# Ceramic Apple Watch Set to Return by Late 2026 The premium ceramic case option expected to reappear in Apple Watch lineup after seven-year hiatus. - **Source:** [AppleInsider News](https://brifing.si/source/4f063a0c-06a9-46c3-84ea-633b4d4b1a4f) - **Published:** 2026-08-09 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/dc11a4c0-bba6-4001-a7dd-49f74197809f ## History of Ceramic Apple Watch Introduced with Apple Watch Series 2 in 2015, the ceramic case was available through Series 5 in white and black options. Discontinued entirely in 2020, this premium material was known for its durability and distinctive appearance. Ceramic models carried significantly higher price tags compared to standard aluminum and steel versions. ## Comeback Plans In Bloomberg's 'Power On' newsletter, Mark Gurman reported Apple plans to reintroduce ceramic cases by late 2026 or 2027. This move appears part of Apple's strategy to strengthen its position in the luxury watch market. The return is expected through the Apple Watch Edition series revival. ## Ceramic Case Advantages Ceramic cases are renowned for exceptional scratch resistance. They're also hypoallergenic and don't interfere with radio signals. This material offers a premium look in watch fashion while maintaining weight balance similar to steel versions. ## Consumer Reactions The discontinuation of ceramic models disappointed luxury watch collectors. Apple's decision likely stemmed from low sales volume and high production costs. However, recent growth in the premium wearable market has prompted reconsideration of this material. ## Competitive Landscape Smartwatch collaborations from luxury brands like Rolex, Omega and TAG Heuer are challenging Apple's position in the premium segment. The ceramic case return represents a strategic move to differentiate Apple's offering in this competitive space. ## Pricing Expectations Previous ceramic Apple Watch models started at $1,299. New 2026 versions are expected to exceed this range, likely positioned between $1,500-$2,000. This pricing would place Apple's Edition series in direct competition with traditional luxury watch brands. ## Manufacturing Challenges Producing ceramic cases involves significantly more complex and time-consuming processes compared to aluminum or steel. Special equipment is required for material processing, and achieving flawless surfaces demands extreme precision. How Apple will address these challenges remains a key question. ## Market Implications The ceramic Apple Watch comeback signals growth in the luxury wearable technology segment. This move may encourage other tech companies to invest in premium materials. It also represents a crucial part of Apple's strategy to maintain leadership in wearable devices. ## Sources covering this story - https://appleinsider.com/articles/26/08/09/ceramic-apple-watch-may-return-as-soon-as-september?utm_source=rss — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._