Is the Hermes or Edition AW a Waste of Money?

[eVolcre]

With every new iWatch I always think of the solid gold edition. $10,000 for a watch that will be obsolete in a couple of years. As fast as technology changes any gold, or designer name leather band edition will only be relevant as long as the technology is relevant. I wonder has anyone bought a solid gold iWatch and then sold it to get an updated model? How much money did you lose on the sale?

Even with my post above I’d have to agree that the gold version was ridiculous. I guess it’s all relative. I think that was stupid someone else saw value. Someone else thinks the leather band Hermes is dumb I see value. Live and let live. It’s affordable luxury in my eyes. Not a million dollar Ferrari but something I can look at every day as a reward for working hard.

Not a complete waste either. The experience and leather band carries over. You could replace the actual watch down the road. Look at it this way an actual mechanical watch only gives you the time and date. 5 years from now even a series 0 will probably still be able to give you the time and date no matter what version you choose. Everything else is bonus.

 

[bopajuice]

Even with my post above I’d have to agree that the gold version was ridiculous. I guess it’s all relative. I think that was stupid someone else saw value. Someone else thinks the leather band Hermes is dumb I see value. Live and let live. It’s affordable luxury in my eyes. Not a million dollar Ferrari but something I can look at every day as a reward for working hard.

Not a complete waste either. The experience and leather band carries over. You could replace the actual watch down the road. Look at it this way an actual mechanical watch only gives you the time and date. 5 years from now even a series 0 will probably still be able to give you the time and date no matter what version you choose. Everything else is bonus.

I’m sure the quality is fantastic. Most times you get what you pay for.

 

[44267547]

With every new iWatch I always think of the solid gold edition. $10,000 for a watch that will be obsolete in a couple of years. As fast as technology changes any gold, or designer name leather band edition will only be relevant as long as the technology is relevant. I wonder has anyone bought a solid gold iWatch and then sold it to get an updated model? How much money did you lose on the sale?

I have read some posts on here where there were a few individuals that purchased the gold Edition when it launched, and ultimately made the decision to keep it even if it is obsolete in technology, hoping that it will be worth something more one day if they were retained it in mint condition. I'm also assuming being that that was the first generation product, years ahead, it would interesting to see any Value behind that for a history piece if anything, aside from the material value.

 

[haruhiko]

Fortunately, Apple has made an easy decision for me. The Series 3 stainless steel version = the LTE version now and Apple doesn’t offer LTE versions in Hong Kong. So the only choices are aluminium or space grey aluminium.

I spent more than a grand for my first-gen which is now obsolete - everything is super slow and it basically has not much use besides telling time and displaying notifications, with poor battery life, and I suffered two occasions of loose back piece, wasted so much time on visiting Apple Stores.

So from now on it's space grey aluminium for me (silver aluminium looks too cheap), a well balance with price and look and longevity.

 

[eVolcre]

I have read some posts on here where there were a few individuals that purchased the gold Edition when it launched, and ultimately made the decision to keep it even if it is obsolete in technology, hoping that it will be worth something more one day if they were retained it in mint condition. I'm also assuming being that that was the first generation product, years ahead, it would interesting to see any Value behind that for a history piece if anything, aside from the material value.

I always thought of that particular model as sheer marketing. Drum up interest / outrage in an incredibly expensive tech item. Maybe make a few thousand and give them out to celebrities. Wonder how actual sales to real consumers were.

And again it’ll still tell the time and show you the date until os updates make it completely inoperable. *shrugs* at that point you’d still have a good watch that tells you the time. Not for me personally but for a billionaire who likes gadgets? Buying a gold Apple Watch for them is the same as us getting a stainless steel. I’m sure there’s people thinking we are mad for buying a watch instead of feeding the poor etc

On a tAngent I’m almost wondering if bendable oled tech comes to the watch before the phone. Smaller screens , less quantities needed, it’s be a perfect test product. Maybe next year a slimmer watch and around 2020 one that actually curves to the form of the wrist like a mechanical one. Throw that in with a stainless surround and always on display and you might find it difficult on first glance to actually notice this is a tech wearable.

 

[ZipZap]

Arguably this is the case for all Apple products, doesn’t stop millions of people buying them though.

