Casio Duro MDV-106: The US$70 Dive Watch

The Casio Duro MDV-106 is a genuine 200-metre dive watch for roughly the price of a nice dinner. Launched in 2011, it built a cult following among enthusiasts through word of mouth, and its black-dial version earned the nickname "Marlin" for the leaping billfish on its dial.

Origins and the Marlin

The MDV-106 launched in June 2011 as part of Casio's Duro 200 series ("duro" means "hard" in Spanish). The leaping marlin printed on the dial and engraved on the caseback is not just decoration: Casio uses the marlin to mark its watches tested to at least 200 metres of water resistance and intended for diving. The black-dial model reportedly sold more than 600,000 units in its first decade.

Specifications

The Duro uses a 44.2mm stainless steel case (48.5mm lug-to-lug, about 12.1mm thick) with a screw-down crown and caseback for 200 metres of water resistance. A 120-click unidirectional bezel with an aluminium insert sits over a mineral crystal. Inside is the quartz Casio module 2784, rated to about ±20 seconds per month, with a battery life of around three years. It ships on a 22mm resin strap.

How It Compares

The Duro's competition is mostly automatic divers costing three to five times as much, such as the Seiko SKX and the Seiko 5 Sports. Those offer mechanical movements and, in the SKX's case, ISO dive certification; the Duro counters with quartz accuracy, a screw-down crown and a price that makes it an ideal beach, travel or first watch. Its 44mm case wears large, which is its main drawback. For more options, see the best watches under $500.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the Casio Duro called the Marlin?
The black-dial MDV-106 has a leaping marlin on the dial and caseback; Casio uses the marlin to mark its 200m dive models.

Is the Casio Duro a real dive watch?
It has 200m water resistance, a screw-down crown and caseback and a unidirectional bezel, making it suitable for recreational diving.

When was the MDV-106 released?
June 2011, as part of Casio's Duro 200 series.

How big is the Casio Duro?
44.2mm in diameter, about 12.1mm thick, with a 48.5mm lug-to-lug and 22mm lugs.

Related Reading

• Casio: Brand History
• Seiko SKX
• Best Watches Under $500