Time called on world's first e-paper watch

E Ink, Seiko Epson, and Seiko Watch Corporation have demonstrated what they claim is the world's first watch designed with an electronic paper display.

The so-called 'Future Now' technology incorporated into the Seiko watch features an ultra-thin, low-power display integrated into a curved and flexible band.

The electronic paper display module is the result of a joint development effort, bringing together E Ink's 'electronic ink' technology and Seiko Epson's display manufacturing and electronic circuitry techniques.

According to its creators, the technology could be used to produce next-generation personal devices benefiting from ultra high contrast screens made up of pure black and white particles.

Such screens would have the same contrast as on printed pages, which is approximately twice that of an LCD panel, and could be read in either bright or dimly lit environments. The screens will also be ultra thin and flexible.

"The display is much thinner than is possible with any conventional display technology, analog or digital. The display can also be flexible allowing designs never before achievable," said the Future Now developers.

In addition the very low power consumption of the display means that it is readable under very low light conditions, with no backlighting required.

Seiko said it expects to commercialise the watch in Japan by spring 2006. Plans for an international launch are under consideration, along with other design interpretations.