[evantbyrne]

It's not a fake status symbol if it's the real watch. Old money gatekeeps silly things like the car you drive or the watch you wear because they are threatened by new money. It's a physical reminder that people can in fact buy their way into the upper class and old money is nothing special. Old money has tried to change the narrative by making class about which luxury beliefs a person holds rather than physical goods for the same reason. It's all driven by insecurity.

[hnfong]

I think the GP's point is that if one feels the need to use a status symbol, they're already pretending to be someone they aren't.

Of course a status symbol works to a large extent, otherwise people wouldn't be spending money on them.

I'm nowhere near the social circles of "old money", but I'd imagine they're more amused with seeing people trying too hard to push themselves into upper society, than being insecure about their own status. I mean, I don't have to be upper class to find this behavior somewhat comical.

[evantbyrne]

How is it any more comical than a richer guy buying a different expensive watch to impress his peers? Pricey watches are obviously intended to be status symbols above all else, whether or not you dive.

[ksaj]

Truly rich people don't buy things to impress other people. They buy things that impress and inspire themselves, and that are not directly connected to the nuevo riche who are trying to emulate them.

[evantbyrne]

First time I've heard the No True Rich Man argument. I will have to keep that one in the back pocket. Truly an innovative way to spin luxury spending as a virtue.