The smartwatch market has experienced significant growth since the pandemic, driven by a heightened focus on health among consumers worldwide. No longer seen purely as accessories for making calls or checking notifications, smartwatches have become essential tech items for many users. Similar to the smartphone market, the smartwatch industry faces intense competition, particularly in the Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 10,000 price range. The introduction of CMF Watch 3 Pro marks the return of Nothing’s sub-brand to India, showcasing the third generation of its Pro-branded smartwatch.
Product Details and Initial Experience
Having spent a few days with the CMF Watch 3 Pro, it has made a notable impression. Priced at Rs. 7,999, not including a limited-time introductory discount of Rs. 1,000 for initial customers, the CMF Watch 3 Pro presents itself as a potential highlight in its category. The smartwatch features a detachable silicone strap that is comfortable to wear, though I found the installation and removal process somewhat challenging and requiring some finesse.
While the strap is replaceable, the package includes only one option, which may limit personalization for some users. The retail box contains a two-pin charging puck that magnetically connects to the back of the smartwatch. However, it should be noted that the puck’s design makes it fit securely only at certain angles, which could be inconvenient for users at first.
Design and Comfort
Despite the learning curve of attaching the charging puck, the magnets are not particularly strong, which poses a mixed benefit; on one hand, accidental tugging will not damage the watch, but on the other, it may disconnect from the charger if positioned awkwardly. The metal case of the CMF Watch 3 Pro is designed to convey a premium look. I tested the Dark Grey color variant with a black strap, which is subtle and pleasing to the eye. The alternative Orange color option, shown with a dark black dial, also gives a sophisticated appearance in marketing materials.
The smartwatch has a relatively large profile, making it suitable for individuals with thicker wrists. It’s noteworthy that despite its size, it remains lightweight at only 51.9 grams, providing a comfortable wearing experience.
Display and User Interface
The minimalist design of the CMF Watch 3 Pro, characteristic of the Nothing brand, is both stylish and functional. The CMF branding is subtly embossed on the frame, adding to its overall aesthetic without being overly bold. The watch features a round dial showcasing a 1.43-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 466 x 466 pixels, a pixel density of 326 ppi, and a 60Hz refresh rate, capable of reaching up to 670 nits of peak brightness.
In my initial usage, the display proved bright enough for indoor conditions but could benefit from enhanced visibility for outdoor settings. The watch offers five levels of brightness adjustment in addition to an auto-brightness mode. Although I only experienced a portion of the user interface, it felt responsive. The device supports over 120 customizable watch faces, with the CitrusDash face particularly standing out as it provides diverse metrics, including heart rate data.
Upcoming Review and Expectations
These preliminary impressions of the CMF Watch 3 Pro cover design, comfort, and display quality. However, thorough evaluations of its health and fitness tracking capabilities, battery longevity, and other features are still pending. A full review will follow, providing a comprehensive assessment of how the CMF Watch 3 Pro performs across various functions.
