Apple Watch won't re-pair with iPhone 6

We went on vacation for a week and did not take the Apple Watch. When we returned home, the Watch was no longer paired with the iPhone 6 Plus.

-rebooted both the watch, the phone and even the wifi in the house several times.

-removed the otter box from the phone.

-checked Bluetooth on the phone. Checked Bluetooth on the watch (the watch is stuck in SEARCHING).

-the watch keeps asking for the passcode. An error message pops up occasionally, stating iCloud password needs to be entered on phone. Did multiple times - phone shows connected with iCloud. Last time, phone stated there was an error at the Apple server - password could not be verified. Apple ID and iCloud are connected on phone.

-synced the phone with iTunes. 3 GB of free space on phone.

-no "i" icon on watch to do it manually. Watch not listed as available to connect on phone.

-attempted in several rooms - no other Bluetooth items near the devices.

-phone does not see watch at all in pair mode.

-tried with charger on and charger off the watch.

-both seem to be operating correctly...they just won't pair.

-no new updates to the phone since the two were paired