Chapter 1: A Month Without Apple

In March, I embarked on a challenge to forgo both my iPhone and Apple Watch for an entire month. While this may not compare to monumental feats like scaling Everest or running a marathon, for someone deeply entrenched in the Apple ecosystem for over 15 years, it felt significant.

This experience sparked a realization.

I’ll save my reflections on switching from my iPhone to a Google Pixel 4a for another time. Instead, let’s focus on the Apple Watch. I was among the first to line up for its launch in 2015. As a long-time watch enthusiast, the prospect of Apple introducing a wrist-mounted device thrilled me.

Rumors had varied widely, with speculation ranging from a straightforward fitness band to a sophisticated iPhone alternative. Ultimately, the Apple Watch emerged as a complex blend of timekeeping, communication, fitness tracking, and deep integration with the iPhone. While I enjoyed using it, I often found it hard to pinpoint its true purpose or the tangible benefits it brought to my life.

Over time, as watchOS evolved and the hardware improved, the Apple Watch established itself as a leading consumer fitness tracker. It enabled phone calls, controlled my garage door, and connected with Siri, proving to be a reliable notification device that kept me updated on meetings and messages. However, its true strength lay in fitness tracking—whether on the treadmill or during outdoor runs.

Then, a shift occurred.

"My lightbulb moment came when I realized something about my Apple Watch usage."

At the start of the year, I began to assess how I utilized my Apple Watch. Though I consistently tracked my runs, I found myself ignoring the data it generated. The metrics—pace, distance, heart rate—accumulated without any follow-up. Additionally, notifications felt more disruptive than beneficial, often interrupting my focus during shows or meetings.

This led me to question: What was the point of wearing the Apple Watch? If I had no interest in the health data it provided and found the notifications distracting, why continue using it at all?

Day 10: The Longest Break from My Apple Watch This was the longest I had gone without wearing it in six years.

To be honest, I never found the Apple Watch design particularly appealing. While improvements have been made, it still doesn't compare to the beauty of a traditional round watch with its intricate dials. Perhaps my relationship with the Apple Watch was merely a phase.

Hello, Casio G-Shock

During my month without the Apple Watch, I opted for a Casio G-Shock.

I absolutely love it. Its bold yellow and black design might not be for everyone, but it appeals to me. I appreciate its robust build and the assurance that it can withstand anything. Having owned G-Shock watches before, I had wanted one for some time, but felt guilty about "cheating" on the Apple Watch.

While I plan to return to my Apple Watch for my YouTube audience, I doubt it will remain a permanent accessory. The joy of a straightforward, traditional watch that doesn't rely on complex technology for telling time is incredibly satisfying. I suspect I'll frequently reach for the G-Shock over the Apple Watch moving forward.

What Apple Needs to Consider I want to emphasize that I regard the Apple Watch as an outstanding product, perhaps one of Apple’s finest, especially considering its health features and life-saving capabilities. Apple has made it widely accessible, and I anticipate continued developments as new models roll out. This is partly why Apple Watches are so ubiquitous.

For me, aesthetics play a significant role—I can admit that. While I recognize the importance of the health metrics and notifications, I realize I need to engage more actively as a user.

However, back to design. The G-Shock’s simplicity is appealing, and I admire its aesthetics. Watches are meant to be round, and I would love to see Apple explore this design direction.

But will they? Discussions have occurred, but I remain skeptical about seeing a circular model anytime soon. If the 2021 redesign is merely a slimmer profile, updated screen, and new bands, I fear the Apple Watch will continue to serve as a secondary device for me.

Before you go: Join my behind-the-scenes mailing list. A version of this article was originally published at Mark Ellis Reviews on April 1, 2021.

Chapter 2: Exploring Alternatives

In this video, titled "Why I SOLD my Apple Watch for a G-SHOCK in 2020," the creator discusses their experience with both devices, highlighting the reasons behind their decision to switch.

In "Apple Watch Ultra vs MY ENTIRE WATCH COLLECTION!," the creator compares the Apple Watch Ultra to various other timepieces, delving into their features and personal preferences.