Is the 645m about to be superseded?

I hope so. I like this "tier" but the 645 has been surpassed by the hardware and software updates to the 245, 945, and recent Fenix models. I've just been waiting on the 655 or 745 or whatever the next model will be.

You can assume that every model is ultimately going to be superseded - the pace of innovation and competitive demands makes it so that all consumer technology makers are racing to come out with something new constantly. I'd say any Garmin device that's getting close to being 2 years in the market since its original release is a likely candidate to be replaced. Really just how it is, with all things - phones, GPS units, PCs, TVs, all of it - it's old the minute you unbox it.

The 645 was launched Feb/Mar 2017. Assume a 2 year product cycle then likely that a 655 would be announced early 2020, however it is possible they could announce a little earlier although assume they have more than enough on their hands with all the product announcements/launches from the last 6 weeks.

You are one year off. The watch was released on March 12 2018. However March 2020 would mean a 2 year product cycle though, so I think your 2017 was a typo.

Correct.. typo.. apologies. Meant March 2018 to March 2020, and then we should see the 655.

In the US the 645M was released before March 12 as I received mine on March 5th.. one day before my birthday and completed my first running activity with it on March 6th.

Thanks. I guess I’m trying to decide whether to take advantage of the current discounts to upgrade (from my 235) or whether I should wait for a newer model

It comes down to a few things in my view. If you really want Body Battery, Pace Pro, Hydration etc then you need to go for 245, 945, Fenix 6 or wait for 655.

If you wait for 655 then you have to decide on whether you buy on day 1 and risk firmware and other unknown issues, or wait a couple of extra months to read reviews and personal views of the new device.

If you go for 645M then in my view you get a solid running watch that works well. While some have experienced freezes with the latest firmware I've been lucky both recently and during the majority of my 18 month+ ownership. So long as you buy somewhere that allows you to return it if issues in first 30+ days then you could always see how it goes.

Is there something specific that your 235 lacks that you want, or are you just after a new shiny toy (which I understand as I bought and then returned the Fenix 6 Titanium)

TheSalamander

There are two things lacking on the 235

- music 

- the ability to upload maps (I’m doing a lot more trail running, and this would be a very useful feature). 

I actually think the 245 is a better suited watch for me (I like the looks and size - I have a small wrist). I’m tempted by the 645 because of the price it’s on offer for. 

And yes, I do need a shiny new thing :) 

645 is shinier. That steel bezel makes it look less toy like or less sporty.

Nah. Probably just not selling as well due to the price and most people not caring about the advanced running features it has over the 245. Or just spending a bit more for a 935/45, Fenix.