Ask anyone for the time, and you’re unlikely to see them glance down at their wrist. Instead you might watch them dig around in their bag to pull out a sleek iPhone, press the home button and watch the time fade up. In digital, of course.
There is no question that the wristwatch is becoming more and more obsolete. With the prevalence of technology in today’s world, whipping out an iPhone to check the time is more convenient than remembering to wear a watch.
However, some Staples students have stuck to more traditional timekeeping.
“I am absolutely obsessed with my watch and feel completely lost without it,” says Elizabeth Coogan ’14, who has worn an analog watch since 5th grade. She attributes her need for the accessory to her fear of technology. “‘My dad always says, “I’m an analog man in a digital world.’ Even when I’m not wearing it, I find myself looking down at my bare wrist with disappointment.”
On the other hand, it is true that wearing a watch has become more of a fashion statement than anything else. “I actually never look at my watch, I just wear one because I like the look of it,” says Thomas Bonner ’14.
Besides the fashion factor, Nathan Francis ’14 adds, “Wearing the watch itself is a bit of a “status” symbol. It shows that you mean business.”
Wearing a watch means practicality. Although iPhones and other technology have made seeing the time easy, sometimes certain environments and situations are not conducive to whipping out an iPhone.
“There are certain times when I can’t check my phone like in class or practice so it’s helpful to be constantly wearing one,” says Valerie Fitton ’14. “Sure, an iPhone is handy to check the time, but why even bother digging around in your pocket when the clock is right by your side at the end of your arm,” adds Francis.
A watch prevents technology from doing all the work and keeps us alert. “It keeps me on my toes intellectually,” says Francis. “I have an analog watch, so it’s a good way to keep my brain active. Instead of just reading numbers, I actually use my brain to tell the time. It’s a great system.”
