Horological Meandering

AV
284

• Show profile
• Show other posts

A tribute to friendship--a living example of a Purists' piece unique

While waiting in McCarran airport, I'm reflecting on the wonderful experience of IGOTT2 and recalling with fond memories the original IGOTT and subsequent Tempus in Singapore. I feel truly blessed to attend these events, and even more thankful over the new friends and acquaintances that I've made through the forum during the past seven years.

As I reminisce, one individual stands out like a "god" (forgive the IGOTT2 metaphor) because that individual is one of the finest examples of a true friend that I personally know.

I first met Dr. Mao back in fall 2003 and for a second time a few months later when he was visiting Atlanta on business. At that time he made a modest and simple request of me, to inform him of a few local watch stores so that he might visit a few during his stay. He arrived on Friday evening, and after talking with him I sensed his gracious and unassuming manner and decided to put aside my Saturday workaholic plans and spent the entire day with him. I must point out that he did not request this, but after visiting with him that evening I decided that it would be my pleasure to do so. I must say we had a wonderful time visiting two or three watch stores and in fact he helped me with a few problems that I had experienced regarding a watch that I planned to submit for service.

Later that evening upon returning to his hotel Dr. Mao shared a very rare watch in his possession, a minute repeater. Mind you this newbie being completely unwashed had no idea of what it meant to hold such an exotic piece and I recall the patience and pleasant consideration that Dr. Mao took in educating me. I know that many others with his wealth of knowledge and experience would have exhibited some form of arrogance or condescending attitude, but none of this is part of Dr. Mao's personality.

Since that time I have visited many times with Dr. Mao and my various Purists friends at GTGs and other events around the world. My friend, Dr. Mao, has voluntarily helped me with significant watch purchases with no benefit to himself even though his trust has been betrayed too many times with similar acts for others. He has asked for nothing in return from me, so I can say first hand that he is a true gentlemen and friend who does acts for others without seeking benefit for himself or to support his agenda.

Moving ahead in time to May 2011 and IGGOT2, I visit with a friend who have weathered many personal adversities including a heart attack and family illnesses and deaths. I can understand the debilitating effects that these types of events can have on an individual and how their personalities may change. Nevertheless, my observations are that Dr. Mao's gracious and modest demeanor has not changed.

So it troubles me greatly over the years when I have learned of those instances where his integrity and agenda have been attacked, and typically without adequate evidence. I feel that whenever his agenda or intentions are misinterpreted, these comments hurt him personally and I have observed the additional stress this has added to his life. No I don't think Dr. Mao is perfect, but in my experiences with him, he has exceeded my expectations 98% of the time. Moreover, he is one of the few truly altruistic individuals whose good deeds are largely unknown and unappreciated by many that only know him by reputation. It's sad to me that in today's society all too often people are measured by how much money they make or accumulate or what can/have you do/done for me lately.

If we were allowed to look behind the curtain to examine the record of what Dr. Mao has done to help others in the watch industry, and believe me much is not known because he keeps many of his acts secret, his record must stand as a "piece unique" in the annals of horology. I for one believe that the measure of a man is not what he accomplishes for himself, but his good deeds for his family and friends. Because at the end of the day, it's your positive relationships that are the real measure of your wealth on this earth.

So I would like to end with congratulations to all of the PuristsPro moderators and family for a job well done at IGOTT2. And to Dr. Mao a tip of the hat for being a truly exceptional individual with the foresight to create this valuable WORLD treasure in the forums of ThePurists and PuristsPro. Keep up the good work and know that there are many around the world who appreciate your efforts regardless of our personal views on various issues.

Cheers and live well!