Best Buy has the 38 and 42 grey ceramics - I just ordered mine for delivery this Tuesday 3 Oct for $25 overnight shipping. Going to cancel the apple store one for November shortly.
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PSA: Out of warranty service cost for the ceramic edition is a minimum of $800. So I recommend apple care for this watch since it's only $99.
https://support.apple.com/watch/repair/service/pricing
Why is that so highly? AppleCare is $49 for 2 years.
I saw that today too and thought the same thing!Saw this combination at the Apple store. Never really wanted the ceramic one until then!
It doesn't fit, the lock tabs on the 42mm are slightly larger. Only the center tab will lock the two tabs on the side will be depressed at the corners. I have both sizes. Aside from that as you even state the 42mm is wider, therefore leaving a gap on both sides of the watch. Meaning it doesn't fit, it looks tacky. People don't tell you that because they probably don't want to hurt your feelings. But seriously it makes you look dumb & unobservant. Look at any watch even the cheapest ones you can find. They don't leave gaps between the band and the watch lugs. I'm not saying this to be mean, just trying to help ya out.
Best Buy has the 38 and 42 grey ceramics - I just ordered mine for delivery this Tuesday 3 Oct for $25 overnight shipping. Going to cancel the apple store one for November shortly.
Warning: long post.
Here is my take on the Series 3 Edition ceramic in grey:
I have been a watch fan for a long while and have over the years invested in watches from Jaeger Le Coultre, Rolex and Breitling. Before Apple came out with the Apple Watch, I was a very happy owner of a Rolex Explorer II with a white face. I loved the utility of the Rolex and at the time the substantial weight of this large 42mm metal watch with its metal bracelet.
So when the Apple Watch was announced I wanted to have something in that direction and went for the <snip>
Congratulations with the grey ceramic and a Nic eposting. I hav eta wait another 3-4 weeks before I get mine, but have the exact same feelings.Warning: long post.
Here is my take on the Series 3 Edition ceramic in grey:
I have been a watch fan for a long while and have over the years invested in watches from Jaeger Le Coultre, Rolex and Breitling. Before Apple came out with the Apple Watch, I was a very happy owner of a Rolex Explorer II with a white face. I loved the utility of the Rolex and at the time the substantial weight of this large 42mm metal watch with its metal bracelet.
So when the Apple Watch was announced I wanted to have something in that direction and went for the silver stainless steel with the silver Apple link band. I really like the similarities ito of weight and the good look for work dress as well as sports.
When the Series 2 came out, I just upgraded to the new stainless steel and kept the band. I also originally eyed the White ceramic when it was announced, but felt it was too flashy for my use in the office. At the time I really got into minimalism and essentialism and got rid of a LOT OF stuff in my life. This included selling all my Swiss watches, which I did not use any more, as I preferred my Apple watch as my daily driver. I love the idea of „one device to rule them all“.
Fast forward another Apple season and I „had to“ make a choice on series 3. I was hoping for a new color option for the ceramic model and maybe even a new material like titanium or carbon. So the grey ceramic looked interesting. But I had huge doubts that it might look too dull or not dressy enough vs. the steel model I got used to. I also like the new Hermes deployment buckle in dark brown Ebene and thought that is the perfect choice: get the Hermes which also includes the orange sport band and get a new link band in silver as my original one looked quite used after two years. So three bands which allow flexibility from dressy (Hermes Ebene) to Rolex-sporty (link) to pure sports (orange sport band). That is what I ordered with a 3 weeks wait on the Hermes. Buyers remorse set in imidiately and I was wondering if the various band changes in the future (I do sports at least every 2nd day) will be the exact opposite to my new love of minimalism. I also had a chance to see the watch live in an Apple store in London during a trip and did not like how the leather band connects with the watch.
That was the moment where all became „ceramic clear“ for me: go with the edition, as it will be the most minimalistic execution while also being the highest quality construction. It will also not scratch so easily as the steel version, where both precious models I owned have very light but visible scratches on the steel. For my regular running (100-150km per month) it would also be lighter and more comfortable to wear than running with the link steel version like I did over the past two years. So I cancelled my Hermes, sent back the Apple link bracelet which had already arrived and bought (at a premium) the edition in grey through ebay, as I did not like to wait till end of October.
