The much-rumored Apple iWatch may enter production much later than expected due to the challenges the project poses, claims one analyst.

With the wearable device market gaining momentum, one of the most highly anticipated gadgets of this year is the upcoming smartwatch from Apple, unofficially dubbed the iWatch. The device would mark Apple's first foray in this territory and would go up against much-touted smartwatches such as Samsung's Gear range, the LG G Watch, Motorola's Moto 360, and others.

Rumors so far have indicated that Apple may launch its iWatch this fall. While some analysts said the iWatch will likely make its debut in September, and others claimed it would enter mass production this month, KGI Securities analyst Ming Chi Kuo now has a different prediction.

Kuo has a great reputation for accurately predicting Apple plans, which adds to the credibility of his theory. The analyst had previously pegged the iWatch mass production for September, but now he is revising his prediction and claims that mass production would start in late November. According to him, this delay stems from the difficulties of the project.

"We believe developing the hardware and OS of iWatch will be a much more difficult task than for Apple's existing products," the analyst explained, as cited by MacRumors.

Kup further points out that compared to existing Apple devices, as high-end as they may be, the iWatch will employ several new hardware technologies, including a flexible AMOLED display, a sapphire crystal cover, and a far smaller form factor with higher waterproof capabilities. Moreover, the analyst further points out that Apple will have to redesign iOS for the iWatch, which may also turn out to be quite a challenge.

Recent reports have revealed that Apple has been building a top-notch team for the iWatch, with the latest hire snagging the sales director from luxury Swiss watch maker Tag Heuer. It remains unknown at this point just what design the iWatch will sport, but earlier reports claimed that Apple will launch "multiple versions" of the gadget. The smartwatch is also expected to sport great fitness support, and Apple has reportedly been meeting with some of the world's greatest athletes to test out the iWatch's capabilities.

With nothing officially confirmed so far, however, it's highly recommended that you take all leaks, rumors, and speculation with a hefty grain of salt.