The Tale of Time

PEOPLE WHO LIVE in a modern world crave modern things. It’s almost laughable—actually, it is quite laughable—to think of some poor soul in this day and age bearing a boom box on his shoulders with blinking lights rivaling those on the Millennium Falcon and listening to the latest tunes from a basement-recorded Hi-Fi cassette—trademarks of the hip ’70s and ’80s. Why go through all the effort when the compact iPod and an entire generation of its relatives are available?

But, even in a modern world, there are some things better left alone: the inscriptions on American currency, the rain forest and the innocence of a child. In the world of promotional products, there, too, are standards that should be kept. Clocks and watches are part of that rare offering of promotional products that maintain classic allure in the face of changing times.

The promotional appeal of clocks and watches derive from several factors, according to Heather Cassese, president of Carmel, New York-based Calcutime. “They are constantly seen, they have a high-perceived value and they’re products you will always use and can stand the test of time,” she said.

Cassese said while her company’s products—primarily clocks—have not had occasion to change much over the years, its silver-finish selections have been popular lately. In addition, she said a trend taking place at Calcutime is the use of atomic clocks. “We carry USA and global atomic clocks,” she noted. “This clock sends a signal to a central location and automatically adjusts the time,” something modern timekeepers will relish. The company carries several models, including desk and travel atomic clocks, as well as those with built-in picture frames.

But as is the case in a modern world, modern conveniences and style are inevitable. Black IP, ionized plated bracelet watches, “have absolutely taken the market by storm,” said Shelly Burnett, marketing coordinator for the corporate markets division at Fossil, Richardson, Texas. Currently, the company is branching off into other colors, including blue, gray and maroon.