There are some items that transcend trends without ever going out of style. The Casio Vintage watch is one of them. First introduced in the 1980s, this rectangular stainless-steel digital watch has been worn by generations of high school students, engineers, and amateur athletes. It could have remained a nostalgic memento, but instead it has become a global fashion phenomenon.
The resurgence of digital retro gained momentum in the mid-2010s, driven by the streetwear trend and younger generations’ fondness for the aesthetics of the ’80s and ’90s. Celebrities have worn it prominently, from Rosalía to Timothée Chalamet, from Justin Bieber to Kendall Jenner. Fashion designers have paired it with luxury outfits. Designers have released it as part of capsule collections. The result: the Casio Vintage has gone from your grandfather’s dusty drawer to the windows of the trendiest concept stores in Paris, Tokyo, and New York.
What makes the Casio Vintage so universally appealing is a simple equation: a clean, no-frills design; a rock-solid build; battery life that lasts for years; and a price that never exceeds 120 euros for the most sophisticated models. It doesn’t try to be a smartwatch. It doesn’t aim to do anything other than tell the time accurately, for years on end, without ever breaking a sweat. That’s exactly what millions of wearers are looking for today.
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Why has the Casio Vintage been such a hit for 40 years?
The enduring popularity of the Casio Vintage is no accident. It is the result of a set of intrinsic qualities that few watches in this price range can claim.
A design that hasn't aged a bit
The rectangular stainless steel case, the digital dial with its LCD numerals, the integrated metal mesh band: these elements have remained virtually unchanged since the 1980s. And that is precisely why they still work today. The Casio Vintage isn’t a watch that seeks to charm with flowing curves or mechanical complications. Its aesthetic is geometric, straightforward, almost brutal in its simplicity. It withstands all trends because it follows none of them.
Reliability as a Promise
Casio has built its reputation on watches that can withstand anything. The Vintage line is no exception. The stainless steel case withstands the bumps and knocks of everyday life. The Japanese quartz movement offers an accuracy of plus or minus 30 seconds per month, which is more than enough for 99% of uses. Water resistance, typically between 30 and 50 meters, protects against rain, splashes, and hand washing. Nothing spectacular, but everything you need.
A price that makes access more widespread
With prices ranging from 38 to 100 euros for models in the Vintage collection, Casio positions its watches as accessories accessible to everyone. This isn’t a cynical market strategy—it’s a philosophy. The Japanese brand has always believed that a watch should be a functional object, not a status symbol reserved for an elite few. It is this balance between price, design, and durability that has earned the loyalty of entire generations of wearers.
The Return of Digital Retro
Since 2016, pop culture has been bringing back the digital aesthetic of the 1980s and 1990s in a big way. Pixelated LCD screens, digital typefaces, rectangular cases: everything the watch industry had consigned to the past has become a generational symbol and a style statement. In this context, the Casio Vintage didn’t need to reinvent itself. It was already exactly what the fashion world was asking for.
The Casio Vintage Collection Families You Should Know About
The Casio Vintage collection is not a single model. It is a collection of distinct lines, each with its own characteristics, design, and target audience. Here are the main families you should know about.
A168 / A158 Line: The Iconic Rectangular Unisex Model
This is the most recognizable design in the collection. It features a classic rectangular case, a steel mesh band, and a 100% digital display. The A168WA comes in silver, while the A158 is available in gold or two-tone finishes. These are the models that launched the global popularity of Casio Vintage in the ’80s, and they remain the best-sellers in the line. They’re unisex, worn by both men and women.
LA670 Line: The Mini Slim Style for Women
The LA670 retains the rectangular design of the line, but in a smaller, slimmer, and more delicate format. Designed for slender wrists, it is often available in gold or rose gold finishes, with slightly more intricate details. It is the quintessential vintage Casio watch for women and is often worn layered with thin bracelets or cuffs.
