LOS ANGELES, May 22 — Available for pre-order, the new timepieces from the Korean start-up Kairos Watches aim to combine the features of a high-tech smart watch with the mechanical beauty of a traditional watch.
Available from US$499 (RM1,600), the new watches offer an interesting compromise between refined style and state-of-the art connectivity.
When linked to an Android or iOS terminal through Bluetooth, a Kairos Watch displays notifications on incoming calls, text messages and social networking alerts. The device can also be used as a remote control for the smartphone or tablet, allowing users to navigate through their music library or take photos remotely, and it can even estimate the wearer's steps taken and calories burned.
Initially, the manufacturer will market two models, the MSW 115 and SSW 158, which differ primarily through their mechanical automatic movements (the Japanese made Miyota for the MSW 115 and the Swiss made Soprod for the SSW 158). Both models are available with a case in either stainless steel or gold.
While both of the self-winding watch movements have a 42-hour power reserve, the smart watch function is said to have a battery life of between five and seven days between charges. The device is recharged through a USB cable.
Until July 1, 2014, the hybrid smart watches are available at prices ranging from US$499 to US$1,199. The manufacturer will then increase prices to US$1,199 - US$2,149. Deliveries are expected to begin in December 2014 for the MSW 115 and March 2015 for the SSW 158.
Kairos Watches notes that the images on its website and in the video show the device in its prototype stage and that the final version may differ slightly. — AFP Relaxnews
