Got this for a gift ordered from Best Buy and have the receipt. Completely fake.

Happy Black Friday Eve,

We wanted to add another option to those who are scouring the best deals for Black Friday: Best Buy's Open Box selection.

Buy Now: Black Friday Deals

If you are eager to own the Apple Watch Ultra 2, retailers such as Best Buy are offering some decent deals for Black Friday, starting at $719. However, there are other deals:

• Best Current New Condition Deal: Costco and others such as Target are advertising the Ultra 2 at $699—about as low as it gets for the model this season.

• Who It is For: This is a good option if you need the watch now and don not mind paying a bit more to avoid waiting.

Although this guide is focused on U.S. pricing, expect similar trends in Canada, adjusted for local taxes and currency.

Wait and Save: Open Box Deals

For those willing to be patient, Best Buy is an excellent option for Open Box purchases.

• Pricing: Open Box Ultra 2 models range from $400 to $600, depending on the following "condition":

  • Excellent: Like-new condition with minimal wear.

  • Good: Minor cosmetic imperfections.

  • Fair: Noticeable wear but fully functional.

• Why Open Box?: The savings can be substantial—often up to $300 off the regular price. These are being priced to move, so you may find that a "Good" or "Fair" model is in mint condition, and the only difference between a "New" model is that the box has been opened and is slightly damaged. Because the listing online is subjective to whomever entered it in the system, this is an incredibly consumer-friendly option for watch buyers.

Pro Tip: Check Best Buy’s website daily, as inventory fluctuates. Watches often sell quickly, and listings may change by the day. That said, we have noticed a quirk where watches will vanish from inventory during the day. It is quite possible that you will show up in the store and the watch will not show up in the app or the website, while you are looking at the same item in the store. Thus, if you are able to navigate this process and work with the associate, they will be able to help you with the process.

Understanding Pricing Trends

• Series 10 Discounts: With the Apple Watch Series 10, both new and Open Box models dropped by about $45 during Black Friday.

• Ultra 2 Discounts: The Ultra 2 has seen a steeper drop in terms of dollars, however used prices seem to be about the same, likely because prices are already aggressive and retailers have little margin to cut further. However, if you are looking to bargain hunt, this is a reasonable time to start searching.

  • Natural Finish: The best deals can be found with the Natural Titanium finish, which makes sense considering that these are also the "oldest" of the Apple Watch Ultra 2 model. They also have the benefit of hiding scratches.

  • Black Titanium Finish: The Black Titanium finish is retailing for around $575-$625 online, depending on condition, however this is still substantially higher than the Natural Finish

If you are after the best deal and are unable to find any options in your area due to a lack of inventory, waiting until late December or January might be wise. This is a time when many people return items post-holidays, increasing inventory filling in inventory with Open Box goods.

How to Shop Smart

• In-Store vs. Online: While you can order online, visiting a store allows you to inspect the watch for damage, avoiding potential restocking fees.

• Focus on Pricing: One thing that is possible is that the associate will ring up the watch, and you will find that the price is higher than it is listed online. Based on purchasing experience, associates are unable to match the online store's discount. If this happens:

• Purchase Online, Pick Up In Store: If you are unable to match the price in store, purchase the watch online, and pick it up in store. This will give you the best deal.

Band Choices and Customization

• Band Availability: Open Box watches may not come with your preferred band, but you have the watch

• Solution: At this point, you have the watch and have saved hundreds of dollars. Enjoy your purchase, and use some of that savings to purchase the band that you want.

The Bottom Line

If you are in a hurry and needed the watch yesterday, Black Friday deals are solid, but waiting for Open Box deals at Best Buy will save you hundreds of dollars more. For the biggest options, shop after the holidays, when returns boost inventory. Either way, flexibility and timing are your best allies in landing the Apple Watch Ultra 2 at a great price.