It arrived quickly and I could not be happier. Here is why: I love the stealth luxury aspect of this model. I know about all the craftmanship that went into the ceramic casing and I know about the price, but the watch is not showing this of to others like an expensive Swiss watch tends to do. I love how comfortable it wears and that it will look pristine in the months to come, as it does not scratch easily. I especially like the light weight of the package, which is funny as I was always so happy how heavy my Rolex Explorer II felt. People change I guess ;-)
While the steel version interprets what Rolex and Omega have established on Swiss tool watches, the ceramic edition reminds me of the Swiss Richard Mille watches that Rafael Nadal and other top atheletes wear. They are out of this world ito of price (up to 750k USD), but are the lightest weight complication watches and use cutting edge material combination to achieve this. Even the rubber bands and how they connect look similar to Apple Watch (see the comparison picture I did). Maybe that is where Jony Ive got his idea for the red dot from, too ;-) Any Swiss watch aficionado will probably hate me for this comparison, but as my first two generations of steel apple watches were my equivalent to a tool watch Rolex, my new grey ceramic edition is my equivalent to a Richard Mille. And while the Richard Milles are way more extravagant, they also are only recognized by watch experts. Just like the ceramic is only recognized by people like us here on this threat. So one watch to rule them all and that for now is the ceramic grey Apple watch edition for me. Until next year that is.
View attachment 722648
Nice one on the grey, absolve the Explore watch face![]()
Great story and thanks for sharing. It’s nice to hear a prospective from a Swiss watch collector. I’ve always wonder what’s their take on Apple Watch!Warning: long post.
Here is my take on the Series 3 Edition ceramic in grey:
I have been a watch fan for a long while and have over the years invested in watches from Jaeger Le Coultre, Rolex and Breitling. Before Apple came out with the Apple Watch, I was a very happy owner of a Rolex Explorer II with a white face. I loved the utility of the Rolex and at the time the substantial weight of this large 42mm metal watch with its metal bracelet.
So when the Apple Watch was announced I wanted to have something in that direction and went for the silver stainless steel with the silver Apple link band. I really like the similarities ito of weight and the good look for work dress as well as sports.
When the Series 2 came out, I just upgraded to the new stainless steel and kept the band. I also originally eyed the White ceramic when it was announced, but felt it was too flashy for my use in the office. At the time I really got into minimalism and essentialism and got rid of a LOT OF stuff in my life. This included selling all my Swiss watches, which I did not use any more, as I preferred my Apple watch as my daily driver. I love the idea of „one device to rule them all“.
Fast forward another Apple season and I „had to“ make a choice on series 3. I was hoping for a new color option for the ceramic model and maybe even a new material like titanium or carbon. So the grey ceramic looked interesting. But I had huge doubts that it might look too dull or not dressy enough vs. the steel model I got used to. I also like the new Hermes deployment buckle in dark brown Ebene and thought that is the perfect choice: get the Hermes which also includes the orange sport band and get a new link band in silver as my original one looked quite used after two years. So three bands which allow flexibility from dressy (Hermes Ebene) to Rolex-sporty (link) to pure sports (orange sport band). That is what I ordered with a 3 weeks wait on the Hermes. Buyers remorse set in imidiately and I was wondering if the various band changes in the future (I do sports at least every 2nd day) will be the exact opposite to my new love of minimalism. I also had a chance to see the watch live in an Apple store in London during a trip and did not like how the leather band connects with the watch.
That was the moment where all became „ceramic clear“ for me: go with the edition, as it will be the most minimalistic execution while also being the highest quality construction. It will also not scratch so easily as the steel version, where both precious models I owned have very light but visible scratches on the steel. For my regular running (100-150km per month) it would also be lighter and more comfortable to wear than running with the link steel version like I did over the past two years. So I cancelled my Hermes, sent back the Apple link bracelet which had already arrived and bought (at a premium) the edition in grey through ebay, as I did not like to wait till end of October.
It arrived quickly and I could not be happier. Here is why: I love the stealth luxury aspect of this model. I know about all the craftmanship that went into the ceramic casing and I know about the price, but the watch is not showing this of to others like an expensive Swiss watch tends to do. I love how comfortable it wears and that it will look pristine in the months to come, as it does not scratch easily. I especially like the light weight of the package, which is funny as I was always so happy how heavy my Rolex Explorer II felt. People change I guess ;-)
While the steel version interprets what Rolex and Omega have established on Swiss tool watches, the ceramic edition reminds me of the Swiss Richard Mille watches that Rafael Nadal and other top atheletes wear. They are out of this world ito of price (up to 750k USD), but are the lightest weight complication watches and use cutting edge material combination to achieve this. Even the rubber bands and how they connect look similar to Apple Watch (see the comparison picture I did). Maybe that is where Jony Ive got his idea for the red dot from, too ;-) Any Swiss watch aficionado will probably hate me for this comparison, but as my first two generations of steel apple watches were my equivalent to a tool watch Rolex, my new grey ceramic edition is my equivalent to a Richard Mille. And while the Richard Milles are way more extravagant, they also are only recognized by watch experts. Just like the ceramic is only recognized by people like us here on this threat. So one watch to rule them all and that for now is the ceramic grey Apple watch edition for me. Until next year that is.