AQ Series: the anadigit format (analog hands + digital display)
The AQ series combines a classic analog display with hands and a secondary digital screen. This "anadigit" format allows you to read the time instantly at a glance, while retaining digital functions (alarm, stopwatch, calendar). The case is larger, often round or slightly oval. It’s an excellent compromise for wearers who want the Casio spirit in a more conventional format.
B640 Edgy Line: The chronograph design with sharp angles
The B640 is the most contemporary interpretation of the Vintage collection. Its case with sharper angles, its dial featuring an integrated chronograph, and its black or two-tone finishes give it a bolder character. It’s designed for those who want Casio’s retro spirit but with a more urban, assertive look. Perfect with casual or streetwear outfits.
A1000 Series: The High-End Vintage Model
The A1000 features the iconic rectangular case but in a premium version: meticulous finishes, cutout details on the dial, and square gold hour markers on a silver or rose gold background. It’s slightly thicker and heavier in the hand, giving it an added presence on the wrist. This is the Casio Vintage watch for those who want a little more character without sacrificing the spirit of the collection.
The 6 Must-Have Casio Vintage Models for 2026
Here is a selection of the six most representative models from the Casio Vintage collection available at Club de la Montre. For each watch: key technical specifications, an honest assessment of its positioning, and who it’s really designed for.
Casio Vintage Iconic A168WA-1YES
- Rectangular silver-colored stainless steel case
- Illuminator Backlit Digital Display
- Integrated steel link bracelet
- Water resistance: 30 m
- Functions: alarm, stopwatch, perpetual calendar
The A168WA-1YES is the Casio Vintage in its purest form. In silver and black, it remains strictly true to the line’s origins: no unnecessary additions, just the rectangular case, the mesh band, and the easy-to-read digital display. The Illuminator backlight is a welcome feature in dimly lit environments. Priced at 38 euros, it’s the ideal entry point into the Casio Vintage universe. It’s suitable for both men and women and goes with just about anything.
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Casio Vintage Iconic A159WGEA-1EF
- Rectangular stainless steel case in black and gold
- Digital display with backlighting
- Integrated two-tone steel link bracelet
- Water resistance: 30 m
- Functions: alarm, stopwatch, perpetual calendar, world time
The A159WGEA-1EF takes the vintage aesthetic a step further with its black-and-gold color combination. This two-tone finish gives it a more assertive, almost opulent look for a watch in this price range. It’s a popular choice for sophisticated streetwear looks, paired with dark clothing or metallic accessories. The two-tone mesh bracelet is its standout feature: it catches the light and makes an instant visual impact. A unisex watch that leans toward a bold, confident style.
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Casio Vintage Mini LA670WEGA-9EF
- Mini rectangular gold-plated steel case, slim design
- Digital display with backlighting
- Integrated gold-plated steel link bracelet
- Water resistance: 30 m
- Functions: alarm, stopwatch, perpetual calendar
The LA670WEGA-9EF is the quintessential women’s model in the Vintage collection. Its miniaturized case and all-gold finish make it a delicate, highly wearable watch that pairs naturally with feminine looks: layered with thin bracelets, slipped onto a wrist with a cuff, or worn with a dress or an oversized sweater. Despite its compact size, it retains all the digital functions of the line. At 60 euros, it’s one of the most compelling offerings in the LA670 line.
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Casio Vintage AQ-230A-1DMQYES
- Round case, analog-digital display (hands + digital display)
- Simultaneous analog and digital display
- Silver-Plated Steel Chain Bracelet
- Water resistance: 30 m
- Functions: analog time, alarm, stopwatch, calendar
The AQ-230A is an entry-level model in the Casio Vintage line for those who appreciate the readability of an analog dial but don’t want to give up digital features. This “anadigit” design—combining hands and an LCD display—is rare in the Vintage collection and offers a unique alternative to purely rectangular cases. It’s particularly well-suited for wearers accustomed to classic watches who want to embrace the Casio style without completely breaking with their usual preferences.
