Why is my Apple Watch set up taking so long?

Hello Tammywheeler,

It seems like you may be having an issue setting up your Apple Watch, is that right? To help us better assist you, can you let us know more about the situation? For example, are you receiving any errors on the device at this time? If so, what does the error say?

The above information will help us plan how to proceed.

Please also check out this link to ensure the correct process is being used to set up your Apple Watch, so we can make sure there's no issue there: Set up your Apple Watch

The above link also outlines what to do if you experience an issue setting up your device:

Get help

To learn what to do next, find your issue below. If you still need help, contact Apple Support.

If your Apple Watch won't turn on

You might need to charge your Apple Watch. 

If you're asked for a passcode

Your Apple Watch is still paired with another iPhone. If you don't remember the passcode, you need to erase your Apple Watch, then set it up again. 

If an Activation Lock screen appears

Your Apple Watch is linked to an Apple ID. You need to enter the email address and password for that Apple ID to continue set up. If your Apple Watch was previously owned, you might need to contact the previous owner to remove Activation Lock. 

If you can't set up your Apple Watch or you get an error message

Make sure that your iPhone has the latest version of iOS.

Turn off your iPhone and turn it back on.

Turn off your Apple Watch and turn it back on. 

Thanks!