I take my watch to Tourneau where they offer free battery changes for life if you purchased your watch from them. I did. It takes two weeks.
I feel naked without my watch, so I take out my previous watch, now my backup. But of course that watch, which hasn't been worn in I -don't-know-how-long also needs a new battery. I wear it to work thinking I'll run-out at lunch to get a new one.
I google "watch batteries" and put in my work zip code. A name pops up. Manhattan Time Service. 2 West 46th Street. 3 blocks away. Perfect.
I call to make sure they have a battery replacement for an Ebel watch. They do.
"Can you replace my battery while I wait?"
"Yes."
"How much?"
"$70."
Wow. That sounds high to me. But maybe that's what it costs. I have no idea.
I leave work and it's blissering hot. I'll stop on 47th Street, I decide. It's a block closer. And surely they'll be watch retailers in the famed Diamond District.
I find one.
Mr. Lee is meticulously working on two watches. I trust him without knowing him.
When he's done with his customer, I hand over my watch.
Five mintues later, he hands it back.
"Eight dollars," he says.
Okay. I get how prices can vary from store to store. Maybe the first quote was for an Ebel battery vs. a generic one. But really, 8 vs 70?
My watch now tells the correct time. That's all I really care about. Thank you Mr. Lee.
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