Fossil Q54 Pilot brings smart features to traditional watch design

Fossil’s Q line of smartwatches is perhaps best known for the Android Wear-powered Q Founder, but the company is returning to its roots with the new Q54 Pilot. The Pilot is an aviation-inspired traditional watch design that doesn’t sacrifice modern advancements, making for an attractive pairing that meets a sweet spot for those looking for smart features in a familiar package.

The Q54 Pilot lacks a display, but does feature notifications through color-coded LEDs and vibration feedback. In addition to providing alerts from a paired smartphone, the Pilot also offers activity tracking for steps and calories burned. The Intel-powered smart functionality is merged with chronograph movement in a stainless steel case derived from Fossil’s original Pilot 54 watch.

Some of the lacking smart features of the Q54 Pilot are made up for in an updated version Fossil Q app, which includes enhanced activity reporting, assignable vibration patterns, expanded application support for notifications, and more. The Fossil Q54 Pilot will be available in spring 2016 and will retail starting at $175.