Driven by Time: A Modern Homage to Casio’s Retro Legacy

In a world where technology advances faster than ever, some designs continue to resonate transcending trends and anchoring us in memory. One such enduring form is the retro digital watch, most notably those inspired by the unmistakable style of vintage Casio timepieces. Their aesthetic, once synonymous with childhood routines and weekend adventures, now fuels a wave of modern reinterpretations.

At SQND, these nostalgic cues sparked something bold: the birth of the 88 Drive Series, our first watch collection, driven by passion, precision, and the electric charm of the '80s. While these aren’t replicas of Casio's, they are a heartfelt homage to the ideas they introduced: accessible technology, no-nonsense functionality, and expressive design. And behind this series? A very specific cinematic influence that will be revealed… in due time.

A Brief History of Casio Watches

Casio stepped into the watch game in 1974 with the release of its first digital model, paving the way for decades of innovation. These watches weren't just wristwear—they were portable gadgets, lifestyle statements, even pop culture icons.

• Tech That Stood Out: From calculators to alarm clocks and even miniature games, Casio watches turned wrists into control panels.

  
  

• Pop Culture Staples: In the ‘80s and ‘90s, these digital timepieces gained cult status. Whether worn by celebrities or quietly ticking away in school halls, Casios defined a generation

Design Language that Endure

Retro Casio-style watches are beloved for their unapologetically practical yet quirky design. They’re recognizable, reliable, and ripe for reinvention.

• Digital Displays: Crisp, clear readouts define the look.

  
  

• Bold Shapes & Tones: From vibrant plastic cases to metallic finishes, each model had character.

  
  

• Durability & Simplicity: Tough enough to take a hit. Simple enough to set in seconds.

  
  

• Compact Utility: These weren’t oversized or flashy—they were everyday tools with personality.

  
  

88 Drive embraces these roots while injecting them with modern nuance, playful nostalgia, and storytelling depth.

Why This Style Still Moves Us

Several factors contribute to the resurgence of retro Casio-style watches.

Nostalgia

For many, these watches evoke fond memories of childhood or teenage years. The retro aesthetic resonates with those who appreciate vintage styles.

Affordability

So why the comeback—and why now?

• Nostalgia Meets New Energy: These designs remind us where we’ve been, but also signal where we’re heading.

  
  

• Accessible Appeal: Original Casios were affordable. SQND keeps that spirit alive: high quality, low barrier.

  
  

• Versatility: You’ll see 88 Drive wear well at coffee shops, boardrooms, gyms, and late-night drives.

  
  

• Retro-Futuristic Flavor: Our watches feel like something you’d wear in an ‘80s sci-fi flick—or on the way to 1985 via plutonium-powered sports car.

A Tease into Time Travel

The 88 Drive name itself is a nod to something iconic—those who know will catch the reference, while others can enjoy the slow reveal. Let’s just say the series is inspired by a film where time isn’t just measured—it’s driven.

More details about the movie behind the magic will surface… in the near future.

From Tribute to Transformation

I grew up immersed in the digital pulse of the '80s and '90s—raised on Casio watches and pop culture that shaped how I imagine time, tech, and design. The 88 Drive Series marks a deeply personal milestone for me. It’s not just a launch—it’s a leap into a new space where legacy and dreams collide.

These watches aren't meant to replicate the past, but to honor it. SQND’s homage to Casio-style designs isn’t about duplication—it’s about evolution. Through the lens of storytelling and craftsmanship, 88 Drive is my invitation to revisit the past, redefine the present, and maybe—just maybe—bend time.

Clue of what's to come: 88 Drive Inspiring Casio Watch - Possible Future Limited Edition Run

Final Thoughts

The 88 Drive Series is just the beginning—not just for SQND, but for me. It’s the first real expression of a dream I’ve carried for years, now made tangible through the lens of retro design and modern storytelling. These watches are built with purpose, with memory, and with a drive to keep pushing forward.

Time travel may be fiction, but the feeling of being transported by design? That’s real

In a world filled with smartwatches and high-tech gadgets, retro Casio-inspired timepieces remind us of the beauty of simplicity. They are a testament to the idea that sometimes, the best things in life are those that stand the test of time.

So, why not join the movement? Dive into the story, explore the collection, and find the timepiece that speaks to you.