Casio CPW-220 is a digital wristwatch released around 1994, known for its Japan-made digital compass and distinctive degree scale bezel. It used module 1286, a refined successor to module 1030, offering the same functions with a slightly redesigned display and improved firmware stability.
Sold mainly in Japan (JDM), the CPW-220 was one of the final releases in Casio’s first-generation compass family. With 100 m water resistance, a 5-memory navigation mode, and an outer degree ring, it marked the end of Casio’s early digital navigation era before the brand moved toward the ATC and PRO TREK lines. ⌚
Casio CPW-220 – Quick Technical Data
| Field | Data |
|---|---|
| Model | Casio CPW-220 |
| Module | 1286 |
| Battery | 2 × SR927W (or equivalent 399) |
| Manual | Casio Module 1286 PDF |
| Glass Type | Acrylic |
| Strap Size | 20 mm (lug) / 23 mm (case) |
| Case Material | Black resin (Japan Domestic Market) |
| Functions | Digital compass · Navigation memory (5 bearings) · Stopwatch (24h) · Countdown timer (1m–24h) · Daily alarm · Hourly signal · EL side light |
| Water Resistance | 100 m |
| Production Years | Around 1994 |
| Made in | Japan |
What color versions of Casio CPW-220 exist?
The Casio CPW-220 appeared in a single official color version, but a closely related model (DPX-200) was released alongside it for the Japanese market. Both share the same module 1286 and identical functions.
Black Version with Orange Details
The only known colorway of the CPW-220. Features a black resin case and bezel with orange compass markings and a technical, minimal design. The bold color contrast and engraved screw-like bezel accents give it a rugged, outdoor feel typical of mid-1990s Casio design.
💡 Common within Japan but rare elsewhere, often mistaken for an earlier CPW-200 at first glance.
Casio DPX-200 – Brother Model of CPW-220
The DPX-200 is a twin version of the CPW-220, differing only in color and presentation. It replaced the orange details with silver and green compass markings, creating a cleaner, “scientific instrument” look. It was sold mainly in Japan, often on a textile strap, emphasizing its technical, outdoorsy appeal.
💡 Extremely rare today – the DPX-200 is sought after by collectors for its unique silver-green aesthetic
Features & Functions of Casio CPW-220
The Casio CPW-220 was among the last watches to use Casio’s early digital compass system before the introduction of the multi-sensor ATC and PRO TREK lines. It ran on module 1286, a refined evolution of the 1030 module found in the CPW-200 and CPW-210.
Main functions:
- Digital compass (magnetic bearing with 16 cardinal directions + degree display)
- Navigation memory for up to five stored bearings (each with time and date)
- Stopwatch (24-hour range with split/finish)
- Countdown timer (1 minute to 24 hours)
- Daily alarm and hourly time signal
- EL side light (green, bright for its era)
- Water resistance: 100 m
Compass operation:
The compass uses a static reading sensor, meaning it provides a single bearing when activated. The outer rotating bezel assists manual alignment with north, while calibration ensures accuracy. The degree scale printed on the display runs 360 → 0 clockwise, a unique design detail not seen in earlier CPW models.
💡 Fun note: Despite being over 30 years old, the CPW-220’s compass remains surprisingly stable when properly calibrated, proof of Casio’s early sensor reliability.
Casio CPW-220 Manuals
The CPW-220 runs on module 1286, a late-generation compass module derived from the earlier 1030. The original manual includes detailed calibration instructions and navigation memory operation identical to those of the CPW-200.
Manual reference: Casio Module 1286 PDF
Additional Information & Related Models
The CPW-220 marked the final stage of Casio’s early digital compass line, built entirely in Japan and featuring the most refined version of the magnetic bearing module.
It introduced module 1286, derived from the 1030 used in the CPW-200/210, with slight firmware and display improvements.
Position in the CPW family:
- CPW-100 – First-generation digital compass, module 1031, 50 m WR.
- CPW-110 – Improved layout, module 1035, transitional model.
- CPW-200 – Main production model, module 1030, 100 m WR.
- CPW-210 – JDM silver version of the 200.
- CPW-220 – Final outdoor variant, module 1286, unique degree scale.
- CPW-310 – First “Prayer Compass,” module 1044, adds Qibla and Hijri functions.
- CPW-320 – Updated Prayer Compass, module 1244.
- CPW-400 – Titanium flagship, symbolic transition to early PRO TREK line.
Dependencies and legacy:
The 220 serves as the closing chapter of the outdoor branch (100 → 110 → 200 → 210 → 220).
It kept the same magnetic compass core but refined the interface and accuracy. At the same time, Casio’s parallel “Prayer Compass” branch (310/320) evolved from the same hardware, adapting it for religious use. After the CPW-220, Casio redirected its sensor development toward multi-sensor platforms, leading to the ATC-1200 and later PRO TREK watches.
FAQ – Casio CPW-220
What battery does Casio CPW-220 use?
It uses two SR927W (399) silver oxide cells, the same setup as the CPW-200 and DPX-200.
What’s the difference between CPW-220 and DPX-200?
Both use module 1286 and have identical functions. The CPW-220 features orange accents on a black case, while the DPX-200 has silver-green details and was sold mainly on the Japanese market.
How rare is Casio CPW-220 today?
It’s very rare, especially in complete condition with a clean bezel and intact strap. The DPX-200 variant is even harder to find.
Does the CPW-220 compass show true north?
No, like earlier CPW models, it reads magnetic north only. There is no declination correction, you must adjust manually using the rotating bezel.
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.
Leave a Reply