[jacknews]

This gets at an underlying concept, but arrives at entirely the wrong conclusion IMHO.

Through history clocks and time have been used to regulate and control society. eg read "About Time: A History of Civilization in Twelve Clocks" by Rooney.

But time-keeping was orchestrated by elites, to control the masses, and differentiate themselves, just like manners. Whoever owned the time, had the best clock, had power and control.

That is now symbolized by expensive clocks and watches, worn by the wealthy and powerful.