Smartwatches are still in their early stage but the wearable device industry has a lot of potential. A few manufacturers have jumped into the bandwagon and we can expect that this year, more models will be introduced. We noted recently in a blog roundup that there was an explosion of wearables after Google introduced Android Wear–the wearable OS. Google made smartwatches a hot commodity although companies have yet to standardize the technology. A number of companies and developers are looking into smartwatches, introducing models in different styles, shapes, and functions left and right. But not Montblanc, the luxury brand wants to venture into the mobile industry by bringing fine watchmaking and wearable technology together.
Montblanc recently introduced the TimeWalker Urban Speed e-Strap. It’s a special interchangeable strap that features a small screen that displays smart notifications, activity trackers, Find-Me, and remote control functions. The idea is to use the e-strap with any TimeWalker timepiece from the Swiss luxury watchmaker. Admit it, not many smartwatches in the market today are stylish enough so people are still waiting for newer models or, at least, are looking for alternatives. Why suffer luxury, design, and style when you can have a traditional Montblanc watch and smartwatch functions at the same time?
The Montblanc e-Strap retains the avant-garde appeal of the TimeWalker watch line. This means the well-designed timepieces from the brand will have that new digital touch albeit still limited in functions. The e-Strap is part of the Timewalker Urban Speed collection that includes three watch models. It vibrates to alert the user of incoming communication, allows preview of e-mails, viewing of status updates and incoming calls, reminders, and text messages.
The activity tracker can measure the number of steps a user has taken per day, distance travelled, and how many calories have been burned. Of course, this e-Strap works with a special app that enables progress and displays the data on a supported smartphone. As for the remote control function, the e-Strap can be used to control the smartphone. For one, taking selfies can be easier one the camera remote is enabled.
I like the idea of a digital strap maintaining the traditional watch but I don’t think I can afford a Montblanc TimeWalker watch and spend some more on the e-Strap. The cheapest Timewalker Urban Speed automatic with e-Strap costs 2,990 EUR which is about $3,574. The Timewalker Urban Speed UTC e-Strap is 3,990 EUR ($4,470), and the Timewalker Urban Speed chronograph e-Strap is $4,690 ($5,607). E-Strap is compatible with iPhone 4S, Galaxy S4, Galaxy Note 3, and higher models.
If you just want the E-Strap, you can get it for 350 EUR ($418). But for that price, I’d rather get a real smartwatch. And no, I can’t afford a luxury watch right now.
VIA: SlashGear
SOURCE: Montblanc
