The Top Hybrid Smartwatches That Merge Classic Analog and “Smart” Timekeeping Features

Kairos just unveiled two stunning smartwatch models that merge traditional mechanical watch features with the “smart” features we’ve come to know. The company claims the devices are the “world’s first mechanical smartwatch” hybrids. Dubbed the Kairos MSW and Kairos SSW, both models will include a traditional analog watchface in a bottom layer with a unique transparent OLED screen on top. The analog portion will be used to display time in a more classic manner, while the OLED will display notifications, texts, messages and more.

When it comes to design, both devices look amazing. Kairos certainly didn’t shy away from using stylish aesthetics, although these are still pretty bulky. Since the devices won’t be relying on the OLED screen at all times, Kairos claims the smart portion of these watches will last for about a week before requiring a charge. As for the traditional analog portion, it will be charged up by simply wearing the device similar to various Rolex, Tag and Citizen models.

Unfortunately, the Kairos MSW is set to retail for $1,149, while the Kairos SSW is set to retail for £1,039. You can bag them at cheaper prices if you pre-order, but they’re still expensive.

This led us to wonder, are there any other hybrid smartwatches out there that offer a combination of “smart” and traditional analog functionality? Maybe not in the same way as the new Kairos models, but there most certainly are other hybrid smartwatches out there. A few of them are even more affordable and wallet-friendly.

Naturally, we decided to compile a list of all those top hybrid smartwatches. Head on past the break to see what those are.

The Top Hybrid Smartwatches That Merge Analog and “Smart”

The Kairos models are the first to merge the advanced smartwatch screen with traditional analog mechanics sure, but they aren’t the first ever hybrids. Keep in mind, some of these may include only basic functionality but that’s the allure. They will last much longer than other devices such as the Moto 360, Samsung Gear models and even the Apple Watch. That said, there is a tradeoff. Most of them merely display icons, a portion of a notification or just have LED indicators.

Regardless, we’ve compiled a list of robust hybrid smartwatches that should offer a little something for everyone’s tastes. Whether you want a device with extended battery life, more reasonable prices or just traditional analog timekeeping – the devices in this list will certainly provide.

The CONNECTEDEVICE Cookoo and Cookoo 2

Cookoo SmartwatchCONNECTEDEVICE did a great job offering a hybrid watch with the original Cookoo. It looks like they’ve done it again with the Cookoo 2. That said, both generations are equally appealing to anyone looking for an analog watch with smartwatch functionality.

How does the Cookoo handle it all? The timekeeping itself has a traditional analog setup with an hour, minute and second hand rotating around the radial display. In that respect it works exactly like any other watch, with a minor exception. Underneath the watch hands are various LED notification areas.

The original Cookoo model will display notifications for personal calendar reminders, incoming calls, missed calls, Facebook posts and messages, and a low smartphone battery. It is compatible with most iOS (4+) and Android (4.3+) handsets

The Cookoo 2 can alert you to incoming calls with caller ID support, essential notifications such as texts, emails and more, low smartphone battery, music playback and remote controls, remote camera functions, send page to phone, dual time and more. It does have a companion app for Android (4.3+) and iOS (7+) devices, which means it will connect with both handset platforms.

Both generations are powered by a standard watch battery and can be easily swapped out at any time, although the one included should last for quite a while. In addition, there are several versions of each generation available in multiple color schemes. If you don’t like the stock band, you can swap it out for any standard size 22mm straps. In other words, you can install your own custom bands if you so desire.

The best part is that the original Cookoo is available for $129.99, while the Cookoo 2 is available for $149.99. Admittedly, you can probably find the original models for cheaper now that the new generation has hit the market.

The CONNECTEDEVICE Cogito and Cogito Pop

Cogito PopHere we are again, raving about CONNECTEDEVICE, who’s already on this list thanks to the Cookoo. This time around we’re taking a looking at two models, which are part of the Cogito lineup.

The Cogito Pop is what you can officially call a dumb watch that has been outfitted with a handful of smart features and gimmicks. It’s cheap, it offers analog watch timekeeping and it also includes notification icons for alerts, messages and more. You can pick one up for about $90 on Amazon, in several different colors. It works with iOS definitely, but there are some limitations when pairing with Android devices. This is true of CONNECTEDEVICE’s original Cogito line too. Speaking of the original Cogito, it’s a much more premium option if you want to spend a little extra money.

The Cogito Pop is available for $129, while the original Cogito models can be had for $179. They aren’t the absolute best hybrid smartwatches on the market, but they are definitely wallet-friendly which is important for many of us.

The Citizen Eco-Drive Proximity

Citizen Eco-Drive ProximityThe Citizen Eco-Drive Proximity is for all intents and purposes just a watch. The only thing “smart” about it is that it can show you specifically what kind of alerts are available on your device using a traditional clock based dial. Instead of offering a smartphone-like device on your wrist, the Eco-Drive Proximity is quite simply a traditional watch.

Thanks to an active Bluetooth connection with iPhone handsets (4S+) the Proximity can display notifications for incoming calls, emails, messages, reminders, and alerts. It also has a companion app, like most smartwatches that can be downloaded and installed right from the App store.

Since the Proximity is a perpetual calendar chronograph there’s no need to worry about a battery, or charging the device. You can also swap out the stock band for any standard 22mm strap if you so desire, though we’re not entirely sure why you would do that.

The Eco-Drive Proximity is available for $495 through Citizen. You might be able to find it cheaper through a third-party retailer.

Stylish Hybrid Smartwatches: The MB Chronowing

HP MB ChronowingHP’s collaboration with Michael Bastian resulted in the production of the MB Chronowing. We have to say we weren’t expected much when they promised a device that oozed style, so we were definitely surprised when it was officially unveiled. It looks fantastic, but it offers a whole slew of awesome features too.

It’s a 44mm stainless steel smartwatch that merges traditional analog timekeeping with digital “smart” features in a very unique way. The watch portion is a small dial-like section while the rest of it displays notifications, alerts and messages. It also says Michael Bastian all over the damn thing including the front, and it’s even etched into the back of the steel. If you’re not into that kind of thing this one might turn you off. Other than that it’s an exceptional device.

It’s compatible with iPhone (4S+) and Android (4.3+) handsets. It has a companion app for both platforms, and the battery will last for up to a week. In addition, it’s water resistant up to 5 ATM and works in any time zone – which is always a plus. You can grab one of these bad boys when it launches on November 7, for $349 (basic model) and $649 (limited edition with sapphire glass).

Other Hybrid Smartwatches: Runner-Ups

Here are some of the runner-ups that also offer the same traditional analog and digital “smart” mashup of features:

  • Martian Victory
  • Martian Passport
  • Won Rhee Vachen
  • Veldt Serendipity
  • Creoir Ibis

Did we miss any? What are your favorite hybrid smartwatches?

About The Author

Briley Kenney

Briley Kenney is an experienced tech enthusiast who enjoys all things electronic and gadget related. Currently, Briley writes for a plethora of professional websites including Digital Trends, Lifewire, Ideaing, SmartWatches, and several prominent, but confidential, SEO companies. He has also written in-game content for the indie gem Tales of Illyria and it's two sequels Beyond the Iron Wall, and Destinies.

1 Comment

  1. Shackrock

    Withings makes great looking hybrid smart watches.