Reset Apple Watch Before Selling
APPLE WATCH SELLER RESET GUIDE

Reset Your Apple Watch Before Selling

Use this checklist to unpair, erase, and remove Activation Lock from your Apple Watch before giving it to the next owner.

Important: The safest method is to unpair the Apple Watch using the Watch app on your iPhone. This creates a backup and removes Activation Lock.

Best Reset Path

Use this path on your iPhone:

Watch AppAll WatchesInfo Button ⓘUnpair Apple WatchEnter Apple Account Password

Step-by-Step Guide

1

Keep iPhone and Watch close

Place your Apple Watch and iPhone near each other before starting the reset process.

2

Open the Watch app

On your iPhone, open the Watch app, then tap All Watches.

3

Tap the info button

Tap the ⓘ button beside the Apple Watch you want to sell.

4

Unpair Apple Watch

Tap Unpair Apple Watch. If it is a cellular model, choose whether to remove or keep the cellular plan. For selling, remove it.

5

Enter Apple Account password

Enter your Apple Account password when asked. This removes Activation Lock so the buyer can set it up.

6

Wait for erase to finish

Your Apple Watch will erase and unpair. Keep it near your iPhone until the process is complete.

7

Stop at pairing screen

When the Watch shows the pairing screen, do not pair it again. It is ready for the buyer.

If You Do Not Have the iPhone

You can erase the Apple Watch directly, but you may still need to remove Activation Lock from your Apple Account.

Apple Watch SettingsGeneralResetErase All Content and Settings

Seller Checklist

Check each item before handing the Apple Watch to the buyer.

0% complete
Ready to sell. Your Apple Watch is prepared for the next owner.

What the Buyer Should See

The buyer should see the Apple Watch pairing screen. If it asks for your Apple Account, Activation Lock was not removed yet.

Use before selling or giving away your Apple Watch.