The rumor mill was unclear on whether we were going to see an Apple Watch Ultra 3 announced today, and the naysayers were right: there was no new model of the high-end Watch. Instead, Apple announced a new satin black titanium version of the Ultra 2.
The original Apple Watch Ultra was launched in 2022, and was primarily positioned as a rugged model for those into adventure activities like rock climbing and scuba diving …
However, the larger screen size and longer battery life meant that it also proved popular with those who did nothing more adventurous than trying a new brand of tequila at their local bar.
The Ultra 2 left the design unchanged, offering only a slightly faster chip, a brighter display, and improved ultra wideband tech.
This year’s Apple Watch Series 10 offers an even larger screen size as the Ultra. Since that was a large part of the appeal, it may be that Apple expected relatively few people to pay the premium for a new Ultra model. A new black titanium option for the existing model does, however, offer a possible upsell route for the company.
Apple says that the finish is designed to be scratch-resistant. New bands have also been announced, including a titanium Milanese band.
Top comment by Jim Hillhouse
Not even an update to the S10 for the Apple Watch Ultra 2? Am getting this wrong? If not, that's nuts! That's like updating the iPhone with the latest chip and not the iPhone Pro.
There’s also a new Hermès version:
Watch Hermès Ultra 2 combines a natural titanium case with the new Hermès En Mer band in Bleu Nuit — a dark navy color — and a special Hermès Maritime watch face. The En Mer band features Hermès’s nautical, diagonal rib pattern made from high-density textured knit, providing both durability and comfort. A wide titanium buckle on the band ensures that Apple Watch Hermès Ultra 2 stays securely on the wrist even during water activities, including scuba diving, sailing, and high-speed water sports.
The new Hermès Maritime watch face features high-visibility numerals in the classic Hermès Cape Cod typeface, with a sweeping outer bezel that displays the seconds. Pressing the Action button transforms the watch face into a special countdown timer inspired by boat racing.
Pricing starts at $799 for the standard model, and $1,399 for the Hermès. Preorders are open now, with delivery on September 20.
Catch up with the rest of the event in our news hub.
Photo: Apple
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