The spread of coronavirus, which has still not been brought under control, has had a strong impact on the development of product lines of many companies. But if almost all devices only suffered from this, then the Apple Watch turned out to be a real exception to the rule. Scientists from various universities and research groups suddenly decided that Apple smart watches could be useful for diagnosing coronavirus infection thanks to the functions of measuring heart rate and the currently disabled mechanism for determining the level of oxygen in the blood. Therefore, it is logical that many users decided to buy this gadget for themselves.
There's not much to choose from when it comes to smartwatches, so there are only two options
Apple said that they did not plan the Apple Watch to be the way it is now
Today, there are only two Apple smartwatch models officially on sale. These are Apple Watch Series 3 and Apple Watch Series 5. In some places you can find the second and fourth generations, but most likely these are unsold stock lying around in retailers’ warehouses. But, I warn you right away: you definitely shouldn’t buy them. This means there are only two options left. Let's talk about them.
Apple Watch lineup
Over the course of 4 years, Apple managed to release 4 versions of watches. The first 3 models were produced in two variations, the only difference between which was the display diagonal. The small version of the watch had a 38 mm screen, the large model had a diagonal of 42 mm. In 2019, in Series 4, the manufacturing company reduced the frames around the screen, due to which, while maintaining the same dimensions of the watch, it was able to install a larger display. In the fourth generation of watches, these figures are 40 and 44 mm, respectively.
Each of the models had some design advantage that distinguished the device from its previous version. Thus, Series 3 had a ceramic case, while the second series sold devices with a case made of rose gold.
How to choose an Apple watch: let's start with the main thing
First of all, you need to decide on the size (Series 3 and Series 4 come in two versions) and whether you need cellular support in your watch.
The basic version of Apple Watch Series 4 with GPS costs from 30 thousand rubles, Series 3 is cheaper - 20 thousand. The GPS + Cellular modification with built-in eSIM is more expensive, but it is not officially sold in Russia.
By choosing the option with eSIM, you will be able to fully use the services of the mobile operator through the watch, without a smartphone. If advanced fitness features in a watch aren't as important as cellular connectivity, the Series 3 GPS + Cellular has everything you need and is cheaper than the Series 4.
Those who always have a smartphone with them are unlikely to need a watch with an eSIM. You'll probably be happy with a simpler version of the Apple Watch with GPS.
Design is an equally important element of the accessory. And in this regard, too, there is plenty to choose from. The Apple Watch case is made of aluminum (a more budget-friendly option), stainless steel, or durable ceramic. There are many colors and even more straps. The Apple Watch line features exclusive designs from Nike and the French fashion house Hermès.
Now that you know which criteria are most important, it's time to choose.
Common functionality of all series of Apple Watch smartwatches
Regardless of the model, all devices in the Apple Watch line have quite a wide range of functionality and some features. First of all, they allow you to find out the date and time in one movement. The watch will help you monitor your health. During use, the device collects information about the owner’s heart rate and sleep patterns. In case of health problems, the device will immediately notify you. If necessary, all information can be found in the corresponding smartphone application.
One of the features of all Apple gadgets is the ability to view notifications and even respond to some of the messages. All gadgets can even archive messages themselves and show only important ones.
Is it worth buying an Apple Watch? conclusions
If you have an iPhone of one of the latest models (newer than 4), and you need a companion device for viewing notifications, calls, quick access to Siri and some applications, then a definite yes. Apple Watch will also appeal to those who love an active lifestyle. The device is very convenient for everyday use.
But if you don’t have an iPhone, then you don’t need it. You won’t even be able to activate them on an Android smartphone (or another).
How Apple Watch Series 1 and Series 2 differ
Apple Watch Series 2 was the first update since the release of the original smartwatch. First of all, the dimensions of the device have changed. The second generation became 5 mm thicker and heavier. This is due to improved performance and the appearance of complete moisture protection.
