How can I factory reset my Apple Watch (1st Generation) without locator or iPhone?

Question

Level 1

4 points

Hi

I have a 2015 apple watch, gen 1, A1554

I haven't used it for a while, thus I forgot my passcode.

It is not connected to my iPhone anymore, I can see it in my devices in iCloud, but not in Locator.

I would like to factory reset it. I've tried different methods, but non of them worked, namely:

Pressing firmly on Power Off slider (nothing happens)
Pressing and holding both the side button and Digital Crown and then side button only
Pressing on side button and then on Digital Crown.

Could you please advice me how can I factory reset my watch without Locator or iPhone?

Thanks,

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: Watch Gen 1 (series 0) factory reset

Apple Watch, watchOS 4

Posted on Jul 28, 2025 04:20 AM

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Answer 1

Level 8

45,671 points

Have you tried this?

How to erase your Apple Watch if you don't have your iPhone

On your Apple Watch, tap Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings.
Type your password if prompted.
For GPS + Cellular models, choose to keep or remove your cellular plan.

- If you want to pair your Apple Watch and iPhone again, keep your plan.
- If you don't want to pair your Apple Watch and iPhone again, remove your plan. If you aren't going to pair with a different watch or iPhone, you might need to contact your carrier to cancel your cellular subscription.

Now you can set up your Apple Watch again. You'll need the Apple Account and password associated with the watch turn off Activation Lock.

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