For many years, I cherished my Seiko pocket watch—a simple silver timepiece with easily readable Arabic numerals and an open-face design. I had been using it since purchasing it in October 2009.
Back then, I was slimmer and often wore three-piece suits, so I would carry the watch in my vest pocket. Even in casual attire, if my pants had a pocket for a pocket watch, that’s where it went. Otherwise, I’d simply place it in a regular pocket.
After the Apple Watch became compatible with Suica, I found myself glancing at the pocket watch less often. However, it was still handy to have on my table at a café, where a quick glance to my side allowed me to check the time without interrupting my work. Even during the stay-at-home period, I kept it on my desk, making it easy to see the time while working.
Despite this long history, the watch has now reached the point where its battery lasts less than two years after each replacement. With the watch nearing its 15th year, I think it might be at the end of its life. My last battery replacement was in April 2023, and it’s only been 14 months since then.
The watch is quartz-based and fairly affordable, but manufacturers don’t generally keep parts for 15 years. Although an overhaul might extend its life, it’s not a guarantee. Considering these factors, I decided it was time to let go of this watch.
If I wanted to continue with a pocket watch, I’d need to buy a new one. However, when I searched for a similar model from the same brand, I couldn’t find a design that I liked. Other domestic brands didn’t offer designs I loved either. Rather than settling for something I’m not fond of, I thought it might be best to take a break from pocket watches for now.
If I wanted a pocket watch as a status symbol, I might go for an expensive mechanical model. But since I prefer practical accuracy, a quartz model is my preference. Since I haven’t found one that appeals to me, I think I’ll remain watch-free until I find the right one.
For now, I’ll be relying solely on my Apple Watch.
Since it’s only been a short while since I stopped using my pocket watch, I still sometimes glance to the side of my desk out of habit, remembering it fondly. Time will tell whether I’ll eventually stop missing it or if the urge to own a pocket watch will return.
