3 things to consider before buying your Apple Watch
On Friday, April 10, preorders for Apple Watch finally begin in the United States and eight additional countries. If you’re planning on buying Apple’s newest mobile device at that time, here are three things to consider.
Sapphire, anyone?
The least expensive Apple Watch models are the Sport editions, which start at $349 for the 38mm version. The Ion-X material on the display of these models is an aluminosilicate glass that is “fortified at the molecular level through ion exchange, with smaller ions being replaced by larger ones to create a surface layer far tougher than ordinary glass.”
For $200 more, you can purchase one of the entry level Apple Watch models, which feature a sapphire crystal display. This material is second only to diamond on the hardness scale, making it extremely resistant to scratches. The problem with sapphire is its brittleness, which makes it prone to fracturing on impact.
For many, price is the deciding factor on what Apple Watch to buy. I’m buying a Watch with a sapphire crystal display. This decision is based on my watch experience. I have found that watches with a sapphire crystal display wear much better than those with a glass display. This doesn’t mean that there is anything wrong with buying a Sport model. Just keep in mind that these could be more prone to scratches.
What band?
The price Apple is charging for Watch bands is outrageous. Choosing a classic buckle, Milanese Loop, or leather loop over a sports band is an extra $100. A modern buckle will set you back an additional $200. Link bracelets increase the price by another $200 or $300, depending on the model.
You can buy extra bands, but these are also expensive. Look at the prices above and add $49, which is the price Apple is charging for an extra sports band.
My Apple Watch will come with a sports band, as I wait for less expensive third-party leather bands to arrive.
CompatibilityApple Watch requires an iPhone 5, iPhone 5c, iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, or iPhone 6 Plus running iOS 8.2 or later to work. Keep this in mind before making your purchase.
Apple Watch will be available for preorder beginning April 10 through the Apple Online Store in Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, United Kingdom, and the United States. Two weeks later, on April 24, Apple Watch will be available online or by reservation in Apple’s retail stores and select Apple Authorized Resellers in the same locations.