QMarshal with sensor that vibrates with each notification

Wristwatches only used to tell the time. You strapped one on in the morning and forgot about it, checking only once in a while.

Now, however, there are smartwatches that can be linked to your mobile phone via Bluetooth. They vibrate when you get a call or text, remind you to stretch if you’ve been seated too long, and note how many steps you’ve taken that day (a minimum of 10,000 to maintain your weight, more if you want to lose).

Until recently, the Fossil brand of fashion watches was limited to classic analog styles. No-nonsense in almost every way, it appealed to men and women who preferred reasonably priced watches with strong, distinct features.

In the company’s bid to attract a newer market—one interested to experience this new category of “wearables”—it has come out with Fossil Q, a technologically advanced line of fashion watches.

QWander has amulti-finish case with sculptedwire lugs. — QWander has amulti-finish case with sculpted wire lugs.

“Fossil Q is our first foray into wearable, fashion-focused timepieces,” said Justin Paxton, Hong Kong-based assistant regional merchandising manager of Fossil Group, Inc. “We actually introduced this in other markets last year, but this is our first time to launch in the Philippines.”

The four styles—Q Nate, Q Crewmaster, Q Gazer and Q Tailor—incorporate technology into a traditional timepiece. Q Nate is made for weekend warriors and comes in a range of colors for both leather and steel straps. Q Crewmaster is made of stainless steel and lets you keep track of your fitness and sleep patterns.

Q Gazer and Q Tailor for women are slimmer with crystal accents or straps in navy and rich shades of brown.

“The Q Wander and Q Marshall marry form and function for a stunning addition to your everyday style,” Jill Elliott, chief creative officer said in a statement.

Interchangeable straps

Now, you can also make and answer calls using your watch. Aside from smartphone notifications and activity tracking, the new iteration or “Gen 2” also has a number of remarkable fashion features.

“There are more colorways now,” Paxton said. “Watch cases come in blue, gray and rose gold, and our largest size now is a more manageable 45 mm, not 47 mm.”

One thing that’s unique to Fossil is the option for users to purchase additional watch bands at the Watch Bars located at Fossil stores in Megamall, Shangri-La Plaza and Filinvest Festival Mall.

“While you can change the face of most smartwatches with a flick of the finger, only Fossil offers interchangeable watch bands for Fossil Q. We really wanted to give users that personalized touch,” Paxton said.

“Now, users can match their watch bands with their outfits of the day.”

QCrewmaster keeps track of fitness, sleep; it even auto-updates the time. — Q Crewmaster keeps track of fitness, sleep; it even auto-updates the time.

Despite the current interest in wearables, there are no plans for Fossil to stop coming out with analog designs.

“Fossil will continue to do what it is known for, but we also want to be a leader in the wearable fashion watches,” he said.

Fossil Q watches are compatible with both Android smartphones and iPhones. They are available at all Fossil and WSI stores, and at selected L Timestudio and Wristpod branches.