Movado has just announced the new Connect 2.0 smartwatch, a continuation of the first smartwatch released in 2017. I had the chance to spend some time with the 42mm Connect 2.0, but first, a quick overview of what's new: two smaller case size options, interchangeable straps, GPS, heart rate monitoring, a rotating smart crown, programmable buttons, and the new Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear 3100 chip (1 GB RAM / 8 GB storage) - these are the main updates and changes.
Compact Case with Interchangeable Straps
The first generation of Movado Connect watches was elegant, but the case size was 46.5mm wide. This substantial case size led to Connect buyers being quite selective, but Movado clearly took this feedback to heart, significantly reducing the size and offering two options. Movado Connect 2.0 will be available in 40mm and 41mm wide cases. I didn't have the opportunity to spend time with the smaller 40mm version, but I must say the 42mm case feels perfect and not bulky at all. The finish is very well done, and the black color is sharp and minimalist in all the best ways.
What I really liked is that the Connect 2.0 also features an interchangeable strap system. (Currently, Movado offers a Milanese bracelet, a leather strap, and a fabric strap). You simply press the buttons on the back of the lugs, and the strap pops out - I found swapping them out to be very easy. I also want to note that I really like the lugs on these watches; they have a solid, architectural look, and the design works.
Programmable Buttons and Rotating Crown
The new Connect 2.0 features programmable buttons on the right side of the case. I have always found them convenient for smartwatches, as they allow users to access shortcuts tactilely and simply, and at first glance, they look like chronograph buttons. Another new feature is the rotating crown, which allows the user to scroll through the interface by turning it. The first generation Connect only had a touchscreen, which is still present, but I find some comfort in the ease of these tactile additions.
Google Wear, GPS, and Heart Rate Monitoring
The Movado Connect 2.0 uses the Google Wear OS, compatible with Android and also with iPhone (albeit with limited functionality). Standard functionality includes Google Assistant, Google Pay, Google Fit, Google Play, etc. There is connectivity via Bluetooth and WiFi, as well as NFC.
An important new functionality of the Connect 2.0 is the addition of GPS, allowing you to track and analyze your heart rate.
More RAM and Storage
Thanks to the new Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear 3100 chip, memory and storage have significantly increased. The Movado Connect 2.0 has 1 GB of RAM and 8 GB of data storage, which is more than the first generation model with 512 MB of RAM and 4 GB of data storage.
Charging and Battery Life
Another area where Movado has excelled is the ceramic back cover. To charge the Connect 2.0, simply place it on the charger, and it snaps on with magnets. I didn't have the opportunity to test how long the battery lasts or how long it takes to charge the watch, although I went from 13% to 60% in a few minutes. According to Movado, the watch runs for 2-4 days in "time only" mode, meaning you will spend a day using them in full mode and will need to charge them overnight.
Screen and Dials
The AMOLED screen remains always on, which is carried over from the previous generation. Additionally, over 100 customizable dial options are available at launch, but I must say that, given the modern, elegant design of the Connect 2.0, the Museum dial seemed the most natural to me. The overall design here is top-notch in both concept and execution.
Final Thoughts and Pricing
The new Movado Connect 2.0 is one of the most beautiful and pleasant-to-touch smartwatches I have dealt with recently. I was very pleased to hear that Movado took feedback and reduced the case size, and the option to choose between 40mm and 42mm dial sizes is just what is needed. While the limited functionality may not make these watches the perfect choice for iPhone users like me, I see that the Connect 2.0 will appeal to many Android users who want smartwatch functionality in a truly well-designed case.
The price of the Movado Connect 2.0 is significantly lower than high-end Swiss smartwatches like the TAG Heuer Connected or Montblanc Summit, and is roughly in the same range as the new Apple Watch Series 5.
The price of Movado Connect 2.0 ranges from $495 to $795, and the 42mm bracelet you see in this article costs $695.