The first model was splash-proof, while the Series 2 was IP67 accredited. This means that with the gadget you can not only take a shower, but also swim at a depth of up to 30 m for half an hour.
Inside the watch, the manufacturing company installed a more powerful processor with a built-in GPS tracker. Thanks to this, the gadget learned to independently determine the distance traveled and eliminated the need to constantly carry a smartphone with you. According to the manufacturer, the display brightness has more than doubled.
The first and second series of devices. What improvements have been made?
It’s worth saying right away that the second version of wearable devices has already been discontinued by the company, so comparing the first two representatives is almost pointless. But still, the series 2 smartwatches have gone on sale, and there are still some leftovers, so let’s look at the differences between generations and find out which one is wiser to purchase for use.
Case design
The Apple Watch Series 1 module was made of aluminum, and the representative of the second generation boasts a choice between ceramics, aluminum and steel. The screen is now covered with sapphire glass, which protects the display from scratches and chips. Mechanical damage is no longer so terrible; users note that even after a fall, the case remains intact and unharmed.
Screen brightness
The second difference is that the Watch Series 2 has higher screen brightness (450 Nits versus 1000). This is a step forward, because previously in clear weather it was practically impossible to distinguish anything on the display, but now the text remains readable, and the image is clear and of high quality. The color of the picture has become more saturated. And the changes did not affect battery life in any way, this is a clear advantage.
Moisture protection
Series 1 watches are protected from splashes of water, but the main thing here is not to overdo it. You can wash your hands while wearing a watch; getting caught in the rain is also not a problem, but it’s better to stay away from water. Apple Watch 2nd generation is characterized by increased resistance to moisture: it can withstand immersion to depths of up to 50m. You can already take a shower in them, swim in the pool, and swim in the sea. The smart gadget even has a special mode, which you can set to monitor your results: the number of strokes and laps completed. At the end of the water procedures, just press a button, and excess moisture is pushed out by a sound wave.
What is the difference between Apple Watch Series 2 and Series 3
If there were a large number of differences between the first two versions of Apple smartwatches, the main difference between the second generation and the third was eSim. The Apple Watch 3 had a special electronic SIM card built in, which, if necessary, will allow you to receive calls directly from the smart watch. Thanks to the new technology, the accuracy of determining the route traveled and calories burned has been increased.
Working hours
Apple Watch Series 5 – up to 18 hours even with Always-on display enabled.
Apple Watch Series 4 – up to 18 hours.
There are no significant changes in operating hours. Unless the energy-efficient display of the Watch Series 5 will provide the same mode, but with an active new function, being always on. In practice, these 18 hours of work represent 2 days of average workload.
Magnetic charging also remained unchanged. The USB adapter comes with all variants of both Apple Watch Series 4 and Apple Watch Series 5.
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How Apple Watch Series 3 and Series 4 differ
In 2020, the line was updated with the release of Apple Watch Series 4. In model 4, the case was redesigned to accommodate a larger display. The edges of the device have become more rounded, and the thickness of the device has decreased by 0.5 mm, which is why the watch looks better on the hand. The device was equipped with a new sensor capable of monitoring cardiac activity. It was additionally protected by ceramic glass.
Compared to the 3rd generation of watches, Series 4, thanks to the new S4 processor, is 50% faster. The amount of internal memory has increased from 8 to 16 GB. A new dial has appeared that contains all the information about the health of the smartwatch owner.
General characteristics
Regardless of the year of manufacture, all Apple Watch models have the following characteristics:
- moisture protection - yes;
- display diagonal - 38 and 42 mm or 40 and 42 mm;
- case materials - aluminum, stainless steel, rose gold, ceramics;
- heart rate monitor - yes;
- pedometer - yes.
All devices have the same delivery package. It includes the watch itself, a charger and 1 replacement strap. If necessary, you can buy an unlimited number of different straps and change them.
Display
The screen has a touch-sensitive coating, which is used to control the smartwatch. The high maximum brightness and anti-glare surface allow you to use the watch in the sun without any problems.
