The wristwatch seems to have had its time, for a study has found that more and more people are preferring to rely on newer technology to keep them on track for appointments.
The study, conducted by consumer analysts Mintel, has revealed that one in seven people says mobile phones and computers have made traditional watches obsolete. It also found 86% still own a wristwatch — even if they no longer rely on it to know the correct time, the
Daily Express
reported.
The under-25s, who have grown up carrying around mobile phones, are half as likely to own a watch as the older generations, according to the British study.
Those young adults who do own a watch, however, are more likely to choose a designer brand and spend a significant amount of money on it — 25%, compared to 13% of older people — suggesting fashion is more important to them than time-keeping. “Many consumers have grown up with technology and are just as likely to associate the notion of checking the time with a mobile handset as with a watch,” said Tamara Sender, senior fashion analyst at Mintel.
“As they grow older, this mindset will accompany them. Mobile phone ownership is booming, and increased usage by all ages could pose a threat to demand for standard watches. However, with the popularity of alternative time-pieces, watch manufacturers are focusing on other aspects such as design and the latest technology to keep consumers interested,” she added.
{{/usCountry}}“As they grow older, this mindset will accompany them. Mobile phone ownership is booming, and increased usage by all ages could pose a threat to demand for standard watches. However, with the popularity of alternative time-pieces, watch manufacturers are focusing on other aspects such as design and the latest technology to keep consumers interested,” she added.
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