The question was really aimed at current owners from an additional functionality/spec vs additional cost perspective.

That's easy, there is no additional functionality.

 

[AGamble]

That's easy, there is no additional functionality.

There is, the faces. I also mentioned spec which includes a leather strap from one of the finest leather makers in the world.

A Rolex has the same function as a Seiko. A fiesta get you from A to B as quick as a Bentley (taking into consideration traffic of today)...It doesn’t mean they’re of a similar quality or should warrant a similar price.

 

[Synergie]

Let’s get something straight. The Hermes watch is NOT a haut coture or designer item. Call it for what it is... an Apple Watch with an Hermes logo slapped on. It would be like Louis Vuitton’s name being slapped on a wallpaper on an iPhone 8 and including a LV case in the box. Yes people would be stupid enough to buy it! But it’s still just an iPhone.

Now a true analog watch can last Generations! We’re talking an analog watch with real moving parts and perhaps a tourbillon and real complications. That’s a thing of beauty and worth the money to splurge and it will never be obsolete!

 

[AGamble]

Let’s get something straight. The Hermes watch is NOT a haut coture or designer item. Call it for what it is... an Apple Watch with an Hermes logo slapped on. It would be like Louis Vuitton’s name being slapped on a wallpaper on an iPhone 8 and including a LV case in the box. Yes people would be stupid enough to buy it! But it’s still just an iPhone.

You’re ignoring the strap.

Have you seen how much Hermes Leather costs?

 

[Synergie]

You’re ignoring the strap.

Have you seen how much Hermes Leather costs?

I’d rather spend the money on a real analog watch that won’t be obsolete in a couple years. Maybe automatic with a tourbillon and complications like day night, moon phase, chrono etc. Then the real gold case or expensive leather strap need to last.

You can get third party really good quality leather straps for Apple watches that will More than last the watches life span. But it’s the name and exclusivity you are after and not the quality right?

 

[Frankfurt]

In the end the title question is really silly. I find it a total waste of money to purchase an Edition or Hermes Watch because it offers the same functionality as the base watch and is obsolete in about two years. So why pay such a premium? This is different from a luxury vs Kia car purchase or even different from an iPhone X to SE purchase as those have different/additional functionality vs a base product.

However, this is completely a personal decision and nobody can put a value on this for you but yourself.

Hence, if you don’t mind to replace such Watch every two years with a newer version and the depreciation is no concern to you, then be happy and buy one!

 

[drew0020]

In my opinion, the Watch itself is the same price. You are paying extra for the hand made leather band - majority of the price increase, the Hermes watch faces (which are the so much better than the basic apple faces), the limited edition sport strap, and the 2 year warranty instead of 90 days telephone and 1 year service on the base SS model.

Whether that’s worth it to you is a different story, but the leather band itself is worth it to me. I’ll always take another year of warranty as well.

 

[Partridge]

Apple Watch Stainless 38mm silicone band: $599

Hermès leather double tour band: $489
——
Total :1089

Apple Watch Hermès: $1299

So about a $200 premium for Hermès branded faces and switching to an exclusive Hermès branded strap (currently selling at around $300 on ebay). So if you sell that and buy a regular silicone strap to make the packages equivalent you’re actually saving $50. If you can call it that. If you add in the warranty cost it’s even better.

So if you like Hermès and can afford it, it becomes a why not get the Hermès edition? It’s priced about right for what it is.

 

[Luba]

Apple Watch Stainless 38mm silicone band: $599

Hermès leather double tour band: $489
——
Total :1089

Apple Watch Hermès: $1299

So about a $200 premium for Hermès branded faces and switching to an exclusive Hermès branded strap (currently selling at around $300 on ebay). So if you sell that and buy a regular silicone strap to make the packages equivalent you’re actually saving $50. If you can call it that. If you add in the warranty cost it’s even better.

So if you like Hermès and can afford it, it becomes a why not get the Hermès edition? It’s priced about right for what it is.

No need to buy a Sports Band as it comes with an Orange Hermès one.

How do you save $50? Leather band is $489 but can only sell it for $300.

 

[Partridge]

No need to buy a Sports Band as it comes with an Orange Hermès one.

