So…it pisses my co-worker off when people wear watches….

Your co-worker is the type to shoot up his workplace. Do not engage.

Well actually, be friends with him in the hopes he doesn’t shoot you when he snaps.

Dude’s a nut.

Said another way 'I am either jealous because I can't afford a nice watch because of what I paid for this phone or - and more likely - I don't know how to read a watch'

I'm wearing a watch right now, at 8AM on a Saturday morning while doing nothing but drinking coffee and talking with you people.

But I'm also 50+...and have been wearing a watch since I was, I don't know, maybe 10?

For a certain set it's just been ingrained in them - a watch is just an extension of their daily routine and, sometimes, who they are.

I will never get why people get so upset about people wearing/spending money on watches. If it's not for you, then cool...that's a you decision...and I fully support you choosing to get the time from your phone or somewhere else.

So why do the non-watch folks feel so much animosity towards the watch folks?

Invite your co-worker to the site so we can have a Q&A. We can't be harmed if he gets uber-triggered, but you might be, so be careful.

I never even notice if my co-workers have watches on

Your co-worker has much deeper issues than melting over someone wearing a watch. Tread lightly.

I use my watch to tell time. A lot easier and less distracting than pulling my phone out my pocket.

Tell me where he is and I’ll pay a visit wearing my mid 80’s collection of Swatch watches.