When the Apple Watch first came out, I wasn’t exactly impressed. Honestly, it just seemed unnecessary to have another screen strapped to my wrist when I already carried an iPhone everywhere.
But things changed when my husband got one. Watching how he answered quick calls, tracked fitness goals, and paid for coffee so easily made me curious. Slowly, his excitement rubbed off on me. I decided to give it a real chance — and what I discovered truly surprised me.
How Apple Watch Started: A Quick History
When Apple launched the Apple Watch in 2015, it wasn’t just another gadget. It was a wrist-worn smart device that could mimic many iPhone features — calls, messages, apps, notifications, and even health tracking.
In 2018, Apple introduced Cellular functionality, allowing the watch to work without the iPhone nearby. Later upgrades like Siri’s on-device processing made it even more independent and powerful.
Today, it’s deeply woven into the Apple ecosystem, helping many people shift from traditional mechanical watches to smarter, more functional wrist companions.
Big Questions Before Buying
- Can a smartwatch really replace a classic mechanical watch for gentlemen and ladies who love tradition?
- Is it truly worth paying extra for the Cellular version?
I asked myself the same things — and here’s what I found out.
My Personal Experience with the Apple Watch
I first bought the Apple Watch Series 1 right after its release.
At first, it was amazing. Getting texts, setting timers, tracking steps — everything was easier and faster. But after about a year, I missed the feeling of a mechanical watch — the emotional connection, the pride in craftsmanship, the small ritual of winding it.
Later, I tried the Apple Watch Series 6, and this time the experience was very different. It was faster, more stylish, and packed with features I never expected to rely on so much.
Benefits of Using the Apple Watch
Reducing Phone Dependence
Instead of reaching for my phone every two minutes, a quick glance at my wrist gave me everything I needed. It helped me stay connected without seeming glued to my phone — especially important around my kids.
Whether it was checking notifications, texts, or even quickly responding to calls, the watch simplified my everyday digital habits.
Fitness and Health Tracking: Beyond Just Steps
The Apple Watch didn’t just track steps. It monitored my heart rate, pulse, blood oxygen levels, and health metrics in real time. It even motivated me daily with its simple but addictive “closing rings” feature — pushing me to move more, stand longer, and get active throughout the day.
The watch was also brilliant for HIIT workouts, evening strolls, and tracking weightlifting progress — recording sets, reps, weights, and variations. Some apps even provide helpful form and technique tips, which made my training feel safer and more efficient. It felt like having a virtual coach on my wrist, supporting intense performance growth over time.
It also helped me better understand my wellness data without any confusion — empowering me to improve my health mindfully.
Unmatched Convenience and Portability
Whether I was running errands or juggling work and family, the Apple Watch became my pocketless assistant. I could play music, check stocks via the Apple Stocks app, respond to messages, or check my Apple Store order updates — all from my wrist.
With the 20% faster processor in Series 6, there were no lags — just smooth performance and quick access to everything I needed.
Useful Apps that Fit into Everyday Life
The built-in flashlight app was surprisingly helpful during power outages and nighttime kid duties. It’s not super bright, but it’s enough for one-foot visibility. The App Store also had tools for budgeting, habit-tracking, to-do lists, weather, and even meditation timers — all neatly packed into the Watch.
Water Resistance and Everyday Durability
I could confidently wash dishes, take showers, or even swim without worrying.
It’s a functional, water-resistant, stylish device that effortlessly blended into both my casual and formal lifestyle.
Safety Features That Matter: Fall Detection and Emergency SOS
The Fall Detection feature gave me peace of mind. If the watch detected a sudden, hard fall, it would automatically alert emergency contacts and services — even without Wi-Fi or iPhone nearby if the Cellular model is active.
For families with elderly loved ones, it’s a reassuring layer of safety. And the Emergency SOS feature made me feel more secure when out on a solo walk or run. It’s just a long press away — a feature I hope I never use but feel better having.
Customizability: A Watch That Adapts to You
With Apple Watch, I could swap bands in seconds — from sport loops to the Solo Loop, which fit perfectly and never felt too tight or too loose. Changing watch faces daily, even trying the GMT face, allowed me to switch moods without changing the watch itself — something even my favorite mechanical Reverso couldn’t do.
Entertainment at a Tap
Controlling Spotify, Apple Music, or audiobooks during workouts, chores, or drives became effortless. With Cellular or synced local storage, I didn’t need my iPhone nearby to enjoy my playlist or podcasts.
The Best Timer and Reminder Tool
I’m a naturally forgetful person, so the Apple Watch became my go-to for reminders and timers — from laundry alarms to medicine alerts. No more burned cookies, and fewer forgotten birthdays.
