Samsung has launched its most innovative smartwatches to date, the Gear S2. To mark the occasion, the tech company has created a short film with two of the region’s biggest style setters, Ahmed Fairouz and Sherif Fayed. Leading a new wave of content creation in the Middle East, and tying in nicely with Samsung’s accompanying campaign #MyRotation, the Instagram stars both rotate through their hectic lives effortlessly all the while keeping on trend, making them handsomely befitting for the new campaign. We went on-set to chat with the two gents about why the new smartwatch is right on time when it comes staying stylish.
***
SHERIF FAYED – EGYPTIAN/AMERICAN, 23, TV HOST
How would you describe your style?
It has a huge rotation, which is why I am always changing it up – not just with the clothes I wear but also with my accessories. Take a watch for example: pairing a formal watch with a casual style will clash. It’s important to me that I stay true to who I am and change things up a lot.
What are your first impressions of the Gear S2?
I love the health feature, and that it monitors not just how many steps I take, but also my heart rate, and the pace at which I am moving and for how long. I also love the rotating bezel, which allows me to quickly whip through the features, and quickly choose the watch face that suits my outfit, mood and personality at that time. I also like having the choice of a digital or classic analog watch face.
How does it apply to your life right now?
I hate always having a phone in my hand – I find it anti-social, especially when I’m out with friends. I like that you can just have a quick glance at your notifications on the watch. If it’s important you can pull out your phone; if not then you can just keep it in your pocket. It definitely makes me more sociable.
How important is the versatility of this watch?
Very. It instantly gives me versatility in the way that I can customise it. I prefer the Gear S2 Classic in terms of how stylish it looks, and while I love to dress up for a formal function, I feel that my overall style fits better with the Gear S2 which can go from sporty to smart casual at the turn of the bezel.
How’s 2016 looking for you, going forward?
I’m looking forward to continuing with my Dubai TV show, The Victorious, and I’m also looking at getting into acting very soon.
***
AHMED FAIROUZ – EMIRATI, 25, ACTOR AND DIRECTOR
How would you describe your own style?
My style is defined by the people I surround myself with. As a social person, I feel people are accepting of who I am, which is why my style is more about me and not trying to impress anyone else.
How does your style change day to day?
I have many responsibilities to different groups of important people in my life, and my style changes with each of these responsibilities. Family comes first, and when I am with them my style reflects that. When it comes to work, my look is dictated by what is required from me for a particular shoot. My friends also form a huge portion of my life and when I’m with them I tend to be more casual.
What does the Gear S2 watch mean to you?
I see it as a personal assistant. It’s a discreet device with which I can check the news, my WhatsApp and emails without having to reach for my phone. I also use it a lot for music when I’m on the go.
How important is the versatility of this watch to you and your lifestyle?
Versatility is vital, especially when your life is as busy as mine. I need a device that will cater to all facets of my personality and what I do every day – and you can change the straps and watch face to suit your lifestyle, which I really love.
What functions have you been using the most?
One of the things that really caught my attention is the news app. It’s handy to keep up-to-date with the latest events when I’m on the go.
What surprised you about the watch?
I was surprised it connects to WiFi – super handy!
What’s in store for 2016 for you?
I am excited to be producing a film next year. That’s all I can say at this moment though.
Samsung Gear S2 sport, Dhs1,199 and Samsung Gear S2 Classic, Dhs1,399, available at all big Samsung dealers