Walk-through Explanation of the Apple Watch Manufacturing Videos

Greg Koenig, co-founder of Luma Lab, has posted a step by step walk-through explanation of the manufacturing processes used to create the Apple Watch. These processes were highlighted in three videos from Apple, one for each line of smartwatches.

The post gives us an interesting look at what's going on behind the scenes. For example, Apple recently patented a Metal Matrix Composite process to produce 18kt standard compliance gold with a significant weight reduction and durability increase. However, Koenig is able to determine that in this case Apple is not using that process.

For the Watch Edition however, Apple appears to have eschewed any revolutionary alchemy and instead, applied an innovative work hardening process to create gold that is (claimed to be) significantly harder than the typical 18kt used by other watchmakers.


He continues to detail what's going on in each scene presented in Apple's videos. Koenig concludes that Apple has execute a level far beyond what was necessary or will even be noticed.

"Apple could very easily have forgone forging to create stainless steel cases, just like everyone else. Hardening gold alloy with cold working could have been eliminated, putting them on par with the rest of the industry. Nobody will see or feel the inside pocket for the microphone on the Sport, yet it has been laser finished to perfection. I see these videos and I see a process that could only have been created by a team looking to execute on a level far beyond what was necessary or what will be noticed. This isn't a supply chain, it is a ritual Apple is performing to bring themselves up to the standards necessary to compete against companies with centuries of experience."

Hit the link below to read the full walkthrough and click here to watch the videos if you haven't already.

Read More [via Anthony]