Apple Watch Edition 38mm (1st gen) Smartwatch: A Luxury Legacy

The Apple Watch Edition 38mm (1st gen) smartwatch marked a bold leap in wearable tech when it was first unveiled. Designed for tech enthusiasts and luxury aficionados alike, it combines elegant craftsmanship with innovative technology. In this detailed review, we explore everything you need to know about the Apple Watch Edition 38mm (1st gen) — including features, specifications, price, battery, and online offers.

What is the Apple Watch Edition 38mm (1st gen)?

The Apple Watch Edition 38mm (1st gen) was Apple’s premium smartwatch offering in the original Apple Watch lineup, released in 2015. It stood out due to its luxurious 18-karat gold casing and sapphire crystal display, setting it apart from the standard aluminum and stainless steel models.

Designed for those who crave exclusivity, this model was more than just a timepiece — it was a fashion statement paired with cutting-edge technology.

Key Features of Apple Watch Edition 38mm (1st gen)

Elegant Design & Build

• 18-karat yellow or rose gold case

• Sapphire crystal Retina display with Force Touch

• Fluoroelastomer or leather straps for premium comfort

Smart Technology

• Digital Crown for precise navigation

• Taptic Engine for subtle notifications

• Customizable watch faces and complications

Health & Fitness Integration

• Heart rate sensor

• Activity and workout tracking

• Move, Stand, and Exercise rings to encourage activity

The Apple Watch Edition 38mm (1st gen) features strike a perfect balance between luxury and functionality.

Apple Watch Edition 38mm (1st gen) Specifications

When it comes to performance, the Apple Watch Edition 38mm (1st gen) may seem modest by today’s standards, but it was a pioneer during its release. Here are the detailed Apple Watch Edition 38mm (1st gen) specifications:

• Display: 1.32-inch Retina OLED (272 x 340 resolution)

• Processor: Apple S1 chip

• RAM: 512MB

• Memory: 8GB internal storage

• Battery: 205 mAh lithium-ion battery (up to 18 hours)

• OS: watchOS (upgradable to watchOS 4.3.2)

• Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0

The Apple Watch Edition 38mm (1st gen) processor, while now dated, ensured smooth functionality for all essential tasks. The Apple Watch Edition 38mm (1st gen) RAM and memory supported basic app usage and media storage.

Apple Watch Edition 38mm (1st gen) Battery Performance

One of the core concerns for smartwatch users is battery life. The Apple Watch Edition 38mm (1st gen) battery offers up to 18 hours of typical use — enough to get you through a full day of notifications, fitness tracking, and app usage.

While it doesn’t match modern multi-day wearables, it was considered efficient for its time.

Battery Usage Breakdown:

• 90 time checks

• 90 notifications

• 45 minutes of app use

• 30-minute workout with music playback via Bluetooth

Apple Watch Edition 38mm (1st gen) Price

Originally priced at a premium, the Apple Watch Edition 38mm (1st gen) price ranged from $10,000 to $17,000 USD, depending on strap and finish. Its exclusivity and craftsmanship justified the price point, especially considering the solid gold construction.

Today, collectors and enthusiasts may find it for significantly less, though the price varies widely based on condition and included accessories.

Apple Watch Edition 38mm (1st gen) Offers & Buying Guide

Since this model is no longer in production, the best way to buy the Apple Watch Edition 38mm (1st gen) online is through:

• Certified refurbished marketplaces

• Luxury second-hand retailers

• Technology auction platforms

• Specialty Apple collectors’ forums

Keep an eye out for special Apple Watch Edition 38mm (1st gen) offers, especially during tech events or vintage Apple gear sales.

Pros and Cons

✅ Pros

• Premium materials (gold and sapphire crystal)

• Stylish, minimalist design

• Reliable basic smartwatch functionality

• Collectible value

❌ Cons

• No longer supported by new watchOS versions

• Limited performance by current standards

• Expensive original price

Is Apple Watch Edition 38mm (1st gen) Still Worth Buying?

If you're a collector, vintage tech enthusiast, or someone who values the aesthetics of wearable art, the Apple Watch Edition 38mm (1st gen) remains a captivating choice. While it's not ideal for modern fitness tracking or app usage due to outdated hardware, it stands out as a piece of Apple history.

Its gold construction ensures it remains a unique and valuable piece, especially in pristine condition. Just be aware of its limitations and treat it as a luxury accessory rather than a modern utility device.

Final Thoughts: A Stylish Smartwatch Ahead of Its Time

The Apple Watch Edition 38mm (1st gen) smartwatch encapsulates Apple’s ambition to merge fashion with technology. Though it may not compete with today’s wearables in raw performance, its luxurious design, historical value, and solid build quality continue to attract interest from both collectors and style-conscious users.

If you value elegance and want a unique addition to your Apple collection, this first-generation timepiece is worth considering — especially when you can now find compelling Apple Watch Edition 38mm (1st gen) offers online.