How do you save $50? Leather band is $489 but can only sell it for $300.

I’m saying that to make the build a package similar to the Hermès package you have to take into account the value of the strap. So in order to acquire an orange strap it’s about $300. So add 300 to the price of the build your own package. But the build your own now has two straps, so you have to take into account the value of a regular strap.

Only reason why I’m valuing the orange sport strap that much is because there’s no other way to get it.

My point is that if you look at the retail price of the components of the Hermès package, it’s close to equivalent to buying the parts separately. If you put value on the faces, the sport strap, and the additional warranty, it’s appropriately priced. Remember that there are leather keychains from Hermès in the $400 range. Crazy? Yes. But that’s what they cost.

So if you’re in the target market for this stuff, you’re not gonna look at the price of the Apple Hermès edition and say “whoa, that’s totally out of line”. You’re gonna say “yeah, that sounds about right. Where’s my platinum card?”

 

[amozo]

This thread proved useful to me, so now that I have upgraded from my S0 SBSS 42mm to my S3 Hermes 38mm Marine Gala Single Tour, I though I would chime in. I know OP has already made their choice, but this could help others in the market.

I think if you have the disposable income and you are a fan of luxury products or Hermes, then it is totally worth the money. First off, my watch was shipped with UPS Expedited and ended up on my wrist only 7 days after ordering (even though there was 3-4 week shipping estimate). I am not sure, but I believe I received a speedier shipping option than if I were to order the sport or SBSS again. At least thats what I got from the pre-order thread.

The whole package is really a luxurious experience. I didn't think I would use the faces since I am always on modular since day 1 in 2015, but I appreciate the Hermes faces and am utilizing them daily. It truly makes the watch look like an actual watch as opposed to a tech device on my wrist. The leather band is of superior quality and the design is iconic to Hermes (Eperon D'Or). The faces even have an extra Hermes orange that IMO is nicer than the other orange options, it has more of a milky color.

I am overall very happy with my decision to get the Hermes watch this time around. There is also the addition of an extra year of Apple Care+ with the Hermes edition. I plan on keeping this watch for those three years as opposed to upgrading yearly.

 

[Luba]

I’m saying that to make the build a package similar to the Hermès package you have to take into account the value of the strap. So in order to acquire an orange strap it’s about $300. So add 300 to the price of the build your own package. But the build your own now has two straps, so you have to take into account the value of a regular strap.

Only reason why I’m valuing the orange sport strap that much is because there’s no other way to get it.

My point is that if you look at the retail price of the components of the Hermès package, it’s close to equivalent to buying the parts separately. If you put value on the faces, the sport strap, and the additional warranty, it’s appropriately priced. Remember that there are leather keychains from Hermès in the $400 range. Crazy? Yes. But that’s what they cost.

So if you’re in the target market for this stuff, you’re not gonna look at the price of the Apple Hermès edition and say “whoa, that’s totally out of line”. You’re gonna say “yeah, that sounds about right. Where’s my platinum card?”

Oh, that Hermes orange sport strap goes for $300 on eBay!?! Now I see how you got "saving" $50 by buying the Hermes package. And actually one is "saving" more than $50 since there's an extra year of warranty so "saving" more like $100. Plus how much does one value the Hermes faces?? I believe there are 3 Hermes faces. Let's say those together are at least $100, then one is "saving" more like $200 on the Hermes package. And you can't get the deployment buckle strap separately. It's an extra $200 at $1499, but I think the deployment buckle is great, if it fits your wrist.

What else is in the Hermes package? Doesn't look like it comes with the magnetic charging dock at $79 anymore. I thought it did in previous years?? I think it comes with a suede pouch or it did in the past??

 

[eVolcre]

Oh, that Hermes orange sport strap goes for $300 on eBay!?! Now I see how you got "saving" $50 by buying the Hermes package. And actually one is "saving" more than $50 since there's an extra year of warranty so "saving" more like $100. Plus how much does one value the Hermes faces?? I believe there are 3 Hermes faces. Let's say those together are at least $100, then one is "saving" more like $200 on the Hermes package. And you can't get the deployment buckle strap separately. It's an extra $200 at $1499, but I think the deployment buckle is great, if it fits your wrist.

