Catalyst Waterproof Shock Resistant Case for Apple Watch 42mm Series 1 – Stealth Black

I’ve had this case now for nearly two months. As far as I can determine, the case performs as advertised. Fortunately for me, I’ve had no issue with the watch band coming loose from the case.

All functions of the watch operate normally. I’ve had no issue with speaker volume or using the microphone for dictation. Since this is a larger case, I expected to have problems with taking accidental screen shots or inadvertently activating Siri (i.e. Epik Case) but this hasn’t been an issue.

Pros: The case has provided me waterproof protection, and the watch does seem well protected. All functionality is retained with the case on.

Cons: The case is a bit of an acquired taste when it comes to the esthetic appearance. As mentioned above, I’ve had no issue with the band coming off; however, I do get the feeling that the band material and the way that is anchored to the case could have been better engineered. On a personal note, perhaps an all white option could have been offered as well. Although not overly complex to install, it does take time to perform correctly; therefore, this isn’t a case you’ll be swapping out with other band/case combinations frequently or quickly.

All in all, a solid case that performs as advertised.

Update: 3 1/2 months in… I just returned from a vacation that involved lots of pool and ocean time. This case did not disappoint. As an Apple Watch case and band junkie, this particular case has performed magnificently, and has proven to be quite legit.

Update #2: Ive always felt that the original band that comes with the case left a bit to be desired as far as feel and quality. Being a fan of NATO straps, I found a great replacement band, and I’ve included pictures. I now feel that the watch has the look, feel, and functionality that I always was looking for. The band was purchased on Amazon. (HNS watch strap. 24mm G10 Mod Ballistic Nylon NATO watch strap.)

I have been using the Catalyst Waterproof case for my Apple Watch for over a week, and I like it more every day. I had tried 5 wearables previously that I could use for swimming, but there were problems with all of them once I used them in the water. But then I found this product. Now I am able to wear my Apple Watch from the time I get up in the morning to when I put it on its charger late in the evening, and it records all of my activity whether I am swimming, walking, or workouts. My watch works better than any other wearable that I tried. If you are interested in using it to record data for swimming, it records swimming laps as “steps taken”. The workout app works in the pool, too, but I find that the timing is a little off, but all of the wearables that I tried had the same problem. I can access the screens on my watch while I am in the water which allows me to check my time, steps, and heart rate. And all of this can happen because my watch is protected by this case. The charger works well with the silicone portion of the case, and the overall construction of the case is strong and provides me with the protection I was seeking. The only drawback (which is only slightly inconvenient) is that the strap is very long and the silicone holder for the strap slides while I am swimming. I have an average wrist so if someone has a small wrist, this might be more of a problem. Overall, I believe totally in this product and am very glad that I purchased it. I would highly recommend it for someone who wants to wear their Apple Watch while doing water activities and still get the protection needed for such a high cost piece of technology.

This is all you need to know: I was at a picnic recently and reached inside a tub of cold water with my watch hand that was encased in this band. It wasn’t in there more than 5 seconds but it was completely submerged, and passed the test with flying colors.

As long as you follow the directions carefully, this will protect your Apple Watch from things like this. And it looks pretty good too.

Update: 18 August 2016: Been wearing a few days now and it’s very comfortable. It adds a bit of bulk but the tradeoff is well worth it. One caveat: the buttons on the unit I got are orange and not red as pictured, and the case is more what I’d call carbon gray than black. That said the colors are fine and I like orange. What’s important is that IT WORKS. Do yourself a favor: spend a little extra over the Apple sport band and get this.

After reading a lot of mixed reviews, I am in love with this band. it is comfortable, charges in the case just fine. The main thing is to follow the instructions on putting the case together. I have worn it while doing outside activities and at work as a firefighter, it tracks heart rate as if it wasn’t in the case. Well worth the money for the price of the watch and the extra protection works great.

This is turning out to be a great product for any person that may expose their Apple Watch to submersion in water. Although made entirely of plastic, the case seems sturdy and looks like it can take some abuse. I have not been able to test the integrity of it’s durability as I have not dropped or hit anything when using this case (intentional or not). It’s incredibly easy to put this thing on and secure (screw) it in place. I commonly put this case on when I’m out fishing, as I can avoid taking out my iPhone from a securely stored place on my person. I was also able to take a call on my Apple Watch with no serious audio issues or them hearing me. The band is really soft and comfortable. Although soft, it does not tend to stretch.

Tip: To ensure a good fit, make sure there is no air pockets within the silicon liner. Once all the air pockets are removed, it will help ensure a secure fit when snapping the case together, followed by the screwing the safety screw in. You can easily do this within a minute or so.

I would highly recommend this for any user that may encounter the chance of submerging your Apple Watch underwater. Please note, I do not intentionally use this for activities such as swimming, but more of a safety precaution when the chance of submersion is possible. Please note this as you consider my review. I know this product is marketed for submersion, so I know my uses should ensure proper safety of my watch.