From 'Flipper' to Purist: A Collector's Journey

5980 · 2017-12-30T12:32:20Z

Explore 5980's journey from 'flipper' accusation to respected Patek Philippe collector on WatchProSite. A look at community, passion, and high horology.

In a heartfelt reflection, 5980 shares his journey from an initial misunderstanding on the forum to becoming an accepted and valued member of the WatchProSite community. His post, accompanied by images of his impressive Patek Philippe collection, serves as a testament to the forum's ability to foster education, passion, and friendship among collectors. This piece highlights the importance of community and the evolution of a collector's identity.

In a year that saw my fortunate discovery of this forum, an ill-advised accusation of "flipper" following my first post, and (I hope) ultimately acceptance as an actual living, breathing "collector" of sorts, I want thank all of you for the education, wisdom, passion, and friendship that I've been so lucky to find. PuristSPro, part of my now daily routine, provides a unique opportunity to discover, to daydream, to evolve...and I cherish all of your commitment here. Enjoy the New Year, with promises of blessings and continued good fortune, good friends, and good family.

And just for fun, a quick repost of the picture (originally posted so full of childish glee following the arrival of two sought after pieces) which launched my new brand!

I'd like to think the myth has since been addressed, but for the benefit of a particularly concerned Puristi, a few bits of evidence to the contrary 😜😜😜

But...can I still own that nickname?!?

Key Points from the Discussion

The forum's founder emphasizes a policy of giving new members the benefit of the doubt and expresses regret if this wasn't fully extended to the author initially, highlighting a commitment to a welcoming community.
A fellow member acknowledges that misunderstandings can occur in online forums but that polite explanations, like the author's, ultimately prevail, encouraging continued participation.
The author clarifies that he is sometimes reluctant to post due to past accusations of being a 'flipper' or 'lucky to be rich,' which can lead to misperceptions from a single post.
A contributor praises the author's Patek Philippe collection, specifically mentioning the 5204P-010, and notes that owning such a piece without frequently posting it speaks volumes about genuine collecting.
One member offers a more cynical view, suggesting that 'everyone flips sooner or later,' but some do it discreetly while pointing fingers at others.

The Discussion

Pretty Boy

Dec 30, 2017

In my youth, flipper was the name of a dolphin. 😉

Joke aside, you have a stunning collection of Pateks. The fact that you own a 5204P-010 and never really post it here speaks louder than words. Here‘s to many more. Best wishes for 2018, Volker

5980

Dec 30, 2017

I remember that dolphin 😀

I will certainly post a picture or two in due course, but between accusations of "flipper," "lucky to be rich," etc. I'm a bit reluctant to draw further misperception. As much as I cherish and trust a core group of Purists, and welcome every new member into this horological world, as an open forum we accept that certain participants/lurkers/questionably-motivated readers may develop quick, reactionary perceptions based on a single post, poor past experiences, etc. 😔. Just my view of course Happy

Pretty Boy

Dec 30, 2017

Great sense of humor.

You really changed your avatar. 😳

ThomasM

Dec 30, 2017

The benefit of the doubt...

Hi, 5980, It has always been my policy, since I founded the site, and was always the standard, to give everyone the benefit of the doubt. That it seems you may not have been afforded this benefit when you first joined our community, is very unfortunate and something we will pay careful attention to in the future. Glad you found a virtual home, and thanks for sharing! TM

5980

Dec 30, 2017

Thank you Thomas. I believe it was simple bad luck, as I've not seen anything akin since.

The forum is a wonderful asset which we should all enjoy and respect. Thank you and all the moderators for your efforts Happy holidays

Arie - Mr Orange

Dec 30, 2017

Only if you change your avatar pic to this:

😉 Happy New Years!

From 'Flipper' to Purist: A Collector's Journey

Key Points from the Discussion

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