Watch out: What to expect from Apple on Tuesday

News that Australian designer Marc Newson (pictured above) has joined Apple is adding to buzz ahead of the company’s Tuesday launch event. Considered one of the most influential designers of his generation, Newson’s creations have been featured by museums such as New York’s famous MoMA and he has worked with Nike, Qantas Airways and Ford, among others. His website, meanwhile, highlights a series of watches he’s designed. That’s the detail that has Apple forecasters in a froth.

He is extraordinarily talented. We are particularly excited to formalize our collaboration as we enjoy working together so much and have found our partnership so effective.

Jonathan Ive, Apple’s senior vice president of design

The company has been customarily tight-lipped ahead of its Tuesday event, but clues suggest we can expect bigger versions of the iPhone and – more significantly – an entry into wearables with an “iWatch” at the event led by Apple chief Tim Cook. The choice of venue has fuelled talk that Apple debut a health-themed smartwatch. The third clue that the iPhone maker is preparing to take the wraps off a smartwatch or some other wearable technology? They’ve invited top fashion editors and bloggers in unprecedented numbers to the gala.

I assume it’s because they are unveiling a wearable. This suggests Apple is serious about tapping into the fashion world, which often sits on the sidelines.

Lea Goldman, features and special projects director for Marie Claire magazine and first-time invitee