How do you like a smart watch with the iconic Swiss design? All you need to do is spend $1,500 for a newly released Tag Heuer watch.
Tag Heuer, one of the biggest makers of Swiss watches in the world, has recently partnered with Intel and Google to create the first Swiss smart watch called Connected, which made its official debut on Monday, Nov 9. The company hinted about its creation during Basel World 2015.
Unlike previously released smart watches that appear either too industrial or too modern, the watchmaker prefers to stick to its roots-that is, making the smart watch feel more classical with straps made from black rubber and a casing from titanium. It will also feature digital hands as well as weather and directional wind monitoring.
However, inside it is Android powered and is equipped with an Intel Atom processor. The surface will also be touchscreen and will allow users to tap into Google's ecosystem, including the Google Maps and Fit. The users can also customize the apps available in the watch, tether the watch to their Android phone, and give voice commands.
Jean-Claude Biver, the company's chief executive, believed that their smart watch will serve a dual purpose. One, it allows them to capitalize on the growing market of smart watches. In 2013 alone, the smart watch industry earned over $700 million with Samsung taking the biggest market share at 34%. Second, they hope they can attract young users to buy classic timepieces. For this reason, the company is giving Connected customers the option to shift to a mechanical watch once the two-year warranty ends for a price of $1,500. Biver went on to compare Connected watch with Apple's smart watch, calling theirs more "eternal."
The watch is now available in more than 10 stores around the United States. It will also be sold in other countries like Japan, UK, and Germany within a few days.