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Casio AE1200WHD-1A Review & Complete Guide
When it comes to functional digital watches, Casio is definitely one of the leaders and most well-known brands in the world.
Since the 80s and 90s, Casio has created digital watches that have proven to become iconic and appreciated all around the world. Interestingly enough, many of these designs still live on today, although in some cases reworked and refined.
Whilst watch enthusiasts tend to favor mechanical watches, there is just something special about throwing on a funky digital watch. Plus, in many cases, it can be more practical considering all their helpful functions. And in the case of the Casio AE1200WHD-1A, there are also times when you want to wear something affordable so that you don’t have to worry about getting scratches or damages. Oh, and by the way, the Casio AE1200WHD-1A has a price tag of about 20 USD.
With that said, you can’t have very high expectations, but the truth is that the Casio AE1200WHD-1A goes above all and any specifications and proves to be exceptional value for money. Despite its low price tag, it offers impressive value for money.
The watch is available in several different iterations, all of which begin with reference AE1200.
In this article, we are reviewing and looking closer at one of Casio’s most iconic digital watches, the Casio AE1200WHD-1A.
Casio AE1200WHD-1A Review
The Casio AE1200WHD-1A is a funky and unique digital watch packed with functions. It definitely has a retro feel to it and is robust and reliable. And if something would happen to it, it’s not the end of the world, as buying a new one is not much more expensive than having the battery replaced.
If you are looking for something different yet practical, this watch may be something for you.
Casio AE1200WHD-1A case
The Casio AE1200WHD-1A has a slightly rectangular case shape which is as taken directly from the 80s. The case has a diameter of 42mm and a length of 45mm, but bear in mind that due to the shape of the case, it will depend on how you measure it.
With that said, this watch is not insanely big, and its lightweight of only 50 grams, makes it sit comfortably on the wrist. The weight of the case can be attributed to the quartz movement but also its plastic/resin design. The only part of the watch made in metal is the bracelet and case back. The downside of the use of coated plastic material for the case is that it can get worn, easily acquire scratches, and get dents over time. But bear in mind its price.
The watch has 4 pushers on the sides of the case. Two pushers on the left side and two pushers on the right side of the case.
Sitting on top of the case is an acrylic crystal. The downside of this is of course that it can easily acquire scratches, but it is something we would expect for a price in this price range, and definitely digital such.
The case offers a water resistance of 10ATM, 100 meters/300 ft. This means it is suitable for swimming with, so this is a great thing about this watch considering its price.
Turning the watch around, you’ll find a stainless steel case back secured by four screws.
The watch consists of three layers. Firstly, we have the black plastic bezel, then the upper case layer which is made in plastic and silver painted. Lastly, the bottom case layer has a silver-painted plastic structure.
The lugs of the case are very small but stretch out from the case through a curvy design. On the top of the lugs, we have the text ”World time”. The place where the lugs are attached is 18mm, but the bracelet has a width of 24mm where the bracelet is attached.
Casio AE1200WHD-1A Dial
The dial of this watch is a rather interesting one as it is divided into several sections. These are liquid crystal displays, also known as LCDs. Most digital watches have one large LCD screen, but the fact that this one is divided into sections helps make each function easily distinguishable but also gives it greater depth.
The movement that powers this watch is the Casio 3299 Module. This has an accuracy of -/+30 seconds a month. As printed at 6 o’clock, this watch has 10-year battery life. Extremely impressive.
On the ”dial” of the watch, you’ll find text printed right next to each pusher. This is to help the user easily identify the functions of each pusher.
On the top left corner of the dial, we have a circular digital screen. This is an analog sub-dial, but it is designed to look like a radar. This interesting design feature really adds to the tool-like coolness nature of this watch.
The watch uses an orange backlight, which can be found in classic Casio watches. All screens of the watch are lit by this orange backlight which enables good legibility regardless of the surrounding lights. The light is activated for 2 seconds when you press the button.
The dial of the watch displays the following a digital watch face which works the same way an analog watch does, a world map with a time zone, and an alarm indicator. The watch has a 4-hour timer as well as a stopwatch function. With this watch, you can set a second time display, which is set to your home time zone.
Casio AE1200WHD-1A bracelet
The watch is presented on a stainless steel bracelet, which is an interesting contrast to the otherwise light plastic case.
Considering the price of this watch and the fact that it is rattly and has a compromised feeling quality, it is ok. It’s important to note that this bracelet is not terrible, but it is what you can expect at this price.
However, the bracelet tapers which improves comfort. The good thing about this bracelet is that it matches the design of the watch well and has a clean look.
The bracelet is single-fold and has a dual pusher clasp.
Specifications
- Crystal: Acrylic
- Lug width: 18mm
- Thickness: 12.5mm
- Water resistance: 10ATM (100 m /330 ft)
- Case back: Solid
- Crystal: Acrylic
- Diameter: 42.1mm (depends on how you measure)
- Length: 45mm (depends on how you measure)
- Movement: Quartz (battery powered
- Functions: 4 time zones, world time, stopwatch, timer,
5 alarms, auto calendar, LED light
Conclusion
The Casio AE1200WHD-1A is a funky retro-inspired timepiece that is both cool on the wrist but also extremely practical thanks to all its functions. Its 80s vibes make it perfect for someone who wants something unique and interesting.
It’s durable, reliable, and affordable. The watch is well-built, but shall anything happen to it, it’s not the end of the world, considering its affordable price.
The Casio AE1200WHD-1A is available to order on Amazon.
Why is it ok for Casio to borrow a drill design but not for lnvicta to do the same with a Rolex? I don’t understand this double standard…..but l love the Casio so much l have 3 l also have a couple of lnvicta pro divers as well they are both fantastic watches. But come on,fairs fair isn’t it?
Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
We definitely agree!
Kind regards,
Millenary Watches
I’m glad that someone else noticed the same discrepancy as l did the snob watch community embraced the Casio/seiko hommage(as l have,l adore the Casio) yet crucified Invicta (while choosing to ignore many other Rolex copies) and l am baffled as to why,could it be that the pro diver is an embarrasingly good watch that may threaten the Swiss elite but the Casio is no threat to them at all?and l live in australia where the name lnvicta has no stigma to it at all…when l wear my lnvicta all you may hear is “nice dive watch”-Robyn Griffin,Sydney
Thank you very much for sharing your thoughts, Robyn!
Kind regards,
Millenary Watches
Great review! I’m considering purchasing the Casio AE1200WHD-1A as my next watch, and this post has provided me with a lot of valuable information. I appreciate the detailed analysis of the watch’s features and performance, as well as the pros and cons section. It’s helped me make a more informed decision when shopping for a new watch. Thanks for sharing!