What else is in the Hermes package? Doesn't look like it comes with the magnetic charging dock at $79 anymore. I thought it did in previous years?? I think it comes with a suede pouch or it did in the past??

Look I get where you’re going with this and also , for me, see the value in the Hermes but you’re stretching it to the point of absurdity now . No way in heck does any sane person value an orange rubber band at 300 when a leather Hermes strap by itself can be had for around 350. 100 bucks for 3 watch faces? A software change? And warranty (especially for the new owner above). It’s normal warranty not Applecare +. If you’re interested in the comprehensive version including accidental damage make sure you add it before 60 days.

But the version you want and enjoy it. No point in these attempts at price justification. It’s an emotional purchase more based on design and , yes, perceived status , than actual technical components.

Strangely the Apple Watch actually has me interested in mechanical watches again. It used to be an old hobby. Who knows maybe I’ll actually buy an old fashioned “normal” watch for special occasions. It might do less but I like vintage things. The TAG Heuer Monaco has my name written on it for a special treat one day.

Hermes Apple Watch is affordable luxury (perceived or not overpriced or not). Tough to get into the luxury watch game with 1400 so whoever has it enjoy it and those who say it’s a waste of money and not “real” ... it’s pretty real to the ones who choose to get it and if it gets them 1400 bucks worth of enjoyment , so be it.

As a sidebar. Anyone have a link to an affordable entry point into the watch hobby? Cars are my second passion behind tech that’s why I looked at the Monaco. Scuba diving is third so even that could work except that I have skinny wrists and a huge bezel with a chunky bracelet might look odd.

 

[ZipZap]

There is, the faces. I also mentioned spec which includes a leather strap from one of the finest leather makers in the world.

A Rolex has the same function as a Seiko. A fiesta get you from A to B as quick as a Bentley (taking into consideration traffic of today)...It doesn’t mean they’re of a similar quality or should warrant a similar price.

The watch faces are over valued and not a significant feature to warrant the price. Also, there are plenty of really nice leather bands. Hermes is not the best leather on the world. Its a significant brand much the same as Apple.

The watches are all essentially the same.

The only differences I see:

1) Ceramic case
2) Super expensive leather band
3) Stainless Steel case
4) Sort of a Sapphire Crystal

Lets also not forget that these watches are obsolete fast. If you bought a S0, the introduction of the S2 was a real slap in the face. Now, the S3 is approaching what S0 should have been all along. If you bought each version, as so many apple lovers do, your in for a huge amount of cash. If you bought the top end ones, way more.

So, no I don't think these super expensive versions are worth it.

You seem to have already decided you want one, so buy it.
[doublepost=1508111839][/doublepost]

I’d rather spend the money on a real analog watch that won’t be obsolete in a couple years. Maybe automatic with a tourbillon and complications like day night, moon phase, chrono etc. Then the real gold case or expensive leather strap need to last.

You can get third party really good quality leather straps for Apple watches that will More than last the watches life span. But it’s the name and exclusivity you are after and not the quality right?

I agree!
[doublepost=1508112115][/doublepost]

This thread proved useful to me, so now that I have upgraded from my S0 SBSS 42mm to my S3 Hermes 38mm Marine Gala Single Tour, I though I would chime in. I know OP has already made their choice, but this could help others in the market.

I think if you have the disposable income and you are a fan of luxury products or Hermes, then it is totally worth the money. First off, my watch was shipped with UPS Expedited and ended up on my wrist only 7 days after ordering (even though there was 3-4 week shipping estimate). I am not sure, but I believe I received a speedier shipping option than if I were to order the sport or SBSS again. At least thats what I got from the pre-order thread.

The whole package is really a luxurious experience. I didn't think I would use the faces since I am always on modular since day 1 in 2015, but I appreciate the Hermes faces and am utilizing them daily. It truly makes the watch look like an actual watch as opposed to a tech device on my wrist. The leather band is of superior quality and the design is iconic to Hermes (Eperon D'Or). The faces even have an extra Hermes orange that IMO is nicer than the other orange options, it has more of a milky color.

I am overall very happy with my decision to get the Hermes watch this time around. There is also the addition of an extra year of Apple Care+ with the Hermes edition. I plan on keeping this watch for those three years as opposed to upgrading yearly.

