5 connected watches presented at Baselworld

Responding to a barrage of smartwatch launches from tech brands including Samsung, LG, Sony and now Apple, a few traditional watchmakers have developed their own connected timepieces. These innovative horological creations are on display at Baselword, which is taking place through March 26.

Frédérique Constant Horological Smartwatch
Frédérique Constant and Alpina have partnered to develop their first smartwatches, two devices combining traditional Swiss horological craftsmanship with technological innovation. Both are compatible with Android and iOS smartphones and offer analog activity and sleep tracking functions, along with a quartz movement. Battery life is advertised at over two years. The Frédérique Constant Horological Smartwatch has a rose gold plated case and a sleek silvered dial. This analog smartwatch is due to launch in late May/early June for just under €1,000 (under $1,080).

Alpina Horological Smartwatch
Alpina chose to repurpose the design of its Comtesse watch for this smartwatch aimed at women. Housed in a 39mm steel case that is waterproof up to 100 meters, the device features a black dial adorned with diamond indices. The Alpina Horological Smartwatch will also be available by June for less than €1,000 (under $1,080).

Mondaine Helvetica 1
Activity tracking is also the standout technological feature of the first connected watch from Mondaine, which has a sapphire glass screen and a leather strap. Like the Withings Activité, the Helvetica 1 has a dedicated subdial showing the wearer's progress towards a given goal. The model is due to launch this fall at an unannounced price.

Breitling B55 Connected
Designed specifically for airplane pilots, the first smartwatch from Breitling is capable of recording various flight details and sending the data to a dedicated smartphone app. Pricing and availability are unannounced.

Bulgari Diagono Magnesium
Unveiled in a world premiere in Basel, the first smartwatch from the Italian brand is a ceramic and magnesium model that is still in the prototype stage. The Diagonon Magnesium stands out for its NFC chip, which Bulgari is touting as a security key that would allow users to securely and easily unlock a smartphone. Bulgari has stated its intention of launching a production model before the end of 2015.