A businessman in Franklin, Tennessee, has placed a $100,000 cash reward on the return of a luxury watch collection worth more than $1 million. The items were stolen during a break-in at his residence while he and his wife were away on a family trip to Florida.
Chuck McDowell, a name familiar to many in the region due to his advertisements for timeshare cancellation services and his community donations, said he sensed something was off upon returning home. He stated that he immediately told his wife they had been robbed, with his first thought going to his timepieces.
According to McDowell, approximately a dozen watches were taken from the home. He estimates the current value of the collection at over one million dollars. Beyond the financial loss, the method of the theft suggests the intruders had a specific target in mind.
The homeowner noted that while several drawers were opened and left ajar, the burglars did not rummage through them or trashed the house. He believes the thieves knew exactly what they were looking for, which was his watch collection.
Surveillance footage from the property captured two individuals wearing hoods. McDowell said the intruders climbed onto the roof and used black spray paint to obscure security cameras. However, at least one camera remained functional and provided a timeline of the event.
The video shows the time the suspects arrived and the time they departed, indicating they were on the property for about four hours. McDowell believes a significant portion of that time was spent attempting to break into a gun safe located inside the home.
For McDowell, the theft represents a personal loss that goes beyond the seven-figure value of the items. He acknowledged that some people might assume he can simply buy more watches given his financial status. However, he emphasized that two of the stolen pieces are irreplaceable.
One of these unique watches was a gift from his wife to mark their 10th wedding anniversary. It is engraved on the back with the phrase, 'To my greatest adventure,' adding a sentimental layer to the financial loss.
McDowell is now urging the public to come forward with information that leads to the return of his property. He stated that he does not care about securing a conviction, only about getting his belongings back. He is confident that someone knows who committed the theft or where the items are currently located.
Franklin police are currently investigating the burglary. The department noted that residential break-ins can occur even when homeowners take precautions. They recommend locking doors and windows, securing valuables, using lights on timers, and stopping mail deliveries while away. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers.
