Sony's SmartWatch 2: A better high-tech ticker (pictures)

The Sony SmartWatch 2 only comes equipped with five watch faces out of the box, but they're all simple and easy to read.

Using an Android-compatible operating system, the Sony SmartWatch 2 links phones running Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich and up via a companion app.

If the Sony SmartWatch 2's styling and design language look familiar, that's because it's made to complement Sony's Xperia smartphones. Square and flat, the device has a big, circular power button on its right side.

The Sony SmartWatch 2 comes standard with a black silicone strap. The watch can accept regular watch bands, though, and Sony sells multiple color and leather options at $19.99 a pop.

Sony's SmartWatch 2 comes with a few analog-style watch faces as well.

While the Sony SmartWatch 2 has a limited number of watch faces preloaded, you can add your own from third-party developers. Sadly, the device treats them as apps, so they'll stop running if other software or events takes precedence.

Download calendar apps through the Google Play store to use on the Sony SmartWatch 2.

On the Sony SmartWatch 2's left side is a Micro-USB port for charging the device's battery. It's hidden under a soft plug so that the gizmo can meet its water resistant IP57 durability rating.

The Sony SmartWatch 2's strap buckles like a regular timepiece and is comfortable enough to wear all day.

When calls hit your phone, the Sony SmartWatch 2 alerts you and also provides the option to respond with a text message.

The Sony SmartWatch 2 has a music player app that is designed to command your phone's audio software. It can be quirky at times, either using the standard Android music player or launching the Google Play Music app seemingly at random.