My journey into the world of watches began at a young age, fostered by the presence of my grandfather and his extensive pocket watch collection. The sound of ticking filled their house, with a grandfather clock and a German cuckoo clock dominating the atmosphere. As a child, the sight of pocket watches strewn around the house fascinated me, and my grandfather would often take the time to let me listen to the ticking movement.
It wasn't until I lost my grandfather that I truly appreciated the significance of his collection. His house was a treasure trove, filled with maritime research books, watch and clock books, and an extensive library on Great Lakes maritime history and Midwestern railroads. He was not just a collector of objects, but a seeker of knowledge and context, meticulously documenting each watch's history and value.
As I delved into his collection, I discovered that his love for pocket watches started in the early 1960s when he received a Swiss pocket watch as a gift. However, it was a Hampden pocket watch from 1894 that truly captured his heart. He spent years quietly expanding his collection, focusing on American pocket watches from the late 1800s and early 1900s.
My grandfather's passion compelled me to become more involved in watches, immersing myself in the industry's history and modern pieces. As I built my own collection, I sought out his watches, guided by his meticulous records. However, I came across a forum post from someone who had stumbled upon my grandfather's collection and recognized its value. I missed my chance to reclaim those watches, feeling a sense of regret for not prioritizing them earlier.
But I've come to realize that my journey in watches shouldn't be about preserving my grandfather's legacy. Instead, it should be a personal exploration of my own passions and interests. My grandfather valued not only the objects themselves but also the love for collecting that connected people. I strive to continue his legacy by following my own path in the world of watches.
Although I may not have his watches, I will always cherish the memories and lessons he imparted to me. His collection will forever hold a special place in my heart as a testament to his curiosity, meticulousness, and love for pocket watches. In the end, it's not about the watches themselves, but the connection I share with my "Grandpa Clock."
