Accessories
What’s a watch without its band? Unlike traditional bands, the Apple Watch makes it remarkably easy to switch out bands. And unlike any other Apple product, you have lots of options; normally an Apple product comes in two or three colors; with the watches there are several dozen ways to mix and match.
Below is a guide to all the different ones you have to choose from. (Note: when purchasing a band, remember that a 42mm band won’t be compatible with a 38mm band or vice versa). Unless otherwise noted, all bands are available in both 38 and 42mm. Some bands are not one size fits all.
Official Bands & Accessories
Sport Band ($49)
It’s available in black, space gray, white, pink, blue, green. The band is obviously best for working out; it's also the cheapest band available. It’s made of fluoroelastomer, a synthetic rubber known for performing well in heat. Because this band isn’t one size fits all, the chart below helps you make the right choice:
Classic Buckle ($149)
This band is made of "Dutch leather" from a tannery in the Netherlands. Apple promises the mill gives it a distinctive texture. The closer is made of stainless steel.
Milanese Loop ($149)
Apple says the inspiration for this stainless steel mesh band was a mesh band from 19th century Milan. The band is completely magnetic and easy to put on.
Modern Buckle ($249) - three sizes: small, medium, and large
It’s available in brown, black, pink, and midnight blue. The leather for this stunning band comes from a French tannery established in 1803. How are the modern and classic bands different? The leather is slightly different, but the most noticeable difference is the buckle. The classic is a strap with holes; the modern is a magnetic band that helps you have a more precise fit. Because this band isn’t one size fits all, the chart below helps you make the right choice:
Link Bracelet ($449.00)
The most expensive and complex band, this stainless steel band has over 100 parts. Apple claims the craftsmanship is so complex that it takes nine hours to assemble a single case. The magnetic closure is one size fits all.
Leather Loop ($149) - Only available for the 42mm band.
It’s available in stone, light brown, bright blue, and black. Made of Venezia leather and handcrafted in Arzignano, Italy, this band has a soft and gilded feel. The magnetic loop is easy to put on. Because this band isn’t one size fits all, the chart below helps you make the right choice:
Apple Watch Magnetic Charging Cable ($29 for 1m cable; $39 for 2m cable)
Apple has only announced one official accessory for the Apple Watch, and that is an extra charger (one comes free with your watch).
Unofficial Bands
There’s no denying the Apple Watch bands are slick…but they’re also expensive. If you want to complement your watch with something a little less pricey, lots of options have already popped up, and many more are coming.
Casetify ( www.casetify.com/apple-watch )
Click has a collection of bands for $50. For the same price, you can also customize your band and add your own photos for a truly unique fashion statement.
Click ( https://www.get-click.com/ )
Click is a $10 component that attaches to your Apple Watch and lets you and any band you want--so if you have a nice traditional band in your closet, this is a great option for you.
Monowear Design ( www.monoweardesign.com )
Monowear Design promises to have Apple style for not Apple prices. A leather or linked band that looks surprisingly similar to Apple's bands can be purchased for less than $100.
Reserve Strap ( www.reservestrap.com )
If you are worried about battery usage on the Apple Watch, then Reserve Watch might be for you. The $249.99 promises to give your watch more juice (no mention of how much at this writing). This watch is currently available for pre-order, but it's not yet