Wristwatch Survives the Rise of the Smartphone

PORTADOWN, Northern Ireland, October 15, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --

There was a time when people feared for the future of the wristwatch. Wristwatches represent the perfect marriage of practicality and style, but in the age of the smartphone it appeared for a spell that the wristwatch had had its day and it was time for a new form of digital timepiece. However, it appears that the British public are much less keen to get rid of their watches than previously imagined.

Members of the public will notice that the wristwatch is still very much the favourite fashion accessory it has been for decades. Autumn fashion collections are appearing on the catwalk and on the high street and they tend to make room for the wristwatch as a stylish accompaniment or flourish, rather than making room for the smartphone as a new digital alternative.

The reasons behind the staying power of the wristwatch are manifold. They are, of course, completely acceptable to wear in most circumstances, while smartphones represent an ample distraction best confined to the pocket or the handbag much of the time.

Then there is the fact that the wristwatch is entrenched in the psychology of most wearers, satisfying a physical need in the search the correct time with a short glance and a flick of the wrist. The fact that even the newest fashion collections make room for the wristwatch and amplify its stylistic effect goes to show that the accessory is still something of an icon.

When it comes to fashion, vintage styles help a good deal, revitalising older wristwatch designs and making sure there is still a place for them on the high street. Costume dramas on TV also influence fashion and trends that involve wristwatches.

Nigel O'Hara Diamond Jeweller has certainly made note of the fact that wristwatches are an enduring feature of people's practical and fashionable movements. The retailer has continued to do great business on wristwatches through its online shop at http://www.nigelohara.com and it expects to see more inquiries as autumn brings new trends and seasonal styles.

The threat posed by the initial emergence of the smartphone appears to have had little effect on the wristwatch and even as technology improves and apps and operating systems get more sophisticated, the lasting appeal of wristwatch is likely to see it through.

In order to encourage shoppers to stick by the trusty wristwatch, Nigel O'Hara is offering free deliver on all UK orders.