Why Shouldn’t You Give a Watch or a Clock as a Birthday Gift?

Many people believe that giving a watch or a clock as a birthday gift is bad luck, especially for those who follow feng shui traditions. But is this really true? Let’s explore the reasons behind this belief and whether timepieces, such as watches and clocks are truly inappropriate gifts for birthdays.

Some believe timepieces symbolize bad luck and endings

Why Are Watches and Clocks Considered Unlucky Birthday Gifts?

The idea of avoiding watches and clocks as birthday presents comes from two main reasons:

Influence from Chinese Culture

In Chinese traditions, the phrase “giving a clock” (送钟 - sòng zhōng) sounds very similar to “attending a funeral” or “to pay one's last respect” (送终 - sòng zhōng). Because of this unfortunate phonetic similarity, watches and clocks are associated with bad luck, death, and farewells.

This belief becomes even stronger when it comes to birthdays, which celebrate a new year of life rather than symbolize time running out.

To counteract this superstition, some people who receive a watch or a clock as a gift may symbolically “buy” it from the giver by paying a small amount of money. This gesture is believed to neutralize any bad luck associated with the gift.

The phrase “giving a clock” sounds like “attending a funeral”

Symbolism of Time and Aging

Watches and clocks serve as reminders of time passing. Some people—especially those sensitive about aging—might feel uncomfortable receiving a timepiece on their birthday, as it can unintentionally highlight the limited nature of time.

This is why watches and clocks are sometimes considered inappropriate gifts for birthdays, particularly for older individuals.

Should You Give a Watch or a Clock to an Older Person?

As mentioned earlier, older individuals are often more sensitive about age-related matters. Receiving a watch or clock might make them think about how much time they have left rather than enjoying the present.

However, there are exceptions. If you know for certain that the recipient loves watches—such as collectors of vintage timepieces—or enjoys decorating their home with elegant clocks, then this gift can still be appreciated.

That said, if you’re unsure about the recipient’s feelings on this matter, it’s best to avoid gifting a watch or clock to prevent any unintended discomfort.

Avoid gifting a watch or clock to elders

Watches and Clocks Are an Absolute No for Longevity Celebrations

A longevity celebration is a special birthday occasion that not only marks another year of life but also conveys blessings and deep respect for the elderly.

During these celebrations, family members gather to express their best wishes for the honoree’s health, happiness, and long life. When choosing a gift for such an occasion, it’s important to avoid anything that could be considered unlucky—like a watch or a clock.

In Vietnam and many Asian cultures, longevity celebrations mark key milestones. Turning 60, 70, 80, or 90 honors wisdom and resilience, while reaching 100 is a grand celebration of a century of life, symbolizing health, blessings, and strong family bonds.

At these ages, every moment of life becomes even more precious, and every day spent with loved ones is a gift. However, giving a watch or clock at such a time may unintentionally remind the recipient of life’s fleeting nature, making them feel anxious or uneasy.

Longevity celebrations focus on health and happiness, not time limits

Feelings of worry and stress can negatively impact mental and physical health, leading to sleep disturbances, high blood pressure, heart problems, or weakened immunity. This goes against the purpose of a longevity celebration, which is meant to bring joy and reassurance to the elderly.

In East Asian cultures, particularly among older generations, traditions and spiritual beliefs still hold significant importance. This is why avoiding gifts like watches, clocks, and even hourglass in these situations is a sign of respect.

Instead of a timepiece, consider gifts that symbolize longevity and prosperity, such as:

• Calligraphy art featuring words like "Phúc - Lộc - Thọ" (Happiness - Wealth - Longevity)
• Bonsai or lucky plants
• Feng shui figurines
• Health-focused gifts that promote well-being and peace of mind

The Positive Meaning of Giving a Watch or Clock

Despite the superstitions surrounding watches and clocks as birthday gifts, they remain practical and meaningful presents in many situations. If the recipient is not concerned about feng shui or spiritual beliefs, a watch or clock can be a wonderful gift that offers several benefits:

• Watches help manage time effectively
• A stylish watch serves as a fashion accessory
• Smartwatches provide health tracking features like heart rate monitoring and blood pressure checks
• Decorative clocks enhance home or office aesthetics

Ultimately, whether a watch or clock is an appropriate gift depends on the recipient. If they appreciate the gesture and do not hold superstitious beliefs, a timepiece can still be a thoughtful and useful present. However, if they are sensitive to cultural taboos, it’s best to opt for a different gift to avoid any misunderstandings or discomfort

A timepiece can be stylish, practical, and meaningful in some cases

Conclusion

We hope this article has helped you understand why watches and clocks are sometimes considered inappropriate birthday gifts and the cultural beliefs behind this idea. While timepieces are undeniably useful and meaningful, gifting them requires careful consideration, especially for certain recipients.

Looking for meaningful birthday gifts? Explore CHUS, where you’ll find a curated collection of handcrafted, elegant, and culturally rich gift options.