It took Liu Yong a long time to calm down.

Liu Yong never anticipated that he would assist the police in retrieving a box of shotguns, uncover a sunken ship, and come into possession of an antique watch valued at over 20 million yuan.

The master appraiser, noticing Liu Yong's cheerful demeanor, inquired,

"Mr. Liu, would you mind if I examine the contents of the watch by opening it?"

After a moment's pause, Liu Yong expressed some hesitation.

Given the immense value of the antique watch, Liu Yong was apprehensive about the potential risks involved in opening it, as even a slight mishap could result in significant losses.

Noticing Liu Yong's apprehension, the master appraiser attempted to assuage his concerns by reassuring him, saying,

"You don't have to worry. I am a seasoned professional, and I will simply open the watch cover to examine its contents without tampering with any of the internal parts."

After much contemplation, Liu Yong eventually acquiesced and nodded in agreement.

Once granted permission, the master appraiser pried the watch cover using a specialized tool, revealing the internal components.

Upon inspection, it became apparent that most of the watch's internal parts had been crafted from gold—only a select few necessitated alloy steel and other materials, consequently employed for those components.

True to his word, the master appraiser refrained from manipulating any of the internal components, instead opting to thoroughly examine the watch using a professional-grade magnifying glass.

After an extended period spent scrutinizing the watch's inner workings, the master appraiser exclaimed,

"It's remarkable that after over a century has passed, the internal components remain in such exceptional condition. It is exceedingly rare."

The watch possesses a certain degree of airtightness, which has played a critical role in preserving its internal components. Despite submerging in seawater for over a century, some seawater has undoubtedly permeated the watch's interior. However, the watch's hermeticity has enabled it to create a relatively stable environment, thereby minimizing corrosion and preserving the internal parts. Although there are some rust spots, they are not indicative of severe erosion, and the overall condition of the watch is relatively good.

Liu Yong mentioned, "I attempted to wind the mainspring, but the watch remains motionless."

The master appraiser responded reassuringly, "It's not a significant issue. With some minor repairs from a professional, the watch can be restored to its normal functioning state."

As the two discussed the antique watch, a young man in his early twenties approached and positioned beside them. He appeared to be a few years younger than Liu Yong.

After leaning in for a closer look, the young man spent a minute or two scrutinizing the watch intently, with his gaze seemingly transfixed upon it.

After carefully examining the antique watch for a short while, the young man could contain his enthusiasm no longer and blurted out,

"Brother, your watch is really impressive. Would you be interested in selling it to me?"

It was apparent that the young man was eager to purchase the watch on the spot, despite its extreme value, which exceeded 20 million yuan, making it a highly sought-after timepiece coveted by collectors around the globe.

Don't say that Liu Yong was slightly surprised. The Master who appraised this watch also glanced at the young man in surprise and reminded:

"You want to buy this watch. Do you know what kind of watch it is?"

The young man, seemingly undeterred by the master appraiser's cautionary words, replied humbly,

"I'm not an expert in watches, but this timepiece appears to be in excellent condition. Can you tell me more about it, Master?"

The master appraiser replied, "This is a limited edition Patek Philippe watch from over a hundred years ago. It is crafted from 18K gold and is believed to be an extremely rare timepiece. If it is as well-preserved as this one, its value is even higher. In fact, this watch is worth a fortune."

The young man then inquired, "Master, may I ask how much this watch is worth?"

Liu Yong couldn't help but chuckle at the young man's question, realizing he must have known the watch's worth already. The master appraiser replied,

"In my professional opinion, the value of this watch is estimated to be at least 20 million or more."

When most people hear a number like 20 million, their typical reaction is to get astonished, but this young man didn't but looked happy.

"Great, I finally found a decent antique watch, I must buy it." The young man cheered.

Liu Yong couldn't help but wonder who he was and why he was so unfazed by such a large sum of money. It could be that he was a wealthy individual or from a wealthy family, but Liu Yong needed help to be sure.

After expressing his happiness, the young man introduced himself as Ding Wen and mentioned his interest in collecting various items, including antique watches. He said his desire to acquire a timepiece but admitted that he still needed to attain the level of expertise of a seasoned collector. He then asked Liu Yong to offer him a watch.

As the interested buyer gazed at him imploringly, Liu Yong responded candidly, "I'm Liu Yong, and I'm willing to sell it to you. However, my asking price is non-negotiable at 30 million."

Since the Master had appraised the item at over 20 million, Liu Yong set his asking price at 30 million, not wanting to shortchange himself.

When Ding Wen saw the high cost, he made a plea, "Brother Yong, your asking price seems steep. The Master's appraisal was 20 million, so would you consider accepting my offer of 21 million?"

The two bargained for a price and finally settled for 26 million.

Ding Wen said: "That's 26 million, but please wait for me for a day, I will raise some money, tomorrow we will pay with one hand and deliver with one hand, how about it?"

Liu Yong was not in a hurry for this day and agreed: "Yes, you can come to my company tomorrow and bring a cash check."

"Okay, that's it."

The young man replied.

The two left each other's contact information and added WeChat friends to each other. Ding Wenhuan went happily. Before leaving, he repeatedly told Liu Yong that he must keep this antique watch for him.

As Liu Yong watched the man leave, he felt a sense of contentment. "What an intriguing individual," he thought to himself. Initially, the prospect of receiving over 20 million yuan had seemed effortless. However, raising the necessary funds appeared more complex than he had anticipated. Nonetheless, Liu Yong remained optimistic and resolved to find a way to gather the required funds.

Paying the appraisal fee, Liu Yong carefully put this antique watch in his pocket, which is worth 26 million.

Once he had stowed away the newly acquired watch, Liu Yong glanced at the prominent watch displays. He then took Li Changle's hand and exclaimed, "Let's go! Come with me to purchase a timepiece."

The high-end watch is a status symbol, and successful or wealthy individuals often sport it. Despite his success, Liu Yong still needed to acquire a top-quality watch.

Accompanied by Li Changle and followed by Chen Hu, they perused the various counters of renowned watch brands. After browsing for a while, Liu Yong became enamored with a set of matching couple's watches with a price tag of 868,000.historical

Despite its steep price, Liu Yong was pleased with the watch's aesthetic appeal, craftsmanship, and prestigious brand. Donning such a luxurious timepiece would undoubtedly boost his image and reputation.

"Lele, what do you think of this watch set? You can wear the women's watch,"

Liu Yong suggested to Li Changle. However, Li Changle shook her head quickly and expressed hesitation about the cost.

Liu Yong reassured him, "As my girlfriend, it's only natural for me to give you something. Don't worry about the price."

Li Changle remained resolute in her principles, stating that he could not accept something of such high value. Despite Liu Yong's attempts to persuade her, Li Changle did not waver.

Liu Yong was impressed by Li Changle's integrity and principles. He realized Li Changle was unlike other girls who might have preferred more expensive gifts from their boyfriends.