What is an example of symbolism in the novel, The Museum of Extraordinary Things?

The watch which Eddie stole from Harry Block is the symbol of Eddie’s childhood rebellion against his father. When he tried to sell the watch to pay for the funeral of Moses Levy (who functions as a surrogate father for Eddie), the watch broke. This prevented Eddie from parting with this symbol of the childhood betrayal of his real father, whilst mourning the death of his surrogate father.