Casio CMD-30B – Technical Data & Model Information

Casio CMD-30B is a digital wristwatch released in the early 1990s, famous for its infrared remote-control function. It used module 1173 and combined standard Casio features like timekeeping, alarms, and stopwatch with the unusual ability to operate TVs and VCRs. The CMD-30B belongs to Casio’s CMD family of remote-control watches, following earlier models like the CMD-10 and CMD-20, and coming just before the better-known CMD-40. With its matte black resin case, calculator-style keypad, and bold red text “Wrist Remote Controller”, it became one of Casio’s most playful experiments of the decade and today remains a nostalgic collectible.

Casio CMD-30B – Quick Technical Data

Field	Data
Model	Casio CMD-30B
Module	1173
Battery	CR2032
Manual	Casio CMD-30B Manual (PDF)
Glass Type	Acrylic
Strap Size	19 mm (lug) / 22 mm (case)
Case Material	Matte black resin
Functions	Timekeeping, alarm, stopwatch, calendar, infrared remote control
Production Years	Early–mid 1990s (appeared in Casio catalogs of the period)

What color versions of Casio CMD-30B exist?

Casio CMD-30B was released only in one version. It had a matte black resin case with red and blue print accents around the screen, a grey keypad for the infrared remote with dark grey side buttons, and a black resin strap featuring yellow text “WRIST REMOTE CONTROLLER” on the lower half. There were no alternative colorways, so every CMD-30B available today looks the same.

What features and functions does Casio CMD-30B have?

Casio CMD-30B is more than a digital watch. Its main feature is the infrared remote control, letting you switch channels, adjust volume, or play and stop a VCR straight from your wrist. The watch can store manufacturer codes for different brands, and once set, the keypad under the screen works just like a normal remote. Distance range is about 5 meters, and collectors still report it works with many modern TVs.

Alongside the remote, CMD-30B includes all the classic Casio basics:

• Timekeeping with date, day of the week, and 12/24-hour formats.
• Stopwatch with split time and dual-finish measurement (up to 23:59:59).
• Daily alarm and hourly time signal.
• Auto-calendar (manual correction needed for leap years).

The layout is simple:

• Normal Mode → shows time and date.
• TV Mode → controls televisions.
• VCR Mode → controls tape decks.

Every function is accessed with the side buttons and keypad, making the CMD-30B one of Casio’s most playful and unique experiments of the 1990s.

Strap and Case Details – How easy is it to maintain Casio CMD-30B today?

The case of the CMD-30B is made of matte black resin, and after 30 years most examples show scratches on the acrylic crystal and fading of the printed text. The crystal can be restored easily with fine sanding (2000–7000 grit) and Polywatch, but the resin case and keypad wear is permanent once the print is gone.

The original strap is one of the hardest parts to find. It measures 19 mm at the lugs, flaring to about 22 mm at the case, and carries the yellow “WRIST REMOTE CONTROLLER” text on the lower half. Most surviving watches have either broken straps or aftermarket replacements. Collectors often use Casio AW-49 / AW-49H straps, which fit perfectly, or cut down a NATO strap to 19 mm.

The caseback is screw-down, but the CMD-30B has no water resistance rating, so it should not be worn in water. With age, gaskets are usually missing, and the buttons may need cleaning to restore proper function.

Collectibility & Quirks of Casio CMD-30B

Casio CMD-30B is not extremely rare, but finding one complete with the original strap and manual is difficult. Most watches on the market have missing straps or worn keypads. The crystal scratches easily but is fixable, while faded printing and broken buttons are common weak points.

For collectors, the CMD-30B is a pure 90s nostalgia piece. It became famous among kids for switching off classroom TVs or pranking in public spaces. Prices range from $150–200 for typical examples to $200+ for well-preserved sets.

Casio CMD-30B Manual

The official reference for Casio CMD-30B is Operation Guide 1173. It explains how to set the time, use the stopwatch and alarm, and most importantly, how to program and operate the infrared remote control. The manual also contains the full manufacturer code list needed for TV and VCR compatibility.

📖 Download Casio CMD-30B Manual (PDF)

Additional Information & Related Models

Casio CMD-30B belongs to the CMD family of infrared remote-control watches. It sits right in the middle of the lineup:

• CMD-10 – the very first Casio remote-control watch, rare and hard to find today.
• CMD-20 – a small evolution of the original, but less popular.
• CMD-30B – improved usability with bold 90s design and the iconic “Wrist Remote Controller” strap.
• CMD-40 – the best-selling model in the series, remembered as the face of Casio’s remote-control era.
• CMD-50 – the final version, Japan-only release, with colorful memory keys and no calculator.

The CMD line is unique in Casio’s history, mixing playful gadgetry with standard digital watch functions. Each release kept the same spirit, but the CMD-30B is often remembered as the most balanced design of the series.

FAQ – Casio CMD-30B