style icons in the watch space. Take Casio’s iconic calculator watch, the Casio CA-53W (pictured above). The watch was worn by Walter White in the hit series “Breaking Bad”, as well as by the Joker in Christopher Nolan’s 2008 Batman film “The Dark Knight”. Notably, an early version of the CA‑53W also appeared on Marty McFly’s wrist in the 1985 hit film “Back to the Future.” In the ’80s, however, the watch was considered cool for a different reason: calculators on watches were pretty advanced then.
With their retro digital charm, these Casio watches seem more personal than the glass-fronted smartwatches that dominate today. Wearing a classic digital watch like a Casio also marks the wearer as someone who appreciates earlier, simpler technologies. For some people opting for a Casio, the style factor may even outweigh the practicality factor, given that it’s been a fashion staple for decades now. The icing on the cake of wearing a Casio on your wrist? This can be a great talking point at parties.
