Casio is preparing a new Pro Trek that approaches outdoor usefulness from a different direction. The PRJ-B001EX-1 does not add a compass, altimeter or barometer. Instead, it takes the familiar PRJ-B001 Hiker Line watch and gives it a reversible cloth band with its own storage pocket.
Planned for release in August 2026, the watch is a special version of Casio’s compact analogue-digital outdoor model. Casio says the design was created after studying how campers carry small essentials.
A strap with a useful secret
The wide fabric band includes a small zipped pocket beside the watch. It is intended for coins, a parking ticket or another tiny item that would otherwise disappear into a backpack. It will not replace a wallet, but it gives the wearer quick access to something small without opening a bag. This also gives the PRJ-B001EX-1 an EDC (Everyday Carry) angle, since the pocket can hold a coin, folded banknote or another small essential.
The entire band can also be reversed and folded around the watch. In this position it covers the case and mineral crystal, creating a compact pouch that protects the watch while it is not being worn. A carabiner can be attached to the strap so the PRJ-B001EX-1 can hang from a backpack, belt loop or the inside of a tent.
On the wrist it works like a regular Pro Trek. Off the wrist it becomes a small storage pouch with a watch attached. The black ripstop-style fabric and white stitching also suit the outdoor theme.
Compact by Pro Trek standards
The PRJ-B001EX-1 measures 50.3mm from top to bottom, 46mm across and 13.6mm thick. Those numbers are not small in normal watch terms, but the 51-gram weight should make it comfortable for hiking or daily use. The fabric band fits wrists from 145mm to 215mm.
Casio uses resin and bio-based resin for the case and bezel. Water resistance is rated to 100 metres and the watch can operate at temperatures as low as -10 degrees Celsius. The dial has large white markers, Neobrite luminous material and two digital displays. A double LED system lights both the dial and LCD screens in the dark.
The rotating bezel serves as Casio’s Rotary Guard. In its normal position it helps cover the buttons and reduces accidental presses. Turn it 45 degrees and the buttons become easier to use. It is a simple mechanical solution that makes sense when the watch is worn under a jacket cuff or used with outdoor clothing.
Solar power and Bluetooth timekeeping
Tough Solar charging is one of the strongest practical features. A full charge provides about seven months of normal operation without further light exposure. With power saving active, that figure can reach approximately 18 months. It is a better fit for an outdoor watch than relying on frequent charging.
Bluetooth links the watch to the Casio Watches app. The connection provides automatic time adjustment, simple watch settings, phone finder and access to around 300 world-time cities. The Time & Place function lets the wearer save the current time and location in the app, which can be useful for marking a campsite, viewpoint or other point on a trip.
Plenty of everyday functions
The watch offers world time across 38 cities and 38 time zones, plus UTC. It has a 1/100-second stopwatch for the first hour, a 60-minute countdown timer, five daily alarms and an hourly signal. Other details include a full automatic calendar, 12 or 24-hour display, button sound control and a hand-shift function.
The day display supports English, Spanish, French, German, Italian and Russian. If the watch is not connected to a phone, its stated accuracy is within 15 seconds per month.
Price and availability
Casio lists the PRJ-B001EX-1 for an August 2026 release in Japan at ¥33,000 including tax. That is roughly $220, €190 or £165 at current exchange rates. These figures are currency conversions rather than confirmed prices for the United States, Europe or the United Kingdom.
Conclusion
Casio has not tried to turn the PRJ-B001EX-1 into a larger or more complicated instrument. It remains light, solar powered and easy to read. The reversible band adds protection and a small amount of storage.
The pocket will be useful only for very small items and some owners may prefer a normal strap for daily wear. Even so, it gives this version a clear purpose and makes it more than a simple new colour. For campers, hikers or anyone who likes to clip a watch to a backpack, this is one of Casio’s more original Pro Trek ideas.
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