One of a Kind

The Times, London, 1895

Public Notice: Offered for private sale is a gold watch engineered to allow the discriminating Gentleman the opportunity to experience time in a new way. This is a one-of-a-kind item. Serious inquiries only. Reply to Box 154 at this newspaper.

New York Times, 1946

Classified Ads, Personal: Looking for a companion willing to accompany this writer on a unique adventure. Interest in history is required. Time period is negotiable. Reply to Box 7832, Grand Central Station.

Chicago.Craigslist.org, 2016

lost+found: Seeking information leading to the recovery of an antique gold pocket watch lost or possibly stolen in the vicinity of Lincoln Park. I swear, it's like this thing just jumped out of my pocket. Reward provided. DO NOT change the settings! Email and phone below.

Usenet cross-post: comp.misc and sci.physics, 1994

Subject: weird watch

Hey, guys. I picked up an old-fashioned, gold pocket watch in Chicago, and I desperately need help from anyone who understands it. The mechanism is kind of complicated with a lot of dials and knobs, and it does some weird stuff. I'd be happy to trade the watch to anyone who can help me figure out how it works. After I get back home, it's yours. I want nothing more to do with this thing! Use the reply to sender and I'll get the message. Thanks.

Reddit.com/r/whatisthisthing, 2018

Having some fun with this watch but where did it come from?

[deleted]

Submitted 6 months ago by [deleted]

The Lattice, SE Region, Sector 12-B, 2043

General announcements: Lost very old watch in Lower Warrens running from skinners. Must have it back. Can provide guaranteed transportation out in exchange. Contact me at this node. Stranded until I get the watch back.

The Times, London, 1895

Public Notice: Offered for private sale is a gold watch engineered to allow the discriminating Gentleman the opportunity to experience time in a new way. This is one of only two in existence. Serious inquiries only. Reply to Box 154 at this newspaper.