The Apple Watch ceramic finish is reportedly set to make a comeback this year, ending a seven-year absence from the company’s smartwatch range. According to tech insiders, the material could feature in the anticipated Apple Watch Series 12 lineup, expected to be unveiled next month.
The claim comes from tech insider Kosutami, who posted on X that the ceramic Watch would return with the Series 12. The suggestion aligns with a separate report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman earlier this month, which also indicated a ceramic edition was on the way. Apple has not confirmed the plans.
Should the finish materialise, it would arrive alongside several other products anticipated at Apple’s next event, which could take place as early as 9 September. Many analysts expect the company to introduce the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, Apple Watch Series 12, Apple Watch Ultra 4, and Apple’s first foldable phone.
A Rare and Expensive History
Apple has only intermittently offered watches with a ceramic finish. The first, in white, debuted with the Series 2 range in 2016, followed by a grey option with the Series 3 in 2017. After a year’s pause, white ceramic returned in 2019 with the Series 5. No ceramic option has appeared since.
The finishes formed part of Apple’s Edition line, which also included gold and titanium models. Apple discontinued the Edition range after its final products in 2021.
The ceramic watches carried a premium price. The 2016 debut cost around £990 for the 38mm version and £1,030 for the 42mm. In 2019, the ceramic model was priced at approximately £1,030 for the 40mm and £1,070 for the 44mm.
How the Ceramic Casing Was Made
When Apple introduced the finish a decade ago, it described the casing as a combination of zirconia and alumina. A diamond slurry was used to mould each case for a smooth surface and a polished shine. Apple stated the casing was four times harder than stainless steel, making it resistant to scratches and nicks.
Jon Rettinger, a tech influencer with more than 1.66 million YouTube subscribers, described the ceramic model as his favourite version of the Apple Watch, noting that despite the high cost, its distinctive look earned a place on his wrist.
Apple remains the market leader in smartwatches, according to research firm Counterpoint. The company accounted for 23% of all global shipments in the first quarter of the year, ahead of Huawei at 17%. Apple also recorded 21% growth in shipments compared with the previous year.
