# The Elimination of Iconic Watch Faces in watchOS 11: An In-Depth Analysis
Apple’s watchOS 11 has ushered in numerous modifications to the Apple Watch landscape, yet not every change has been positively embraced. One of the most notable updates is the removal of several cherished watch faces, including the Siri face, Chronograph, Explorer, and Numerals. This article examines the repercussions of these omissions and the feedback from the Apple Watch community.
## Chronograph: An Enduring Classic
The Chronograph watch face boasts a storied past, having been included in the initial Apple Watch collection. It remained a fixture alongside the Chronograph Pro from watchOS 7 to watchOS 10. The design of the Chronograph face is rooted in the idea of a racing stopwatch, presenting a classic aesthetic that many users have treasured.
The later-introduced Chronograph Pro offered a contemporary revision of this traditional design, yet the original Chronograph face held a unique significance for many users. Its absence in watchOS 11 has created a noticeable void for those who appreciated its elegance and practicality.
## Explorer: The LTE Trailblazer
The Explorer watch face was launched with the Apple Watch Series 3, specifically crafted for LTE-enabled models. This analog face showcased distinctive red and white hand options and was the sole watch face to include a cellular signal indicator for years.
The unique aesthetic and utility of the Explorer face made it a beloved choice among users valuing both visual appeal and practicality. Its removal prompts inquiries about Apple’s trajectory in serving users who prefer classic analog designs.
## Numerals: A Contemporary Spin on Tradition
The Numerals watch face, launched with watchOS 6, presented a novel interpretation of analog timekeeping. It featured numerical hour indicators behind traditional hands, offering a customizable appearance that resonated with many users. The option to modify colors and styles added a personal flair to the watch face.
With its elimination in watchOS 11, users who appreciated the fusion of modern aesthetics with traditional components are now in search of substitutes that can replicate the charm of the Numerals face.
## Community Responses: A Surge of Discontent
The exclusion of these classic watch faces has ignited considerable conversation within the Apple Watch community. Numerous users turned to platforms like Reddit to voice their dissatisfaction, underscoring the emotional ties they felt to these faces. A Reddit thread illustrated a spectrum of responses, with some users mourning the loss of their preferred designs while others questioned Apple’s decision-making.
Tech-Issues Today highlighted this escalating discontent, noting that the removal of these features has garnered attention. Users are keenly anticipating that Apple will rethink its strategy regarding watch face design, especially given the rich heritage and user loyalty connected to these classic selections.
## Conclusion: A Change in Priorities
The elimination of the Chronograph, Explorer, and Numerals watch faces in watchOS 11 signifies a notable change in Apple’s strategy toward watch face design. As the company continues to innovate and roll out new features, the absence of beloved classics has left many users feeling nostalgic and disheartened.
Moving forward, it will be crucial for Apple to find a balance between advancement and honoring the legacy of its offerings. For the time being, users will need to adjust to these changes while hoping for the reintroduction of their favored watch faces in upcoming updates.
