As expected, Apple Watch is now available for purchase in India. The launch of the device comes a month after Apple made its iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus available in the country. In India, Apple Watch is available from Apple’s official retail channels and starts at Rs 30,900.
Both the 38mm and 42mm models of the device are available in India. You can purchase Apple Watch in Gold, Rose Gold, Space Gray, Silver Anodized Aluminium; polished Silver or Space Black stainless steel, and 18-Carat Rose Gold and Yellow Gold (via Times of India).
The stainless steel models of Apple Watch start at 48,900 and Rs 52,900 for the 38mm and 42mm Stainless Steel Case respectively, including a white Sport Band. With a Link Bracelet, the price increases to Rs 95,900, while the Classic Buckle model comes in at Rs 60,900.
The 38mm 18-Carat Rose Gold model comes in at a hefty Rs 8.2 lakh paired with a white Sport Band, while the 42mm gold edition costs Rs 9.9 lakh and ranges to Rs 14.2 lakh. Like in the United States, Apple is also making its bands available separately, as well.
Times of India reports that the Indian government is considering relaxing local compulsory laws that currently prohibit Apple from opening wholly owned stores in the country. According to the report, Apple has been in India recently meeting with officials.
Currently, Indian trade laws prohibit companies from opening manufacturer-owned retail outlets unless a certain percentage of the manufacturing is done within the country. Should the Indian government choose to loosen these requirements, then Apple could open its own retail locations in the currently. Currently it sells it products via authorized resellers and via dedicated pop-up stores in Croma. Apple CEO Tim Cook has met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the past to discuss opening retail locations in the country and perhaps bringing with it a portion of its manufacturing.
India is a market of growing interest for Apple, as growth in the country is currently outstripping that of China.