View attachment 722648
It’s nice to hear a prospective from a Swiss watch collector. I’ve always wonder what’s their take on Apple Watch![/QUOTE said:If you own like me Apple gear for more than 30 years, the Apple Watch is e perfect companion not only to take time, but also to improve your daily life, workflow and so on. IMO the Apple Watch as nothing to do with mechanical watches but its a way of life![]()
Believe me, the last years I had several moments where I wanted to get rid of the Apple watches again, but with very clever apps like HeartWatch and AutoSleep, the Apple watch is hard to beat !
Buying an Edition or Hermès is not a very good investment indeed, but the joy if gives brings even a bigger smile![]()
I finally got myself a Hermes 42mm Fauve Barenia single tour to go with my white ceramic. Some say they clash but I quite like the “caffe latte” look
View attachment 722234 View attachment 722235 View attachment 722236
I am so happy that i bought the white ceramic again.
Warning: long post.
Here is my take on the Series 3 Edition ceramic in grey:
I have been a watch fan for a long while and have over the years invested in watches from Jaeger Le Coultre, Rolex and Breitling. Before Apple came out with the Apple Watch, I was a very happy owner of a Rolex Explorer II with a white face. I loved the utility of the Rolex and at the time the substantial weight of this large 42mm metal watch with its metal bracelet.
So when the Apple Watch was announced I wanted to have something in that direction and went for the silver stainless steel with the silver Apple link band. I really like the similarities ito of weight and the good look for work dress as well as sports.
When the Series 2 came out, I just upgraded to the new stainless steel and kept the band. I also originally eyed the White ceramic when it was announced, but felt it was too flashy for my use in the office. At the time I really got into minimalism and essentialism and got rid of a LOT OF stuff in my life. This included selling all my Swiss watches, which I did not use any more, as I preferred my Apple watch as my daily driver. I love the idea of „one device to rule them all“.
Fast forward another Apple season and I „had to“ make a choice on series 3. I was hoping for a new color option for the ceramic model and maybe even a new material like titanium or carbon. So the grey ceramic looked interesting. But I had huge doubts that it might look too dull or not dressy enough vs. the steel model I got used to. I also like the new Hermes deployment buckle in dark brown Ebene and thought that is the perfect choice: get the Hermes which also includes the orange sport band and get a new link band in silver as my original one looked quite used after two years. So three bands which allow flexibility from dressy (Hermes Ebene) to Rolex-sporty (link) to pure sports (orange sport band). That is what I ordered with a 3 weeks wait on the Hermes. Buyers remorse set in imidiately and I was wondering if the various band changes in the future (I do sports at least every 2nd day) will be the exact opposite to my new love of minimalism. I also had a chance to see the watch live in an Apple store in London during a trip and did not like how the leather band connects with the watch.
That was the moment where all became „ceramic clear“ for me: go with the edition, as it will be the most minimalistic execution while also being the highest quality construction. It will also not scratch so easily as the steel version, where both precious models I owned have very light but visible scratches on the steel. For my regular running (100-150km per month) it would also be lighter and more comfortable to wear than running with the link steel version like I did over the past two years. So I cancelled my Hermes, sent back the Apple link bracelet which had already arrived and bought (at a premium) the edition in grey through ebay, as I did not like to wait till end of October.
It arrived quickly and I could not be happier. Here is why: I love the stealth luxury aspect of this model. I know about all the craftmanship that went into the ceramic casing and I know about the price, but the watch is not showing this of to others like an expensive Swiss watch tends to do. I love how comfortable it wears and that it will look pristine in the months to come, as it does not scratch easily. I especially like the light weight of the package, which is funny as I was always so happy how heavy my Rolex Explorer II felt. People change I guess ;-)
While the steel version interprets what Rolex and Omega have established on Swiss tool watches, the ceramic edition reminds me of the Swiss Richard Mille watches that Rafael Nadal and other top atheletes wear. They are out of this world ito of price (up to 750k USD), but are the lightest weight complication watches and use cutting edge material combination to achieve this. Even the rubber bands and how they connect look similar to Apple Watch (see the comparison picture I did). Maybe that is where Jony Ive got his idea for the red dot from, too ;-) Any Swiss watch aficionado will probably hate me for this comparison, but as my first two generations of steel apple watches were my equivalent to a tool watch Rolex, my new grey ceramic edition is my equivalent to a Richard Mille. And while the Richard Milles are way more extravagant, they also are only recognized by watch experts. Just like the ceramic is only recognized by people like us here on this threat. So one watch to rule them all and that for now is the ceramic grey Apple watch edition for me. Until next year that is.
