Titanium and Ceramic are two materials of Apple Watch introduced with Series 5. In a collection called Apple Watch Edition, high-end models with the craftsmanship of traditional watchmaking and a price to match.
If you are looking to purchase, but can’t decide between titanium or ceramic then the purpose of the article is to highlight the differences between the two materials. Including its characteristics, pros and cons, price, and more.
Titanium
One of the most popular materials of watchmaking is titanium. With Series 5, Apple has introduced the material for the first time. And it comes in two colours: Titanium and Space Black Titanium.
Titanium is lighter than stainless steel (and ceramic), yet twice as strong. Therefore, it is less likely to obtain dents and knocks from everyday use.
Visually titanium has a matte finish and a brushed metal look to it. The complete opposite of ceramic and the sapphire crystal display. And is a lot less glossy than stainless steel. Certainly, something to consider when choosing this material.
In terms of price, it is less expensive them Ceramic from A$1,259. This is compared to A$1,999, the price of Ceramic. Leaving more cash in the bank or more to spend on additional watch bands.
Ceramic
There is a lot to love about Ceramic and it has several unique characteristics. But it is also the most expensive material in the Apple Watch range.
Ceramic is four times as hard as stainless steel. So it won’t scratch, dent, or tarnish. Each ceramic watch case is compression-moulded, sintered, and polished to a striking shine with a diamond slurry. A process in which Apple says “takes days”.
The result is a sleek, pure white finish and it looks stunning. I find it has about the same polish and reflectivity as the sapphire crystal display. It clearly stands out, particularly against my skin tone. I also love the contrast between the black display and the pure white finish. If you are a Star Wars fan – think Stormtroopers.
While Ceramic is twice as hard as stainless steel, it is a brittle material. However, as it is compression moulded I suspect it would have to take quite a big hit to crack. But it is something to consider. There is also the possibility others who don’t know the material may think it is plastic.
Nevertheless, all this comes with a price to pay. In Australia, the Ceramic Apple Watch Edition is priced at A$1,999 with a sports band in addition to an included Soft White Sport Band. It is worth noting the pin on the included band is also ceramic and cannot be purchased separately.
Summary
Deciding between the two really comes down to the look and style of the material you think is best for you, and the price. This is because both models have exactly the same features and technology as other Apple Watch Series 5 models.
Series 5, has an Always-On Retina display that never sleeps, so it’s easy to see the time and other important information, without raising or tapping the display. New location features, from a built-in compass to current elevation, help users better navigate their day, while international emergency calling allows you to call emergency services directly from Apple Watch, even without your iPhone nearby. Combined with the power of watchOS 6, users are empowered to take charge of their health and fitness with new features like Cycle Tracking, the Noise app and Activity Trends.
Either one you choose, it is worth knowing Apple has all models available for viewing and buying on their online store. Including the ability to design your own Apple Watch style. All purchases also include 14-day returns should you change your mind after purchase – an exclusive.
Other Comparisons
Below are some further comparisons between the two materials. Including weight, finish, pros, and pricing:
| Titanium | Ceramic | |
| Weight | 40-mm: 35.1g 44-mm: 41.7g | 40-mm: 39.7g 44-mm: 46.7-g |
| Finish | Matte | Pure white, polished |
| Pros | – 2x stronger then Stainless Steel – Lighter then Ceramic – Less expensive – Two colours | – 4x stronger then stainless steel – Striking pure white, polished finish – Compression moulded – Extremely scratch resistant |
| Price | from A$1,259 | from A$1,999 |
