Smartwatch maker Garmin has dropped four new models of its popular Vívomove HR hybrid smartwatch this week that are slightly more high-end than the original Vívomoves.

All four unisex watches feature premium materials and an elevated price tag to match: There’s a dapper 24k yellow gold PVD-coated stainless steel model with a black alligator embossed Italian leather band ($349); a pretty 18k rose gold PVD-coated stainless-steel style with a white Italian leather band ($349); a chic silver stainless-steel model with a dark brown alligator-embossed Italian leather band ($349); and a silver stainless-steel case with a tan Italian leather band ($349).

The Vívomove HR, the follow-up to Garmin’s best-selling Forerunner smartwatch, looks like a classic analog watch on first glance, but features a “hidden” smart screen. Real hands spin out of the way of the screen when the user gets an alert. The smartwatch also features 24/7 heart-rate monitoring, fitness-monitoring tools, and text and call notifications.

The four new premium models are currently available at select Bloomingdale’s locations (and on bloomingdales.com) and on Garmin’s website.

Garmin is one of the world’s oldest smartwatch makers and has grown consistently since its founding in 1989—possibly because the brand hasn’t strayed far from its DNA as an innovator in the GPS and outdoor fitness spaces.

The company was founded by Gary Burrell and Min H. Kao (“Garmin” is a mash-up of part of both founders’ names) as ProNav. And the company’s first product was a GPS unit that sold for $2,500. Not surprisingly, the U.S. Army was its first customer.

Garmin’s total revenue in 2018, according to filings, was $3.347 million—a 7 percent increase over 2017—with aviation, marine, outdoor, and fitness collectively increasing 16 percent over the prior year.

Top: A new Garmin premium Vívomove HR hybrid smartwatch on a model (all photos courtesy of Garmin)

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Emili Vesilind

JCK Senior Editor