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Apple Watch Makes Its Debut in Australia

The Apple Watch, CEO Tim Cook's first new major product, was available for pre-order online and to try out in stores — but not take home.
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/ Source: NBC News

SYDNEY — Consumers in Australia flocked to Apple Inc.'s store in Sydney on Friday to get the world's first up-close look at the tech giant's smartwatch, which the company expects will be its next runaway hit.

The Apple Watch, CEO Tim Cook's first new major product, was available for pre-order online and to try out in stores — but not take home.

On April 24, consumers will be able to buy it online or by reservation at retail locations including high-end fashion boutiques in Paris, London and Tokyo.

On Friday morning Apple's Australian flagship store in Sydney's financial district was packed with those hoping to peek at the device, although just around 20 die-hard fans lined up out front — modest by the standards of a major Apple launch.

Alexander Bock, a backpacker from Germany, stood outside the shop's towering glass facade. He said he hopes to save enough money to buy the sports version of the watch.

"I feel naked without a watch... I'm working very hard right now so I can buy this watch," Bock told Reuters.

IN-DEPTH

— Reuters