LVMH group, the luxury conglomerate behind notable brands such as Louis Vuitton and Dior, is preparing itself for the storm that Apple will bring to the watch space. LVMH is also behind TAG Heuer, a brand that was recently tipped to unveil an Intel-powered smartwatch at the upcoming CES 2015 in January.
In an interview with Reuters, LVMH general manager Guy Semon stated that “smartwatches represent a challenge to the Swiss watch industry that is comparable to the appearance of quartz technology. We cannot ignore this tsunami that is coming closer.”
Jean-Claude Biver, Head of LVMH watch division, echoed similar thoughts and confirmed an imminent release of smartwatch, and also stated his company has “struck several partnerships and was mulling purchases” to help them launch with something original. “We started on the project about four months ago. We have done several partnerships and might also do acquisitions,” said Biver.
As to a potential release of a TAG Heuer smartwatch, which might run Google Android Wear OS, Biver noted that it might arrive by late 2015, but “We’ll only do it if we can be first, different and unique.”
[source] Reuters [/source]
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