Apple Watch Series 1 42mm Specs Pricing & Insights

Overview of Apple Watch Series 1 Aluminum 42mm

The Apple Watch Series 1 Aluminum 42mm, released in December 2016, marked an important step in Apple's wearable technology journey. Although it has been discontinued, it remains a notable entry in the evolution of smartwatches. This device combines functionality, style, and performance, emphasizing Apple's commitment to quality and innovation in its product design.

Design and Build Quality

The Apple Watch Series 1 is crafted with an aluminum frame, a glass front, and a composite plastic back, ensuring a lightweight feel, weighing only 30 grams. Its dimensions stand at 42.5 x 36.4 x 10.5 mm, which complements its sleek aesthetic and comfortable fit on the wrist. It features Ion-X strengthened glass, providing durability and resistance to typical wear and tear.

Display

This watch features a 1.65-inch Retina OLED display with a resolution of 390 x 312 pixels, delivering rich colors and sharp visuals at approximately 303 ppi density. The display is capable of a peak brightness of 450 nits, making it usable in various lighting conditions, from dim indoor settings to direct sunlight.

Performance and Operating System

Powered by the Apple S1P chip with a dual-core 520 MHz Cortex-A7 CPU and PowerVR G6200 GPU, the Series 1 offers a smooth and efficient user experience. Initially running on watchOS 3.0, it is upgradable to watchOS 6.2.8, allowing users to benefit from newer features and improvements introduced over time.

Memory and Storage

The device comes with 8GB of internal storage and 512MB RAM, providing ample space for apps and data. Although there is no card slot for expandable storage, the onboard memory is adequate for the typical needs of a smartwatch user.

Connectivity

While the Apple Watch Series 1 lacks cellular connectivity, it supports Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n and Bluetooth 4.0, aiding in seamless connection with other devices. The built-in NFC feature allows for convenient services like Apple Pay, even without a direct connection to a smartphone.

Sensors and Features

Equipped with essential sensors such as an accelerometer, gyro, and heart rate monitor, the watch enables comprehensive tracking of fitness activities and health monitoring. These features highlight Apple's focus on promoting a healthy lifestyle through technology.

Battery Life and Charging

The watch houses a non-removable Li-Ion 250 mAh battery that supports wireless charging. While it may require daily charging, it aligns with the typical usage patterns for smartwatches. The wireless charging feature adds convenience and ease of use.

Colors and Price

The Apple Watch Series 1 was available in a variety of case colors including silver, gold, rose gold, and gray, and band colors such as brown, white, black, and blue, reflecting Apple's emphasis on personalization. At launch, it was priced around 300 EUR, placing it in the competitive mid-range market segment for smartwatches.

Conclusion

The Apple Watch Series 1 Aluminum 42mm is a noteworthy product that embodies the elegance, functionality, and reliability expected from Apple devices. Despite being discontinued, its legacy continues to influence the design and features of subsequent Apple Watch models. This smartwatch provided a robust platform for users seeking a blend of technology and style in their daily lives.