It’s not every day that a charging stand doubles as a conversation piece, but Spigen’s latest accessory does just that. With a playful nod to one of Apple’s most iconic products—the iMac G3—it shrinks the beloved all-in-one computer into a miniature Apple Watch charger stand. Priced affordably and dripping in nostalgia, this stand might just be the impulse buy that brightens your bedside table.
The original iMac G3, launched in 1998, marked a turning point for Apple. With its translucent, candy-colored shell and innovative all-in-one form factor, it symbolized Steve Jobs’ triumphant return and Jony Ive’s early design philosophy. Fast-forward nearly three decades, and that playful design language still resonates. Spigen’s Classic C1 series has already riffed on those bright hues for iPhone and AirPods cases, but the Apple Watch charging stand goes a step further by replicating the entire silhouette of the iMac G3—just miniaturized to fit your nightstand. This homage isn’t mere pastiche; it taps into genuine nostalgia among Apple enthusiasts who fondly recall the days when tech dared to look whimsical rather than purely minimalist.
Spigen’s Classic C1 lineup began with accessory cases that borrowed the iMac G3’s translucent color palette, giving recent iPhones a retro twist. The progression from simple color references to full-blown product silhouettes feels both natural and ambitious. According to Spigen’s site, the Classic C1 Charger Stand is “inspired by the iconic iMac G3, its retro translucent design powers up your Apple Watch for the perfect charge” and completes the look alongside other C1 accessories. While earlier items focused on surface-level homage (color schemes, accents), this charger stand embraces the shape: the curved “CRT” profile, a simulated disk-drive bezel, and the translucent rear shell echo the materials that made the original so distinctive.
Product details and specifications
- Materials & build: According to Spigen, the stand is crafted from premium polycarbonate (PC) and silicone. The silicone base provides a non-slip finish to keep the stand stable on nightstands or desks, while the PC shell offers that see-through, glossy look reminiscent of late ’90s plastics.
- Design & aesthetic: The front mimics the iMac’s screen area, but features a slot where you insert your Apple Watch charging puck. Behind, the translucent “chin” and rear shell allow the USB cable to be threaded cleanly out the back, maintaining a tidy setup. Authentic details—like faux drive bays or control buttons—lend extra charm.
- Viewing angle & functionality: The stand is slanted to position the Watch at an ergonomic angle, making it easy to glance at notifications, check the time, or use Nightstand mode overnight. This slight tilt is more than stylistic; it enhances usability compared to laying the watch flat.
- Compatibility: Spigen states compatibility with Apple Watch models from Series 4 onward, including both SE versions and Apple Watch Ultra 1 and 2 (49mm), as well as earlier/later sizes per specific listings (e.g., Ultra 2/1 49mm; Series 10-4 in varying case sizes). Keep in mind that very bulky third-party watch cases might interfere with fit.
- Charger not included: Importantly, the stand does not include Apple’s magnetic charging puck; users must supply their existing charger. You insert the puck into the front slot and thread its USB cable out the back, which means if you upgrade to a faster charging puck or USB-C adapter in the future, the stand can still accommodate it.
Pricing and availability
The official price on Spigen’s store is $34.99, available in four colorways: Bondi Blue (the original iMac G3’s debut hue), Tangerine, Graphite, and Ruby. Online retailers sometimes list it slightly lower, around $19.99–$20 shipped via Amazon, but availability can fluctuate. Purchasing directly from Spigen ensures you get the intended build quality and the correct accessory lineup. If you’re browsing third-party sellers, double-check the listing to confirm it’s the official Spigen Classic C1 Charger Stand, as knockoffs may lack the precise fit or materials.
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