Casio SDB-300 is a digital wristwatch released around 1986, known for its sports-oriented design and lap memory function. It used module 503 and combined standard timekeeping with stopwatch and lap storage, making it one of Casio’s early digital training watches with 30-lap memory. The model stood out in catalogs for its bold color variants and water resistance up to 50 meters. It was the first in the SDB (Sports Data Bank) family, later joined by the SDB-500 (~1989) and SDB-600 (~1995).
Casio SDB-300 – Quick Technical Data
| Field | Data |
|---|---|
| Model | Casio SDB-300 |
| Module | 503 |
| Battery | CR2016 (3V) |
| Manual | Not available |
| Glass Type | Acrylic |
| Strap Size | 20 mm (lug) / 25 mm (case) |
| Case Material | Resin / Plastic |
| Functions | Timekeeping, Stopwatch with 30-lap memory, Alarm, Water resistance (5 ATM / 50 m) |
| Production Years | ~1986 |
What color versions of Casio SDB-300 exist?
Casio SDB-300 was released in four main versions: black, white, yellow, and blue. Each had its own look and rarity level.
- SDB-300W Black
Classic black case with red and yellow button accents. This is the most common version, though still not easy to find in clean condition. Collectors like it for its universal, sporty look.
- SDB-300W White
White case paired with a black strap and colorful buttons. Known among collectors as the “stormtrooper” version, it gives off strong Star Wars vibes. Some even compare it to C-3PO’s armor style, with a sci-fi, space-gear look straight out of the 80s. This special edition white version is extremely rare.
- SDB-300W Yellow
Bright yellow case with a black strap and contrasting buttons. Produced in smaller numbers, making it a striking but hard-to-find version today.
- SDB-300W Blue
Blue case with black strap and multicolored button accents. Often considered the most visually attractive version. This is the hardest one to track down and usually commands the highest prices.
What are the main features of Casio SDB-300?
Casio SDB-300 was designed as a sports watch with a focus on stopwatch and lap memory functions. It could store up to 30 laps, which made it a useful tool for runners and athletes in the 1980s.
- Timekeeping: Standard digital display with hours, minutes, seconds, date, and day of the week.
- Stopwatch: 1/100-second measurement, with up to 30-lap memory.
- Alarm: Daily alarm with hourly chime.
- Water resistance: 5 ATM (50 meters), suitable for everyday use and light swimming.
- Backlight: Illuminates the display in dark conditions.
💡 In 1986, the 30-lap memory made the SDB-300 stand out as one of Casio’s most advanced sports timers. Today, it feels basic compared to modern running watches, but it still carries strong nostalgia as an early attempt to bring pro-level timing into a slim digital case.
Strap and Case Details – How easy is it to maintain Casio SDB-300 today?
Casio SDB-300 is easier to maintain than many other mid-80s Casios, mainly because it uses a CR2016 lithium battery. Unlike the silver oxide AG batteries common in other models of the era, the CR2016 rarely leaks, so many surviving modules are still in good condition.
The strap was a custom resin band, measuring 20 mm at the lugs and widening to 25 mm at the case connection. Original straps are difficult to find, and many watches today are missing them due to resin deterioration. Collectors often adapt 20 mm sport straps or use custom solutions to keep the watch wearable.
The resin case is durable but can crack around the lugs if stressed. The acrylic crystal scratches easily, though it can be restored with sanding and Polywatch. The white version is prone to yellowing, which adds to the restoration challenge.
⌚ Overall, the SDB-300 holds up well compared to many 1980s Casios. With its CR2016 power source and strong module survival rate, many examples can still be restored to full working order.
Collectibility & Quirks of Casio SDB-300
Casio SDB-300 is a rare sports model on today’s collector market. The black version appears from time to time, but the colored variants (yellow, blue, and especially the white “stormtrooper” edition) are much harder to find. Clean white versions are particularly valuable because most resin cases have yellowed with age.
Known weak points include cracked lugs, missing straps, and scratched acrylic crystals. However, the use of the CR2016 lithium battery means that many surviving modules remain undamaged, unlike other Casios from the 80s that suffered from leaking AG cells.
Collectors often highlight the sci-fi vibe of the white and yellow versions. The white SDB-300 is nicknamed the “stormtrooper”, while some enthusiasts see the yellow as a nod to C-3PO. These fun associations give the watch a strong cultural appeal beyond its technical functions.
In catalogs from 1986, the SDB-300 was presented as a high-end sports timer with lap memory, showing Casio’s push into the athletic watch segment long before the G-Shock line took over that role.
Additional Information & Related Models
The SDB series name stands for Sports Database. Casio designed it as a sports-focused line that combined stopwatch timing with memory functions.
Related models include:
- Casio SDB-500W (~1989) – A larger late-80s update with expanded lap memory and refreshed styling.
- Casio SDB-600W (~1995) – A slimmer mid-90s version with improved durability and a more modern case design.
These later models continued the same concept of lap memory and water resistance, while reflecting Casio’s design changes from the 80s into the 90s.
FAQ – Casio SDB-300
What battery does Casio SDB-300 use?
Casio SDB-300 uses a CR2016 lithium battery. It is safer than the silver oxide AG batteries used in many other Casios of the time, because it rarely leaks and modules survive in better condition.
Is Casio SDB-300 water resistant?
Yes. It has a rating of 5 ATM (50 meters), which is fine for swimming or showering, but not for diving.
How rare is Casio SDB-300 today?
The black version is the most common, but still not easy to find complete. The white version is nicknamed the “stormtrooper” by collectors because of its sci-fi look. It is extremely rare, and along with the yellow and blue variants, it is the most valuable.
Where can I find a strap replacement for Casio SDB-300?
Original straps are difficult to find. Collectors usually adapt 20 mm sport straps or use custom solutions to fit the 25 mm case connection.
Does Casio SDB-300 still work with its lap memory function?
Yes, if the module is healthy. The watch can still store up to 30 laps, just like in the 1980s.
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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