Watch this space

摘要

It is a tiny technological wonder that goes every where with you. Your choice of brand and model says a great deal about who you are and how you wish to be perceived by others. It may have a classic, bare-bones design, or its sleek casing may conceal a host of extra functions. Ten years ago, this described your wrist-watch, which epitomised the combination of fashion and technology for over a century. But today it also describes your mobile phone, which for many people has already dethroned the wristwatch as the most personal of technological devices. Can watchmakers fight back? In recent years there have been several attempts to boost the appeal of watches by adding exotic new functions, from telephones and televisions to personal organisers. But so far, none of these super-watches has been a hit with consumers. Manufacturers, it seems, have tended to ignore obvious practical limitations, and have failed to exploit the unique position of the watch-right there on your wrist.