5 years ago my mom’s prized possession was stolen from her. It was the watch that her mother left for her upon her passing. My mom grew up from extremely humble beginnings, and this was the only nice piece that my grandmother had, which was given to her originally by my grandfather who worked extremely hard to provide for the family of four children.
The monetary value of that piece wasn’t huge, but the sentimental value was incalculable. My mom was heartbroken. In many ways, she viewed that watch as a link to her mother.
I’ve been thinking for years how I can make this right for my mom. The police never found the thief nor the watch.
About a month ago, I made a decision to take a risk and pick something without any input from my mom because I wanted it to be a complete surprise to her. Today, we, as a family, realized that decision as I had the great honor and privilege to gift my mother a new family tradition and heirloom: her own Patek Philippe. We went as a family to the salon in order to document the memory as that piece is enjoyed by mom for many years to come and then the subsequent generations in the future.
In a hobby that is many times very much an individual experience, I was proud and honored to be able to do this for her. It was just the two of us from the time I was 11 years old. I owe her everything I have, and my heart is overflowing today. She was blown away. We both shed tears, and she absolutely loves the gesture and the piece. Thank you for sharing this moment with me and my family. Here are a few pictures from today.