Magnetic Link (Taupe, 45 mm, M/L, 2023)

When Apple launched the Apple Watch Series 9, the company also discontinued their use of leather in all their products and introduced a new material they called FineWoven. In a press release, Apple announced:

“Apple is introducing FineWoven, a luxurious and durable microtwill made of 68 percent post-consumer recycled content that has significantly lower carbon emissions compared to leather. FineWoven has a suedelike feel, and is available with the Magnetic Link and Modern Buckle bands.”

The Magnetic Link design closely resembled the Leather Link design. Apple described the band:

“The Magnetic Link with FineWoven elegantly wraps around the wrist and magically attaches with molded magnets that gently flex to help maintain security and comfort throughout the day…”

The product specifications indicate that the Magnetic Link is made from “68% post-consumer recycled polyester” and “100% recycled rare earth elements in magnets.” The 41 mm Magnetic Link is offered in a S/M size (130–160 mm) and a M/L size (140–180 mm), while the 45 mm size is offered in S/M (140–180 mm) and M/L (165–205 mm) options.

This Magnetic Link is Taupe, a shade of medium brown, and fits 45 mm Apple Watch devices.

Sources: Apple (Newsroom, Product)

iPhone FineWoven Wallet (Taupe, 2023)

This iPhone FineWoven Wallet is made from Apple’s “luxury” FineWoven material and includes Find My support. Apple described the Wallet:

“Designed with both style and function in mind, the new iPhone FineWoven Wallet with MagSafe is the perfect way to keep your ID and credit cards close at hand. It supports Find My, so you can be notified of your wallet’s last known location if it gets separated from your phone… The wallet features strong built-in magnets that allow it to effortlessly snap into place on the back of your iPhone. You can even stack it on top of a case with MagSafe to create a look that’s unique to you. The FineWoven wallet supports up to three cards and is shielded so it’s safe for credit cards.”

Further, Apple describes FineWoven as “durable microtwill” with a “soft, suedelike feel.” Apple continues, “The FineWoven material was also designed with the earth in mind — made from 68 percent post-consumer recycled content and significantly reducing carbon emissions compared to leather.”

Apple created FineWoven as a replacement to leather and since then, customer reviews of the material have been polarizing. Consumer Reports reviewed the material and its verdict was to not recommend accessories made from the material, stating that with typical use, they look “like a toddler has been chewing on it.”

The Consumer Reports tester, along with several other reviewers and consumers, report that FineWoven scratches easily, attracts lint, and stains with oil or grease—compared to the leather cases they replaced.

Apple provides a 4-step cleaning process for FineWoven using a liquid laundry detergent and reports that the “material may look different and show wear over time as the fibers get compressed with normal use.”

This FineWoven Wallet is Taupe, a shade of medium brown.

Sources: Apple (product, cleaning), Consumer Reports