Andrew O'Hara
Ceramic has returned as a case material in the Apple Watch Series 5. AppleInsider checks out the new model, and sees what has changed since we last saw the material two years ago.
As the Apple Watch evolves, one differentiations has been new case materials. We saw the most expansive lineup yet in the Apple Watch Series 5 with the addition of titanium and the re-release of ceramic. These two are added to the aluminum, Nike, stainless steel, and Hermes models for six different options and a variety of colors.
The ceramic Apple Watch case is made from a fine powder that is highly compressed before being polished to a shine with a diamond slurry.
It has a clean, glossy white appearance — same as with the Series 3 — but now it has the larger screen and the updated body that was introduced in the Apple Watch Series 4. The rear of the watch has a dark ceramic back and the Digital Crown has the tell-tale red ring around the dark ceramic indicative of its cellular abilities.
Last time we saw the ceramic, it had a fully red Digital Crown. Now the dial is home to an electrode that is used for taking an ECG.
The ceramic case is highly resistant to fingerprints and scratches so it should retain that stunning exterior for a long time.
With the new Apple Watch Series 5, Apple also debuted several new bands in new color schemes. Aside from the band you choose, it also comes with an additional sports band.
This is great if you pick up something like the new Meyer Lemon leather loop and need that sports band for working out.
Otherwise, the contents are the same as you'd expect. A 5W charger and the stainless steel magnetic charging puck are included with the Apple Watch Series 5 Edition.
Where to buy
The ceramic Apple Watch Edition starts at $1,299, but those willing to opt for an aluminum or stainless steel case can find Apple Watch Series 5 styles on sale at Apple Authorized Resellers like Amazon and B&H Photo. For the latest deals and product availability, be sure to visit the AppleInsider Apple Watch 5 Price Guide.
William Gallagher
Christine McKee
AppleInsider Staff
Chip Loder
Malcolm Owen
23 Comments
If this will encourage somebody to get an Apple Watch who otherwise would not wear the more mechanical look of the aluminum version that would be great -- Not so much for Apple, but for them! The Apple Watch has so many benefits -- particularly health related, that they will be the clear winners here.
Of all the materials used for the Apple Watch, the ceramic model is just stunning. I can't justify spending that much on a piece of tetchy-jewelry, but it is a beauty. I hope Apple expands on using this material for other things.
I had the ceramic white series 2 and grey ceramic series 3. When the 4 was announced I was annoyed by the material choices, I purchased a space black SS model.
The only complaint is the band color, they should have brought back the cloud band with ceramic pin. Seeing as I sold my series 2 on eBay 2 years ago I went to eBay and picked up a grey cloud band. This watch will be perfect when it arrives.
Mine is arriving on Monday, can't wait.
I’d like to see a durability test..