Hi-tech news from IWC...

hmm … skeptical …
But the nine is fantastic ;-)
Best,
-christian

+1

OK, so we are not only discussing the quality, features, technical issues of the IWC watches anymore, or the merits of bracelets and straps. There is a new gadget to be discussed.

As I pointed out in another post, there are some differences in character that make you wonder. Watches are about timeless, those by IWC are considered luxury goods. Internet devices on the other hand are bound to the almost here and now, their technology, while high-tech, will have a life span of a few years and can be considered cheap quartz-like.

As far as I can see now, IWC makes it possible to have such a device connected to the strap of the watch. Well, why not? But it seems to be only one type of device, one brand: if you like another device you will have to settle for a second device on the other wrist. So it is not sure this connection of IWC and a for now unknown partner is so beneficial for the owner of the watch: some like Microsoft, some like Apple. Who is this "like-minded digital technology company", can it deliver the device that people require? What, if people like another device, is there some standard in the making where this other device will fit on the strap?

Mention the internet, and you are talking vulnerabilities, information theft, identity and privacy problems: how are they going to be handled, and by whom? Will there for instance be some kind of patch management? I am not sure a mechanical watch manufacturer is well set to act in a satisfactory way here, even the internet specialists are having their issues. So, is there a possibility to opt out and not suffer?

As a last remark: the internet world moves fast and in a sometimes unpredictable way. Are the buyers of the device to buy a new version every 3 to 5 years?

Interesting developments!

Kind regards,
Paul

First time ever i saw your face,
Sign (9) of the times ,
times they are a changing,
its that time of the season,
time is on my side,

and time will tell if it is a gadget or here to stay !!

( feel free to add to the list ;-))