History of the HP01 Watch

Learn about the innovative HP-01, Hewlett-Packard’s groundbreaking digital watch that blended technology and style.

Released in 1977, the HP-01 was Hewlett-Packard’s first and only digital wristwatch. It combined a calculator, calendar, and clock in a sleek stainless steel case, making it one of the most advanced watches of its time.

The HP-01 featured a red LED display and a unique set of buttons for data entry, reflecting HP’s expertise in engineering and design. Despite its high price and limited production, the HP-01 became a cult classic among tech enthusiasts and collectors.

Today, the HP-01 is celebrated for its innovative spirit and remains a sought-after piece for those interested in the intersection of technology and horology.

Interesting Facts About the HP-01

The HP-01 was Hewlett-Packard’s only digital wristwatch, released in 1977.
It combined a calculator, digital clock, calendar, and stopwatch in one device.
The watch featured a red LED display, which was cutting-edge for its time.
Data entry was performed using 28 tiny keys, some of which required a stylus for precision.
The HP-01 could perform complex calculations, including time math (e.g., adding hours and minutes).
It was made of stainless steel and was available in both steel and gold-plated versions.
The HP-01 was very expensive, retailing for around $600–$850 (over $2,500 in today’s money).
Only a few thousand units were produced, making it a rare collector’s item today.
The watch came with a matching pen that doubled as a stylus for the small keys.
It is considered a pioneer in wearable technology, blending computing and horology decades before smartwatches.