Why Steve Jobs Threw An iPod In The Fishtank

Over the past decade, minimalism has shaped industries ranging from fashion and design to furniture and technology. The movement champions stripping away excess — eliminating non-functional elements while preserving aesthetic value. This mindset has become central to how new products and projects are developed today.

Apple, for example, embraced minimalism early on, beginning with the first iPod. In a now-famous anecdote, Steve Jobs threw a prototype iPod into an aquarium to prove it still contained unnecessary space — demonstrated by air bubbles escaping from the device. His relentless drive to eliminate excess and refine design to its most compact, efficient form set a standard that influenced the entire tech industry.

In the world of watches, Casio's F-91W stands as a timeless symbol of minimalism done right. First announced in 1989 and designed by Ryusuke Moriai — a debut design for the calculator company — the watch hit markets in 1991 and became a global hit. Its appeal spanned cultures and decades, seen on the wrist of everyone from fictional heroes like Ripley in Alien to public figures like Barack Obama. Over 30 years later, Casio still produces around three million units annually — a testament to its enduring popularity.

The recent resurgence of minimalism has only strengthened the F-91W’s cult status. Its sturdy build and flexible, durable straps offer practical daily wear. With its wide face and clear, bold numerals, it’s a model of user-friendly design — arguably more practical than Casio’s G-Shock or Edifice lines. The watch’s understated, dark profile allows it to complement both formal and casual attire, achieving that rare balance of professional polish and relaxed style. The subtle blue outline on the watch face adds a sleek accent that enhances its clean aesthetic.

Beyond its looks, the F-91W delivers on functionality. It embodies minimalism with its three-button layout — everything needed for timekeeping, an alarm, and a stopwatch. Its design has withstood decades of shifting trends, maintaining relevance from the 1990s to today. The watch’s popularity also reflects the broader return of '90s-inspired fashion and design in the modern era.

Priced around ₹900 in India or $18.95 in the U.S., the F-91W feels like an unbeatable value. Its only minor shortcoming is its lack of automatic leap year adjustment — a small price to pay for a watch that otherwise performs its core function flawlessly. It gives me exactly what I need: the time, displayed clearly and cleanly, without demanding constant attention.

Of course, this doesn’t take away from the craftsmanship of luxury watches — with their ornate complications, exquisite materials, and historical significance. Those timepieces have their place in horological history. But so does the F-91W, a minimalist icon in its own right.