Interesting topic, Bill. Just looking at those links, it is interesting to see how quickly smart watches are evolving in terms of function and style. I'm not a buyer yet, but I will observe the trend, and I too look forward to a potential Apple offering (hoping they can truly do something innovative post-Jobs).

There was a cheesy video for the Meta watch in the second link, but I liked the concept presented whereby a wearable smart device may actually be less intrusive on our daily interactions than a smart phone. I find the phenomenon of people walking through life with their smart phone screens to their faces rather depressing. But will consumers really be satisfied to simply glance at their smart watch to see if messages are coming in? Will it really allow us to remain more in the moment?

I also agree with Rich's comments, as I don't believe vintage watch values will suffer from this trend, as their original style, mechanical form, scarcity, and history will continue to remain relevant. It is the relatively cheap, contemporary mechanical / quartz watches that will be most impacted by a smart watch trend.

Onward we go!

Jim