My watch tells me what
time it is – and who I am.
The watch is an ACQUA Indiglo, and it belonged to my father, Vern. He wore it for many years as a salesperson crossing Midwestern states in search of high-rising grain elevators needing aeration systems. It was with great pride that he gave it to me shortly before he died in 1999. I’ve worn it ever since, often driving down the same roads my father did. Deep down we were both salesmen, my dad closing deals with farmers and me pitching to hospital administrators. Vern taught me a bunch about sales, honesty and embracing life as a roadway to travel and enjoy.
When possible, it’s important to me to touch the belongings of people I love, who shaped the person I am today. I remember when my dad took off his watch, his berry-brown wrist had a white-flesh brand in the shape of his timepiece. I think of him every time I remove my watch and see the same brand.
Today, eBay has an ACQUA Indiglo watch on sale for eight dollars.
My watch is priceless.