A new addition to the “Heirloom” collection, this one-of-a-kind piece features 32 custom-cut gemstones.
Swatch keeping an eye on iWatch trademarks
Swatch Group has been “pointing out” to trademark authorities the similarity between the names “iSwatch,” the name of a plastic Swatch watch from 2013, and “iWatch” in countries where Apple has sought to trademark the term.
Biel/Bienne, Switzerland--It seems that any story that even mentions the much-anticipated, but not-yet-even-confirmed, iWatch is fit to print these days.
Over the weekend, reports began flying about Swatch Group’s objections to Apple’s trademark registration of the term “iWatch” in some countries.
The iSwatch vs. iWatch media whirlwind began with a report on the Swiss news, German-language website Watson.ch.
On Sunday, Bloomberg conducted a telephone interview with Swatch Group CEO Nick Hayek in which he stated that Swatch has been “pointing out” the use of “iWatch” to authorities in all the countries where it had been registered as a trademark.
“This is the normal procedure to protect your own brand name,” he told Bloomberg. “We react like this for all other brand names that we have protected.”
Hayek did not provide specifics on which countries had been contacted or when the “pointing out” started, but added that there are no plans to take the Cupertino, Calif.-based technology giant to court.
In a statement sent to National Jeweler Monday, a Swatch Group spokesperson confirmed that the report was accurate, noting that it is “normal practice” for a company to monitor its trademark registrations and oppose registration of similar-sounding products when necessary.
While the products indeed are similar sounding--according to Bloomberg, authorities in Iceland already have issued a preliminary rejection of “iWatch” as a trademark because it is too similar to iSwatch--it does not appear that they will be similar in function.
The iSwatch is a silicone and plastic Swatch watch with a digital display that was part of the Swatch 2013 “Summer Buzz” collection.
Aside from the lower case orange “i” on its black strap, the timepiece seemingly has little or nothing to do with the so-called iWatch, the smartwatch that Apple is reportedly developing. The iSwatch retails for $100 and simply keeps time; it has no smartwatch functions.
The current availability of the iSwatch is unclear. The Swatch Group spokesperson did not answer when asked if the iSwatch was sold in the United States and it is listed as “out of stock” online.
The Latest
Last month in Dallas, David Walton pushed another jeweler, David Ettinger, who later died.
The move will allow the manufacturing company to offer a more “diverse and comprehensive” range of products.
With Ho Brothers, you can unlock your brand's true potential and offer customers the personalized jewelry experiences they desire.
From now through mid-May, GIA will be offering the reports at a 50 percent discount.
De Beers’ rough diamond sales were down 18 percent year-over-year in its latest round of sales.
Sponsored by the Las Vegas Antique Jewelry & Watch Show
For over 30 years, JA has advocated for the industry, fought against harmful legislation and backed measures that help jewelry businesses.
NDC filed a complaint against Skydiamond for use of phrases like “diamonds made entirely from the sky.”
John Carter received the AGS’s highest honor Tuesday afternoon at Conclave in Austin, Texas.
LVMH said the company performed well despite an uncertain geopolitical and economic environment.
B&D Sales and Service held a ribbon-cutting event for its new location in Cranston, Rhode Island.
It’s ultra-feminine and filled with gold, pearls, and soft pastels.
Emily Highet Morgan and Emily Bennett have joined the agency’s team.
Its updated book for mountings is also now available.
She has been with the organization since 2010, most recently serving as its chief officer of PR and industry relations.
Joyce’s Jewelry sued the bank after cybercriminals drained its accounts of nearly $1.6 million through a series of wire transfers.
He is remembered by loved ones for his loyalty, integrity, and kindness.
Hosted by Freeman’s | Hindman, the sale will take place May 7-8.
The auction house said all 24 timepieces offered in its underground sale of rare and avant-garde watches quickly found buyers.
From lab-grown diamonds and AI to the inevitable Taylor Swift mention, here are some of Conclave’s most intriguing educational offerings.
From cybersecurity liability to trade show coverage, insurance experts share tips on how to build the right policy.
The charm is a modern rendition of the evil eye amulet that has been worn for thousands of years.
Ahead of its trade show next month, TJS awarded free registration and accommodations to one jewelry professional and three students.
By the end of this year, SRK’s diamond manufacturing complexes will achieve net zero emissions, one of an impressive array of achievements.
Members can still sell lab-grown stones, it said, but only natural gems are allowed on the show floor.
He is remembered for his charisma, passion, integrity, kindness, and wit.