We stopped featuring Xiaomi wearables a long time ago because it has too many models. But this time, we have to because, glass. To match the limited-edition Xiaomi 18 Pro Series Transparent Edition, Xiaomi has released an also-limited-edition version of the new Xiaomi Watch S5. While the S5 is a 46 mm watch, the Transparent Edition has a 47 mm case with an octagonal transparent case carved from Xiaomi Dragon Crystal Glass 3.0.
The case begins as a solid block of the ultra-hard material before undergoing 240 minutes of CNC machining, 800 minutes of multi-stage polishing, and 20 manufacturing processes. The result is a clear, scratch- and wear-resistant structure rated at 810 HV0.05 on the Vickers hardness scale. Xiaomi also claims it will retain its transparency without discoloring after prolonged use.
Set within the transparent body is a finely brushed stainless-steel bezel. The contrasting materials let light pass through and refract around the case while drawing attention to its construction. It is the kind of smartwatch you may spend more time looking through than looking at.
The Transparent Edition retains the regular 46 mm Watch S5’s 1.48-inch AMOLED display with a 480 × 480 resolution and up to 2,500 nits of peak brightness. It also has dual-band five-system GNSS, over 150 sports modes, upgraded heart-rate and sleep monitoring, and an 815 mAh battery. Battery life reaches up to 21 days under light use, 14 days with typical use, or nine days with the always-on display enabled.
A special red watch face mimics the appearance of a mechanical movement and coordinates with the blood-red Xiaomi 18 Pro Series Transparent Edition. Together, they form what may be Xiaomi’s clearest attempt yet at selling people technology they can literally see through.
The Xiaomi Watch S5 Transparent Edition is limited to approximately 5,000 units and costs 2,499 yuan [CH] (around US$351) in China. Like the Xiaomi 18 Pro Series Transparent Edition Transparent Edition it does not appear to be available from the Xiaomi online store.
Images: Xiaomi [CH].