The iconic Pebble Watch is making a comeback, spearheaded by Core Devices, a new company founded by Pebble’s original creator, Eric Migicovsky. After a series of teasers, the rePebble store (https://store.repebble.com/) officially launched on March 18th, offering two new smartwatches available for pre-order.
These aren’t just rehashes of old designs. The Core 2 Duo, priced at $149, boasts a 1.26-inch black and white display and builds upon the foundation of the Pebble 2. Migicovsky highlights a significant upgrade in battery life, extending from seven days to an impressive 30 days – a stark contrast to many color-screen smartwatches requiring daily charges. Further enhancements include a built-in speaker, linear actuator motor, compass, barometer, and improved buttons.
The second offering, the Core Time 2, features a 1.5-inch color display and is priced at $225. Inspired by the Pebble Time 2, this iteration includes a speaker, touchscreen, and enhanced battery life. Keen-eyed Pebble enthusiasts will notice a slight design modification: the top glass is now flat rather than curved.
The new Core 2 Duo smartwatch.
The original Pebble Watch debuted in 2012, featuring a distinctive e-paper display and chunky design. Its Kickstarter campaign was a resounding success, but the company was sold to Fitbit in 2016 (later acquired by Google), leading to the discontinuation of Pebble watches. However, earlier this year, Google open-sourced PebbleOS, the software powering the original watches. This move enabled Migicovsky to resurrect the operating system and develop the new Core wearables.
Pre-Order Now, But Be Aware of Potential Delays
The Core 2 Duo is expected to ship in July 2025, while the Core Time 2 is slated for December 2025. However, potential buyers should be aware that these dates are estimates and subject to change. As Migicovsky is personally funding the project, achieving specific milestones is crucial for delivering the final product. The ordering process requires acknowledging potential delays, possible order cancellations, and potential customs fees. Pre-orders can be cancelled for a full refund before shipment. For more details, consult the FAQs at the bottom of the rePebble store page.
The iPhone disclaimer on the Core Devices store page.
Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2 Specifications
A detailed comparison of the two models is provided below:
| Feature | Core 2 Duo | Core Time 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 1.26″ Black & White | 1.5″ 64-Color |
| Resolution | 144×168 pixels, 176 DPI | 200×228 pixels, 202 DPI |
| Interaction | 4 Buttons | 4 Buttons + Touchscreen |
| Frame | Polycarbonate | Metal |
| Sensors | 6-axis IMU, Compass, Barometer | 6-axis IMU, Heart Rate Sensor |
| Health Features | Step & Sleep Tracking | Heart Rate, Step & Sleep Tracking |
| Battery Life | 30 Days | 30 Days (Estimated) |
| Price | $149 | $225 |
| Shipping Starts | July 2025 | December 2025 |
iPhone users should also note an additional disclaimer before placing an order regarding potential compatibility limitations. The revival of the Pebble Watch through Core Devices offers a compelling blend of nostalgia and modern features, catering to those seeking a long-lasting, feature-rich smartwatch experience.
