Video: Cool Tools For Gearheads: Leatherman’s Multi-tool Watchband

In an era of science fiction-style computerized watches and wrist hugging smart phones, we’re not sure if this rugged timepiece from Leatherman is genius or simply a good way to remove arm hair. Leatherman has designed a multitool that comes in the form of a watchband. Nicknamed Leatherman Tread, the watch (that almost looks like a Pitbull’s collar) is formed by a series of metal links – each containing a tool ranging from slotted to philips head screwdrivers, and allen-head to box-end wrenches.

25 Tools In One

The concept behind the watch is that when you’re out and about and someone needs a screw driver you can quickly snap apart your watch and grab Mr. Philips. Perhaps when your driving in your Dodge Coronet and you need to make a quick adjustment to your carb, snap that bad boy apart and Mr. flathead is ready to go.

Each link is made from high-strength and corrosion-resistant 17-4 stainless steel and contains two or three tools on each link for a total of 25. The centerpiece watch will be a Tread QM1, a Swiss made timepiece with precision quartz movement, shock-resistant sapphire crystal and a curved glass case to reduce reflection glare.

Practical Or Impractical

This watch is either a genius innovation that will prove to be effective or an expensive experiment that will never catch on. Multi-tool knives have existed for decades and are easy to access all of the tools, but is a snap-apart watch really necessary?

One commenter who is a backpacker thought the watch is a great idea for hikers and cyclists as its a great way to carry tools without extra weight. Another however, thought the watch was nothing more than industrial design jewelry. What’s your opinion on the matter, would you use a multi-tool watch to get you out of a jamb when on the road? We thought it might make a nice addition to the toolbox… even if it’s only used for smaller repairs. What’s your take on this cool tool?