Quick answer: A “Casio vintage watch” (also called a Casio retro watch or Casio classic digital watch) is one of Casio’s classic retro designs, many of them dating back to the 1980s and 1990s and still produced today. The best-known models are the F-91W, A158W, A168W, A159W, B640W, the CA-53W calculator watch and the AE-1200 world-time watch. They are light, tough and accurate, and in Dubai they cost from about AED 80 to AED 270.
Why are Casio vintage watches so popular?
- Iconic design. The retro digital face is instantly recognisable and fits casual and smart outfits alike.
- Affordable. You get a genuine Casio for less than the price of many fashion accessories.
- Practical. Stopwatch, alarm, backlight and long battery life come as standard.
- A real classic. The F-91W, introduced in 1989, is often described as the best-selling watch in the world, with around 100 million made.
Best Casio vintage watches for men
| Model | Style | Highlights | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| F-91WS-2 | Resin, blue | The legendary F-91W design, stopwatch, alarm, LED light | AED 91 |
| A158WA-1D | Steel bracelet | The classic silver retro digital, 7-year battery | AED 81 |
| A159WA-N1 | Steel bracelet | Larger, easier-to-read display | AED 94 |
| A168WA-8A | Steel bracelet | Champagne-grey display, Illuminator backlight | AED 122 |
| B640WD-1A | Steel bracelet | 50 m water resistance, countdown timer, amber light | AED 112 |
| CA-53WB-1B | Resin | The iconic 8-digit calculator watch, 25 g | AED 112 |
| DB-360-1A | Steel bracelet | 30-entry data bank, 10-year battery | AED 122 |
| AE-1200WHD-1A | Steel bracelet | World time (48 cities), 100 m, 10-year battery | AED 185 |
| AQ-240E-7A | Steel, square | Retro analog-digital, dual time | AED 195 |
Casio F-91W: the original retro icon
The F-91W has a 1/100-second stopwatch, a daily alarm, an hourly chime and an LED light. It is feather-light and runs for years on one battery. The F-91WS-2 gives it a fresh blue look.
Casio A158 vs A168 vs A159: what is the difference?
All three are retro digitals on a steel bracelet with stopwatch and alarm. The A158W is the classic and most affordable. The A168W adds Casio’s brighter Illuminator backlight and a warm champagne-grey display. The A159W has larger digits that are easier to read. Choose the A168 if you often check the time in the dark.
Casio calculator watch: CA-53W
The CA-53WB-1B is a true 80s classic with an 8-digit calculator, dual time, stopwatch and alarm, now with a bio-based resin band.
Casio AE-1200: the world-time “Casio Royale”
The AE-1200WHD-1A shows a world map with 48 cities, five alarms, a timer and 100 m water resistance. It is the best vintage-style Casio for travellers and swimmers.
Men’s gold Casio watches
Gold retro Casios are back in fashion. For men, try the AQ-240EG-9A gold analog-digital (AED 265), the all-gold B640WGG-9D (AED 232), the slim MQ-24G-9E (AED 144), or the retro gold day-date MTP-B146G-9AV (AED 271). See all vintage-style watches.
Shopping for her? Read our guide to vintage watches for women.
Want the full story of the most famous one? Read our complete Casio F-91W guide, with price, original vs fake checks and setting instructions.
Common questions and problems with Casio vintage watches
How do I set the time on a Casio vintage watch?
On retro digitals such as the F-91W, A158W and A168W, press the bottom-left (mode) button until the seconds start flashing. Press the bottom-right button to change the flashing value, and the top-left (light) button to move to the next setting. Press the bottom-left button again when you are done. Button layouts differ on some models, so check the manual for your watch’s module number (engraved on the case back).
Can I swim with a Casio vintage watch?
Most retro digitals like the F-91W and A158W are “water resist” (splash resistant) only, so do not swim with them. For swimming, choose a 100 m model like the AE-1200WHD or W-800H. Learn more in our water resistance guide.
How long does the battery last?
Typically 7 years on the F-91W, A158W, A168W and A159W, and 10 years on the DB-360 and AE-1200, based on Casio’s stated battery life.
The steel bracelet is too big. Can it be adjusted?
Yes. Most retro Casio bracelets have an adjustable sliding clasp that you can move with a small flat tool. If you are unsure, ask a watch shop to help.
Is a cheap Casio vintage watch fake?
Not necessarily. These models are genuinely affordable. But fakes exist, so buy from a real store that lists the full model number. Read how to find a genuine Casio supplier in Dubai and our guide to watch shops in Dubai.
Shopping for him? See our guide to the best Casio watches for men in the UAE.
Frequently asked questions
Which Casio vintage watch is best for men?
The A168WA is the best all-rounder with its bright backlight and steel bracelet. The F-91W is the best budget icon, and the AE-1200 is best for swimming and travel.
What is the most famous Casio watch?
The Casio F-91W, introduced in 1989, is Casio’s most famous watch and one of the best-selling watches ever made.
Are Casio vintage watches unisex?
Yes. Most retro digitals are unisex and look great on both men’s and women’s wrists.
Where can I buy a Casio vintage watch in Dubai?
At IN TIME TRAIDING LLC, online with AED 15 UAE delivery and cash on delivery, or at our stores in Al Ghurair Centre and Ibn Battuta Mall. See more in Casio watches under AED 100 and digital vs analog watches.