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Casio Vintage Edgy B640WB-1BEF
- Rectangular black steel case, sharp corners, edgy design
- Digital display with built-in stopwatch
- Two-tone black and silver steel link bracelet
- Water resistance: 30 m
- Functions: chronograph, alarm, calendar, backlight
The B640WB-1BEF is the Casio Vintage model for those who want a little more. Its “Edgy” line features a more angular, streamlined design, with a black finish that gives it a more contemporary look. The built-in chronograph is a practical feature that’s useful in everyday life. It’s aimed at men or anyone looking for a retro watch with a bolder, more urban style. Available in black and silver, it pairs equally well with casual and semi-formal outfits.
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Casio Vintage Iconic Premium A1000D-7EF
- Rectangular silver stainless steel case with a premium finish
- Gold square hour markers on the dial, signature design
- Digital display with LED backlighting
- High-quality stainless steel link bracelet
- Water resistance: 30 m; full multi-time zone functions
The A1000D-7EF is the flagship model of the Vintage collection. It retains the iconic rectangular shape but features meticulous attention to detail: the square gold hour markers on the dial, the high-quality finish of the mesh bracelet, and the slightly heavier feel in the hand. At 100 euros, it stays true to Casio’s tradition of being affordable and unpretentious, yet it clearly offers a noticeable step up in quality. It’s the Casio Vintage watch for those who want to stay true to the spirit of the collection while giving a gift that makes a statement.
View the watch →Comparison Chart of the 6 Casio Vintage Models
To help you easily choose based on your budget, style, and preferences, here’s a comparison of the six watches at a glance.
| Reference | Price | Style | Format | Water resistance | For whom |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A168WA-1YES | 38 € | Understated, timeless silver | Rectangular, purely digital | 30 m | For any style—the perfect first vintage Casio |
| A159WGEA-1EF | 60 € | Black and gold, a bold two-tone design | Rectangular, purely digital | 30 m | Streetwear looks, a confident style |
| LA670WEGA-9EF | 60 € | All gold, slim, delicate | Rectangular Mini, Pure Digital | 30 m | Women, slim wrists, feminine styles |
| AQ-230A-1DMQYES | 50 € | Black and silver, anadigit | Analog, hands + digital | 30 m | Wearers of classic watches who are discovering Casio |
| B640WB-1BEF | 60 € | Black and silver, edgy, urban | Angular rectangular, chronograph | 30 m | Men's Urban or Sportswear Looks |
| A1000D-7EF | 100 € | Premium silver, gold hour markers | Premium Rectangular, Pure Digital | 30 m | A high-end gift for the discerning enthusiast |
How to Choose a Vintage Casio Watch?
The Casio Vintage lineup is extensive enough that it's helpful to have a few guidelines before making a purchase. Here are three ways to approach finding the model that's right for you.
Depending on your budget
If you’re new to Casio Vintage and want to try it out without committing, the A168WA at 38 euros is the obvious entry-level choice. It’s authentic, sturdy, and representative of the line. For a budget of 50 to 60 euros, you can get the two-tone models (A159WGEA, LA670, B640), which feature more refined finishes. Above 80 euros, the A1000D-7EF offers a premium experience that fully justifies the price difference—whether as a gift or an impulse buy.
Depending on your style
For a minimalist and timeless look, the silver finishes (A168WA, A1000D-7EF) are the most versatile. For a bolder look—whether streetwear or two-tone—the black and gold finishes (A159WGEA, B640) make a stronger statement. If you like classic analog watches, the AQ-230A is the perfect choice. And if you’re primarily shopping for a woman, the gold LA670WEGA is the must-have model.
Depending on gender and body type
The A168, A159, AQ, and B640 models are unisex styles, suitable for both men and women with standard-sized wrists. The LA670WEGA is the only watch in the selection designed for slender wrists. If you’re a woman with a standard-sized wrist, the unisex styles work very well too, especially when layered with other bracelets.
