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My First Watch Discovering My Grandfather's Forgotten Rolex Submariner (VIDEO)

And the complications of bringing a watch back to life.


Everyone who comes to love watches does so in their own unique way. Typically, the romance starts with the very first one we own. In my case, it's the watch I still wear to this day. While it wasn't my first watch in the absolute literal sense, it was my first in every way that matters. Over a year ago, I had the chance to tell the story of a watch and person that are very important to me: My Rolex Submariner ref. 5513 and my grandfather.

Now I get the chance to revisit that story at home with my wife Kasia (you might recognize her photography on the site), hear about the discovery of the watch from my father's perspective, and pore over old family photos. I'll always remember my grandfather through my first watch.

Producer's note: Today we are excited to launch “My First Watch,” a new series featuring our editors and guests and their first watch - or the first watch that had an impact on them. The first installment features editor Danny Milton, who shares the story of his Rolex Submariner. Danny first wrote about this watch in April of 2020. You can read the full article here. - Shahed Khaddash