Microsoft wants to sell you a gadget while Apple wants to sell you a watch.
That is, I've not worn a watch for years, mostly because a) I've never needed time to be any more convenient than checking my phone, and b) watches tend to be more about style than function, and I care almost zero about the former and almost everything about the latter.
Now that the "watch" is becoming functional, it really is more of a gadget, and that's the only thing drawing me back to considering having something attached to my wrist again.
Of course, I also realize there is a group that does care more about style, and maybe these people aren't the target for the more "gadgety" type smartwatches.
One of the reasons I think the Apple Watch Edition is a joke is that it's trying to target both groups (the other reason being the ridiculous name). And I don't think there is that large of an audience that is willing to spend that much for style + functionality -- if they want to spend that much, they likely care more about style, and will stick to a traditional watch.
So if gadget = functionality, then I say "Finally. Sign me up."
Amusing that you call the majority of the population a "group". People buy clothes, shoes, cars etc based on style not specs. And you only have to look at the LV, Prada etc of the world to know they are willing to spend huge amounts of money on it.
Gadget on your wrist ? Nice. But it's a niche market.
I don't mean this.
I mean that Microsoft's band looks decent... for a gadget. Apple's watch looks decent for a watch.
(Side note: I'm not an MS fanboy or Apple basher -- I have owned and loved iPhones since 3GS. I actually think MS has done a terrible job w/ gadgets, and that this is the first one I'm honestly interested in.)