Casio watches are already known for their durability, functionality, and affordability straight from the factory. But a growing community of tinkerers is taking the customization of these iconic timepieces to the next level through clever mods and hacks.
From adding filters and crystals to integrating entire new features, these creative Casio modders are breathing new life into classic models and proving just how versatile the Casio platform can be.
By far, the most popular Casio watches to mod are the F91-W, the Casio AE-1200WH (also known as the Casio Royale), the Casio AE-1300WH timer watch, and the so-called Casioak, the digital/analog GA-2100.
In the hands of dedicated fans and hackers, a humble Casio digital watch can be transformed into a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. In this post, and what I hope will become a regular feature, we’ll explore some of the most interesting Casio watch mods that showcase the limitless possibilities that these watches hold when people are willing to void a warranty and get creative.
SKXMOD
The modding shop SKXMOD started in 2020 with a passion for customizing Seiko watches, especially the SKX series. But my favorite mods are the ones they do on the Casio Royale and the AE-1300WH. On Reddit, the user skxmod often shares completed builds and works-in-progress.
A few of my favorite standouts include the matrix mod for the AE-1300WH which appears to use a lattice, colored filter over the LCD to give it a mesh or matrix pattern. Then there’s the glacier gold model with a white transparent strap. This one appears to use the standard gold case but I bet the solid bronze version of this case would look amazing. And finally, there’s the blacked-out Casio Royale with a negative display. Essentially illegible until you depress the light button and a super-cool orange color shines through. Truly unique.
Check out SKXMOD on the web or have a look at their Reddit feed. On their website they have a whole collection of modded Casio Royale completed builds for purchase or custom components like dials, casebacks, and rubber straps.
OGGLOGG
Up next is OGGLOGG which hails from Leimsfeld, Germany. Their claim to fame is the handsome gradient filter that can be applied to the AE-1200WH, the F91-W, or its variant the Casio A158WA. The mod is really simple and looks fantastic. You also have several options depending on the aesthetic you’re going for. You can find them on Etsy displaying their wares for a reasonable price. As an example, here are a couple of screenshots:
Note that they don’t supply the fully built watch. It’s up to you to figure out how to apply the filter but over on our YouTube channel, you can see some tutorials on this. It’s actually quite simple and something you shouldn’t be afraid of doing. Here’s a basic filter mod I did on the AE-1300WH. Give it a shot!
Casi Mods
Sometimes a Casio mod can be an absolute work of art. And the work being done by Casi Mods fits the bill. Benson Chou over in California has dozens of builds that are a sight to behold and deserve a strong look. It’s tough to decide on which one is my favorite, but here are a few examples.
First up is a custom military-style watch that mods the Casio W218H including applied screw caps, custom painted crystal, a camo green, suede strap, and an iconic yellow dot. Truly a gorgeous build:
Next is the Nuclear Model 008, his take on the custom AE-1200WH. This beauty has a custom backlit graphic, a checkboard dial filter, and a super cool radiation warning symbol that overtakes the analog complication. Add in a suede leather strap with a metal buckle and it looks like this gorgeous timepiece just came out of the fallout shelter.
Finally, check out this modded version of the new Casio WS1600. This new Casio model came on the scene a couple of months ago and we’re already seeing some sweet mods. Casi Mods takes this to the next level with a Delorian-inspired version with a golden complication filter, a roughed-up case with applied screw caps, and two exposed wires to hotwire your Delorian. Careful though, once the gauge hits 88 who knows what will happen:
Check out Casi Mods on the web or browse over to their Instagram page.
Custom Casio Club
And to make this mode review complete it’s necessary to give a shoutout to the Custom Casio Club which is a full community of Casio modders. Check out their Facebook page for more info or browse some of their photos on their Instagram page. Here are a couple of gems below:
While Casio already manufactures an impressive array of models, the custom builds dreamed up by modders show the possibilities are endless when you’re willing to experiment.
Looking for more inspiration? The Reddit subreddit Casiomods has hundreds of pictures and postings from amateurs to professionals. This is usually my go-to page for new ideas for modding.
Have fun!