Chapter 294: Adachi Watch
On Lake Tanganyika, boats made in East Africa and those seized from indigenous people set sail with Msiri's people. The lake had depths exceeding 500 meters.
Msiri himself was aboard a large ship powered by artificial means, designed by the Kigoma Shipyard. Sailors rowed the oars of this ship as it headed north.
On the banks of the Limpopo River, several small wooden boats approached East African territory along the gently flowing river.
Van der Meer, an East African businessman, asked Uris about the goods being transported that day. Uris informed him that a batch of Anda watches had arrived from Dar es Salaam, describing them as high-quality Swiss products incorporating the latest European craftsmanship.
Van der Meer was intrigued but mentioned he had never heard of the Anda watch brand. Uris explained that Anda was a new company with well-known Swiss designers, precise manufacturing, and low failure rates. He offered to show Van der Meer the watches.
Van der Meer agreed and requested to see the goods. Uris carefully took out a delicate small box, revealing a wristwatch. Van der Meer, accustomed to pocket watches, was fascinated by this novel wristwatch concept. Uris explained the convenience of wearing a watch on the wrist, and how raising the arm allowed for easy time-checking.
Van der Meer found the idea novel but questioned whether it was necessary when pocket watches were comfortable. Uris explained that for gentlemen on horseback like the Boers, wristwatches offered more convenience when checking the time while riding.
Van der Meer requested to try on one of the watches. Uris initially misunderstood and tried to hand over a leather strap, but Van der Meer meant the watch on Uris's wrist. Uris reluctantly agreed and handed over his silver Anda watch.
Van der Meer admired the craftsmanship and comfort of the watch. Uris shared that Anda watches were worn by European aristocrats and even Crown Prince Rudolf of Austria.
Van der Meer was moved and offered to buy the watch for thirty pounds. Uris agreed. Van der Meer also purchased the remaining watches, including the cheapest ones for four pounds each.
Van der Meer was pleased with his purchases and believed that these watches would be well-received in Transvaal. He assured Uris that he would buy more silver watches in the future.
Uris, impressed by the Boer's purchasing power, agreed to bring more watches on his next trip.
This chapter concludes with Van der Meer expressing his confidence in the growing business prospects of Transvaal.
(Note: This is the end of this chapter.)