Apple Watch could debut with 4-6 week lead times for some models
AppleInsider Staffvia Macerkopf
Consumers who don't pre-order an Apple Watch this week could find themselves waiting more than a month to pick one up after sales begin, as some foreign outposts of Apple's online store indicate lead times that could stretch as long as six weeks.
The notices, first discovered by German Apple site Macerkopf, appear on Apple's German store and put delivery dates for the Sport model between April 24 and May 8. The same timing applies for the stainless steel Watch with sport bands, classic leather straps, or the milanese loop.
Those choosing a stainless steel Watch with a matching link bracelet or a leather loop can expect delivery in four to six weeks. Edition models have no specific time frame, instead simply showing "May."
AppleInsider heard from sources last month that supplies of the Watch could be constrained at launch, as the company faced production issues with the wrist-worn device "at every stage of the development." Those struggles have long been well known to Apple management, however, and are likely to have been factored in to the launch strategy.
Apple will begin accepting preorders for the Watch on Friday at 12:01 a.m. Pacific time, with shipments slated to begin on April 24. Those who are unsure which model to choose can also book in-store try-on appointments at the same time, but those appointments do not act as product reservations — Â after the try-on, a separate order will need to be placed.
Chip Loder
Andrew Orr
Marko Zivkovic
David Schloss
Malcolm Owen
William Gallagher
