Smartwatches vs. classic watches - The future of the watch industry

The Apple revolution has taken smartwatches to a whole new level. Many technology-lovers, especially youngsters prefer smartwatches to classic watches. Will this trendy product pose challenges for classic watches? Why do some people choose smartwatches while others are still loyal to classic watches?

In this blog post, I will give an overview of the advantages and disadvantages of both smartwatches and classic watches and some of my thoughts about the future of the watch industry.

SMARTWATCHES – FUNCTIONAL BUT SHORT LIFETIME

Regarding the advantages of smart watches, multiple functions must be considered a plus. Outstanding features such as health tracking, notifications for social media and calls, especially for Apple’s I-watch are of great convenience for busy and active people. Moreover, a smartwatch can be integrated with a variety of applications for different purposes. A smart watch then be more of a technological device than a timekeeper for its owner.

Everything have shortcomings and this applies also for smartwatches. A smartwatch with constant notifications from social media and job calls may not be the best choice when you want to take a break from the hectic life. Moreover, as a smart device, a smartwatch has a battery that does not last very long. For example, for I-watch, you need to charge it once a day. When a smartwatch is out of battery, it becomes useless and you will not be able to even see the time. In addition, the lifetime of a smartwatch is under question. Just like other smart devices, a smartwatch might become outdated within 1-2 years for upgraded software and programs. I also personally think that smartwatches have quite an unattractive design. In my opinion, most of them look like mini mobile phones with sharp angles and straight lines, although some prestigious brands now make connected watches that have a more elegant look.

CLASSIC WATCHES – CLASSY AND DURABLE

When it comes to classic watches, I have already mentioned in our blog posts about different types of movements and how to take care of your watch. In this post, I just want to focus on the pros and cons of having a classic watch.

It is undeniable that classic watches bring about unique style for the wearers. If you wear a type of classic watch long enough and know how to combine it with your outfit, the watch will then become your signature style. Some may think that a classic watch is usually preferred in formal situations, but there are new types of fashion classic watches which you can wear with casual clothes. Moreover, classic watches from renowned brands can show your class as well as your admiration towards the high-skilled craftsmanship and the premium quality. That is why, celebrities and successful businessmen always own at least one top-notch classic watch. In addition, battery charging is not needed. For quartz watches, you may need to service and change the battery every 2-3 years depending on the watch type. It is even better for classic automatic watches since they operate without any battery. A classic watch can last for generations if it is taken good care of. It can then become a good investment as well.

A drawback of classic watches that I can think of is that it may be costly at the beginning. Not everyone can afford luxurious watches but I may suggest you take a look at microbrand watches. There are plenty of new watchmakers which offer interesting designs at a more reasonable price. Some may say that classic watches are boring since they do not have any extra functions. However, I believe a timepiece’s purpose should only be to tell the time.

FUTURE OF THE WATCH INDUSTRY

On the one hand, smartwatches have definitely taken a reasonable share in the market. In the near future, smartwatches with enhanced designs and improved functions can pose great challenges to the classic watches. Observing the threat from smartwatch brands, some classic watchmakers including Breitling, Mont Blanc and Tag Heuer have started making their own connected smartwatches.

On the other hand, considered as a fashion accessory, classic watches have its own status. Till now, classic watches are still the dominant player in the current market.

What will be the main player in the watch market? Only the future can answer. But as for me, I still prefer the classic timepieces with elegance and simplicity.