This watch has very special meaning to me and a watch that I will wear often and on many adventures. It is significant because it represents a milestone in my life.
This is because in June 2022 I was diagnosed with prostate cancer. I had been undergoing some tests for a few month prior to my diagnosis but I honestly thought it would not be cancer. I was 49 at the time and had zero symptoms! had it not been for hearing two guys on the radio making awareness I would have been totally unaware. These guys talked of a simple blood test called PSA. When I was next at my doctors I asked for this test. Mine came back at 7.1 and this triggered a few months of testing from MRI to a biopsy before being officially diagnosed its was a shock to me and months of anxiety followed.
Forward to August 2022 my operation to remove my prostate was booked and happened on the 4th.
As of writing this I believe the operation was a success and now a lengthy recovery to full health.
I came home a few days later to a package from DHL. I had no idea what it could be so opened it up to find this watch inside!
It was a gift from Ivan & Judy who own Vario. I have known these guys for a while now Ias they sponsored my channel by way of sending me straps to use in the restorations. Over this time I have got to know Ivan more and we convey via email regularly. Ivan is a massive vintage watch fan. His business is an offshoot of his passion. Vario make interesting vintage inspired watches and accessories I suggest you give the website a browse as there is some very interesting products. https://vario.sg/
I had told Ivan of my cancer and operation and along with his wife Judy they gifted me this Vario 1918, trench watch inspiration and what a creation it is, just look at it right down to the cathedral handset, aged effect lume and those hoop lugs attached to a bund to complete that trench watch look.
What has touched me the most is the inscription they have engraved on the caseback. Not just the happy birthday but the three words “life goes on”
These words and that personalised touch has been profound to me. It touches a chord, given what I have gone though just recently life goes on means so much more.
This watch now marks this negative experience in my life with a positive reminder each time that I look at and wear this watch and for that I will treasure this one and for all my future adventures be it holidays or hiking in the hills this watch will be on my arm and for each time I look at it those three words will motivate me.
Its now more than just a watch.
Thanks for reading and please checkout Vario.sg
