Customer letter: This is what you guys do for a living

November 8, 2011

Marc,
 
I have been a customer of Fink's jewelers for many years, and I have had the distinct privilege of working closely with Mr. Neil Lagarde on most of my purchases. I would first like to pass on my personal recognition to Neil and his store for delivering the finest experience that can be had via a family jeweler. I consider Neil a close friend and would never consider making a purchase elsewhere--even as my business has taken me out of the region.
 
I would also like to share with you a story regarding Mr. Ben W. Forbes of Fuquay-Varina, NC--also a repeat customer of your stores and my late step-father. I am sorry to say that Ben passed away this last week at the young age of 67. He was like a real father to me, and my family will miss him dearly.
 
In 2003, I gave Ben a Rolex from your store as a Christmas gift. Earlier that year, we had lost my mother to cancer at only 57 years old. Ben and my family have remained extremely close over the years and this watch was my gift to him as a token of my appreciation and love.
 
Today, only 8 years later, the watch is back in my possession. Clearly, a timepiece of this caliber is designed to last a lifetime. It saddens me to say that, for Ben, a lifetime came and went all to fast. I have delivered the watch to the Cary store where it will be sent to Rolex for the complete service it needs.
 
I am enclosing a link to a very brief video of Ben in 2003 receiving the watch as a gift. Please take a moment to view it as it is less than 2 minutes. I apologize for the poor quality and my obnoxious laugh; however, I think you'll find Ben's reaction heartwarming. You'll also have to excuse his expletives that are a result of his surprise.
 
I oftentimes have difficulty explaining my love for fine timepieces to others--most of them balking at the price and having no appreciation for the mastery of watchmaking. My response to them usually refers to that fact passing the family iPad down really doesn't have the same effect as a fine timepiece that is meant to last for generations.
 
Please accept my sincerest thanks for the memento your store has allowed me to acquire, and the most excellent service from Fink's Cary Towne Center. This watch has become an important family heirloom that we will cherish.
 
Warmest regards,
Russell Denney