Casio SDB-600 is a digital wristwatch released around 1995, made for runners and everyday training use. It runs on module 1263 and was part of Casio’s Sport Data Bank line, following the SDB-300W and SDB-500W models. The watch offered Lap Memory 10, stopwatch, alarm, and a bright electroluminescent backlight that gave it a modern feel in the mid-90s. Collectors often remember it for its large, colorful buttons and its place in the Japanese Domestic Market, where it stood out as a bold but practical sports companion.
Casio SDB-600 – Quick Technical Data
| Field | Data |
|---|---|
| Model | Casio SDB-600 |
| Module | 1263 |
| Battery | CR2016 3V |
| Manual | Not available |
| Glass Type | Acrylic |
| Strap Size | 22 mm (lug) / 25 mm (case) |
| Case Material | Resin with stainless steel back |
| Functions | Digital timekeeping, Lap Memory 10, stopwatch, countdown timer, alarm, electroluminescent backlight |
| Production Years | ~1995 (Japan Domestic Market) |
What color versions of Casio SDB-600 exist?
Casio SDB-600 was produced in 3 main color versions, ranging from common black/blue button models to much rarer grey/orange strap variants.
- Black Case – Grey & Blue Buttons
The standard SDB-600W. Black resin case with one grey and one blue button, accented with yellow “SPLIT LAP” text. This is the most common version, widely recognized among runners.
- Grey Case – Black Buttons (Red Text)
Metallic grey resin case with black buttons and bold red “ILLUMINATOR” print. It feels more industrial and tougher looking. Less common than the black versions.
- Grey Case – Black Buttons (Orange Strap)
Grey metallic case with an orange strap, black buttons, and red “ILLUMINATOR” text. Much rarer compared to the black-strap models and highly collectible for its bold strap color.
👉 Rarity ranking (common → rarest):
Black (Grey/Blue) → Grey/Black (Red text) → Grey/Black (Orange strap)
Features & Functions of Casio SDB-600
Casio SDB-600 was designed as a sports watch with Lap Memory 10, giving runners the ability to store and review up to ten lap times.
Besides lap storage, it includes:
- Stopwatch with split and lap time recording
- Countdown timer for training sessions
- Daily alarm and hourly chime
- Electroluminescent (EL) backlight that lights the full display in aqua-green
- Standard digital timekeeping with 12/24h format
At the time, the EL backlight was a big step forward compared to older models that used a single side LED. It made night training or evening use much more practical. Today, collectors appreciate how evenly the display still glows if the module is in good shape.
Strap and Case Details – How easy is it to maintain Casio SDB-600 today?
Most surviving SDB-600 cases are cracked or fragile because the resin plastic becomes brittle after 30 years. Even when the case is intact, the printed text around the bezel often fades or disappears completely with age. Original straps are another challenge: the watch had a 25 mm case connection and 22 mm lug width, and almost all examples on the market now use aftermarket replacements. Finding one with the original strap and full printed texts still visible is very difficult, which makes complete sets more collectible.
Casio SDB-600 Manuals & Ads
I don’t have the original Casio SDB-600 manual for module 1263, and so far I couldn’t find a proper PDF anywhere online. If you happen to own a paper copy or a scan, please reach out — you’ll make a lot of collectors happy (and me too 😅).
The model was shown in mid-1990s Casio catalogs for the Japanese Domestic Market, usually promoted in the sports section. Casio highlighted the Lap Memory 10, the big colored buttons, and the electroluminescent backlight as its main selling points.
Additional Information & Related Models
Casio SDB-600 was released around 1995 as the successor to the popular SDB-500 (1989) and the earlier SDB-300 (1986). All three belong to the Sport Data Bank family, which was Casio’s answer to the growing interest in digital training watches for runners.
The SDB-600 stood out with its EL backlight, which gave the entire screen a blue-green glow, unlike the single-LED system in older models. It also kept the Lap Memory 10 function, making it practical for training sessions.
While the SDB-300 and SDB-500 are more sought-after today, the question remains if the SDB-600 will follow the same path as collectors realize how few complete examples are left.
Related models in the SDB line:
- SDB-300 – the original Sport Data Bank with 30-lap memory (1986)
- SDB-500 – refined version with slimmer styling (1989)
- SDB-600 – JDM-focused follow-up with EL backlight (1995)
FAQ – Casio SDB-600
What battery does Casio SDB-600 use?
Casio SDB-600 runs on a CR2016 3V lithium battery.
Is Casio SDB-600 water resistant?
Yes, it was rated 100 m water resistant when new. But since these watches are ~30 years old, most gaskets are worn or missing. It’s safer to avoid swimming with it today.
How rare is Casio SDB-600 today?
The black case with grey/blue buttons is common, while the grey/orange strap version is rare and collectible. Finding one with the original strap and intact case prints is very difficult.
Where can I find a strap replacement for Casio SDB-600?
Original straps are nearly impossible to find. Collectors usually fit aftermarket 22–25 mm sport straps, which work well but don’t match the original look.
Does Casio SDB-600 still work with its lap memory feature?
Yes, if the module is intact, the Lap Memory 10 function still works and can store up to ten laps.
Passionate about Casio’s golden-era digital watches. At Vintage Casio Restore, I bring old models back to life and share practical guides for collectors and enthusiasts.
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