Coating durability around the band slots

[bricktop_at]

Hi there!

Didn't give this much thought... until some months ago when I bought my Space Grey Aluminum S6 and now the SSG (had a silver Aluminum S4 before). I'm aware of the different coating processed and what the differences are in general, but I'm still asking myself if there is anyone who ever noticed discoloration around the parts of the watch where the bands slide in (not necessarily this chipping that some people encounter). Did some searching through the forum and didn't really find anything interesting in that regard.
I'm not really worried since I always get AC+ with my Apple devices, but I am curious nonetheless - especially I change bands almost as often as my underwear ;-)

Cheers,
Oliver

 

[BugeyeSTI]

Who can see any discoloration in the slots with the bands installed? The reason why you haven't found any threads about it is because the slot is an obvious wear point that's unavoidable.. The non aluminum watches will hold up to the wear better but I wouldn't obsess about it as it's unlikely anyone will know but you.

 

[bricktop_at]

I‘m thinking more about the outer edges of the slots, where the bands slide in from the side. You’re surely right about the inside of them…

 

[glenthompson]

The edges of the slot on my S4 have some faint scratches that are only visible looking through an 8x magnifier. I only change bands every few weeks.

 

[BugeyeSTI]

I‘m thinking more about the outer edges of the slots, where the bands slide in from the side. You’re surely right about the inside of them…

Ahhh. Well I'd say as long as the attachment points of the band aren't made from a material harder than the watch you should be fine. Strap replacements on mechanical watches usually leave scratches or blemishes on the lugs but it's really hard to avoid with spring bars. The way the AppleWatch bands go on and off is a god send compared to trying to use a spring bar tool....

 

[bricktop_at]

The way the AppleWatch bands go on and off is a god send compared to trying to use a spring bar tool....

Oh yes it is, changing straps on my Avenger BlackSteel was always a bit of an adventurous task, given the fact that I absolutely did NOT want to scratch the inside of its lugs🧐
The way Apple has come up with is fantastic, no doubt.

 

[bricktop_at]

The edges of the slot on my S4 have some faint scratches that are only visible looking through an 8x magnifier. I only change bands every few weeks.

Which model? If I may ask…

 

[glenthompson]

Which model? If I may ask…

S4 aluminum in space gray. Non-cellular, 44mm.

 

[rsfrid]

My space black series 5 is all buggered up around the band slots. Nice shiny metallic aluminum. Very noticeable so I keep a basal cover on most of time. Not all of them cover the top edge of slot however. It doesn't matter what band since all use the metal connectors.

 

[BugeyeSTI]

My space black series 5 is all buggered up around the band slots. Nice shiny metallic aluminum. Very noticeable so I keep a basal cover on most of time. Not all of them cover the top edge of slot however. It doesn't matter what band since all use the metal connectors.

Not all, the sport loop, sport solo loop and sport band use plastic connectors... Not sure if any other Apple made bands use plastic..