My Journey with the Apple Watch Series 2
I took the plunge and picked up the 42mm Apple Watch Series 2 in Space Gray for $399. The Apple Watch looks and feels a lot better than I had anticipated, and it was worth the wait for the basic improvements like GPS and 50M water resistance in this second-generation release compared to the first.
Initial Reaction — Positive
I've only worn the watch for a few hours and haven't really explored much beyond the basic functions such as email, text messages, phone calls, and music. I expect it will take me at least a week or more to fully understand how useful this watch can be. However, I appreciate the utility of being able to control and access some features of my iPhone without having to dig it out of my pocket. It may sound silly, but it makes more sense once you have the Apple Watch strapped on while your iPhone is tucked away.
Overall, the Apple Watch is very well-designed, boasting an appealing look and feel. The build quality is solid, and like most Apple products, there’s a clear emphasis on form meeting function in their design.
Four Days In
I'm starting to like the Apple Watch, finding it a useful device that complements my iPhone. The battery life is impressive; after 16 hours of use, it often still has around 60% remaining. Admittedly, I barely use it beyond a few basic features like time, date, and notifications.
What I find most interesting are the health monitoring features, such as heart rate tracking and the pedometer. They help me realize that I'm fairly active, averaging about 8,000 to 10,000 steps a day.
The only downside has been my attempt to wear both my Rolex or Omega alongside the Apple Watch. My wrists felt too busy with two watches, so I've been exclusively wearing the Apple Watch for now. I suppose I will reserve my Swiss automatic watches for special occasions.
One Month Later
I've been wearing the Apple Watch almost every day. Occasionally, I switch to a Casio G-Shock for activities that might damage the Apple Watch, but otherwise, it’s been my primary wrist companion.
Overall, my feelings are mixed. While it’s nice to have, I realize you can live without it and rely solely on your iPhone. It may sound silly, but if this watch could function as a standalone smartphone, allowing me to ditch the iPhone, that would be fantastic. However, I’m not sure how they could resolve the convenience of handling various features that are more practical on a larger screen.
Update — Two Years Later
Has it really been that long? Yes, it has. I'm impressed by the quality, beauty, and utility of the Apple Watch. My Series 2 is starting to show its age, but it still performs admirably and reminds me of my Casio G-Shocks in terms of utility.
I will certainly consider keeping a smartwatch in my collection. When the time comes to retire my Series 2, I’ll look at what Apple has to offer and hope it won’t be until the Series 8 or 9.
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