Why you can’t give a watch?

It is believed that giving clocks as a gift is a bad omen, as they may lead to separation or misfortune. In some cultures, such a gift is associated with the countdown to parting or even predicting the end of friendship or love. This superstition is common in China, Russia, and several other countries.

Chinese Origin

One of the main reasons for this superstition is related to Chinese tradition. In the Chinese language, the phrase “giving clocks” (送钟 – sòng zhōng) sounds similar to the words “go to a funeral.” Therefore, in China, this gift is considered an ominous sign.

European Traditions

In Europe, clocks are associated with the passage of time and aging. It is believed that when someone receives a clock as a gift, they are reminded of their mortality, which can cause discomfort. This is especially true for elderly people.

Interesting Facts About the Superstition

How to avoid a bad omen? In Eastern European countries, it is customary to give a symbolic coin when receiving a clock as a gift. This turns the gift into a purchase and neutralizes the superstition.

Not everyone takes this superstition seriously. In Western countries and among young people, clocks are a popular gift, especially luxurious brands.
Clocks as a symbol of success. In the business world, expensive watches symbolize status and success, which is why they are often given for anniversaries or significant events.

In Japan, giving clocks is not prohibited, but they may be perceived as an impersonal or not very thoughtful gift.

Giving clocks is a controversial tradition. For some, it is a stylish and functional gift, while for others, it is a bad omen predicting separation. If you want to give someone a clock, make sure they do not believe in superstitions or simply take a symbolic coin from them to remove the “negative effect.”

Read also: Which hand do you wear a watch on?