I think the responses here make it clear that the average macrumors visitor may not be the exact target. The hardware and software is identical to the regular apple watch; you want access to that, just buy one of those. For a certain clientele who will be frequenting a store like Barney's, Bergdorf's, or the Hermes store, a few thousand dollars is milk money. And that's okay; it's not your money, so it's not your place to judge who gets to buy what. If that were a thing, couture, art, high end dining, niche fashion, luxury housing, boutique hotel, etc. would not be viable markets, but they are. I'm not planning on buying one of these Hermes watches, but a normal human reaction is to understand that there are people for whom 1) they are aethetically pleasing (which they are, 2) offer them a functionality they appreciate (i.e. the same that the cheaper watches offer, and 3) a small bump in price is reasonable to them. These straps are iconic Hermes designs dating back many decades, and to be able to offer that in CONJUNCTION with modern technology is a beautiful synthesis of aesthetic, fashion tradition, brand, and tech.
As for Hermes as a brand, everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but their classic designs are iconic (watch straps, Birkin bag, scarves) and of high quality. Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein, Hugo Boss, Ralph Lauren, Coach, Michael Kors it is not. Materials, stitching, handiwork, and legacy are vital to their brand, and yes, the price reflects that.
