Sony's internet-connected timepiece is called the SmartWatch - but it turns out to be anything but.
The device pairs with an Android smartphone via Bluetooth connection, and promises the kind of discreet high-tech features worthy of a secret agent.
But in tests by The National, the SmartWatch proved more suitable for the hapless Johnny English, rather than James Bond.
Sony's watch - available for Dh399 (US$108) via ALShop.com - allows you to download various apps that synchronise with whatever is happening on your mobile phone.
Annoyingly, none were pre-installed on the device tested, which meant that even those providing the most rudimentary functions had to be downloaded.
More than 125 apps are available, including the usual suspects such as Facebook, Twitter and email.
These allow you to discreetly view incoming messages and tweets.
You can also view your incoming text messages and send a pre-set reply such as "call me". Other downloads - such as a maps application - did not work when tested.
Perhaps the most useful app is the call handling, which displays the name of the person calling your smartphone.
The neat "Find Phone" application allows you to play a sound on the phone with which the watch is paired - but only if it is in range of the Bluetooth signal.
And therein lies a fundamental flaw of the SmartWatch: as soon as you move out of range of your phone, the apps are disabled and it loses the ability to do anything but tell the time. Another major problem was the unresponsive touchscreen. In tests, the screen often failed to respond, or scrolled in the wrong direction when swiped.
The SmartWatch comes with an adaptor so you can wear with your own wristband. However, given that it is rather bulky, it will always occupy the "geek chic" category - and it is certainly not to be worn with a tuxedo.
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