We're entering an era where we wear digital gadgets like we wear clothes. Since the release of the Apple Watch in April of this year, wearable devices have become increasingly popular, not just for sports or health, but as a fashion statement and an extension of our wristwatches.

While companies like Sony, Apple, and Samsung have all announced smartwatches, I discovered a smartwatch that combines the appeal of digital and analog, emphasizing aesthetics over functionality. It's the VELDT SERENDIPITY. At first glance, it appears to be an elegant, well-designed analog watch, but in fact, it's a Japanese-made smartwatch designed to "rebalance our relationship with the digital world."

While people enjoy the benefits of the expansive internet, I began to question the internet addiction, a situation where we are constantly looking at screens because we're connected.

But I'm not necessarily rejecting the internet. By reexamining our relationship with digital, we are thoroughly exploring the question, "What does it mean to combine analog and digital?" through VELDT.

"I was often struck by the idea that screens steal people's time. By focusing on the things in front of us, we can make unexpected discoveries. If a beautiful view is right in front of us, I think it's important to enjoy the world before our eyes." This led to the birth of VELDT Serendipity.

What sets VELDT Serendipity apart from analog watches is the incorporation of 24 LEDs into its 360-degree dial. The hexagonal face also houses a small, flowing text display. This small display can be linked to any iPhone app with notification functionality.

However, VELDT Serendipity does not appear to be designed to operate on its dial. Despite its large form, the watch has a 48mm outer diameter, so anything you can do on a smartphone, you can do on a smartphone. With this in mind, we've adopted a design that allows you to intuitively absorb information when you're holding it in your hand.

We spoke with Nonokami Hitoshi, CEO of VELTO Inc., the company behind the VELTO Serendipity.

■Watch first, Function second

When asked what he values most when designing the VELTO Serendipity, he replied, "First and foremost, we prioritize the beauty of the watch over its functionality. To put it simply, it's 'Watch first, Function second.' We believe that a wearable device only functions when people like and use it as a watch. That's why we first pursued a design that has a presence as a fashion statement."

In fact, the VELTO Serendipity only has simple functions, such as a schedule, weather forecast, activity tracker, and smartphone misplacement prevention. Regarding the stripping away of functions, he responded, "In our relationship with technology, I believe there are some things that are possible but better not to do. No matter how technically possible it may be, it should be something that maintains normal daily life and does not disturb people's peace of mind. That's why with the 'VELT Serendipity' we kept what can be checked on the watch and deliberately stripped away everything else."

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