Story: Design and functional necessity
I like design. That’s why I became a designer. We cannot avoid living without design. From fashion to electronic products, cars, houses, and mobile apps, and services—everything is designed. Design is everywhere. That’s why being a designer is fun. There is no boundary between work and life. Humans, nature, the universe—everything is design.
Recently, I have been watching watch reviews on YouTube. Kevin O’Leary, famous from Shark Tank and known as Mr. Wonderful, talks about watches. I am enjoying it for a few weeks even though I don’t plan to become a watch collector. Initially, and even now, I don’t think humans need watches. Everyone has a cell phone, so watches have no functional value. Plus, they are so expensive. Why do people buy them in 2024?
I enjoy watching watch designs. As a freelance web and graphic designer, I would like to feature some watches that I like.
Why people wear watch in 2024?
I used to wear a watch 15 years ago. I bought a $1,000 watch and wore it every day. When I forgot to wear it, I felt something strange, like something was missing. This experience helped me understand the power of habit and addictive human behaviors.
I searched for the reasons why people wear watches in 2024, and each reason is understandable. Personally, I don’t want to wear a watch for status. If I buy a watch for $10K, my reasons would be fashion, craftsmanship, and user experience, how I feel.
Fashion and Style: Watches are often seen as fashion accessories. They can complement an outfit and reflect personal style. A well-chosen watch can make a strong fashion statement.
Status and Prestige: High-end watches are symbols of status and prestige. Owning a luxury watch from brands like Rolex, Omega, or Patek Philippe can signify success and taste.
Convenience: Checking the time on a watch can be more convenient than pulling out a phone, especially in situations where using a phone might be inappropriate or cumbersome, such as in meetings or social gatherings.
Craftsmanship and Engineering: Many people appreciate watches for their intricate craftsmanship and mechanical engineering. Collecting watches can be a hobby driven by an appreciation for the artistry and skill involved in making them.
Sentimental Value: Watches can hold sentimental value, especially if they are gifts, family heirlooms, or reminders of significant life events.
Functionality Beyond Timekeeping: Some watches offer additional functions like chronographs, altimeters, or dive capabilities that can be useful for specific activities. These features can make them valuable tools for certain professions or hobbies.
Habit and Tradition: Wearing a watch is a long-standing tradition for many people. It can be a part of their daily routine and personal identity.
Battery Life: Watches, especially mechanical ones, do not require frequent recharging, unlike smartphones. This can be a practical reason for some people.
Omega Seamaster 1948
I watched over 300 watches on YouTube. I liked a couple of watches. In particular, Omega Seamaster 1948 caught my attention. It looks simple and elegant. I searched for the price and generally, it’s under $10K, though I don’t know if I will actually buy it.
I don’t know much about James Bond (007). I don’t think I’ve watched any of the movies before. I am not curious about the recent Seamaster.
Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional (Black)
Rolex Oyster Perpetual 39 (Black)
I know Rolex. It’s a famous brand, and the Explorer is a popular watch. I often see it in magazines. I do not prefer the triangle marker for 12. It is worth considering if the market price is fair.
Instead, I would like to mention Rolex Oyster Perpetual 39 (Black). This watch is also simple. I can understand what I like.
Rolex Explorer (Black)
Tag Heuer Carrera Calibre 5
I knew the brand, but I did not have many images or impressions of Tag Heuer as a brand.
Tag Heuer is a renowned Swiss luxury watchmaker with a storied heritage dating back to 1860. Founded by Edouard Heuer in St-Imier, Switzerland, the brand has become synonymous with precision timekeeping and innovative design, particularly in the realm of sports and motor racing. Tag Heuer’s commitment to avant-garde watchmaking is reflected in their pioneering chronograph technology and distinctive, stylish collections like the Carrera, Monaco, and Aquaracer. Celebrated for their robust build quality and timeless aesthetics, Tag Heuer watches are favored by enthusiasts and professionals alike, epitomizing a blend of heritage, performance, and modern luxury.
Grand Seiko
I knew Grand Seiko as well as The Citizen as expensive watch brands in Japan. I checked the website, but I cannot determine which model I like. I am sure that I prefer classic designs, but there are so many similar watches. I need to visit the store to compare them.
