B&M Watches on 45 W 47th in NYC is a great place to visit if you are strolling the area sometime. Quality repairs (at quality prices) and quite the cast of characters working there. The main watchmaker sits behind a tall row of cabinets and drawers. You never see him. Fran, at the front desk, just yells back your items for repair, or questions, and he yells back. The phone is constantly ringing, with conversations going back and forth between English and Hebrew (or was it Yiddish?). It's like the Watchmaker from Oz.
Last year I got to meet "Mr. B" on a visit there. An older man for sure, but he was still working, wearing a well cut, well pressed suit (with vest, of course), and a brown fedora. We chatted for a few minutes on watches and he gave me some advice on how to buy vintage and the decades-long reputation on certain brands. A true gentleman, indeed. Before leaving, we stared speaking of age and I couldn't believe his age when he told me (87, I think). He really looked much younger than his years. As proof of his age, he rolled up his sleeve to show me his tattoo from his time in a Nazi concentration camp. I've never been more shocked and speechless in my life. That image haunted me for weeks.
Sadly, Mr. B died a few months later. I'll never forget this man.
My vintage Timex will always remind me of Mr. B.
2 comments:
well written-enjoy your blogs.
I have an identical watch mid 60s maybe ? any idea?
probably needs cleaning and regulating
10$ ebay special take care
max
I love your story sweet sad and heartbreaking all at the same time.
and I love your watch, after reading your article my husband wanted a watch like this he once had this watch when worked the textile mills in New Jersey
Can you tell me the name or model number I have been searching for ever since.
Thank you and bless you!
Kathy@malluf.com
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