Between the start date of pre-sales, April 10, and first delivery date, April 24, consumers interested in buying the Apple Watch can make 'try-on' appointments at Apple stores. At least some can.
Then, if interested in actual purchase, consumers can make an online 'product reservation' to have a model put aside at a retail store. That is if they're buying the top tier Watch options.
In simple terms consumers won't be able to just walk into an Apple store and buy a Watch at launch. Consumers can walk in, and if buying, should get some help on making the online purchase or use the Apple Store app to buy the wearable. The cheaper Watch options to be specific.
The sales strategy is reportedly mapped out for sales associates in Apple Watch training documents. It's apparently tied to initial store product inventory, which isn't high.
In addition to the in-store try on reservation opportunity, there's also a virtual try on of the higher-end versions, including the Edition, featuring a video chat interaction with a sales rep. The sales rep, during the video chat, will be trying on the device and model various bands or which option the consumer requests.
Once consumers have bought the Edition or the pricey stainless steel Watch version, Apple's online sales reps will help them through the unboxing process, the setup of the Watch with the iPhone Companion app and also how to install apps from the Apple Watch App Store.
Consumers looking to buy entry-level Watch devices, such as the Sport, won't have the virtual try on or support services available.
According to one report, consumers interested in the gold Apple Watch Edition, which runs about $10,000, will get an hour to spend trying on the watch in a special private store area with an individual store assistant for any questions or issues. They will also get two years of dedicated phone support around the clock.
Such a custom, personalized sales approach is reportedly the brainchild of Angela Ahrendts, a fashion retail expert that Apple hired on in 2014. She had previously served as CEO of Burberry. Reports earlier this year claimed Ahrendts has been busy redesigning Apple retail locations for the Watch arrival and has even changed up the Apple store rep 'uniform' at Genius stores.
