Apple fans, start your engines. If you’re awake and reading this right now, you almost certainly already know that Apple’s brand new Apple Watch is finally available for preorder. What you might not know, however, is exactly how the buying process will work for the Apple Watch.
This is a launch unlike any other for Apple, but we’ve got everything you need to know right here in this post.
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First things first: if you want to guarantee that you get a shiny new Apple Watch on launch day, April 24th, your best bet is to head to this page on Apple’s website and preorder one immediately. Recent reports have suggested that initial supply of several different Watch models will be very limited when it’s released.
If you’re willing to roll the dice, you can schedule an appointment to check the Watch out in an Apple Store first before you preorder. Apple Watch models will be on hand in Apple Stores beginning later this morning and appointments can be scheduled on Apple’s website or using the Apple Store app on your iOS device.
Interestingly, you won’t be able to purchase the Apple Watch from an Apple Store. Instead, you can only make an appointment to test a few Watch models, and you’ll then have to preorder one online if you like what you see. You can always use your phone or one of the Mac computers on display in the Apple Store to order then and there, of course.
Again, you’ll definitely want to hurry if you’re hoping to get an appointment today or even anytime this weekend. Apple Watch appointments are available in 15-minute increments, though staffers won’t snatch the Watch off your wrist when your 15 minutes are up. Stores will likely be packed though, so don’t expect to linger for too long.
Also of note, the gold Apple Watch Edition will not be available to try in most stores.
The aluminum Apple Watch Sport starts at $349 for the 38mm model and $399 for the 42mm version, while the stainless steel Apple Watch starts at $549 and $599 for the 38mm and 42mm versions, respectively. The stainless steel model tops out at $1,049 and $1,099 when purchased with a link bracelet, and the gold Apple Watch Edition starts at $10,000.
