Josh from Texas called into The Bobby Bones Show looking for guidance. With his son graduating this year, he admitted he was unsure how the whole gift-giving tradition worked. Josh shared that he never had a high school graduation himself, he earned his GED in the Navy, so he wanted to make sure he did something meaningful for his son.
His son had already made one thing clear: no class ring. That left Josh considering a nice watch, but he wasn’t sure what brands or styles were appropriate. He asked the show for advice, hoping to get a few ideas or maybe hear what the hosts would’ve appreciated on their own graduation days. Bobby immediately backed the watch idea. He explained that brands and price points vary, so it really comes down to budget. He joked about his own high school class ring: something he saved up for, bought, and later realized didn’t hold much long-term significance. Over time, he said, you learn what truly matters and what doesn’t. If Josh’s son didn’t want a class ring, Bobby made it clear he shouldn’t feel pressured to get one anyway.
A watch, however, was a different story. Bobby suggested choosing a timeless style rather than something trendy, and recommended engraving the underside. Even a simple message would turn it into something his son could keep forever. Amy agreed, saying an engraved keepsake makes the gift meaningful. She shared that the most memorable graduation gift she received was a bracelet from her mom, something she still has today.
Bobby then offered a few brand recommendations within the price range Josh was considering. A good Timex, he said, can run around $500 and still hold an engraving without damage. He mentioned other brands like Shinola and TAG Heuer, with the latter being more expensive but still a classic choice. As a self-proclaimed “watch guy,” he also encouraged choosing a leather band since metal bands cycle in and out of style. Josh appreciated the advice and confirmed the $500 range was exactly where he was aiming. Bobby reminded him that even though prices vary, a gift in that range is a nice watch, not middle-of-the-road, but also emphasized that every budget is different. Before wrapping up, Bobby congratulated Josh, noting that a child’s graduation often reflects the support and influence of the parent.
As they discussed engraving ideas, Amy pointed out how meaningful it would be for a child to have something from both parents. Josh confirmed that his son’s mom is fully in the picture, so including both “Love, Mom & Dad” would feel right.
