Rafomac News, Tech & Trends That MatterApple is reviving the ceramic Apple Watch for the Series 12, a stylish and durable comeback that could push prices above even the Hermes editions. Add to that whispers of a cheaper Apple Watch SE and a delayed Ultra redesign, and this fall’s Apple event is shaping up to be full of surprises.
Is the Ceramic Apple Watch Making Its Return?
Apple may soon resurrect the ceramic Apple Watch, a premium option last seen in the Series 5. Originally launched with the Apple Watch Series 2 Edition at $1,249, the ceramic casing was prized for its near-scratch resistance and sleek look. It wasn’t as tough against drops due to its brittle nature compared to titanium, but it stood out for style and durability.
Apple first dropped this option after the Series 5, but recent reports from reliable sources like Mark Gurman suggest the ceramic model could appear again with the Series 12. The big question is what colors will it come in? Classic white seems likely, but a glossy black variant—akin to the jet-black finish on the Series 10 and 11—would make a stunning, more durable statement.
Pricing for this new ceramic Series 12 is expected to be steep, possibly starting around $1,500 and climbing higher depending on the strap choice. This would put it above the current Hermes lineup, which starts at $1,249 and reaches up to $1,949 with special bands. The ceramic case might even be integrated into future Hermes editions, elevating their exclusivity even further.
A New, Cheaper Apple Watch SE?
Alongside premium offerings, Apple seems ready to shake up the entry-level market with an even more affordable Apple Watch. Rumours point to a possible price around $199 for this new SE variant, tentatively dubbed the ‘Apple Watch Neo.’ This would undercut the current SE that retails for $249 to $299, expanding Apple’s reach to budget-conscious buyers.
This wouldn’t be unprecedented—Apple’s Series 3 was once available for $199 for years before the SE took over. A lower SE price could create a tiered lineup: Series 12 starting near $399 to possibly $499, a cheaper SE below it, and the flagship Ultra models at the top.
Ultra 4 Design Stalls, but AI and Performance Might Leap Forward
Fans hoping for a fresh new design in the Apple Watch Ultra 4 will be disappointed. Reports indicate Apple won’t revamp the Ultra’s hardware this year. Since its 2022 launch, the Ultra has seen only minor tweaks like a new black color and thinner bezels in the upcoming 2025 version.
The Ultra 4 release this September is expected to be an internal upgrade, featuring a faster CPU and more AI capabilities rather than a design overhaul. Apple appears to be saving major redesigns for next year. Still, this approach means the Ultra design could remain unchanged for four years—quite a stretch for a device that’s supposed to be cutting-edge.
Apple’s Experimentation with Wearables
Beyond traditional watches, Apple reportedly is exploring new wearable concepts. This includes devices without displays, similar to fitness trackers like the Whoop or Google’s Fitbit Ace for kids. Testing also covers different screen shapes and sizes, even a round Apple Watch, though such a model is unlikely to launch soon.
Despite the lack of radical design changes now, the company is pushing creative boundaries in how wearables could evolve—going beyond watch faces to new forms entirely.
When Will Apple Reveal All This?
Mark Gurman pins the Apple event for early September, likely on the 9th due to the Labor Day holiday on the 7th. The event will probably showcase the Apple Watch Series 12, Ultra 4, new iPhone 18 Pro and Ultra models, alongside software updates.
This timing aligns with Apple’s tradition of holding September launches on Tuesdays or Wednesdays in the month’s first half.
A Brief Look at Macs and Software Updates
Apple seems to be skipping the M5 Mac Mini, jumping straight to M5 Pro and M6 variations due to strong sales of the current M4 models. The company also recently released Mac OS 14.6.1 earlier than iOS 26.6.1 to patch a network authentication vulnerability—a rare move showing high priority on Mac security this time around.
These less flashy updates underscore the tech giant’s focus on refining existing strength and guarding privacy as hardware innovation cycles slow down.
While the lack of an Ultra redesign is a letdown, the potential comeback of the ceramic case and fresh entry-level options make this fall’s Apple Watch lineup an intriguing evolution rather than revolution. For those wanting something new and stylish, the ceramic Series 12 could be a game changer.
Curious about the ceramic case’s design or the new SE’s features? Seeing them on screen will give a better sense of how Apple might be trying to blend elegance, toughness, and affordability going forward.
