Watch Collector Group 20th Anniversary

Dr No · 2025-08-11T23:28:40Z

Discover the enduring camaraderie of the 'alphabet soup gang' as Dr No celebrates 20 years of watch collecting friendships, featuring diverse brands like Chopard, VC, Rolex, Grand Seiko, and IWC.

Dr No

WPS member · Horological Meandering forum

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Dr No's post offers a rare glimpse into the enduring camaraderie that forms the bedrock of the luxury watch collecting community. Celebrating two decades of shared passion, his 'alphabet soup gang' exemplifies how online forums like WatchProSite and its predecessors foster real-world friendships and a vibrant exchange of horological knowledge. This article highlights the diverse collections and deep connections forged over years of dedicated watch appreciation.

. . . at the usual undisclosed meeting place in the San Fernando Valley. The group first gathered in August 2005. There were two members in attendance Saturday who were at that initial gathering, and one who was planning on coming but came down ill. Also in attendance were two members who were at our second gathering. We've usually met thrice annually, save for one (or two) years when we had four and of course 2020 when we had only two. All of us met thru watch forums, either TimeZone or ThePuristS, and have enjoyed cordial friendships over the years; two members have opened their homes to us for gatherings on occasion.

Key Points from the Discussion

The 'alphabet soup gang' has been meeting thrice annually since August 2005, with two members present at both the inaugural and 20th-anniversary gatherings, demonstrating remarkable consistency and dedication.
Members' collections span an impressive range, from high-complication pieces like platinum Chopard and Vacheron Constantin 222 to accessible steel Seiko and vintage Omega, showcasing a broad appreciation for horology.
The group includes long-term contributors to WatchProSite and its predecessors, with some members having migrated from other prominent watch forums like TimeZone and ThePuristS, highlighting the interconnectedness of the online watch community.
Notable watches shared at the anniversary gathering included a Chopard chronometer, a Vacheron Constantin 222, a 1978 quartz Rolex DateJust, a Grand Seiko high-beat, and a vintage compressor case IWC, reflecting diverse collecting tastes.
The gathering also featured independent watchmakers (indies) and pieces from A. Lange & Söhne, Patek Philippe, and Tudor, indicating a sophisticated and varied appreciation for haute horlogerie.
The presence of a Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso, worn by a 'mostly willing accomplice' to a member's fascination, underscores the inclusive nature of the group, extending beyond individual collectors to their partners.

The Discussion

Dr No

Aug 11, 2025

. . . and with an eclectic collection. He's owned watches from several manufacturers over the the years, including Grand Seiko and Omega. These were the two recent arrivals he brought Saturday.

Dr No

Aug 11, 2025

. . . our guest of honor at the last gathering of '25. Art

Dr No

Aug 11, 2025

. . . and brought one of his latest acquisitions. Mr B has refined tastes with A. Lange, Patek, and Omegas in his collection, besides this Tudor.

Dr No

Aug 11, 2025

. . . due after visits from young grandchildren. I'm sure both will be at our November meeting.

Dr No

Aug 11, 2025

. . . since they were dating. Her wrist was graced . . . . . . by this turquoise TAG.

Dr No

Aug 11, 2025

. . . bringing a few indies from his collection. Mr D has been a regular on WPS for a few years now. He was on TZ initially before finding our community; ever so glad to have him aboard.

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