Apple will soon release the Apple Watch in stores across several countries, but the company is already running into some launch issues with the device. As Swiss publication RTS reports, Apple can’t yet start selling the Apple Watch in watch paradise, as the iPhone maker has some trademark problems in the region.
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The company can’t launch the Apple Watch in Switzerland, as a local company called Leonard Timepieces has a trademark in the country giving it exclusive rights over using the word “apple” on jewelry, including watches.
The good news for Swiss Apple fans is that the trademark will expire on December 5th, although that could still significantly delay the launch of the Apple Watch in the region. Interestingly, Leonard Timepieces obtained the rights for the word “apple” 30 years ago, well before Apple started toying with the idea of making smart watches.
The Apple Watch will be available for preorder in various markets beginning on April 10th, although Switzerland isn’t part of the first launch wave. Initially, only customers in nine countries including Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, the U.K. and the U.S. will be able to order the device.
The Apple Watch will be available in stores beginning April 24th in the aforementioned markets, assuming you can get your hands on one.
Meanwhile, traditional watchmakers in Switzerland have more time to bring their own smartwatches to market, with many of them, including Swatch and Tag Heuer, having announced smartwatch plans recently.
