Eli5: Why do jeans still have watch pockets?
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This is known as a skeunomorph, or more generally skeuomorphism. It’s an element of somethings design where the original purpose is no longer needed, but has become synonymous with the product to the point where removing it may be detrimental for a number of reasons, such as sales, brand recognition or ease-of-use.
The studs on jeans are a common example. Traditionally (a hundred plus years ago) working denim was difficult, they needed the studs to hold the pieces of denim together. Later, mechanical sewing machines and technological advancement in constructed textiles meant the studs were unnecessary, but they’re retained because of the historic lineage and because ‘that’s what Levi’s look like’.
Another good example is the floppy disk being used for the Save Icon. My son has never seen a floppy disk, but understands that the shape means ‘save your work’ and that it’s seemingly universal, across all the software he uses. The last time I used a floppy disk to save my work was probably the mid-90s.
Edit: words.
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