I was really interested in the 6 Sapphire in Black DLC and the heathered nylon band but found it too expensive, so settled for the Carbon Gray regular model especially after I found a great deal online. I was actually really impressed with the combination where the gradient that the bezel gives off under different lighting conditions made it look really sharp and premium - under bright but indirect light it is almost black, while a light shining on it reflects off the DLC to give that polished bling look.
Then I uncovered a similarly great deal on the Black DLC version... and immediately ordered that to replace the Carbon Gray. So this came in today and I was quite surprised to see how similar the two variants looked. While the Carbon Gray shows more resemblance to the actual renders, the Black version is much more lustrous and silvery. Before I return the Carbon Gray, here's a closer examination for those who cannot decide, and see if you can tell them apart. It's important to note that photos don't do justice to their appearance - it is best to experience them in person.
Also, this confirms my concern that while both of them seemingly comes with the standard black silicone QuickFit 22, they indeed have custom buckles to match with the bezel, and, until I can get a hold of an actual replacement band that Garmin sells, it is hard to say that those buckles will be color matched to the ones that are included with the watch - particularly the Carbon Gray Sapphire. This is another reason that I choose to go with the Black, as more replacement bands are compatible.
As for those backlight and button issues, I was quite fortunate to receive both relatively issue-free models with S/N in the 63N08 range, with the Carbon Gray having a slightly brighter and more uniform backlight, and the Black with equally better clicking buttons (Back button in particular). I would most definitely pick the better display, but weighing all factors I finally kept the Black.
Finally, really glad to have joined the F6 club. Massive upgrade from the D2C!
