Apple Watch strap and CGA

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Paul1977

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#303166 20-Jan-2023 13:53

I purchased an Apple Watch with the Leather Link band in October 2020. Now in early 2023 the leather is all splitting and peeling off the strap and it looks terrible.

Should expect a $189 leather watch strap to last longer than this? I.e. would I have any sort of recourse under the CGA for this, or is 2 years a reasonable lifespan?

Thanks

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#3024821 20-Jan-2023 13:56

It doesn't feel like something that should only have a 2 year lifespan.

I'd certainly question it with CGA

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Handsomedan

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#3024824 20-Jan-2023 14:00

Tag Heuer feels this way about the leather strap life expectancy:

What is the expected lifetime of a leather strap?

Leather is a natural material that is stabilised by tanning but its ageing process depends heavily on conditions of use; a leather strap can have a lifetime of several months to several years. The life expectancy of a TAG Heuer leather strap is affected by factors like frequency of use, exposure to water, perspiration, etc. Frequent immersion in water and regular showers should be avoided.

https://faq.tagheuer.com/articles/en_US/FAQ/What-is-the-expected-lifetime-of-a-leather-strap

Although Apple only offers a 1 year warranty

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alasta

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#3024828 20-Jan-2023 14:22

It really depends on how you've used it. Apple's specifications state that the leather link and milanese loop bands are not waterproof, which effectively rules them out for any type of exercise. I only use my milanese loop for special occasions, with silicone sport bands being my main daily use.

Paul1977

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#3024829 20-Jan-2023 14:30

I never shower or swim with it. I’ve done a little moderate exercise, but it’s in worse condition on the outside of the strap (I.e. the side not against my skin/sweat).

I’ll try my luck, but won’t hold my breath.

freitasm

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#3024830 20-Jan-2023 14:33

A leather strap is something I expect to last anywhere from six months to a lifetime. It will depend on how you use it (only for social occasions, or do you exercise with it?), if you sweat a lot, if it's been exposed to the sun, etc.

Lots of factors. I would just get a new one.

If it was a silicone strap, or a metal strap then I would be more worried.

mattwnz

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#3024831 20-Jan-2023 14:34

Photos?, as that may show if it s wear and tear or a problem with the materials. If it was a stainless steel strap, then I would expect it it last for years, But leather absorbs moisture so YMMV

mudguard

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#3024841 20-Jan-2023 14:59

I think the plastic strap on my G-Shock lasted 7 years of daily use, so I guess everything can break, apart from maybe a bracelet/metal strap

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#3024933 20-Jan-2023 19:27

I have one of those Apple leather ones with lots of magnets. Daily wear but not sports.

It’s looking grimy and has a few wear patches where the inner leather is holed a bit. Probably got another 6 months life left in it.

Goosey

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#3024945 20-Jan-2023 20:15

Are you supposed to clean them with leather conditioner (like shoes)?

Jase2985

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#3024958 20-Jan-2023 20:50

i think 2 years is fair. but i also think the price you paid is apple tax so its likely only a $100 or less strap for another brand

gregmcc

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#3024966 20-Jan-2023 21:22

Jase2985:

i think 2 years is fair. but i also think the price you paid is apple tax so its likely only a $100 or less strap for another brand

Just to compare, the $15 Aliexpress stainless steel watch strap (on my Galaxy S3) lasted 4 years, it simply wore out around one of the pins, everyday use getting covered in dirt and sand, into the shower and scrubbed clean etc.

Fair comment about the apple tax.....

Pretty things like expensive watch bands can be high maintenance.

Inexpensive functional items that may not be so pretty often last a long time.

(this can be true for things other than watch bands.....)

Brumfondl

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#3024969 20-Jan-2023 21:34

Have you called AppleCare to see what that say? If the watch and strap were purchased in Aus or NZ then it would be the most sensible thing to do to give them the chance to accept or decline the CGA claim.

Paul1977

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#3027811 27-Jan-2023 12:26

Brumfondl:

Have you called AppleCare to see what that say? If the watch and strap were purchased in Aus or NZ then it would be the most sensible thing to do to give them the chance to accept or decline the CGA claim.

Didn't end up trying CGA, too much hassle when the general consensus is that over 2 years of daily wear (16 hours a day) for a leather strap is probably fair.

I might get two this time, the leather one and a more robust one for exercise or outdoor activities.

hotsupes

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#3027871 27-Jan-2023 13:59

2 Years is a bit of a stretch - however you should give Apple CS a go, can't hurt and you might get a decent human to deal with.

alasta

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#3027872 27-Jan-2023 14:00

I find silicone bands really good for running and swimming. They're cheap, robust and easy to clean just by rinsing under the tap.

The nylon sports bands look okay but I would be concerned that they might absorb sweat, and the the end of the band looks like it might be inclined to catch on things.

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