Skip to main content

The Manual may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

G-SHOCK, Hodinkee founder Ben Clymer collaborate on final watch in John Mayer series

G-SHOCK, Hodinkee bring end to John Mayer series

Ben Clymer in office wearing G-SHOCK collaboration
G-SHOCK

In a remarkable collaboration between horological titans, Hodinkee and G-SHOCK, the unveiling of the G-SHOCK Ref. 5600 By Ben Clymer marks a milestone in the world of luxury watches. This fusion of expertise and innovation brings forth a timepiece that resonates deeply with aficionados and enthusiasts alike.

Having immersed himself in diverse G-SHOCK collaborations alongside luminaries like John Mayer, Ed Sheeran, and Elijah Funk of Online Ceramics over the past three years, Ben Clymer, the astute founder and Executive Chairman of Hodinkee, has embarked on a new journey. With a rich legacy spanning fifteen years of crafting under the Hodinkee banner and collaborating with esteemed brands such as Omega, IWC, and Hermès, Clymer sets his sights on a groundbreaking venture. Forging ahead with his inaugural solo project, Clymer seeks to present the Hodinkee community with an accessible masterpiece that transcends financial constraints and instills a sense of pride.

On February 1, 2024, the eagerly awaited G-SHOCK Ref. 5600 By Ben Clymer will grace the shelves of the Hodinkee Shop, bearing testament to Clymer’s dedication and vision.

G-SHOCK Ben Clymer collaboration watch
G_SHOCK

The G-SHOCK Ref. 5600 By Ben Clymer watch

The collaboration between Hodinkee and G-SHOCK is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it symbolizes the convergence of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design, bridging the gap between heritage and modernity. Ben Clymer, renowned for his contributions to the horological world through Hodinkee, brings his wealth of experience and vision to this project, ensuring a timepiece of exceptional quality and appeal.

This collaboration also underscores the democratization of luxury watches. While Hodinkee has long been associated with haute horlogerie, this partnership with G-SHOCK makes high-end watchmaking accessible to a broader audience. The G-SHOCK Ref. 5600 By Ben Clymer offers a wearable piece of horological artistry without the exorbitant price tag, embodying the ethos of inclusivity and accessibility championed by both brands. This new G-SHOCK watch was made for fans of Hodinkee who don’t want to spend a fortune on a watch and don’t want to worry about it all the time.

Design and features

The G-SHOCK Ref. 5600 By Ben Clymer is a testament to meticulous attention to detail and thoughtful design. Drawing inspiration from vintage watch references and iconic timepieces, Ben Clymer has imbued this watch with subtle nods to horological heritage. The Hodinkee grey resin case and dark grey strap, adorned with a green keeper inscribed with the Hodinkee logo, exude understated elegance.

One of the standout features of this timepiece is its olive green dial, adorned with khaki, black, and green accents. Noteworthy is the inclusion of three cities – NYC, Tokyo, and Atlanta – representing the geographic footprint of Hodinkee and G-SHOCK. Moreover, the black “double-signed” CASIO logo pays homage to the iconic Rolex Daytona, while the green lume plots add a touch of luminous allure.

G-SHOCK Ben Clymer collaboration watch face
G-SHOCK

Where to buy the G-SHOCK Ref. 5600 By Ben Clymer

For those eager to add this exquisite timepiece to their collection, the G-SHOCK Ref. 5600 By Ben Clymer is available for purchase exclusively through the Hodinkee Shop. Priced at $185, this limited edition watch promises to be a coveted addition to any discerning collector’s repertoire.

Moreover, $5 from each purchase will be donated to the Horological Society of New York, underscoring the commitment of Hodinkee and G-SHOCK to supporting and advancing the art and science of horology.

Sarah Veldman
Sarah has been a freelance writer for over 7 years now, having started while she was living out of a suitcase and traveling…
John Mayer ups his watch game once again with an Audemars Piguet collab
John Mayer collaborates on Audemars Piget Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar John Mayer

Musician and watch enthusiast, or should we say watch superfan, John Mayer, has once again made waves in the world of watches for men with his latest collaboration, this time with the prestigious Swiss brand Audemars Piguet. Known for his impeccable taste and passion for haute horlogerie, Mayer's partnership has resulted in the creation of an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak watch that is as exceptional as it is elegant.

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar John Mayer
Audemars Piguet has seamlessly woven its brand into the fabric of celebrity culture, particularly within the music industry. Beyond conventional brand partnerships, Audemars Piguet has consistently pushed the boundaries by teaming up with iconic musicians, such as the chocolate ceramic Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar "Cactus Jack," crafted in collaboration with Travis Scott.

Read more
Seiko’s new Classic Series watches match everything in your wardrobe
Seiko debuts 5 new watches in Classic Series
Seiko Classic Series off-white dial

One brand that stands out prominently in the pretty crowded space of watches for men with a timeless appearance is Seiko. In June 2024, the Japanese watchmaker will unveil its latest masterpiece: the Classic Series. Drawing inspiration from the graceful nuances of Japanese aesthetics, the Classic Series pays homage to the softer side of design.
Seiko watches: The Classic Series

Since its inception in 2016, the Presage collection has established itself as Seiko's domain for crafting timepieces that exude sophistication with a dash of minimalism, distinct from their sporty counterparts. Contrasting with Seiko's Sharp Edged Series, these new models feature more rounded contours and gentler hues on their dials.
Seiko Classic Series: Three-hander references
Among them are the SPB463, SPB465, and SPB467 – three exquisite three-handers boasting a harmonious blend of form and function, which is pretty much the definition of a classic Seiko watch. These feature a 40.2mm case diameter and a slim profile of 13mm. The polished stainless steel case, adorned with brushed lugs and a raised bezel, exudes the opposite of most watch releases, which is an elegance that doesn't beg for attention. Complementing the case is a bracelet with a push-button butterfly clasp, meticulously crafted for both a stylish look and a comfortable fit.

Read more
Braun, Hodinkee honor iconic watch designs with 2 new limited editions
Braun and Hodinkee collaborate on 2 new watches
Braun BN0279 Sub-Seconds Limited Edition For Hodinkee

Uniting their expertise, Braun and Hodinkee collaborate to celebrate timeless designs with the launch of exclusive limited-edition watches. This fusion harmonizes Braun's sleek design philosophy with Hodinkee's horological mastery, resulting in watches that seamlessly blend style and functionality.

Your Braun watch has a long history
Founded in Frankfurt in 1921 by visionary Max Braun, Braun's legacy thrives on innovation. Max's pioneering spirit led to milestones like integrating radio and record player functionalities into a single device in 1932. After Max's passing in 1951, his sons, Artur and Erwin, propelled Braun to new heights.

Read more