When the Apple Watch was released in 2015, it changed the game for the technology industry. Lovers of Apple products clamoured to purchase the company’s new piece of wearable tech. Non-Apple users were also supremely excited. Since the release of the Apple Watch, it’s become an enormously successful piece of technology for everyday use, but it’s also seen as a fashion accessory thanks to the variety of watch bands available. What’s the history of Apple Watch bands, though? How many have there been? Find the answers in this complete guide on everyone’s favourite fashion accessory.
The early days
If you picked up the brand-new Apple Watch in 2015, you had a limited choice when it came to watch bands. The early selection included:
- Sport Band: The iconic Sport band was made from fluoroelastomer and was extremely reliable and comfortable. It was a popular choice at the time and still is now.
- Classic Buckle: The classic buckle band featured a leather design with a stainless steel closure, which added sophistication to the Apple Watch.
- Milanese Loop: The Milanese loop was a stainless steel mesh band that offered a sleek and adjustable fit. It provided wearers with a smart look that was ideal for the office.
- Modern Buckle: This band was designed exclusively for the smaller 38mm Apple Watch upon release. It featured a clean, minimalist look.
- Leather Loop: Featuring a magnetic closure, the leather loop provided a comfortable and secure fit.
The explosion of choice
As the Apple Watch gained in popularity, Apple knew they needed to provide a wider choice of options for people keen to dress up their device. The original selection of watch bands for the Apple Watch was excellent, but Apple went one step further with the next set of designs, incorporating fashion giants, Hermès and Nike. The next set of Apple Watch bands included:
- Sport Loop: The Sport Loop was made from woven nylon fabric and was a lightweight and breathable choice for people who wanted comfort during exercise. It was easily adjustable and a popular choice for many. When released, the Sport Loop was widely available in a huge number of different colour variations.
- Hermès Collaboration: Apple partnered with the luxury fashion brand to produce exclusive Apple Watch bands, elevating the device’s fashion appeal. Apple still partners with Hermès today.
- Nike: For sports and fitness enthusiasts, the Nike bands featured unique, colourful designs and a key focus on sports performance. They were ideal for gym-goers and athletes. Like Hermès, Nike is still a partner of Apple and is still creating unique bands to this day.
- Solo Loop: The Solo Loop was introduced with the Apple Watch Series 6 in September 2020 and offered a stretchable silicone band for a snug fit. It came without traditional clasps, becoming the first of its kind.
- Braided Solo Loop: The Braided Solo Loop was a braided variation of the Solo Loop, offering a comfortable and soft fit. At release, these bands were available in a wide range of colours and patterns.
The newest collection
The latest selection of Apple Watch bands, released in the past couple of years alongside the Apple Watch Ultra, are among some of the most popular styles today. The three big bands in the latest release of designs are:
- Magnetic Loop: The Magnetic Loop features comfortable microfibre leather with a strong magnetic clasp. It offers a professional, sleek look.
- Trail Loop: Made of nylon, the Trail Loop offers users a lightweight but secure fit that’s ideal for everyday use. It fits office life and heading to the gym.
- Ocean Band: Made from fluoroelastomer and titanium, the Oceanic Band is a unique design that many people love.
- Alpine Loop: Last but not least, the Alpine Loop was released alongside the Apple Watch Ultra in September 2022. It features a strong G-hook for a secure fit with a rugged exterior, making it perfect for adventuring.
Designer Apple Watch bands at Blakemoor
At Blakemoor, you can find a variety of beautifully crafted designer Apple Watch bands where every product meets our exacting standards. Whether it’s a classic leather strap or a modern vegan and stainless steel design, the Blakemoor collection offers a wide range of styles to suit every taste, occasion and era of Apple Watch band design.
Find your perfect Apple Watch band by looking through our collections and don’t hesitate to contact us today for more information.
