Apple Watch Stores Grand Opening announced

Department stores in Tokyo, London and Paris are getting ready to host a grand opening of what will be the official outlets for the upcoming Apple Watch.

As of April 10th, three international outlets will open their doors to crowds looking to finally experience the new smart watch, which is set to be officially commercially available April 24th, in nine countries, namely: the United States, Japan, Hong Kong, Germany, France, China, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom.

Selfridges (London, UK)

The world-renowned Wonder Room, traditionally dedicated to the most prestigious luxury brands, is being prepared to host the Apple Watch, alongside the world’s most exclusive brands, such as Longines, Montblanc, Gucci, and of course Tag Heuer, the latter of which is planning to release its own Android-powered smartwatch by the end of the year.

Isetan Shinjuku (Tokyo, JP)

An entire room has been set aside for the Apple Watch, in the Isetan mall, and added to the directory as what could be a permanent fixture within the Japanese shopping center.

Galerie Lafayette (Paris, FR)

In France, the Apple Watch will be displayed in the dramatic setting of the Galerie Lafayette. The new outlet will span across four lengths of the Galerie’s balconies, where customers will be able to preview the Apple Watch, until its official commercial release, April 24th.

Welcome competition

In spite of what’s been said about luxury watchmakers, either dissing, or fearing the Apple Watch, most manufacturers of exclusive timepieces are reportedly welcoming the new smart watch, quoting a historical disinterest for wrist-worn devices, popularly by younger consumers.

The potential success of the Apple Watch could work as a catalyst for watchmakers to be relevant across a wider demographic, especially with the introduction of smart bands and connected accessories.

Having said that, if the Apple Watch reaches the popularity Tim Cook is hoping for, luxury brands could be finding themselves in a rush to do what brands like Tag Heuer have already began, and it might not be a matter of “if”, but rather “when” high-end consumers will begin to understand the value of connected technology, in the same way as what the automotive industry has consistently done, for its own high-end customers.