Why You Might Want an Apple Watch with Cellular
Freedom from the iPhone
With a Cellular Apple Watch, I could confidently leave my iPhone behind and still stay connected.
I could:
- Send texts
- Make and receive calls
- Stream music from Apple Music or Spotify
- Use Apple Pay on the go
- Access Apple Maps
- Sync music for offline listening
- Use Night Mode in dark environments
This made running, hiking, or even short grocery runs much simpler.
Fitness Advantages of Cellular
For runners and outdoor lovers, it was liberating to track distance, pace, and oxygen levels — all without the bulk of a phone. My Apple Watch kept up seamlessly with real-time metrics, form reminders, and playlist control on the go.
Access to Emergency Services
Whether I was hiking alone or just out for an evening walk, knowing I had SOS support and call access without needing my phone made me feel safer. For older family members, this feature was a dealbreaker — potentially life-saving.
Family Setup Benefits
If you’re buying for a child or an elderly parent, Family Setup makes it easy to keep them connected safely. You don’t even need an iPhone on their end — just a Series 4 Cellular or later and a few setup steps to get everything working.
Cons of Using the Apple Watch
High Price Point
The Apple Watch is undeniably expensive. Compared to basic Fitbits or non-brand trackers, it’s a premium purchase — and adding Cellular adds another ~$100 plus monthly carrier fees.
It’s amazing for what it offers, but if you only want step tracking or basic alerts, a lower-cost option might do.
Poor Battery Life
If I used GPS, music, and tracking together, the battery often didn’t last a full day.
This meant I had to stay near a charger or risk having a dead wrist during nighttime tracking. It’s a first-world problem, but an annoying one if you’re an active user.
Screen Protector and Flashlight Issues
Even with a screen protector, moisture could fog the display.
And while the flashlight is helpful, it’s only good for up-close visibility — not enough to light a full room.
Touchscreen Problems
Sometimes the touchscreen froze or lagged, and I had to restart the watch. It wasn’t frequent, but it was frustrating — especially mid-workout or while using a timer.
Limited to Apple Ecosystem
If you use Android, the Apple Watch won’t work for you. You’ll miss out on iOS-exclusive apps, syncing, and iPhone pairing. It’s very much an iOS-only device.
Less Classy Aesthetic Compared to Mechanical Watches
Even with beautiful custom watch faces, it doesn’t carry the emotional weight of a mechanical timepiece. No winding ritual, no history — it’s essentially a mini phone on your wrist.
Size Issues for Small Wrists
The Series 6 came in 40mm and 44mm, and the 44mm felt large on my wrist. I miss the 38mm size from the Series 1 — and I hope Apple brings back more size options for small-wristed users.
Overconnectivity and Digital Fatigue
Notifications were constant — texts, reminders, apps, news alerts.
Even though only 15–20% were truly important, I found myself checking more often than I’d like.
Turning on “Do Not Disturb” helped, but it also defeated part of the watch’s purpose.
It’s a fine balance — and sometimes, the tech overload got a little much.
Which Apple Watches Offer Cellular?
- Apple Watch Ultra 2: Always includes Cellular, great for rugged use.
- Apple Watch Series 10 and SE: Available in GPS-only or GPS + Cellular versions.
PROTECHT Wraps and Supports: Essential for Active Users
If you work out often, I highly recommend PROTECHT Wraps and Supports. They protect your device during tough sessions, reduce skin irritation, and even make long-term wear more comfortable — especially during intense cardio or weight training. They also prevent sweat damage and extend the life of your watch — a small price for big peace of mind.
Cost Analysis: Is Cellular Worth It?
Adding Cellular costs about $100/£100 upfront, plus a $10–15 monthly service fee (depending on your carrier).
It’s totally worth it if:
- You live an active, outdoorsy lifestyle
- You want emergency access without a phone
- You’re setting up a watch for a child or elderly family member
- You love having true freedom from your iPhone
If you’re almost always around Wi-Fi or your phone, the GPS model will be enough for most day-to-day tasks.
Conclusion: My Final Verdict
Would I recommend getting an Apple Watch?
Absolutely — if you know why you want one.
It’s a fantastic sports companion, health monitor, and daily productivity booster.
But if your heart belongs to mechanical watches, you might miss the nostalgia and charm they carry. Still, for daily wearers looking to make life easier, healthier, and more organized, the Apple Watch is a brilliant piece of modern technology.
And if you’re budget-conscious, don’t forget to browse Facebook Marketplace for gently used models — and invest in PROTECHT accessories to keep it in top condition.
