Phone ban exposes a skills gap: students struggle to read analog clocks
A smartphone ban introduced in New York schools has revealed an unexpected challenge: many students are unable to read time on analog clocks. Without digital displays, some pupils found it difficult to follow schedules or recognise class transition times, prompting teachers to explain once again how the hour and minute hands work. The situation highlights a generational gap shaped by rapid digitalisation.
Mechanical clocks have played a central role in technological history. The first large mechanical tower clocks appeared in medieval Europe, gradually replacing earlier water- and sun-based systems. Later innovations such as spring-powered mechanisms and balance wheels made timekeeping portable, eventually leading to pocket and wristwatches.
During the twentieth century, watchmaking evolved into a combination of engineering and craftsmanship. Rolex became one of the most recognisable luxury watch brands, associated with precision, durability and iconic professional models developed for exploration and diving. The brand helped reinforce the image of the mechanical watch as a symbol of status and technical mastery.
Casio, on the other hand, transformed everyday timekeeping by popularising quartz and digital watches. The company introduced multifunctional, practical and affordable models that made electronic watches part of daily life and shaped the modern era of wearable digital devices.
The situation in schools has reignited a broader discussion about the balance between traditional skills and digital convenience in everyday routines, reminding society that technological progress does not always replace foundational knowledge entirely.
