Commendation pieces have always held a special place in my heart. The notion of a watch given to commemorate a special achievement in a persons life always peaked my interest. The years of sacrifice, blood, sweat and maybe tears that went into advancing yourself in a given career holds meaning. This watch was given by New York Life - a life insurance company - to a J. Wesley Bergey for his promotion as Senior NYLIC. A recognition for years of exceptional service within the company. Its romantic in a sense. Harken of bygone times where companies awarded a timepiece as an expression of gratitude. It meant something, evidenced by a case well worn over time. To the awardee this watch held sentimental value far greater than a Rolex.

Sentimentality is finicky. The defiance of reason. The irrational connection we make between our emotions and the objects that represent them. This watch is an example of that relationship. For years I have found it difficult to articulate just exactly what it is about vintage watches that I adore so fondly. I am only now just beginning to understand its intangible. Its not about a watches monetary value. Its how they make me feel when its on my wrist.

ABOUT THIS WATCH:

MANUFACTURER: Hamilton

MODEL: Masterpiece

REFERENCE: 9406

SERIAL: Unknown

YEAR: 1983

DIAL: We have a matte silver hamilton masterpiece dial with an extra line of text that reads "Senior NYLIC" The dial appears to be free of any scratches, stains, patina or other imperfections. It features stick hour indices and baton style hands.

CASE: The 34mm 10k Gold filled case is in fair shape. The case presents with even, moderate wear throughout. The receptor of this watch wore this commendatory piece proudly for many years and the watch wears those years of use proudly.

MOVEMENT: The automatic, self winding mechanical movement winds, sets, runs and keeps good time. The service history is unknown. The quickset date function operates normally. The watch was placed on a timegrapher which illustrated that the watch is gaining 13 seconds per day and has an amplitude of 192. The movement can be serviced for $325 + parts. If serviced the watch will come with a 1 year warranty.

BRACELET: Comes on the pictured, brown, genuine ostrich strap made in the USA.

ACCESSORIES: None.

BOX/PAPERS: No.

WARRANTY: None unless serviced prior. If serviced the watch will come with a one year warranty.

BANK WIRE PRICE: $500 shipped.