Casio CPW-320 is a digital wristwatch released in the mid-1990s, known for its Islamic Prayer Compass and refined dual-calendar system. It used module 1244 and shared its manual with the CPW-310, combining Qibla direction, daily prayer alarms, and both Hijri and Gregorian calendars in one watch. Designed mainly for Middle Eastern and Asian markets, the CPW-320 represented the final evolution of Casio’s first-generation Prayer Compass line, a rare mix of cultural purpose and early digital innovation.
Casio CPW-320 – Quick Technical Data
| Field | Data |
|---|---|
| Model | Casio CPW-320 |
| Module | 1244 |
| Battery | SR927W ×2 (or equivalent 399) |
| Manual | Casio CPW-310 / 320 Manual (PDF) |
| Glass Type | Acrylic |
| Strap Size | 20 mm (lug) / 23 mm (case) |
| Case Material | Black resin case with metallic silver bezel ring |
| Water Resistance | 100 m |
| Functions | Qibla direction, prayer time calculation, Hijri & Gregorian calendars, prayer alarm, daily alarm, stopwatch, countdown timer, EL backlight |
| Production Years | Mid-1990s (approx. 1994–1996) |
A twin-battery setup powers the CPW-320’s functions and backlight, typical for Casio’s high-feature digital models of the era. The case follows the classic CPW shape but gains slightly thicker lugs and a higher bezel for better protection.
What color versions of Casio CPW-320 exist?
Only one known version of the Casio CPW-320 was ever produced. Casio combined a black resin case and strap with a metallic silver (slightly matte) bezel ring, giving the watch a balanced, modern appearance. The digital compass graphics are green, while the bezel text and details are gold-toned, matching the visual theme of the earlier CPW-310 but with a more refined finish.
There are no alternative color variants or regional editions documented, every genuine CPW-320 looks exactly like this version.
Design & Features
The Casio CPW-320 kept the same core concept as the CPW-310 but refined almost every visual and technical detail. The most noticeable change is the flatter, more elliptical compass display, replacing the circular one found on the previous model. This gives the screen a modern, streamlined look and makes the compass easier to read at a glance.
The case remains black resin, now with a slightly thicker build and improved 100 m water resistance, making it more durable for everyday wear. The metallic silver bezel ring adds contrast and gives the watch a subtle premium touch rarely seen in early prayer compass models.
Inside, module 1244 delivers a full set of spiritual and practical functions:
- Automatic calculation of five daily prayer times
- Qibla direction indication via digital compass
- Dual calendar display (Hijri and Gregorian)
- Prayer alarm and daily alarm
- Chronograph, countdown timer, and EL backlight (green tone)
Casio marketed this model mostly in Middle Eastern and Asian regions, where it was presented as a more advanced and reliable successor to the CPW-310 “Islamic Prayer Compass.”
Production & Lineage
The Casio CPW-320 belongs to Casio’s early Compass Watch family, a short but important chapter in the brand’s 1990s innovation era. This series introduced Casio’s first digital compass sensors and gradually evolved toward more advanced outdoor and navigation watches like the Pro Trek line.
Here’s how the CPW family developed over time:
- Casio CPW-100 – the first digital compass (module 1031, 50 m WR)
- Casio CPW-110 – refined interface and compass calibration
- Casio CPW-200 – improved 100 m WR and better display layout
- Casio CPW-310 – first “Islamic Prayer Compass,” module 1044
- Casio CPW-320 – upgraded design, module 1244, final evolution of the first-generation line
After the CPW-320, Casio gradually shifted its focus toward smaller, more efficient compass modules used in later watches like the AL-190 and CPW-500, marking the transition from cultural specialization to all-round outdoor use.
FAQ – Casio CPW-320
What battery type does the Casio CPW-320 use?
It uses two SR927W (or 399 equivalents). The twin-battery system powers both the display and the EL backlight, giving long and stable performance.
How many color versions of the CPW-320 exist?
Only one version was ever released: black resin case and strap, metallic silver bezel, green compass graphics, and gold text. No regional or color variations are known.
Why is the Casio CPW-320 rare?
It had a short production run and was targeted mainly at Middle Eastern and Asian markets, making surviving pieces uncommon today.
What makes the CPW-320 special for collectors?
It’s the last model in Casio’s original Prayer Compass line, featuring the final evolution of the early compass module and a distinct elliptical LCD, a beautiful closure to one of Casio’s most culturally unique watch
Daniel is the person behind Vintage Casio Restore, a project dedicated to restoring and documenting vintage Casio digital watches from the 80s and 90s. Based in Poland, he combines technical precision with a passion for retro design, bringing forgotten models back to life and sharing their stories online.
Outside the workshop, Daniel works in a digital agency, managing SEO and content strategy for technology clients, blending his professional experience with his love for classic tech and design.
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