Updated Feb 01, 2023 - If you're in the market for an Apple Watch, you're likely shopping prices and wondering if it's a good idea to save by going with the 1st Gen model. While you won't get any new updates on that model, it's still an impressive piece of tech, and shopping for a reliable used Apple Watch will definitely save you some money.
Is it Worth Buying the 1st Gen Apple Watch?
If you’re looking to buy a used Apple Watch, then you might want to pay attention to how we talk about iPhones here at Back Market because the same rules apply. The newest and 'best' iPhones are being released every year with upgraded cameras and battery life and storage capacity and this and that. But what do we always say? That even when an iPhone no longer gets updates, it can still work great and have the ability to keep running all of your favorite apps. Yes, some things may take a little longer to open, and you might have fewer features available than newer models, but these might not be things that you'll miss.
The 1st Gen Apple Watchwas originally released in April 2015 andstopped receiving updates after WatchOS 4 just three years later. But that was enough time for the WatchOS operating system to mature from its basic concept. So with its final update, the first generation of Apple Watches could still give you a decent user experience (albeit maybe not compared to the current Apple Watch models).
At the end of the day, this Apple Watch is still an Apple Watch - it gives you a great connected experience with your other Apple products, provides basic notifications and tracks your activity from your wrist. And unlike iPhones that may sometimes change their looks drastically, this still looks exactly like the newest Apple Watch. Same premium materials, all-day battery life, and waterproof. Sure, newer models are waterproof up to 50 meters as opposed to only 1 meter on the original Apple Watch, but that should be ok with you, as long as you don’t plan on going scuba diving. And if you are a scuba diver, just remember to take off your 1st gen Apple Watch before you jump into the deep blue sea! And no matter which iPhone you have, this Apple Watch will be able to connect to it. iPhones don’t discriminate between newer and older Apple Watches :D
So here's the simple answerfrom our perspective: yes,the original Apple Watch might be a great investment for people looking for a bare minimum smartwatch that can save them some serious money. But if you're the type of person that needs up-to-date technology and new features, then you might want to consider increasing your budget for something a little more recent.
FAQs
Yes, some things may take a little longer to open, and you might have fewer features available than newer models, but these might not be things that you'll miss. The 1st Gen Apple Watch was originally released in April 2015 and stopped receiving updates after WatchOS 4 just three years later.
Can you still use Gen 1 Apple Watch? ›
You can definitely use the Apple Watch (1st generation) to do all of the above and more, but it will not support the latest versions of watchOS. So you will miss out on some features and other improvements. Thanks for reaching out!
Is the Apple Watch SE Gen 1 still supported? ›
Software Updates
Although the Apple Watch SE (1st gen) is discontinued, it is still receiving support and updates.
Are older Apple Watches still good? ›
Are older versions of the Apple Watch still worth buying? Yes, many older Apple Watch are available to buy refurbished at places like BackMarket and are still some of the best smartwatches on the market.
Is the original Apple Watch worth anything? ›
At this writing, a first-gen Apple Watch in "good" condition (as determined by Maxback upon receipt) would earn you $79. If it's merely "fair," however, meaning you can see deep scuffs or scratches, you'll get only $55.
Is the Apple Watch Series 1 still useful? ›
While you won't get any new updates on that model, it's still an impressive piece of tech, and shopping for a reliable used Apple Watch will definitely save you some money.
Is Apple Watch 1 obsolete? ›
Apple will no longer offer replacement parts or repair the 'Series 0' models. The first-generation Apple Watch released in 2015 is now classed as obsolete by Apple.
What is an Apple Watch SE 1st gen worth? ›
Watch SE 1st Gen 40mm
| # | Price | Condition |
|---|
| 1 | $109 | Good |
| 2 | $140 | Fair |
| 3 | $140 | Fair |
| 4 | $150 | Good |
18 more rowsFirst, make sure that your Apple Watch works with the latest software. watchOS 10 is compatible with these Apple Watch models: Apple Watch Series 4 and later. Apple Watch SE (1st generation) and later.
Which Apple Watches are obsolete? ›
Recently, Apple designated all first-generation Apple Watch models, including the premium $17,000 solid-gold Edition, as "obsolete." According to a report by MacRumors, this move occurred on September 30, and it encompassed all first-gen Apple Watch models introduced in 2015.
- 1st generation: April 24, 2015.
- Series 1 and Series 2: September 16, 2016.
- Series 3: September 22, 2017.
- Series 4: September 21, 2018.
- Series 5: September 20, 2019.
- Series 6 and SE (1st generation): September 18, 2020.
- Series 7: October 15, 2021.
- Series 8 and SE (2nd generation): September 16, 2022.
Apple kept selling the Series 3 for way longer than they usually do, and the result is that the Series 3 is now abruptly discontinued and unsupported. You can still bring the Series 3 into Apple for repairs, but it can't update to the new watchOS 9 or anything after that.
How much did the first generation Apple Watch cost? ›
The next step up is just called Apple Watch, and starts at $549 for a 38mm version with a sport band, and goes all the way up to $1,099 for a 42mm model with a stainless steel link bracelet. This model has a stainless steel case and a sapphire crystal display.
Is Apple Watch Series 1 vintage? ›
Obsolete products are no longer eligible for repairs or service at Apple Stores and Apple Authorized Service Providers. Another addition to the page is the Apple Watch Series 1, which is now classified as vintage.
How much can I get for my old Apple Watch? ›
Get $70–$360 when you trade in an Apple Watch. footnote ¹
| Your device | Estimated trade-in value footnote ¹ |
|---|
| Apple Watch Ultra | Up to $360 |
| Apple Watch Series 8 | Up to $165 |
| Apple Watch SE (2nd generation) | Up to $110 |
| Apple Watch Series 7 | Up to $140 |
Apple Watch Series 1 requires an iPhone 5s or later with iOS 11 or later. Some features may not be available for all countries or regions. Click here to see complete list. To learn more about wearing Apple Watch, getting a good fit, potential skin sensitivity, and proper care and cleaning, click here.
Will the series 1 Apple Watch work with the iPhone 14? ›
The Series 1 Apple Watch, released in 2016, is compatible with the iPhone 5 or newer generations. The iPhone device must have iOS 11 installed. The Apple Watch Series 1 isn't as aesthetically pleasing as the 1st Generation Apple Watch, it also doesn't include built-in GPS.
Does Apple Watch Gen 1 have fall detection? ›
Fall detection is included with all Apple Watch models newer than the Series 3. The feature is not compatible with Series 1, 2, and 3. Fall detection automatically turns on if you indicate you are 55 years or older during setup or when you input your age in the Health app.
