Where best to buy?

[Luis Ortega]

I am looking at Apple Watch 8 or 9 in 41 or 45 size, and my options are the Apple Store new for £400/430,
the Apple Store refurbished for £340/360 and £300/320 for the series 8 refurbs,
and the local Currys for £350/380 for the new series 9.

I am wondering if the warranty service is the same for an Apple Watch bought elsewhere than the Apple Store or will Apple tell me to go where I bought it?

Would a refurb be actually better prepared than a factory new watch or does it depend on who is doing the refurbishing?

And for the choice between the 8 or 9, is it worth it for future proofing for new features or longer updates or more health monitoring features to choose the 9 over the 8?
Thanks for any opinions.

 

[FreakinEurekan]

Apple refurbished is fine - new battery, full warranty, still eligible for AppleCare+. I would not buy a refurb anywhere but direct from Apple, personally.

As far as Curry's vs. Apple - not a lot of difference. The 1-year warranty is the same either way, but Consumer Law protection is through the seller so if anything happens after the first year (and you don't have AppleCare+) you have to go through Curry's, not Apple.

 

[Luis Ortega]

Thanks. I trust Apple more than Curry’s.
Do you think that it’s worth it to pay £40 more for a refurb 9 than a refurb 8?

 

[FreakinEurekan]

Thanks. I trust Apple more than Curry’s.
Do you think that it’s worth it to pay £40 more for a refurb 9 than a refurb 8?

Yeah, I'd think so. Twice as bright display, twice as much storage. That's a decent upgrade for £40.