Online Apple Store Down – Apple Watch Launch Imminent Along With 12 inch MacBook Launch

Apple took down the Online Apple Store ahead of commencement of Apple Watch preorders and the new 12-inch MacBook launch.

Apple took down the Online Apple Store ahead of commencement of Apple Watch pre-orders and the new 12-inch MacBook launch. We previously reported that tryout sessions and preorder for Apple Watch would commence of April 10. Apple typically shuts its online store down to prepare for the launch of new hardware, which in this case is the Apple Watch and the 12-inch MacBook.

Preorders for the Apple Watch will begin at 12:01AM PDT, with the device available in three editions. The aluminum Apple Watch Sport, which starts at $349; the stainless steel Apple Watch for $549, and the gold Apple Watch Edition, a limited Solid gold Apple Watch Edition models start at $10,000.

Remember unlike iPhones and other Apple devices, getting an Apple Watch will not be as straightforward. You will not even be able to walk in and buy one. You can get one via either an appointment or pre-order. In both cases, there will still be some waiting, but at least not in line under the mercy of the elements. In some places, particularly Europe, some models of the Apple Watch may take as long as May to ship.

The official schedule starts late April, so best keep those fingers crossed you might be one of the lucky ones. Moreover, if you are aiming for a gold Apple Watch Edition, your retail outlet choices are even more limited. The Apple Watch has so far received mixed impressions, which might be a bit worrying for a premium-priced device. However, Apple has very loyal fans who will not allow one bad review from getting their hands on Apple Watch.

The new 12-inch Retina MacBook, announced during the Spring Forward event will also go on sale from today, with prices starting at $1,299.