Additional Coverage:
- Real use for tiny pocket in jeans finally revealed – and it’s been staring you in the face (irishstar.com)
Ever wondered about that tiny pocket on your jeans? It’s been a source of mystery for denim wearers for generations. Some folks have guessed it’s for lighters, thumb rests, or even “pocket sand.”
The truth, according to Levi Strauss & Co. historian Tracey Panek, is much more practical. That small pocket was originally designed to hold a pocket watch. The feature dates back to the first pair of jeans in 1873.
The oldest pair in the company’s archives, from 1879, includes this watch pocket. Back then, jeans only had one back pocket on the right side. The left back pocket, making it the fifth pocket overall, wasn’t added to the Levi’s 501 until 1901.
The basic design of Levi’s jeans hasn’t changed much since the 19th century. However, during World War II, the two corner rivets on the watch pocket were removed to conserve metal for the war effort.
Even with the historical explanation, people still have their own theories. Some jokingly suggest it’s for things you never want to take out, or even a “meat pocket” for snacks. The mystery, it seems, lives on.