Down the years, there have been plenty of Casio watches that could certainly be described as “smart”. The iconic calculator watches from the 1980s are still beloved, while some of the firm’s G-Shock watches feature GPS technology.
However, the company has now launched a device that fits the modern definition of a smartwatch – in the shape of the WSD-F10, running Google’s Android Wear operating system.
Compatible with the iPhone and Android, the Smart Outdoor Watch is tailored for more adventurous types.
Like so many of Casio’s traditional watches it’s waterproof to 50m, while its general toughness meets US military standards. This makes it ideal for use in extreme weather conditions and rugged environments.
There’s a prominent microphone button on the front of the device, while battery life should be good for more than a day.
Related: Huawei Watch with Android Wear review
With a 1.32-inch 320 x 300 display rocking that Moto 360-like “flat tyre” design, it also features some hardware sensors you won’t see on the emerging pack of Android Wear watches. There’s an air pressure sensor, altitude meter and a compass.
There’s also tide graphs, sunrise and sunset times and activity graphs. Casio says the array of sensors provides “real-time information about changes in the natural environment and activity levels.”
Wearers will be able to access this data from the familiar buttons on
the side of the device, which naturally have been designed to be used even whilst wearing
gloves.
The WSD-F10 will arrive in April for the rather considerable cost of $500 (around £320) and will be available in four colours.
Although the price may seem expensive, it sure does beat dropping your flagship Android phone in a drink, while out doing a spot of fishing.
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