Hardware platform
Apple improves its hardware platform every year. According to rough estimates, the processor installed in Series 4 is 450% more powerful than what was available in the first generation. The first three versions of the smartwatch had 8 GB of internal memory, which was enough for a small number of photos and several built-in watch faces. In the fourth version, this parameter was increased by 2 times.
Sensors and modules
All Apple smartwatches have an accelerometer and heart rate monitor, and gadgets released after 2020 also have a GPS module. Thanks to these sensors, the device can easily determine the owner’s location and tell you the exact heart rate.
Biometric sensors
One of the important advantages of all Apple Watch models is the presence of a large number of different biometric sensors that constantly monitor the health of their owner. The device has a heart rate monitor, a sensor that monitors heart rate, and Series 4 has a special ECG sensor. It passes a weak electrical current through the wearer's entire body and is able to detect various heart problems in the early stages.
Nutrition
With each new version of the watch, the battery capacity increased. The gadget can be charged from zero in just 3 hours. The device will be discharged after active use in 3 days, although some buyers claim only 2 days of battery life. With the screen turned off, the device can work for up to a week. In order to increase battery life, you can enable a special function that will activate the watch display only when it is looked at.
Available colors, complete straps and bracelets
All models that can be purchased on the Apple website have a sports band and a body made of aluminum. The company focuses on a variety of straps. Both silicone versions and various metal and leather classic straps are available. At the same time, straps even from the first versions of devices are suitable for newer Apple iWatch.
Prices
With the release of new models, the company stops selling previous watches, so on the manufacturer’s website and in reseller stores you can only find the latest version of Watch Series 4. The minimum Sport version with a 40 mm display diagonal costs from 35,000 rubles.
If you wish, you can also buy previous models. On the secondary market, the price of devices will be equal to 10,000 rubles. for Series 1 and from 17,000 rub. for Series 2.
Luxurious Apple Watch: a quick overview of all models
Apple released its first smart watches in 2020. The watch immediately got off to a successful start, becoming one of the most popular accessories. Over the course of 4 years, the company presented the world with 5 versions. About the features and advantages of each of them below.
Apple Watch Original
The first generation watch was called the Watch Original or simply Apple Watch. This line includes 3 versions of the gadget:
- Apple Watch with sapphire display, Retina technology and ceramic back case. They stood out for their strict classic design. The dial of the watch was rectangular, and the case itself was made of steel. The strap could be chosen to match any style, color of clothing, mood - leather, steel, aluminum. There was an equally wide selection of fasteners.
- Model Sport. Visually repeated the design of the “sapphire” version. The same rectangular body, albeit made of aluminum, and a futuristic design. The color could be chosen to suit any desire: gray, pink, gold, silver. The model differed only in the silicone strap and glass (Ion-X) surface on the dial. All watches had an all-metal clasp and a heart rate sensor on the back of the case.
- Apple Watch Edition . Unique premium watches. The chronometer case was made of 18 carat pink or yellow gold. The clasp was also gold. Sapphire display. The strap could be sport or leather. The back of the case could be blue, white, red, black. Such an accessory was an elite decoration.
- Apple Watch Hermes. The dial of this watch was designed in the best traditions of the Hermes brand. On the back of the case there was an engraving of the company, and it itself was made of steel. The display shows durable sapphire.
Each version had 2 variants of case diameter - 38 and 42 mm. Absolutely all models instantly synchronized with iPhone. Today, Watch Original has been discontinued and it is almost impossible to purchase such a gadget.
Apple Watch Series 1
Series 1 replaced the Original series. The 1st series collection consisted of more than 30 different variations, which differed in price, type and color of the strap.
What is memorable about the line:
- the ability to purchase models with 38 and 42 mm screens;
- aluminum body, in gold, pink, silver, gray tones;
- high-quality display with protective glass lon-x.
Apple no longer produces Series 1 watches, but for now you can still buy them: the models in the series remain the most budget-friendly ones currently on the market.
