Finally, a smartwatch that looks like an actual watch

The smartwatch should’ve caught on earlier. On paper, it's the next logical step in technology. Now that phones have a computer's functionality, it only makes sense to put the same features into something more portable, like a watch.

In recent years, we’ve seen that promise come to life in the many smartwatches that came out in the market: ones that can take calls, connect online, play music, and find your exact location. 

Everything's good on paper, except for one thing: These things don’t actually look like watches. At least not the ones we're accustomed to.

A watch is, for all intents and purposes, more than just a tool for telling time. It's a symbol of style and status; the closest thing to everyday jewelry a man owns. Most traditional watch intenders want it to look a certain way: sleek, circular, and classy.

That’s what makes the Samsung Gear S3 such a game-changer. Its two versions—the Gear S3 Classic and the Gear S3 Frontier—both feature bodies based on classical watch designs. Complemented by a crisp 1.3” superAMOLED display enclosed in a 46mm stainless steel face, you wouldn’t be able to tell its difference from a more traditional timepiece at first glance.

The rotating bezel, used to control the device, offers the same depth and texture as a regular watch. The always-on screen makes sure your chosen face is displayed at all times, and both variants use standard 22mm bands, so you can switch out Samsung’s proprietary straps with other designs, and with any other strap of the same measurements. The rounded sharp edges of the case and the sunray brush finish on the bezel illustrate the attention to detail and quality put into the form of the device.

Because the Gear S3 was designed with style in mind, and with the understanding that a watch is first and foremost an accessory, and therefore must look good.

However, it doesn’t stop there. Its excellence in form doesn’t lead to any compromises in functionality; it’s a smartwatch that’s designed to move you forward.

The Gear S3 is IP68 water-and-dust-resistant, with a powerful Exynos 7270 Dual 1.0 GHz chipset driving its performance. It has built-in GPS, speakers; with its battery life lasting up to 3-4 days so you can move freely in your adventures, even without a smartphone. Equipped with outdoor activity sensors like barometer, speedometer and altimeter, as well as fitness trackers, the Gear S3 is the perfect device to help you navigate the wilderness. Furthermore, there are over 10,000 apps currently available for download, ranging from music players and ride-booking apps to step trackers and more.

There’s an app to suit every lifestyle and, thanks to the Gear S3’s customizability, a look to suit every occasion—including some of the bigger milestones in your life. Check out the video below for some tips on how to style your next go-to watch: