WU25 Panel: Kikuo Ibe, G-Shock, and the Origin of Toughness
Kikuo Ibe, the founder of G-Shock, shared his inspiring journey at a recent panel, detailing the development of the iconic watch that has sold over 100 million units worldwide. The idea for G-Shock originated from a personal experience when Ibe dropped a watch gifted by his father, which led him to envision a tough and durable timepiece. Through experimentation and persistence, he created a shock-resistant structure that ultimately revolutionized the watch industry, allowing G-Shock to combine practicality with fashion appeal over the decades. During the panel, Ibe discussed the evolution of G-Shock, including the introduction of a metal version and even a dream project involving a sapphire crystal case that would be both unbreakable and scratch-resistant. He emphasized the importance of perseverance in overcoming challenges, imparting the motto of "never give up." As G-Shock continues to innovate, Ibe envisions a future where G-Shock watches could withstand the harsh conditions of space travel, reflecting his relentless quest for improvement and excellence in design.
