Swatch doesn’t seem concerned about all the buzz smart watches are getting these days. The world’s biggest watch maker is experiencing a double digit growth from emerging markets like China, and its CEO Nick Hayek thinks these devices present an opportunity rather than a threat for the company. Here’s what he said in an interview with Reuters:
The smartwatch is an opportunity for us, whatever happens. If people who never used to wear anything on their wrist start wearing a so-called smartwatch, then we certainly can convince them quickly to try wearing a beautiful watch instead.
According to him, Swatch has the necessary know-how to make a smartwatch, having did it in the past. Ten years ago, the company teamed-up with Microsoft to launch a smart watch called Paparazzi. That device provided users with access to news, horoscopes, stock quotes and other real-time information, but it did not meet with the hoped-for success.
Things are different today, as most smart watches rely on Bluetooth connection with smartphone to serve notifications and other bits of information. Moreover, smart watch makers realized their products need to look better so that non-geeks will want to buy them, as well. During CES, we’ve seen the new Pebble Steel announced, while MetaWatch unveiled a new line-up of fancy-lookin’ Meta watches. Plus, we’re all waiting for Apple to finally show the world its long-time rumored iWatch.
All said, I’m not sure Swatch should be that confident this market won’t affect its sales. What do you think?