But maybe all the surprise stems from a likelihood that most Apple watchers are concentrated in large, metropolitan markets.

Apple watchers say growers will undoubtedly take their time to judge the new product.

After the initial stitched-leather shock wore off, Apple watchers everywhere leapt on the new iCal's deeper sin: its skeuomorphic design.

Many Apple watchers expect the new Macintosh to be unveiled at the Macworld conference this week.

And yet some longtime Apple watchers said Mr. Amelio's strategy was appropriate.

If any of these rumors prove true, next Wednesday could be an interesting day for Apple watchers.

Longtime Apple watchers say they recognize a pattern.

The shift led to consternation among Apple watchers, many of whom concluded that the company had decided it had promised too much with the Newton and was now backpedaling.

But many Apple watchers see that as improbable.

Yet some Apple watchers say the company did not go far enough with System 7.