Society is changing at a rapid pace. If you went back in time just ten years, the way we worked, dressed, and interacted with each other would seem strange and foreign. Recognizing the speed at which times are changing, Tag Heuer is evolving its ‘Connected’ timepiece to reflect not only updated technology but also consumer tastes.
The TAG Heuer Connected was first introduced in 2015 as one of the first luxury smart-watches. One of the most significant hurdles high-end wearable tech has faced is the fear that innovation would make the investment obsolete in a few years. So, the brand introduced the TAG Heuer Connected Modular—a case based on the company’s classic Carrera model, which allows owners to switch between Connected and mechanical modules. It also came with the option to buy a variety of bracelet materials such as titanium, leather, and rubber.
And now, the Connected’s next big step is to get small. TAG Heuer has just unveiled the new Modular 41—the watchmaker’s latest take on its Android Wear watch—in Geneva last January. This smart-looking smart-watch capitalizes on two of the biggest trends in timekeeping: smaller case sizes and versatility when it comes to colors and straps.
It’s partially a fashion thing: watchmakers across the board have been streamlining their timepieces because, in this age of selfie-indulgence, men and women are looking for more elegance when it comes casual attire. With a 41mm case, there’s less chance that your timepiece will get stuck under your cuffs.
Then there’s the lifestyle element. For those who are never really offline, the TAG Heuer Connected Modular 41 offers seven standard models available (but you can further customize the bracelet and lugs to best suit your lifestyle). Need to move quickly from office to offsite experience? You can dress the 41 up or down by quickly swapping out the strap. There are nine strap colors, including three that are exclusive to the 41 collection—pink, blue, and white leather.
Don’t forget: if the technology becomes obsolete, you can swap out the Connected module with a three-hand mechanical Caliber 5 mechanism.
Because the TAG Heuer Connected Modular 41 is new (it was just introduced during Geneva Days in January), it will take a few years to become outdated. Developed in collaboration with Intel and Google, this smart-watch has all the gadgety goodness of the 45mm version: an AMOLED 390x390 screen with 326 ppi resolution and improved, increased storage capacity of 8 GB; and 1 GB of RAM. It also runs on the Android Wear operating system and is compatible with Android 4.3 phones and iOS 9 or later systems. It also offers Near Field Communication (to send and receive signals with other devices when you’re disconnected from the internet) and other cool features such as GPS, Bluetooth, and a wide selection of customizable TAG Heuer dials.
The TAG Heuer Connected Modular 41 collection is priced between $1,300 and $2,950. The watches are available now at TAG Heuer boutiques, through select retailers, or at tagheuer.com.