Apple Watch Series 2
Following the first generation of watches, Series 2 was released. Visually, the accessory has not changed: the real upgrade affected the filling. This watch is more focused on a healthy lifestyle, sports and fitness. There is even protection against water at the level of 5 ATM.
The second series featured the following models:
- Apple Watch with aluminum and steel casing. The main difference between them was not only the material, but also the protective surface above the dial. So, the steel was complemented by durable sapphire, and the aluminum was complemented by Ion-X glass.
- Edition. Snow-white ceramics and sapphire display. What else is needed for solidity? As with the rest of the watches in the series, the company has provided 2 display options – 38 and 42 mm.
- Hermes . The same classic collaboration between two brands with the cold shine of stainless steel.
- Nike+ . The best option for sports. This is hinted at by the lightweight aluminum case and comfortable strap.
This series is also currently out of production.
Read more here: The new Apple Watch Series 2 smart watch is already on sale on the MOYO network
Apple Watch Series 3
2017 and again updating the line. Apple has remained true to itself and does not “bother” with the name – just Series 3. The new watch exactly repeats the previous versions, they cannot be distinguished visually. The only “black sheep” of the line is the model with an LED module: it has a red dot on the scroll wheel. Water protection remains a plus.
Models:
- Apple Watch made of aluminum and steel. The watches are available with different screen diameters – 38 and 42 mm. The dial is sapphire and the back is ceramic. The accessory can combine GPS and Cellular functions, but there is also a cheaper option with GPS only. If you choose a watch on a budget, you need to be prepared for an aluminum case and a glass surface on the display.
- Edition . The already familiar luxury of ceramics and sapphire. The palette of colors has expanded, the company has released an accessory in white and gray tones. Dial size – 38 or 42 mm.
- Hermès. The watch is almost identical to the version presented in Series 2. The addition is Cellular technology and a setting wheel decorated with a purple cover.
- Nike+ . Mix of silver aluminum, ceramics and high-quality display. The watch is designed for sports and active users. There are cheaper options, only with GPS, and more expensive ones – fully equipped Cellular ones.
Apple Watch Series 4
The fall of 2020 was marked not only by the release of the iPhone Xs. Apple also presented a smart watch, traditionally calling it Series 4. The chronometer is very cool: it has an updated design, a huge display (40 mm and 44 mm), as well as a bunch of other features. The 4th generation line included:
- Apple Watch for a wide audience made of aluminum and stainless steel. The dial is made of glass or sapphire. Equipped with Cellular technology, already familiar from the 3rd series. There are also more budget models that only have GPS in the list of functionality. Colors – black, grey, silver, gold.
- Hermès . The only difference from previous versions is the display size. By the way, the latest Hermès is the most expensive option in the Apple watch chronicle.
- Nike+ , as a result of close cooperation with the standard in the world of sports. The line includes watches only with GPS and with an additional Cellular module.
Even after looking through all the lines, determining which Apple Watch is better is difficult, but possible. To finally place a bet on your leader, it’s worth studying in more detail all the nuances of each series.
So which Apple Watch to choose?
First of all, the choice of version depends on your needs and budget. If you decide to save money, it is better to buy the Series 1 Sport. If your budget is not limited by any limits, then you should focus solely on your taste and choose Series 4 in a ceramic or gold case with a strap you like.
The Series 2 and Series 3 versions cannot be called budget, however, these variations do not differ in appearance from the first versions of smart watches. Due to these factors, most people consider purchasing these two models inappropriate. Before purchasing, it would be a good idea to look at several reviews of each generation of watches, find out their pros and cons, choose the ones you like, and see in the store what the gadget will look like on your hand.
Apple Watch versions
Apple Watch smartwatches are available in different versions.
Standard
There are no additional software or hardware modifications in this edition.
The estimated cost is from 18 thousand rubles for the first and second generations, from 24 thousand rubles for the third generation .
