Samsung is at it again, with a fresh take on the classics. The newly announced Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic resurrects the rotating bezel, but this time it does it with powerful new specs and a luxe aesthetic that makes it one of my favorite smartwatch launches of the year.
The Galaxy Watch 8 Classic – set to be released on July 25, 2025 – builds on Samsung’s wearable history, but marks an increased commitment to premium design, health monitoring, and raw processing power.
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An Old Feeling, Now Smarter Than Ever
The Galaxy Watch 8 Classic is built in a 46.4mm stainless steel housing and features a beautiful 1.34-inch Super AMOLED display that delivers a jaw-dropping 3000 nits of peak brightness – this is a serious visual upgrade for outdoor viewing. The premium feel of the watch is amplified with the Sapphire crystal glass.
And yes, fans of that rotating bezel can breathe a sigh of relief — it is back! The rotating bezel brings back intuitive navigation and delivers that satisfying tactile feel longtime Galaxy Watch fans have been craving.
Performance Gets a Major Boost
At the heart of the watch lies Samsung’s latest Exynos W1000 processor, built on an advanced 3nm architecture for improved performance and efficiency. When coupled with 2GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage, this is definitely one of the most impressive Wear OS watches there currently is.
Powering the Watch is Wear OS 6 skinned with One UI 8 Watch, which enables deep integration with Android phones — and, potentially, new AI-powered features in upcoming updates.
Designed to Work for the Everyday (and the Unexpected)
do not be fooled by the classy packaging. Built with precision and premium materials, the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic makes a strong impression in both look and feel. It is rated to IP68 and is 5ATM water-resistant — in other words, it can be submerged up to 50 meters. And it is MIL-STD-810H compliant, which means it can withstand a few drops, temperature extremes, and shock.
The watch also has ECG certification, blood pressure monitoring, SpO2 monitoring, and even skin temperature measurement — so it is a proper health assistant on your wrist as well. The company’s in-house BioActive sensor is accompanied by a new antioxidant index, which provides more information on your body’s stress and recovery levels.
Freedom to Choose: LTE and Bluetooth Versions
The Galaxy Watch 8 Classic will be available in two editions: Bluetooth only and LTE. With the LTE model, users can make calls, send texts, and stream music without having to carry their phone. And both models support Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.3, high-band GPS (for ultra-precise location finding), NFC, and eSIM — ticking every box for wireless consumers.
Battery Life & Charging
With a 445mAh battery inside, Samsung says the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic should be able to go for a day and a half on light use – a decent number given the power that is present under the hood. Charging is handled via 10W wireless charging — we will be waiting to hear the official numbers on how fast this can go to 100 percent though.
No camera, but who needs one?
There is no onboard camera, which is fine, since Samsung’s focus is on fitness and productivity. And let us be honest: With the increasing focus on sensor-based health features and AI integrations, it is doubtful users will miss a lens.
Design & Variants:
Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic will make its debut in two classic colors: Black and White at launch. Its glossy curves and satin finish — not to mention the stainless steel build — scream elegance. Samsung is obviously going for those who want both style and substance in their wrist companion.
Bottom Line: The watch to beat in 2025?
The Samsung Galaxy Watch8 Classic is no mere iterative update — it is a carefully-designed piece of tech that embraces the future while tipping its hat to traditional watch design. The Watch8 Classic offers fast performance, a bright display, helpful health features, and the return of the popular rotating bezel — making it a great option for both longtime Galaxy Watch users and first-timers. If you want a top-of-the-line luxury Android smartwatch that has both function and fashion in the bag, the Galaxy Watch8 Classic should be considered at the top of your list.
