It is a nearly faithful copy of the first G Shock, with the exception of the slightly larger dimensions and the different lighting. The new LED backlight is definitely much better than that of the original model, but personally I prefer the electroluminescence of the 5600E (which also has its drawbacks, as it loses strength the more you use it). It is a little heavier than the 5600E, with a more premium build and higher-quality plastics. The display of the 5600E has better sharpness when viewed completely straight on, but the 5000r has better contrast and no ghosting at all, making it overall more readable. The sharpness is flawless when viewed at the usual angles, such as when you raise your left hand, but it is not good if you wear it on the right. For a G Shock fan or for someone who won't miss the extra money to get something premium and made in Japan, it is definitely excellent. If you are looking for a (cheaper) but still durable everyday watch, I would get the 5600E, which is equally functional and sturdy. If you wear it on the right, too. The beep on the 5600E is also a little louder.

The watch for the "fanatics" and "mature" G-Shock enthusiasts. The closest thing to the original DW-5000C from 1983. An absolute reproduction of the first "square" G in design, construction, appearance, and most importantly: in feel. At first glance, it may look "identical" to the very good and successful GW-M5600U. It does not have solar charging (Tough-Solar), automatic time adjustment, multiple time zones and alarms, and many other features you will find in G-Shocks of even lower value. At the same time, however, it has no comparison in materials and build quality. The "heart" is the stainless steel case and also a steel screw-back case back, as well as a soft silicone (bio-resin) strap—these are the features that the connoisseur who buys it will enjoy for many, many years. Against the era of smartwatches that cannot live without daily charging, this is a real watch, which does not need time correction every so often like mechanical watches, with the aroma of the nostalgic 80s. For those who lived their youth back then... The 36th G-Shock in my collection is also the most authentic.

Update (after about 6 months in my possession): This particular model has the highest timekeeping accuracy of all the G-Shocks in my collection. The watch "gains" just 1-2 seconds a month. I don't know if it's this particular piece or a characteristic of module 3576 (which only this watch has). I have read the same opinion in various online sources. As for the reviews about the not-so-bold digits on the display, it's true but not to the extent that some mention online. Its display is very sharp, while its crystal has a beautiful tint. Its bio-based resin strap is soft and designed like the original. Finally, any comparison—beyond the price—with the (also anniversary) DW-5600RL or the (basic G-Shock) DW-5600UE makes no sense in terms of feel, appearance, and quality.