To satisfy my curiousity about Casio’s Oceanus line, I purchased one of their new sporty models, the PCW-500 Cachalot. There’s been some interest in this model on the forums, so I thought it would be appropriate to share some brief impressions.

This watch is flashy. Shiny highlights on the dial, bezel and bracelet are constantly catching and redirecting light back at you as you are viewing the dial. This watch is very different than Casio’s main icon, the G-Shock.

The second thing you’ll notice about the cachalot is the weight. It’s surprisingly light; even for a titanium model. With a 45mm case width it’s not a small watch either.

The crystal’s anti-reflective coating has an icy blue and purpleish hue and the electric blue Oceanus wave logo and second hand accentuate the color as the reflections dance around the dial.
Like waves in the ocean, the case has a liquid curvy quality to it. Even the presentation box carries this theme with its flowing almost wave-like shape. There is no crown to sign, but the Oceanus logo is etched in the top right pusher. Check out the Oceanus video here to get a good “feel” about what this watch is like.
The word Cachalot translates into Sperm Whale; a creature known for the extreme depths in which it dives for prey. The 200M water resistance rating and dive bezel play into and support this marine mammal association. The bezel has a matt graphite finish very similar to what Orient uses on their 300M diver. It operates unidirectionally with smooth one minute clicks. Surfaces on the case and bracelet alternate between matte and polished finishes. The bracelet is supple with an exceptionally large and comfortable hidden push button release. The center links are raised with polished bevelled edges. This bracelet would not look out of place on a more expensive Swiss watch.

Those used to the typical Seiko diver lume will probably be disappointed with what is presented here. Although the lume is initially very bright, it fades quickly.
The 5 motor 5007 solar powered module in this watch has 5 band radio reception, world time capability, stopwatch and countdown yacht timer functionality. The case back is elegantly held in place by 4 gun metal finished phillips head screws.

If the Oceanus line interests you, keep an eye out on the products. Casio is committed to this line and has been aggressive in constantly updating, improving and positioning these watches in the marketplace, and they are interesting alternatives to some of the high end MRG line.