Regular user of functional watches for sport (race, swimming) and trips. Choice motivated by the affordable price (around 40 €), the autonomy announced and the waterproofing at 100 m. Daily port for 3 months, including in moderate wet and shock conditions.
See Casio AE-1500WH-8BVEF and Amazon reviews
First contact and installation
- Perceived quality: robust but light resin housing (57 g), adjustable bracelet a little rigid at the start. Large dial (54 mm) imposing on fine cuffs.
- Handling: no necessary configuration. Instant retro, intuitive menus even without manual.
- Adaptation time: 2 days to control the 5 customizable alarms and the stopwatch.
Real test vs promises
- Performance: Waterproofing validated in swimming pool and shower. Resist with occasional shocks (hooking of doors, fall of 1 m).
Key features:
- Orange backlight readable at night but too short duration (1 second).
- Configurable alarms (specific dates, monthly rehearsals) greater than a lot of Casio in this range.
Defects:
- Rayable resin glass in a week of active use (backpack, keys).
- Strap uncomfortable after 8 hours of continuous port (sharp edges).
- Display “10 Year Battery” deemed superfluous and unrealistic in intensive use.
- Sustainability: no dysfunction after 3 months, but scratches visible on the screen.
Key points for the buyer
- For whom? Sportsmen, travelers, or those looking for a disposable watch without headache.
- Who’s not? Fine wrists (-value for money: justified below 40 €, less interesting beyond (alternatives at the entrance G-Shock).
- Alternatives: Casio W-218H (more compact) or F-91W (legendary but less readable).
Cash verdict
▲ 3 assets:
- Optimal readability day and night.
- Real autonomy> 2 years even with daily alarms.
- Unbeatable price for a 100m waterproof watch.
▼ 3 faults:
- Excessive size for formal use or fine cuffs.
- Inevitable scratches without additional protection.
- Uncomfortable bracelet in extended port.
Recommendation: Yes, for a brutal sports/daily use or as a secondary watch. To avoid if you are looking for aesthetic sustainability or comfort over long periods.
