How many examples of a particular technology has to exist before someone can't boldly claim that Apple created the category?

I think the gist is that smart watches existed before Apple announced their watch, but as soon as Apple announced the Apple Watch, a bajillion were announced, created and put on sale even before Apple started selling theirs.

Did they invent the smart watch? No. Did they innovate and start a new chapter of the category? I think so.

I totally disagree. There were smartwatches before Apple's, therefore the category already existed. It may not have been a high profile category in some people's eyes, but that doesn't mean it wasn't there.

Also, I disagree on the bajillion number, for reasons other than the obvious. There were quite a few viable smartwatches on the market and many in the pipeline before Apple's. Plus, the watches not counting after the rumor of an Apple watch is a silly claim as well. There are numerous rumors of Apple working on a new product; for instance, that logic dictates Apple created the smart TV category.

Why isn't it good enough that Apple entered the market with a nice product? Why do people have to give more credit than what is due?

Like 3?

I saw 3 on one elevator ride yesterday...

I just rode in an elevator and didn't see any Apple watch.

I had 2 different smart watches myself before the Apple Watch was a thing.

Regardless of how many were announced, I haven't actually seen one being used in the wild, Apple Watch or not.