Having these items helps us to feel part of the lives they led I guess, it does for me anyway.

That's it exactly. I never met my paternal Grand Mother or her Mother, so having the China and drinking tea from them on special occasions gives me that special connection with my past, where I came from. If those cups could talk, they'd have some stories I'd say!

Those stamps you have are another great one and an excellent one to pass down to the next generation, though of all the things you mention, I think that pocket watch is the stand out.