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What Percentage Wear Glasses?
Curated by
kunledotapp
1 min read
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Wearable accessories like glasses and watches remain popular globally, with approximately 4 billion people wearing glasses and an estimated 35-40% of the population wearing watches. While glasses usage is driven largely by vision needs, watch-wearing persists despite smartphones, influenced by both fashion and smartwatch functionality.

Global Glasses Statistics

Globally, an estimated 4 billion people rely on glasses for vision correction, representing over half of the world's population
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This prevalence varies significantly by age and region. In the Netherlands, for instance, 62% of the population wears glasses at least occasionally, with usage increasing dramatically after age 55
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Factors contributing to the widespread use of glasses include:
  • Aging populations in many countries
  • Increased screen time and near-work activities
  • Improved access to eye care in developing nations
  • Growing awareness of vision health
As these trends continue, experts project that the number of people requiring vision correction will likely rise in the coming years
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U.S. Glasses Usage

In the United States, approximately two-thirds of adults rely on some form of vision correction, including glasses or contact lenses
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This high prevalence reflects the country's aging population and increased awareness of vision health. Factors contributing to widespread glasses usage in the U.S. include:
  • Extensive screen time due to widespread technology use
  • Regular eye exams as part of routine healthcare
  • Fashion trends embracing glasses as stylish accessories
  • Improved lens technologies offering better comfort and aesthetics
The eyewear market in the U.S. continues to thrive, with the country leading as the largest global market for glasses and related vision products
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Global Watch-Wearing Trends

Worldwide, an estimated 35-40% of the population still wears watches, despite the ubiquity of smartphones
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This trend is driven by various factors, including fashion, functionality, and the rise of smartwatches. The global watch market is projected to generate $75.75 billion in revenue for 2023, with an anticipated annual growth rate of 4.44% between 2023 and 2026
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China emerged as the top revenue-generating market for luxury watches in 2022, while Rolex remains the foremost brand in the worldwide timepiece market
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U.S. Watch-Wearing Data

According to a 2018 survey, approximately 32% of American consumers reported regularly wearing a wristwatch
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This figure varies significantly based on income levels, with 82% of individuals from households earning $100,000 or more annually wearing watches regularly
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Interestingly, a study from the University of Glasgow found that watch wearers tend to be more conscientious and punctual, arriving earlier for appointments compared to non-watch wearers
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Despite the prevalence of smartphones, watches remain popular due to their convenience, fashion appeal, and the growing market for smartwatches with health and fitness tracking capabilities.
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