Watch? Watch was a big deal! The era of watches and the memorable history of the rise of "Q&Q"!

This article recounts the historical significance of wristwatches, particularly in Pakistan, from being a luxury item to a widespread necessity. Initially, after the partition of Pakistan, watches, especially from Swiss and Japanese brands like Rado, Seiko, and Citizen, were symbols of status for the affluent. However, a turning point came in 1976 when Japan's Citizen company launched the affordable "Q&Q" brand, short for "Quality and Quantity." This brand democratized watch ownership, making it accessible to all social classes, including laborers, employees, and students. Q&Q watches became a cultural phenomenon in the 1980s and 1990s, serving as coveted gifts for academic achievements and tokens of friendship and love. Despite the decline in watch usage with the advent of mobile phones, the article emphasizes that watches, particularly Q&Q, represent a cherished era, a lifestyle, and numerous memories for those who experienced their peak popularity.