Discovering my Fathers Reservist Timepiece with getting it restored and running again

It was a one-day, typical Sunday afternoon. I decided to explore the storage room of my house (I live in a flat on Singapore). As I ventured through heavy stacks inside, I was filled with a sense of curiosity and anticipation. After all, every attic holds a time capsule, and this one was no different.

So, when I stumbled across the chest box in the storage room one day, I was intrigued. What could possibly be inside this mysterious box that my father kept so tightly locked away?

As I entered the musty room, my eyes were drawn to a wooden chest that had been pushed into the corner. It was old, battered, and slightly cracked - but there was something about it that drew me in. As I knelt down to inspect it further, I realized there was padlock or latch. With a deep breath, I opened the lid to reveal its contents.

My father confided in me that he has treasured these items inside for over a decade, as it holds significant sentimental value to him.

    

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Inside the box were several exciting items: insignia patches, notebooks, leather pouch, old 1990s tech and camera and 2 Watches. One was a Boy size watch he had since child. The Second was a Victorinox!

This once-vibrant Victorinox Watch caught my eye. Sadly, the timepiece was no longer functioning well when found.

The watch my father possesses bears profound symbolism, embodying his resolute commitment during his tenure in the Air Force Reserve, treasured recollections of his service, and unwavering devotion to his nation.  It is a reminder of the dedicated years he spent away from home to help serve our country and when needed to get his paychecks.

It came with a Original Rubber strap and its own compass (doesn’t work anymore)

   

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Determined to restore the watch to its former glory, first I decided to take it to a local watchmaker to handle its internal condition. After weeks of meticulous labor, the watchmaker proudly presented me with a fully repaired timepiece.

But that wasn't all: The crystal was still dented from its many years hidden away in the chest box. Not wanting to keep a less than perfect watch, I took matters into my own hands and decided to research solutions.

I soon found exactly what I needed - tools and supplies to replace the crystal. After gathering the necessary components, I carefully removed the damaged glass and inserted a stunning sapphire crystal in its place.

Lately, the second and minute hands have also came off. I had the chance to place it back.

    

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My work was done! As I looked at the end result, I couldn't help but feel proud; my newfound watch hobby had reached its peak! It felt like a truly special moment - something that I would never forget.

  

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Since I was in my youth days, my father was always an enigma to me. We didn't have much time to share in common and there wasn't much to understand. Nowadays, every time I find myself in need of a mentor or advice, he is always by my side, still ready to support me today. To make out for lost time, now is an opportune moment as I've matured.

It was a truly happiest and proud moment when my watch hobby reached its peak.

Thanks Dad!

Reply
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I think our watches are loosely related although yours has the much better story.

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lubart

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I think our watches are loosely related although yours has the much better story.

No worries, it's great that both of our watches are loosely related! It's always inspiring to hear how a product plays a role in someone's life. We’re both here to share our own unique stories, so it's all good! Plus, variety is the spice of life - and having different perspectives might just offer us a fresh insight into our own! Have a wonderful day, enjoy your watch hobby and do create content stories like this 😊👌 #victorinox

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Well done! Nice find and great job restoring the watch!

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weng_c

Well done! Nice find and great job restoring the watch!

Thanks! #victorinox

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I really enjoyed the story of your dad’s watch! Watches are just pieces of manufactured items for sale, without a connection to an owner they are nothing more or less. Sometimes we have to guess at the history and sometimes we are fortunate enough to hear or read from either the owner or a next caretaker. Thx!

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Much appreciated with your thoughtful comment regarding my dad's watch.

It's amazing how something as obviously unimportant as a piece of technology can have such a rich past and arouse such a range of feelings.

I concur; without a link to its owner, it is just a meaningless thing. I'm pleased you liked it; stories like this help make things come to life. I'm thankful for the opportunity to share the tale with others so that they can enjoy it as well. Thank you once more for your wonderful words! Cheers. #victorinox

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What a lovely story, family’s are great aren’t they?

I too had revelations about my dad unfortunately though it was his passing that triggered the finds, not all about watches but his military career, he served in ww2.

I have his watch a 1960’s rotary auto that he wore everyday right up to his demise…… it has now stopped working so I will get round to fixing it one day.

Thanks

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Bayl61

What a lovely story, family’s are great aren’t they?

I too had revelations about my dad unfortunately though it was his passing that triggered the finds, not all about watches but his military career, he served in ww2.

I have his watch a 1960’s rotary auto that he wore everyday right up to his demise…… it has now stopped working so I will get round to fixing it one day.

Thanks

Wonderful! Family stories are truly unique and can elicit both joy and nostalgia. That is what distinguishes us as humans. It's good that you have his watch as a keepsake. The fact that he wore it every day till the pass on demonstrates its sentimental worth.

I can understand the importance of preserving and repairing such a cherished timepiece. When the time comes, repairing it will not only restore its functionality but will also keep your father's memories alive through the watch he treasured. Blessed you my friend and thank you for sharing your own story. Reminding us of the priceless bonds we share with our loved ones. #victorinox

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Thank you for sharing your story. I would do the same if I could find my Dads watch. Enjoy the watch and your time with your father. 🤝

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whystopatone

Thank you for sharing your story. I would do the same if I could find my Dads watch. Enjoy the watch and your time with your father. 🤝

I'm delighted I could serve as an inspiration to you. Thank you too my friend, and have a wonderful day. Stay safe and take good care of yourself! #victorinox

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SunnyCrackit

I'm delighted I could serve as an inspiration to you. Thank you too my friend, and have a wonderful day. Stay safe and take good care of yourself! #victorinox

I wrote a similar post “This is my fathers new Timex” a few weeks ago. I don’t know how it link it from my page.

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whystopatone

I wrote a similar post “This is my fathers new Timex” a few weeks ago. I don’t know how it link it from my page.

https://www.watchcrunch.com/whystopatone/posts/this-is-my-fathers-new-timex-43813

I read it, it's touching story and relatable.🙏Your dad will be so blessed and proud when you meant to tell him that the importance of a timepiece will forever holds its sentimental value. #victorinox

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Beautiful #victorinox and story my friend 😎

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Franks

Beautiful #victorinox and story my friend 😎

Thank you brother frank 🍻 #victorinox