Both the Casio F91W and W59 are iconic digital watches renowned for their affordability, functionality, and durability. While they share a similar digital timekeeping core, some key distinctions might influence your choice. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you navigate these two popular Casio options.
Functionality: Mostly Identical, with a Water Resistance Boost for the W59
Both the F91W and W59 offer a comprehensive suite of functionalities for daily use:
Timekeeping: Basic timekeeping includes displaying hours, minutes, seconds (with leading zero for the first 10 seconds), 12/24 hour format, and the day of the week.
Calendar: A built-in automatic calendar automatically adjusts for leap years, keeping you on track from January 1st, 1930, to December 31st, 2100.
Daily Alarm: Set a single alarm with a classic beep to wake you up or remind you of important tasks.
Hourly Signal: An optional hourly chime keeps you mindful of the passage of time throughout the day.
Stopwatch: A stopwatch function with a 1/100th-of-a-second resolution allows you to time events up to 24 hours.
Electro-Luminescent Backlight: A press of a button illuminates the digital display with a green electro-luminescent backlight for low-light visibility.
The key difference lies in water resistance:
F91W: Splash-proof. Can withstand light rain, splashes, and accidental submersion for brief periods. Not suitable for swimming or diving.
W59: 50 meters water resistant. Can withstand showering, swimming, and shallow snorkeling.
Table: Feature Comparison
| Feature | F91W | W59 |
|---|---|---|
| Timekeeping | 12/24 hour format | 12/24 hour format |
| Calendar | Automatic, 1930-2100 | Automatic, 1930-2100 |
| Daily Alarm | Single alarm | Single Alarm |
| Hourly Signal | Optional | Optional |
| Stopwatch | 1/100th second, 24 hr | 1/100th second, 24 hr |
| Backlight | Electro-Luminescent | Electro-Luminescent |
| Water Resistance | Splash-proof | 50 meters |
Design and Aesthetics: Classic vs. Sportier
While both watches share a digital display layout, their design philosophies differ:
Case: The F91W features a slim and lightweight case (10mm) made of resin. The W59 has a slightly thicker profile (11.8mm) with a more prominent, resin case back and a stainless steel bezel.
Strap: The F91W comes with a thin and flexible resin strap with a textured pattern. The W59 boasts a slightly thicker and smoother resin strap with ventilation holes for improved breathability.
Overall Look: The F91W exudes a classic, minimalist aesthetic. The W59 has a sportier look with the stainless steel bezel and a strap design that might be more comfortable for active wear.
Comfort and Wearability: A Matter of Preference
Both watches are lightweight and comfortable, but the design elements might influence how they feel on your wrist:
F91W: The F91W’s slim profile and thin strap offer a barely-there feel on the wrist, ideal for those who prefer a lightweight timepiece.
W59: The W59’s slightly thicker case and strap might feel a tad bulkier compared to the F91W. However, the strap’s ventilation holes and smoother texture can enhance breathability and comfort during active wear. Ultimately, comfort is subjective. Try both watches if possible to see which feels better on your wrist.
Durability: Built to Last, with Material Variations
Both watches are known for their resilience, but the materials used contribute to their overall feel:
F91W: The entire watch, from the case to the strap, is crafted from resin. While lightweight and shock-resistant, resin can be prone to scratches with rough use.
W59: The W59 utilizes a combination of materials. The caseback is made of resin, but the bezel is constructed from stainless steel. This combination provides enhanced scratch resistance for the bezel compared to the F91W. The strap is also resin, but it might feel slightly sturdier compared to the F91W’s strap due to its thickness.
The F91W remains a very durable watch, but the W59 offers a step up in terms of scratch resistance for the bezel due to the stainless steel component.
Price and Value: A Tale of Affordable Options
Both the Casio F91W and W59 are incredibly affordable timepieces. The F91W can be found for well under $20, making it a fantastic budget-friendly option. The W59 might cost slightly more, typically ranging from $20 to $30. However, the price difference remains minimal, and the W59 offers enhanced water resistance and a potentially more durable bezel.
Legacy and Popularity: Cult Classics with Different Flavors
The F91W has achieved legendary status. Its simple design, durability, and affordability have made it a cultural icon, adopted by various demographics worldwide. The W59, while not as ubiquitous, enjoys a loyal following who appreciate its blend of classic digital functionality with a more modern, sporty aesthetic and the added benefit of water resistance.
Choosing Between the F91W and W59: The Final Verdict
There’s no single “better” watch. The ideal choice depends on your priorities:
- Choose the F91W if: You prioritize absolute affordability, a lightweight and minimalist design for a barely-there feel on the wrist, and don’t need water resistance beyond splashes.
- Choose the W59 if: You prefer a slightly more modern and sporty look, value the enhanced water resistance for activities like swimming, appreciate the potentially more durable stainless steel bezel, and are willing to spend a slight premium over the F91W.
No matter which watch you choose, you’re getting a reliable and stylish Casio timepiece that will likely serve you well for years to come.