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Re: Wearable Computer causes Decontamination Dilemma

From: Pete Hardie <>
Date: Mon, 02 Apr 2001 13:27:00 -0400

Charles J Knight wrote:
> 
> > A question in relation to this topic:
> >
> > If a typical wealthy executive gets hosed-down, and his
> > expensive watch gets damaged, does the govt reimburse for it?
> 
> As someone who wears vintage watches on an everyday basis
> (valued at between $800 and $6000 each) I can tell you that most
> watches of this quality level are at the very least water resistant.
> 
> Granted, my 1953 Bulova tank watch is not, but you didn't expect
> water resistance back then -- most of the ones made between 1965
> and today have some sort of gasket seal between the screw on
> back (two of mine have gasketed snap on backs, too) and the
> crystal is usually water resistant too.  Notice, water RESISTANT,
> not water PROOF.
> 
> The repair for one of these watches would likely be a simple
> cleaning, lubrication, and adjustment -- costs appx $300 at
> Bailey, Banks and Biddle, a reputable jeweler.  And that's
> assuming fairly bad internal damage, but caught kinda' early.
> If you shop around, you can get it done cheaper, but do you
> want to send a $2500 watch to the low bidder?
> 
> Replacement value on the other hand, can run into the
> thousands of dollars for this type of watch.
> 
> > If so, then the only wearable issue for most of us is solved - let
> > it get washed and get a receipt.
> 
> I'd be curious to know if they'd reimburse you for damages?  Keep
> in mind, good suits are also very expensive to replace.  And I have
> cowboy boots that cost hundreds of dollars per pair, replacement
> value.
> 
> Imagine the replacement cost for a bunch of people's clothes!

Precisely.  If the actions taken were not, in fact, necessary, then 
the issue of replacement costs is valid. (If decon is necessary, there
is still the issue, but one which can be countered with the benefit
of decon)

-- 
Pete Hardie                   |   Goalie, DVSG Dart Team
Scientific Atlanta            |
Digital Video Services Group  |

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