Review on Casio G-Shock Mudman Multiband6 Japanese Model [GW-9300-1JF]: The Ultimate Rugged Timepiece by Michelle Wright

I know we can discuss the benefits of atomic timekeeping all day; but I've personally gotten so used to it that I would find it difficult to live without it. I've timed all my watches to the time of my G-Shock since I got my first one over 10 years ago. My first G-Shock was the MTG900DA-8V which still works except the auto light finally stopped working. It was my first watch to last more than a few months without breaking and I took serious abuse of this little fella. :) As soon as the backlight went out (probably because I always wash those G-Shock watches in the dishwasher) I found Mudman - it seemed like the perfect watch; except that it had no atomic timing. That's why I chose the GW9200-1/Riseman. Once again the Riseman has lasted several years without issue and I continue to use the dishwasher when it gets dirty. This led me to this Mudman watch. I recently noticed that the Japanese version of Mudman has an atomic timing feature, so I took the plunge - although it's an expensive watch, my Riseman still works great. Now that I've been using the Mudman for a few weeks, here's what I love about it: - The Mudman is the same strength and size as other G-Shock watches. I'm used to that - and I really, seriously abused her. (Personally, I think the Pathfinder clock is overrated, but it's perfect.) As I mentioned before, I'm a big fan of atomic timing, and Mudman doesn't disappoint. In fact, it seems to have better reception than previous models. I prefer the compass function to the altimeter built into Risemen. For my use it makes more sense. I love that the keys are protected from dirt and debris! This has been one of my few complaints about G-Shock watches and is why I often wash them in the dishwasher. The countdown timer is extremely useful. I will never have a watch without a timer again. I love that this watch shows either the date or world time right on the home screen. It's great for travel! (Just click the 'Adjust' button to switch between these two modes.) - The moon phase feature is cool. - Thermometer function is convenient for limited use; but you have to take the watch off your wrist for a few minutes before it's accurate. I often take my watch off when I'm out of favor or at the shooting range to closely monitor the temperature. The display is much sharper than my Riseman's, making it easier to read. The auto backlight is also slightly more responsive, which is nice. While I like the watch in general, there are always some things that aren't perfect: The instruction manual that came with this watch is written in Japanese. I was expecting this since it's a Japanese version; But without previous experience with G-Shock watches, it would be difficult to understand how it works. The world time function only works in one direction, making it difficult to use. In other words, you can go from Pacific to Mountain and Mean Time, but you can't go back. Instead, you have to go through all 24 time zones to get back to Pacific Time. (On the other hand, this allows for either full names or abbreviations for each time zone. Personally, I'd prefer being able to step back through the zones.) - The watch strap is a disappointment. This is carbon fiber (which can be seen on the back of the strap and on the kip). Unfortunately, it only has one locking hole, not the double ones like the Riseman, and there isn't enough hem at the end of the strap to keep the halter from slipping off the end. I'll probably stick with this strap for a while, but in the end I might go back to the Riseman strap as they seem compatible. In the end, I understand that this watch will not please everyone because of the cost. . However, if like me you want Mudman with atomic timing and no negative gauge, this is a great option! I highly recommend it if you are already thinking about it.