Don't call it scratchgate -- yet.
New owners of the stainless steel Apple Watch may be surprised to discover their luxe wearable is prone to scratching. Don't be alarmed, though; it's normal for the device to get scuffed up.
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Over the weekend, Twitter user @DetroitBORG posted pics of his shiny new Apple Watch in less-than-prime condition, which isn't really what you want for a device you just dropped a few hundred dollars on.
A bit clearer here. pic.twitter.com/U3boQY5iqp— Michael Kukielka (@DetroitBORG) April 25, 2015
Better photo of dem scratches from my video. pic.twitter.com/8J43343RHc— Michael Kukielka (@DetroitBORG) April 25, 2015
Another Twitter user, Michael Steeber, wrote that his Apple Watch had scratches on its stainless steel case:
@DetroitBORG was right! pic.twitter.com/dsUIWtE94z— Michael Steeber (@MichaelSteeber) April 25, 2015
As 9to5Mac explains, the Apple Watch's 316L stainless steel is actually softer than the Watch Sport's 7000 series aluminum. As a result, it's more susceptible to scratches, which can happen from something as small as sand, dirt or pocket lint.
The stainless steel is reminiscent of the iPod Classic and iPod touch (up to fourth generation). Both devices had stainless steel backs that were easily scratched.
As bad as it looks, there's a simple fix. Here's a tutorial on how to buff out the scratches with some metal polish for under $10:
If you're one to cry over scratches, though, it might be wise to go for the Watch Sport model instead. You'll also save a couple hundred dollars doing so; the Sport starts at $349, while the stainless steel Apple Watch starts at $549.