Off-the-Cuff Decision: Series 5 Stainless ($350) versus Series 6 ($700+)?

[James.K.Polk]

Just hoping to get some quick thoughts on this to be sure I’ve thought it out.

I can purchase a Series 5 stainless steel model for $350 - it’s under warranty (obviously) but does not have AppleCare+ (used to be monthly but seller cancelled it, so I can’t reactivate). It’s in good shape - will likely need to undergo a round with the polishing cloth but really does look to be in greacondition.

Or, alternatively, I could wait for Series 6 (presumably this fall) at what I assume will be about $700.

I basically always buy the stainless steel model because (a) I like the appearance and (b) I value the sapphire screen, especially when running (and smacking it around).

Any strong opinions?

 

[oeagleo]

Just hoping to get some quick thoughts on this to be sure I’ve thought it out.

I can purchase a Series 5 stainless steel model for $350 - it’s under warranty (obviously) but does not have AppleCare+ (used to be monthly but seller cancelled it, so I can’t reactivate). It’s in good shape - will likely need to undergo a round with the polishing cloth but really does look to be in greacondition.

Or, alternatively, I could wait for Series 6 (presumably this fall) at what I assume will be about $700.

I basically always buy the stainless steel model because (a) I like the appearance and (b) I value the sapphire screen, especially when running (and smacking it around).

Any strong opinions?

I would say it definately depends on the amount of money you have laying around, and then other things to consider, a new SS Series 6 would come with full warranty, and the ability to put your own Apple Care policy in place. It would be a series newer, therefore, another year of supported life, etc. However, if there isn't enough $20's laying around to get the series 6, you couldn't really go wrong getting the SS Series 5, remembering that they will only come down in price as time wears on.

 

[James.K.Polk]

I would say it definately depends on the amount of money you have laying around, and then other things to consider, a new SS Series 6 would come with full warranty, and the ability to put your own Apple Care policy in place. It would be a series newer, therefore, another year of supported life, etc. However, if there isn't enough $20's laying around to get the series 6, you couldn't really go wrong getting the SS Series 5, remembering that they will only come down in price as time wears on.

I’ve been away from the used/resale market for a while - even in consideration of an upcoming new model, $350 is pretty fair for a stainless steel S5, right?

 

[44267547]

I’ve been away from the used/resale market for a while - even in consideration of an upcoming new model, $350 is pretty fair for a stainless steel S5, right?

I think in terms of ‘fairness‘ in price, it really should be based off what you can afford. But overall, $350 is decently fair for the stainless. But being we’re already in June, why not just wait for 2.5 months to see what the S6 would offer given we’re this close.

 

[James.K.Polk]

I think in terms of ‘fairness‘ in price, it really should be based off what you can afford. But overall, $350 is decently fair for the stainless. But being we’re already in June, why not just wait for 2.5 months to see what the S6 would offer given we’re this close.

Probably the right call. Can certainly afford it... just need to know if it’s really worth it (and sometimes launch days are a hassle, etc., etc.). Thanks!

 

[MacDevil7334]

Probably the right call. Can certainly afford it... just need to know if it’s really worth it (and sometimes launch days are a hassle, etc., etc.). Thanks!

I would also point out that there will probably be a flood of stainless steels hitting the market after the S6 launches and people upgrade. If you decide to wait until the fall, I doubt you will have a hard time finding a S5 at a good price if the S6 turns out not to be worth the money for you.

 

[ukms]

Probably the right call. Can certainly afford it... just need to know if it’s really worth it (and sometimes launch days are a hassle, etc., etc.). Thanks!

Another option ..... If you need the S5 now and can afford it I’d be tempted to buy it now and then offload it again at a slight loss if the S6 tempts you, if not you can keep it.

 

[ipodlover77]

Thats a pretty smoking price.
If you don't take it, lmk.

 

[44267547]

Another option ..... If you need the S5 now and can afford it I’d be tempted to buy it now and then offload it again at a slight loss if the S6 tempts you, if not you can keep it.

It would be way more than a ‘slight loss’. The stainless steel Apple Watch has far worse resale value over the aluminum watch just as a side-by-side comparison. You’re definitely entitled to your suggestion, but it’s Bad advice, given if you look at the resale value in the stainless steel Apple Watch traditionally on an annual basis, and given that would be awfully close to the September keynote [If a Series 6 launches], That would end up being a substantial loss.

 

[ukms]

It would be way more than a ‘slight loss’. The stainless steel Apple Watch has far worse resale value over the aluminum watch just as a side-by-side comparison. You’re definitely entitled to your suggestion, but it’s Bad advice, given if you look at the resale value in the stainless steel Apple Watch traditionally on an annual basis, and given that would be awfully close to the September keynote [If a Series 6 launches], That would end up being a substantial loss.

I did say it was an option if the OP could afford it !

Given the OP is only paying $350 how much would be lost to make it substantial ?

 

[noobinator]

That price is very good so I'd probably go with that.

 

[chefwong]

I'm still rocking my S3 Ceramic but I don't really use my watch that often....

 

[mavis]

I'm still rocking my S3 Ceramic but I don't really use my watch that often....

Sorry, but what does that have to do with anything?