LG’s latest wearable, the Urbane Watch — Wall Street Journal Tech Blogs, By Archibsld Preuschat, August 31, 2015.
LG Watch Urbane Luxe
South Korean consumer electronics maker LG Electronics Inc. has launched a new luxury smartwatch, tracking its chief competitor Apple Inc. The smartwatch is based on LG’s latest wearable, the Urbane Watch, and features a 23-carat gold case with an alligator leather strap. The 23-carat gold used in the “LG Watch Urbane Luxe” is stronger and harder than the 24-carat gold used in jewelry, and heavier than the 18-carat gold used in traditional luxury watches, the company says.
Apple also uses 18-carat gold for its luxury smartwatches, launched earlier this year. But LG not only beats Apple in terms of quality, but also in price. While the Apple Watch starts at $10,000 and can cost up to $17,000, LG’s luxury smartwatch will retail for “approximately $1,200” LG said Monday. Still, LG wants to ensure some exclusivity. Until the end of October, availability will be limited to 500 pieces only, LG said. The electronics firm is collaborating with U.S. retail jewelry company REEDS Jewelers. . . .
“Wearable devices shouldn’t be thought of as an extension of one’s smartphone but an extension of oneself,” said Chris Yie, vice president and head of marketing communications for LG Mobile Communications Company. The South Korean firm will showcase its luxury smartwatch during the IFA consumer electronics trade fair that starts in Berlin later this week.
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