A real movement watch is a luxurious experience. One whose value persists. Apple Watch is just not the same. If you are happy spending for that version I say great cause it makes you happy. But as fast as these are obsolete, I don't feel this is the time to spend that kind of cash.

 

[Boardiesboi]

Hermes is not the best leather on the world. Its a significant brand much the same as Apple.

Did you just compare Hermes leather to the leather bands by Apple?

Really?

 

[amozo]

A real movement watch is a luxurious experience. One whose value persists. Apple Watch is just not the same. If you are happy spending for that version I say great cause it makes you happy. But as fast as these are obsolete, I don't feel this is the time to spend that kind of cash.

I was simply stating my experience with purchasing the Hermes Apple Watch. I am not a fan of a true movement watch and find the Apple Watch much more useful for me due to its various capabilities, whereas a traditional watch will only tell time and date. Some individuals have enough disposable income that using this watch for two or even one year is enough to get their money's worth. I am fine with spending $1200 on a watch and switching after 2-3 years of everyday use. I think it is worth the money for something I use 12-16 hours a day everyday.

 

[JulesK]

As someone who has owned many mechanical watches (when a $10 Timex would have been more accurate, Chronometer certificate notwithstanding...), justifying luxury goods based on value is fruitless. It's buy what moves you, and if the Hermes Apple Watch does, then great. I decided against it because I find myself getting the newest Apple Watch every year (friends get my old ones), and I can buy 2 of the "regular" SS Watches for every Hermes version. I have plenty of straps I like.

 

[drew0020]

Did you just compare Hermes leather to the leather bands by Apple?

Really?

I completely agree. They aren’t even comparable. Apple leather bands are made in Chinese sweatshops for pennies on the dollar. Hermes are hand made in France. You don’t even need to be an expert to see the difference first hand.

 

[Luba]

Look I get where you’re going with this and also , for me, see the value in the Hermes but you’re stretching it to the point of absurdity now . No way in heck does any sane person value an orange rubber band at 300 when a leather Hermes strap by itself can be had for around 350. 100 bucks for 3 watch faces? A software change? And warranty (especially for the new owner above). It’s normal warranty not Applecare +. If you’re interested in the comprehensive version including accidental damage make sure you add it before 60 days.

But the version you want and enjoy it. No point in these attempts at price justification. It’s an emotional purchase more based on design and , yes, perceived status , than actual technical components.

Strangely the Apple Watch actually has me interested in mechanical watches again. It used to be an old hobby. Who knows maybe I’ll actually buy an old fashioned “normal” watch for special occasions. It might do less but I like vintage things. The TAG Heuer Monaco has my name written on it for a special treat one day.

Hermes Apple Watch is affordable luxury (perceived or not overpriced or not). Tough to get into the luxury watch game with 1400 so whoever has it enjoy it and those who say it’s a waste of money and not “real” ... it’s pretty real to the ones who choose to get it and if it gets them 1400 bucks worth of enjoyment , so be it.

As a sidebar. Anyone have a link to an affordable entry point into the watch hobby? Cars are my second passion behind tech that’s why I looked at the Monaco. Scuba diving is third so even that could work except that I have skinny wrists and a huge bezel with a chunky bracelet might look odd.

Richard Thaler would probably just conclude it's an emotional purchase and just leave it at that, but the rest of his field would try to rationalize it like we were doing. Yes, a bit absurd, but we are attempting to measure the value and pleasure derived from getting a Hermes, and we'll probably never get the whole picture. Anyway, after two SS, I decided this time to go SG Alum and I'll see how it goes long-term with the Ion-X Glass. If it works out, I'll probably just upgrade every time a new AW comes out. Getting a AW has also inspired me to get a mechanical watch, which I did for under $200. Looks pretty good and I'll wear it during time I need to wear a suit or really dress up. I didn't really think or consider the Hermes at $1500 (the one with the deployment buckle), but if the Alum doesn't work out I would seriously consider it next time. To me, it's not so crazy a purchase any more.

 

[44267547]

Or just purchase the leather band that suits everyone differently. Everybody has different preferences on what they prefer in terms of quality and price point. Seems there is no definitive answer.