The Citizen
Apple Watch Series 9
The watch industry appreciates the Apple Watch. Apple has reignited the watch industry. The Apple Watch gives people a reason to wear it by offering healthcare functions, which provide significant value to consumers compared to traditional watches.
I do not want to receive every notification on the watch, but the Apple Watch will be on my wish list.
Swatch
People like Swatch. It’s playful and affordable—everyday products.
Swatch, a renowned Swiss watchmaker, is celebrated for its playful, colorful, and affordable timepieces that cater to everyday wear. Launched in 1983 as a response to the quartz crisis, Swatch revolutionized the watch industry with its innovative designs and accessible pricing. The brand’s iconic watches are characterized by their vibrant aesthetics, versatility, and high-quality Swiss craftsmanship. Swatch has successfully blended fashion with functionality, making their watches a popular choice for individuals seeking stylish yet practical accessories. Over the years, Swatch has expanded its collection to include various models, collaborations, and limited editions, maintaining its position as a beloved and influential brand in the global watch market.
I visited the Swatch store on Robson St. in Vancouver. The Moonswatch (Swatch x Omega with Snoopy) was already sold out. I could find it on the internet, but it looks like people are flipping it. I can buy it, but I strongly disagree with this behavior, so I won’t.
At the end of the day, I cannot think about value. Watches are unnecessary in 2024 since everyone has an iPhone. However, I do not disagree with the user experience of luxury stores and the feeling of wearing a luxury watch. I understand and appreciate it. I am not young and comfort is prioritized over joy at the moment.
G-Shock by Casio
G-Shock, a line of watches from Casio, is renowned for its durability, ruggedness, and resistance to shocks, vibrations, and water. First introduced in 1983, G-Shock was designed to withstand the most extreme conditions, making it a favorite among adventurers, military personnel, and sports enthusiasts. The watches feature a distinctive and bold design, often incorporating multiple functions such as stopwatch, countdown timer, and world time. Over the years, G-Shock has expanded its offerings with various models, collaborations, and limited editions, maintaining its reputation for toughness while also appealing to fashion-conscious consumers. The combination of resilience and style has solidified G-Shock as an iconic brand in the watch industry.
G-Shock is quite familiar to me. I have one G-Shock in my home country, a G-Shock x Porter limited model. It is still new, and I don’t know why I bought it 15 years ago. I wasn’t a watch collector, but I know I spent a lot of money on fashion when I was in Tokyo. I was young.
Alba Spoon by Seiko
I suddenly remembered Alba Spoon by Seiko while searching for watches. Alba Spoon is nostalgic for me. I was a junior high or high school student when Alba Spoon was a big trend. I saw it in magazines, but I can’t remember if I ever bought one. My classmate had one. I might buy it if I can find it for around $100.
Coming Soon
YouTube
At first, I saw Kevin O’Leary, well-known as SharkTank, on YouTube. Teddy Baldassarre was on his contents. I checked Teddy’s channel and it more focus on the watch. Both are watch enthusiasts with 1 million subscribers. I don’t have a plan to be a collector (or invest in commodities), but it indicates that people love watches in 2024. If I buy a watch, I use it.
Kevin O’Leary
Teddy Baldassarre
Conclusion: Design is fun
In May 2024, I enjoyed watching the featured channels on YouTube. Fashion (shopping) is fun for everyone, regardless of whether they actually buy anything. The learning industry is enjoyable as a designer.
As a freelance web/graphic designer, I constantly learn about business, software, and new trends. However, I also need to enjoy something naturally from time to time. Watches provide a new endeavor for me. I don’t think I suit an expensive watch, and I don’t know if I will buy one, but I look forward to visiting a watch store and experiencing it this fall.
By the way, ChatGPT said below:
– Rolex Oyster Perpetual 39
– Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch
– Tag Heuer Carrera Calibre 16
– Breitling Navitimer 1 Chronograph 41
– IWC Pilot’s Watch Mark XVIII
– Panerai Luminor Base Logo
– Grand Seiko SBGA211 “Snowflake”
