G-Shock Collectors Event Featuring Kikuo Ibe Sept. 16

Tapper’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry is pleased to welcome Kikuo Ibe, father of G-Shock, to a special G-Shock collectors event at its West Bloomfield location 4-8 p.m. Sept. 16. The event is free and open to the public.

Casio’s G-Shock watches are some of the toughest watches in the world and are packed with useful features. The first G-Shock was made in the 1983 Casio DW-5000C designed by an engineer working for Casio named Kikuo Ibe. Ibe engineered the watch around the triple ten concept: the concept for a watch that has a 10 year battery life, is water resistant to 10 bar, and can survive a 10m fall onto a hard surface. Dropping them from rooftops, or third story windows tested the original 200 prototypes.

“We’re delighted to be one of very few retailers in the nation to have the opportunity to host Kikuo Ibe at our West Bloomfield location,” says Ann Duke, director of marketing for Tapper’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry. “G-Shock collectors will have the rare opportunity to meet a legend in the industry and to view the latest models.”

The popularity of G-Shocks increased rapidly throughout the 1990s. By 1998, 19 million G-Shocks had been sold worldwide and more than 200 new models were released in that year alone.

Twice a year, the basic models are updated. New limited models are introduced more frequently through the year. Because of their affordability and rapid innovation, G-Shocks have become collectors items. Arguably, the most sought after line is the Frogman. Limited edition Frogmans such as the Brazilian, Men in Yellow, Black Helios and Black Spots are some of the most desirable Frogmans.

G-Shock is popular with mountaineers, firemen, paramedics, people working in the offshore, police officers, astronauts, film directors and soldiers, which also makes them sought after by everyday adventurers and fashion plates.

The latest G-Shock GB400 models include some new features such as Bluetooth Smart that enables linking between the watch and a phone for remote control of the phone’s music player, simpler configuration of watch settings, and much more. Plus, using the

new G’MIX music app in combination with a smartphone provides a new level of personalization to music playback and even includes Soundhound integration. G-Shock’s GBA400 models are available in several colors, and each for $200.

Casio’s G-Shock watch line, known for its shock-resistant structure, has more recently dipped into the more luxury watch market with some $1,000-and-up metal-body models under its MT-G and MR-G lines. It’s new G-Steel line, hitting stores now, starts at $280. The series comes in both stainless steel and resin bands and is shock resistant, 200M water resistant and solar powered, so there’s almost no concern about battery life.

For those looking for something a little more upscale, Casio has also introduced the new top-end models, including some made of materials that are harder than pure titanium.

For more information about the G-Shock Collectors event Sept. 16, or other events at Tapper’s, please call 248-932-7700, or visit www.tappers.com.

Tapper’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry offers an exquisite selection of engagement rings, spectacular designer jewelry, and luxury timepieces. Tapper’s provides a luxury shopping experience with unparalleled customer service at each of its three metro-area locations in Novi, Troy and West Bloomfield. A multi-generation family-owned business, Tapper’s has been helping its customers Mark the Moment™ for more than 38 years. Visit Tapper’s online at www.tappers.com.

Upcoming Events at Tapper’s Fine Diamonds & Jewelry:

Oct. 15: Personal Appearance by Marco Bicego & Trunk Show – West Bloomfield

Nov. 7 & 8: Tapper’s Fall Bridal Event – West Bloomfield, Twelve Oaks and Somerset Collection

Nov. 18: Tapper’s Holiday Party, featuring Peter Webster, President of Roberto Coin – Somerset Collection

Dec. 5 & 6: Tapper’s International Watch Event – West Bloomfield, Twelve Oaks and Somerset Collection

Dec. 11 & 12: Personal appearance by Charles Krypell & Trunk Show – Tapper’s West Bloomfield