A few additional criteria to consider
The water resistance is consistent across this selection: 30 meters for all models. This is sufficient for rain, splashes, and hand washing, but not for swimming or diving. If you’re looking for a water-resistant Casio watch for water sports, you’ll need to check out the G-Shock line or the outdoor-specific series.
Weight and thickness vary by model. The A168WA is the lightest and thinnest, making it almost imperceptible on the wrist. The A1000D-7EF has a more prominent presence, is heavier, and has a bolder look. The B640 Edgy falls somewhere in between, with a more imposing design than the A168WA without reaching the heft of the A1000D.
Finally, if you’re giving a vintage Casio as a gift, the A1000D-7EF is the watch that makes the biggest impression when the box is opened. Its high-quality craftsmanship justifies the 100-euro price tag—whether as a birthday or holiday gift, or simply as a treat for yourself without breaking the bank.
Explore the entire Casio collection
Club de la Montre offers the entire Casio Vintage lineup: Iconic, Mini, Edgy, Premium, and anadigit. Fast shipping, expert watch customer service, and manufacturer's warranty.
See all Casio models →FAQ: All Your Questions About the Casio Vintage
How long does a Casio Vintage battery last?
Most Casio Vintage models run on a CR2025 or CR2016 battery, with a rated battery life of 7 to 10 years depending on backlight usage. In practice, many owners replace their batteries every 5 to 7 years. Replacing the battery is simple and inexpensive: it can be done at a watchmaker’s, an optician’s, or—with a little dexterity—by yourself at home.
What is the difference between the Casio A168 and the Casio A158?
The A168 and the A158 share the same iconic rectangular case and the same movement. The main difference lies in the available finishes: the A158 line offers slightly different variations in terms of colors and strap details. In terms of functionality and durability, they are exactly the same. The choice between the two is essentially a matter of personal taste.
Is the Casio Vintage water-resistant?
Casio Vintage models are generally water-resistant up to 30 meters. This means they can easily withstand rain, splashes, hand washing, and even accidental brief submersion. However, they are not designed for swimming, snorkeling, or intense water sports. For these activities, Casio’s G-Shock line is better suited.
Is the Casio Vintage a true luxury watch?
No, and that’s precisely what makes it so great. The Casio Vintage isn’t a luxury watch: it’s a very high-quality Japanese watch, positioned in the affordable price range between 38 and 100 euros. It doesn’t use sapphire crystal, its case isn’t made of 316L surgical-grade stainless steel, and its movement is a standard quartz movement. What it does offer, however, is reliability proven over several decades, an instantly recognizable design, and value for money that’s hard to beat in this price range.
Which vintage Casio watch should a woman buy?
The Casio Vintage Mini LA670WEGA-9EF is the natural choice for women: its mini size, all-gold finish, and slim case are designed for slender wrists and feminine styles. For women who prefer a more unisex style, the silver A168WA or the black-and-gold A159WGEA work very well too, especially when worn layered with other bracelets. The Casio Vintage isn’t a gendered watch: it’s how you wear it and the context in which you wear it that determine the final look.
Where can I buy an authentic vintage Casio in France?
Club de la Montre is a specialized watch retailer that offers authentic Casio Vintage watches with a manufacturer's warranty. All models featured in this guide are in stock and available for fast delivery in mainland France. It is important to purchase from authorized retailers to avoid counterfeits, especially on large, general-purpose marketplaces where copies are sold at the same price as the originals.
Will the price of the Casio Vintage go up in 2026?
Prices for vintage Casio watches are generally stable, with gradual adjustments based on fluctuations in the euro-yen exchange rate and material costs. In 2026, entry-level models such as the A168WA remain in the range of 38 to 45 euros, depending on the retailer. Limited editions or collaborations may exceed this price on the secondary market. For standard models in the current collection, there is no immediate concern regarding an impending price increase.