Great news for bargain hunters and Apple enthusiasts: the Apple Watch Series 10 has officially appeared on Apple’s certified refurbished store. This marks the first time the latest iteration of the popular smartwatch, originally launched last September, is available directly from Apple at a discount after being certified for resale.
Products purchased through Apple’s refurbished program offer a compelling alternative to buying new. These devices are not just ‘used’ goods; they undergo a rigorous certification process directly by Apple. This includes comprehensive functionality testing, a thorough cleaning process, and detailed inspection. Crucially, any refurbished Apple Watch requiring replacement parts during the inspection is not sold through the program. Devices are repackaged in a new box with all original accessories.
One of the biggest perks is that Apple Certified Refurbished products come with the standard one-year Apple limited warranty, just like brand new items. They are also eligible for purchase with AppleCare+ coverage for extended protection, and Apple’s standard return policy applies.
Current Availability and Pricing
As of its debut on the refurbished store, availability for the Apple Watch Series 10 is currently focused on the larger 46mm models. While inventory can fluctuate, initial listings spotted include both aluminum and titanium finishes.
Here’s a breakdown of the savings available:
46mm Aluminum: Priced at $359, offering a $70 discount from the original new price of $429.
46mm Titanium: Listed for $639, providing a $110 discount from the original new price of $749.
These discounts represent approximately a 15% saving off the standard retail price for new models bought directly from Apple. While only 46mm models in specific finishes (like Jet Black aluminum or Slate titanium) might be available initially, Apple typically adds other sizes (including the 42mm) and configurations to the refurbished store over time as returned units become available. Checking the store frequently is advisable if you’re looking for a specific model.
Refurbished vs. New: A Key Comparison
While saving money directly from Apple is certainly appealing, it’s essential for potential buyers to compare prices across different retailers before making a purchase.
Notably, at the time this refurbished stock became available, major third-party retailers like Amazon were selling brand new 46mm Aluminum Apple Watch Series 10 models for the exact same price of $359 as the refurbished unit from Apple.
Securing a new device for the same cost as a refurbished one is hard to pass up for many consumers. Furthermore, retailers like Amazon often carry a wider variety of colors, finishes, and band combinations readily available compared to the sometimes limited configurations on Apple’s refurbished store. Therefore, while the certified refurbished option offers significant savings off Apple’s new price, comparing with current deals on new models elsewhere is highly recommended, as you might find better value or more options.
Discover the Apple Watch Series 10
If you’re considering the Series 10, whether new or refurbished, you’re looking at Apple’s latest advancements in wearable technology. Touted as the “thinnest Apple Watch ever” with Apple’s “biggest display,” the Series 10 brings notable improvements.
Key features include:
A larger, brighter display (up to 2000 nits) for enhanced readability.
Advanced health monitoring like detailed sleep tracking, ECG capabilities, irregular heart rhythm notifications, a temperature sensor for retrospective ovulation estimates and potential sleep apnea detection.
Comprehensive fitness tracking with support for various workouts, including water sports.
Essential safety features such as Fall Detection, Crash Detection, and Emergency SOS.
Enhanced connectivity features like the Smart Stack for timely information and on-device Siri.
A sleek design incorporating new materials and finishes, like aerospace-grade titanium.
Powered by the S10 SiP and featuring the intuitive Double Tap gesture, the Series 10 delivers up to 18 hours of battery life on a single charge (36 hours in Low Power Mode).
Following a Trend of Refurbished Additions
The arrival of the Apple Watch Series 10 follows other recent high-profile additions to Apple’s refurbished store. In the weeks prior, Apple also listed the Apple Watch Ultra 2 with a Black Titanium case, the latest Mac Studio models, and the M4 MacBook Air, indicating a steady flow of newer products entering the certified resale program.
In summary, scoring a discounted Apple Watch Series 10 directly from Apple via its certified refurbished program is now possible, offering substantial savings off the standard new price. However, savvy shoppers should definitely check prices for new models at other major retailers, as competitive pricing may offer equivalent or better value depending on current promotions and stock.