Apple Watch Nike+
Sports version. Available in second and third generations. Equipped with a special polymer sports strap (more comfortable when touching hot and sweaty skin), several additional dials with real-time activity display, as well as compatibility with the Nike+, Runtastic, Endomondo and several others fitness ecosystems.
The estimated cost corresponds to the prices for the standard configuration.
Apple Watch Hermes
A special “fashionable” version of the second and third generations of watches. Developed together with the Hermes fashion house. Equipped with special leather or metal straps and unique dials.
The estimated cost depends on the type of strap and ranges from 25 thousand rubles .
Apple Watch Sport
A simplified version of the first generation of watches. Equipped with a branded dial and a special strap.
At the start of sales they cost 349 dollars (about 20 thousand rubles) .
Apple Watch Edition
Premium version of smart watch. It differs in the material of the case - in the first generation it is plated with gold, in the second and third - it is completely made of polished ceramic.
The estimated cost for series 3 Edition is from $1,299 (about 78 thousand rubles) .
How to Determine Apple Watch Model by Serial Model Number
In fact, it is impossible to accurately identify Apple smart watches “by eye”, just as identification by model number cannot be considered a guaranteed correct method (for some models they are the same). Therefore, you will have to combine both methods.
How to find the Apple Watch serial number on iPhone
1. Go to the Watch app on your paired iPhone;
2. On the “My Watch” tab, open the Basic → About device menu;
3. Click on the “Model” field so that the article number starting with the letter “M” changes to a five-digit model number starting with a capital “A”.
How to find the Apple Watch serial number on the watch itself
1. Open the Settings app on your Apple Watch.
2. Go to General → About device.
3. Scroll down. The “Model” field will contain the device model identifier starting with the letter “A”.
To determine which model a particular number corresponds to, compare it to the model numbers and descriptions below.
Where is the factory model ID located on the Apple Watch case?
The model number is engraved in the bottom slot (socket) for attaching the strap. Remove the bottom watch band and carefully inspect the connector.
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Watch Series 4 Hermès Edition: functionality + sophistication
Price: from 115,000 rubles
For those who do not know about financial difficulties, there is a super premium accessory, the Apple Watch Series 4, from the French fashion house Hermès. The watches are made in an ultra-modern design, have a set of unique dials, and handmade leather straps are sold especially for them.
But it is worth noting that inside the incredibly stylish wrapper lies the same hardware as in other Series 4 models. There is no point in discussing any technical features, so we will focus solely on the design, since there is something to be said here.
A wide selection of straps will surprise the most demanding audience. The extra-long Double Tour wraps twice around the wrist and is available in 4 colours. The classic Hermès single-turn strap features a buckle reminiscent of a horse saddle. It is also available in 4 colors. And besides this, there are straps with a hidden mechanism: two buttons are hidden in the buckle, they must be pressed to unfasten the watch.
Throughout this variety, Hermès signature ideas are represented: the exclusive orange strap and the more luxurious Single Tour Rallye in full-grain Barenia calfskin with a Fauve finish. The design of the latter is inspired by the classic Hermès driving glove with holes.
Of course, aesthetics of this level are incredibly expensive. Replacement straps will cost from 30 thousand, and the watch itself is even more expensive - more than 100 thousand.
Advantages:
- Limited edition.
- Exquisite appearance.
- Large selection of straps.
- A set of exclusive watch faces from Hermès designers.
Flaws:
- They will quickly lose their luxury.
- There are no technical advantages over other Series 4 models.
Apple Watch Series 3 to Series 4
The latest device truly represents a vision of the future of smartwatches and is perhaps the closest most people get to a dream. It looks good, boasts a great selection of apps, is always connected thanks to LTE, and boasts enough biometric and GPS sensors to be a complete health companion. It's not prohibitively expensive, although it's not cheap at all.
That said, if that new design or electric heart rate sensor isn't important to you, you might be better off buying the Series 3. It still has GPS, watchOS 5 works great, and it's a lot cheaper.
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