View attachment 722648
Great story. I used to also be a big watch collector but decided it was just costing me too much buying and then flipping for something else or having multiple high end watches. After being on a waiting list I finally got my grail watch and sold off my Sub and Omega Ceramic DS of the moon. After picking up the grey ceramic AW last fri I have not worn the Daytona since. I really like how useful the AW watch is and love the look and feel of the Ceramic. Its so comfortable I even leave it on just sitting around the house where my metal watches would come off. The Daytona will be my last mechanical as I just see them going the way of pocket watches in a few years with the rate the AW is progressing. Sure the Daytona is in a different league but the AW is way more useful and after owning the previous version I feel Apple really nailed it this time with the HW and SW on the 3. I will use the AW as my daily driver and keep the Daytona for special occasions. I know it would have been more practical getting a the AL or SS but I just like premium and exotic materials when it comes to watches. I thought it would fly way under the radar but I've gotten so many compliments etc "is that the ceramic AW3"
As far as the rectangle shape I think our culture will get more used to it vs round esp for smart watches. It would drive me nuts trying to read stuff on a round screen getting cut off or cropped into a smaller square in a circle. Everything we do as far as getting data is on a rectangle platform wether it be a book, iPhone, kindle, computer, tv etc. I really hope apple doesn't go round for future watches. Time to move past the analog clock/watch being round paradigm.
While I marvel at many watches and their absolutely beauty, my wrist would never support a Rolex Submariner or similar.
I stopped wearing any type of watch when I reported to my first submarine.
Occasionally I would wear my slim Seiko.
To me the apple watch is a marketing name. It should be called the apple gadget. I am not sure how much I use it as a watch compared to using it as a gadget.
my believe is the shape of the Watch was derived from the geeks in the lab wearing calculator watches figuring out their bonuses if the Apple Watch actually took off..
Let’s be honest, do you wear (or try very hard to resist wearing) the AW on the other wrist when you put on the Daytona?Great story. I used to also be a big watch collector but decided it was just costing me too much buying and then flipping for something else or having multiple high end watches. After being on a waiting list I finally got my grail watch and sold off my Sub and Omega Ceramic DS of the moon. After picking up the grey ceramic AW last fri I have not worn the Daytona since. I really like how useful the AW watch is and love the look and feel of the Ceramic. Its so comfortable I even leave it on just sitting around the house where my metal watches would come off. The Daytona will be my last mechanical as I just see them going the way of pocket watches in a few years with the rate the AW is progressing. Sure the Daytona is in a different league but the AW is way more useful and after owning the previous version I feel Apple really nailed it this time with the HW and SW on the 3. I will use the AW as my daily driver and keep the Daytona for special occasions. I know it would have been more practical getting a the AL or SS but I just like premium and exotic materials when it comes to watches. I thought it would fly way under the radar but I've gotten so many compliments etc "is that the ceramic AW3"
As far as the rectangle shape I think our culture will get more used to it vs round esp for smart watches. It would drive me nuts trying to read stuff on a round screen getting cut off or cropped into a smaller square in a circle. Everything we do as far as getting data is on a rectangle platform wether it be a book, iPhone, kindle, computer, tv etc. I really hope apple doesn't go round for future watches. Time to move past the analog clock/watch being round paradigm.
Let’s be honest, do you wear (or try very hard to resist wearing) the AW on the other wrist when you put on the Daytona?
This is a big reason I’m leaning towards the white. It seems to work with more faces and bands than the gray. At the same time, I had a white for the Series 2 (which I now sold) so maybe it’d be nice to have the new color.I really want the ceramic but paying almost 1500 for a watch that's disposable and doesn't go with many bands just doesn't work for me. I really like the white and blue bands and brown leather and I think that wouldn't look right. If I was going to stick with only the original band id consider it. SS works with about everything that why apple always using the silver AL or SS models to show the most of the bands.
This is a big reason I’m leaning towards the white. It seems to work with more faces and bands than the gray. At the same time, I had a white for the Series 2 (which I now sold) so maybe it’d be nice to have the new color.
A point for the gray is that it looks different under different lighting, so it looks like a different watch at different times of day.
So torn on the decision (I know, first world problems) that I would appreciate any input that may help me make a decision.