Yes, you can replace the glass, but Apple charges for it and the process depends on your watch model
The glass on an Apple Watch can be replaced, but not by you at home. Apple handles the replacement through their repair service, and the cost varies by watch model and whether you have AppleCare+. A standard glass replacement typically costs between $79 and $229, depending on which Apple Watch generation you own. If you have AppleCare+, you pay a service fee of $79 instead of the full replacement cost.
The glass itself is fused to the display underneath, which is why Apple treats this as a full screen replacement rather than a straightforward glass swap. Attempting to remove the glass yourself will damage the display and the watch body. The process requires specialized tools and a clean environment that only Apple Authorized Service Providers or Apple retail locations have.
Key Takeaways
- Apple replaces the glass as part of a screen replacement, not as a separate component, because the glass is bonded to the display.
- You can get the glass replaced at an Apple Store, Apple Authorized Service Provider, or by mailing your watch to Apple.
- The cost without AppleCare+ ranges from $79 to $229 depending on your watch model; with AppleCare+ you pay a $79 service fee.
- The repair typically takes three to five business days if you use mail-in service, or same-day to next-day if you visit a physical location.
- AppleCare+ covers accidental damage like cracks, but does not cover normal wear or water damage from swimming beyond the watch's rated depth.
Where to get the glass replaced
Your first option is an Apple Store. Walk in with your watch, explain the damage, and they can often complete the repair on the same day or within 24 hours. You do not need an appointment, but calling ahead lets them know you are coming and helps them manage their repair queue.
If no Apple Store is near you, find an Apple Authorized Service Provider through Apple's website. Enter your zip code in the service locator, and it will show you nearby providers. These shops have the same parts and tools as Apple Stores and follow the same pricing. Turnaround time is usually one to three business days.
You can also mail your watch to Apple. Go to apple.com/support, select your watch model, and choose the mail-in repair option. Apple will send you a prepaid shipping label. The watch arrives at their repair center, gets fixed, and ships back to you. This takes about a week total, including shipping time both ways.
Cost breakdown by watch model
The price depends on which Apple Watch you own. Newer models with larger screens and more advanced displays cost more to replace than older ones. Series 9 and Ultra models are at the higher end, while Series 3 and older models are cheaper.
| Watch Model | Glass Replacement Cost (without AppleCare+) | Cost with AppleCare+ |
|---|---|---|
| Series 9, Ultra 2 | $229 | $79 |
| Series 8, Ultra | $199 | $79 |
| Series 7 | $179 | $79 |
| Series 6 and earlier | $79–$149 | $79 |
These prices are for the glass and display replacement only. If your watch has other damage—a bent case, a damaged Digital Crown, or water damage—those repairs cost extra and may not be covered by AppleCare+.
What AppleCare+ covers and what it does not
AppleCare+ is a protection plan you buy when you purchase your watch or within 60 days of purchase. It covers accidental damage like cracks, drops, and screen damage. When you need a repair, you pay a $79 service fee per incident instead of the full replacement cost. You get two incidents of accidental damage coverage per year.
AppleCare+ does not cover normal wear, battery degradation, or water damage from swimming beyond your watch's rated depth. If your Series 9 (rated to 50 meters) was damaged while diving deeper than that, AppleCare+ will not pay for the repair. Damage from dropping the watch in salt water or leaving it submerged for hours also falls outside coverage.
If you do not have AppleCare+ and your watch is still under the one-year limited warranty, Apple covers manufacturing defects but not accidental damage. A crack from dropping the watch is not a defect, so you pay the full replacement cost.
How to prepare your watch for repair
Before you take your watch in or mail it, back up your data. Unpair the watch from your iPhone by opening the Watch app, going to the My Watch tab, selecting your watch at the top, tapping the info icon, and choosing Unpair Apple Watch. This backs up your settings, apps, and health data to iCloud.
Erase your Apple Watch before handing it over. Go to Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings. This removes your payment information, passwords, and personal data from the device. Apple's repair technicians work on watches that have been erased, so this step protects your privacy.
Bring your watch and your iPhone if you are visiting in person. The technician may need to verify your ownership or check your warranty status. If you are mailing it, include a note with your name, phone number, and a description of the damage.
Timeline and what to expect during repair
At an Apple Store or Authorized Service Provider, the technician will inspect your watch, confirm the damage, and give you a quote. If you approve, they either repair it on the spot (usually takes 30 minutes to an hour) or order the part and schedule a follow-up appointment. Most locations can complete the repair within 24 hours.
Mail-in repair takes longer. After you ship the watch, Apple receives it within two to three business days. The repair center inspects it, performs the replacement, tests it, and ships it back. Total time is usually five to seven business days, sometimes longer during busy periods.
When your watch comes back, it will be reset to factory settings. You will need to pair it with your iPhone again and restore your data from the backup you made before sending it in. The entire setup takes about 10 minutes.
Why you cannot replace the glass yourself
The glass on an Apple Watch is not a separate layer you can peel off. It is fused to the display panel using a special adhesive. Trying to separate them damages both the glass and the display underneath, and you end up with a non-functional screen instead of a repaired one.
The watch case is also sealed with adhesive, and opening it requires heating tools and specialized prying instruments. If you use a knife or screwdriver, you will scratch the case, crack the battery, or damage the internal components. Even if you somehow get the glass off, reassembling the watch without damaging the seals means water will get inside and ruin the electronics.
Third-party repair shops sometimes offer glass replacement, but they often use lower-quality adhesive or glass that does not match Apple's specifications. This can affect the watch's water resistance, touch sensitivity, or display brightness. If something goes wrong after a third-party repair, Apple will not cover it under warranty.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a glass replacement take at an Apple Store?
Most Apple Stores complete the repair on the same day or within 24 hours. Call ahead to confirm they have the part in stock for your model. If they do not, they can order it and schedule you for a follow-up appointment, usually within two to three business days.
Will my watch still be water-resistant after the glass is replaced?
Yes. Apple re-seals the watch during the repair process, so water resistance is restored to the original rating. Your Series 9 will still be rated to 50 meters, for example. Third-party repairs may not restore full water resistance.
Can I get the glass replaced if my watch is out of warranty?
Yes. Apple will replace the glass whether your watch is under warranty or not. You straightforward pay the full cost instead of a service fee. The price depends on your model, ranging from $79 to $229.
What if the glass is cracked but the watch still works?
You should get it replaced as soon as you can. A cracked screen can let moisture seep into the watch, which damages the battery and internal components over time. Even a small crack can eventually lead to water damage that costs more to repair than the glass replacement itself.
Is there a way to prevent the glass from cracking?
A protective case or screen protector can reduce the risk of cracks from drops. Cases add bulk but absorb impact. Screen protectors are thinner but may affect touch sensitivity slightly. Neither is required, but both are cheaper than a replacement if you are rough on your watch.