In collaboration with U.S. retail jewelry company REEDS Jewelers, LG Electronics (LG) will introduce a premium limited edition smartwatch, LG Watch Urbane Luxe. This luxurious wearable was designed with a specific wearer in mind and is adorned in 23-karat gold heavy plate and gorgeous alligator leather band presented in an exclusive piano-gloss lacquer case. Available immediately for pre-order and with delivery to purchasers starting in October, the LG Watch Urbane Luxe will retail for USD $1,195. Because of the intensive craftsmanship required for each watch, only 500 of these watches will be produced, each individually numbered and accompanied by a signed certificate of authenticity.
The LG Watch Urbane Luxe will sport a deployment clasp in 23k gold heavy plate for a fitted, elegant look that is not bulky. Invented by Louis Cartier in 1910, the use of a deployment clasp makes this timepiece even more exclusive and precious. The alligator band itself is handcrafted at the highest level of craftsmanship, undergoing 50 separate steps in its creation, handled lovingly by 30 experienced leatherworkers. The 23-karat gold heavy plate used in the LG Watch Urbane Luxe is stronger and harder than the 24-karat gold used in jewelry and has the deep luster of gold that isn’t present in the lighter 18-karat gold used in many traditional luxury watches.
“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. “This blending of craftsmanship and technology is a natural evolution of the smartwatch, which is becoming more of a lifestyle accessory than a piece of hardware. We think this is a good direction for wearables and we want to encourage this transformation.”
“We’re proud to have partnered with LG on the creation of the LG Watch Urbane Luxe,” said Alan M. Zimmer, president and CEO of REEDS Jewelers. “This is a watch that stands on its own for luxury and craftsmanship, while also having exceptional functionality as a smartwatch. Our customers are looking to make a personalized and unique statement with their choice of watches, and the LG Watch Urbane Luxe marks the evolution of smartwatches into the fashion-forward world of jewelry and fine timepieces.”
Each of the 500 limited edition watches will be engraved with its own serial number, is accompanied by a signed and numbered certificate of authenticity, and is available for pre-order at www.REEDS.com or by visiting any REEDS Jewelers location. Visitors to IFA 2015 can see this beautiful work of art along with other mobile devices from LG for themselves in Hall 18 of Messe Berlin from September 4-9.
