One’s wrist is hallowed ground — particularly for those who already own a prized timepiece. Unlike the competition, Apple is gunning for both first-time watch buyers as well as those who have long since sworn loyalty to Tag, Rolex, Omega or any other luxury watchmaker. The Apple Watch is the only smartwatch that syncs completely and thoroughly with iOS, and it’s good enough to make Android users think twice about their OS of choice. Though the heart rate sensor isn’t perfect, it’s the most accurate in the industry, making it an ideal wearable for fitness-minded folk.
The user interface is slick and well appointed, with Force Touch bringing an entirely new interaction method to the masses. Watch also boasts all-day battery life, a svelte wireless charging apparatus and the ability to interchange bands ranging from a $49 rubberized model to those designed by the likes of Hermes. watchOS 2 has unleashed a flotilla of dedicated apps, while Passbook passes are even more useful — think boarding your flight or paying for your next sundae with a flick of the wrist. Best of all, the $349 base unit has the same internals as the $10,000 “Edition”…edition.
$349+
Processor: Apple S1 computer-on-a-chip
Storage: 8GB (2GB for music; 75MB for photos)
Display Sizes: 38mm: 340 x 272 pixels; 42mm: 390 x 312 pixels
Sensors: Ambient light, accelerometer, gyroscope, heart rate
Battery Life: Up to 18 hours
