The number of smart watches has seen a predicted increase with traditional swiss watch labels jumping on the bandwagon. On the other end of the spectrum, we’re also seeing an increased, albeit slower, rate in the number of analog watches geing fitter but not smarter.
Withings was first in the market with their Activite series of watches. The initial reception was that of skepticism even for me. Why would anyone pay a extra for a watch of quality make that also doubles up as a fitness tracker when the smart devices already does that? Clearly there’s a demand for these watches.
In the last 3 months, we’re seeing a few more players showcasing their analog activity trackers; dress watches that help you keep fit. The profile of these companies are varied, ranging from watch makers and international fashion labels to fitness and mobile app companies. Let’s take a look at some of these new sub $200 products.
Timex Metropolitan
The Timex Metropolitan+ tracks steps, distance, calories and sleep (Coming Spring 2016). The watch connects to the Timex Connected smart phone mobile app via Bluetooth where all the data is stored. The watch face features a dial that displays progress towards the fitness goal set for the day. Battery life is advertised as over a year and the Timex Metropolitan is waterproof to 50m. The straps are of quick release make so you can change the look in seconds. The Timex Metropolitan+ will retail for $125 and $150 depending on the version purchased.
Withings Activite Steel
Withings was first to the market with analog activity watches and enjoys the prime mover advantage. Gathering their experience from consumer feedback, they went on to release the Activite Pop series for the youthful market and subsequently the Steel series for those who would like a more premium product without the high price tag. The stainless steel case is paired with a silicon strap and lasts up to 8 months on a single coin cell battery. The Withings Steel is also the only analog fitness watch to track swimming on top of steps, distance, calories and sleep. The Withings Steel is available at $169.95
Runtastic Moments
The Adidas owned Runtastic released their first analog fitness this year. The Runtastic Moment series of watches run on a standard watch battery that ensures up to 6 months of battery life. The tracked stats are synced to the Runtastic Me app that is available on both iOS and Google Play. The watches are priced at 2 different tiers, ranging from $129.99-$179.99, with the main differing factor being make material other than aesthetics.
Fossil Q Grant
Fossil’s analog watch is engineered with Intel Innovation while retaining Fossils’ classic case and chronograph movement with premium materials such as brushed steel and leather. It tracks daily steps and calories with Fossil Q Activity mobile app. The Fossil Grant also features smart notifications with LEDs and vibrations. Battery life is advertised as 7 days and runs on a rechargeable basis. The Fossil Q Grant is currently available and cost from $175-$195 depending on the model selected.
iFit Classic
Source: Business Wire.
The most recent entrant to the analog fitness watch scene is iFit; a company more known for fitness gear and equipment. The in built accelerometer will track your daily activities (steps, distance, calories and sleep) while the classic look of the watch ensure you won’t be out of place whether you’re in the boardroom or the gym. Other features include vibration notifications, water resistant to 50m and a week’s worth of battery life. A unique function allows the user to log calories directly into the watch. The iFit Classic is retailing at $199.99.