Review of Casio G-Shock DW-5000SL Spike Lee

This watch brings me right back to the 1980’s.  Not only is it a reissue of the original G Shock DW-5000, it is also a signature model by filmmaker Spike Lee who made his big spash in the late 80’s with “School Daze” and “Do the Right Thing”.  And that’s the double truth, Ruth.

Its so easy to go overboard on G-Shocks.  They are relatively inexpensive and there are enough colors and styles to match every mood and wardrobe choice.  So to keep myself in some control, I choose carefully and try to select models that are special in some way.  Can’t say it keeps me in control all of the time, but its been working OK so far.

So what makes the DW-5000SL special.  Other than being endorsed by Spike Lee, it is also in the 25th Anniversary collection for G Shock and features a full stainless steel case as opposed to the plastic case typically seen on current models.  So the DW-50000 is a great way to get the looks and construction of a vintage G-Shock, but also get the special touches of a Limited Edition Model.

The dial of the 5000SL is almost identical to that of its predecessor.  There are a few minor differences, but the characteristic brick wall frame with red trim is the same.

The bezel is shaped like today’s 5600 with the little bevels flanking the letters, although the color of the letters appears to be the same light gray that I’ve seen in pictures of the original 5000.

The case back is nice.  Six point screw back full stainless steel with Spike Lee’s signature in the center.  Check out those lugs.  Yep, stainless steel.  Nice and solid.

I recently asked the members of a G Shock forum to list the G-Shock signature models from mainstream celebrities and I was surprised to think that Spike Lee model and Eric Clapton model were probably the most globally recognized celebrities to have endorsed a model with their signature.  If there are others, please let me know.  I’d be interested in learning more.

The limited edition features to this watch include a special tin and box featuring Spike Lee’s 40 Acres and a Mule production company logo along with his signature and a street map of Brooklyn.  The backlight of the watch also features the same logo which I think looks pretty cool.

There’s not much more to say about this model.  Uses the basic, no frills 1545 module.  Basic strap with an Indonesia stainless steel buckle. 

I did happen to find this cool video on youtube showing the daily adventure of Spike’s accidentally dropped G-Shock.  Worth watching.  Those G-Shocks sure are tough.