Apple May Replace Some Original Apple Watch Models in Need of Repair With Series 1 Models

duo apple watchApple today informed retail store employees and Apple Authorized Service Providers that some original first-generation Apple Watch models that require repairs can be replaced with Series 1 Apple Watch models.

The substitutions are limited to aluminum Apple Watch models in Silver, Space Gray, Gold, and Rose Gold, and are only available in some countries, which were not specified in Apple's directive.

In some countries, Apple Watch Aluminum (1st generation) parts (in all colors) may be substituted with Apple Watch Aluminum (Series 1) parts. The parts substitution should now be working properly in MobileGenius and Repair Central.

Apple Watch Series 1 models, which were introduced alongside the Series 2 Apple Watch in September of 2016, are nearly identical to original Apple Watch models, with the exception of the processor. In Series 1 Apple Watch models, there's an upgraded dual-core S1P chip, which is similar to the S2 chip in the Series 2 but without GPS capabilities.

Original Apple Watch models are no longer covered by Apple's one-year warranty, but customers who purchased AppleCare for their watches are still eligible for no-cost repairs of manufacturing issues for two years from the date of purchase.

Related Roundup: Apple Watch 10
Tag: GSX
Buyer's Guide: Apple Watch (Caution)

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Top Rated Comments

Mlrollin91 Avatar
103 months ago
A little unrelated, but I feel like there haven't been any Apple Watch Series 3 rumors in a long time. Are those still coming this autumn or is Apple really on an 18 month cycle?
I believe it will be an 18month cycle. A watch a year seems like a lot.
Score: 10 Votes (Like | Disagree)
djcerla Avatar
103 months ago
Hmmmm... my 42mm series 0.... still works... perfectly...

(vigorously slams watch with gum hammer)
Score: 9 Votes (Like | Disagree)
yanki01 Avatar
103 months ago
just as I was about to smash my 42mm SS...I saw its only the sport model.
Score: 6 Votes (Like | Disagree)
BornAgainMac Avatar
103 months ago
Gold watch owners would be upset. That would be a huge downgrade for them.
Score: 6 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Mlrollin91 Avatar
103 months ago
Has anyone with a S0 Stainless Steel had their watches replaced with S1 Aluminium?

Quite frankly I would be distraught if mine was replaced with an Aluminium considering the premium I paid with the matching link bracelet.

Is that unreasonable?
Why would an SS be replaced with a Sport? Even the article states it only applies to Aluminum models.

"Apple Watch Aluminum (1st generation) parts (in all colors) may be substituted with Apple Watch Aluminum (Series 1) parts."
Score: 5 Votes (Like | Disagree)
StudyFlo Avatar
103 months ago
Mine was replaced just a month ago with a Series 1. Very nice! :)
Score: 3 Votes (Like | Disagree)