WatchProSite Community: Bill's 30,000th Post

amanico · 2024-11-17T21:54:35Z

Celebrate Bill's 30,000th post on WatchProSite. Discover the founder's impact, his discreet leadership, and the community's heartfelt tributes to his dedication.

amanico

WPS member · Horological Meandering forum

103 replies13926 views1 photos

Amanico's heartfelt tribute celebrates Bill's impending 30,000th post, highlighting his foundational role in creating and nurturing the WatchProSite community. This article delves into the profound impact Bill has had, not just as a moderator and contributor of vintage Rolex insights, but as the discreet, humble force behind the platform's enduring success and camaraderie. It explores why Bill is revered as a friend and the 'Boss' who shaped this virtual horological home.

Bill deserves it, genuinely.

Without Bill, we wouldn't have this virtual home of ours, dear to our heart. He doesn't like to be called The Boss, but he is. A discreet, humble one. Most often behind the curtain, in total modesty.

But he is right. He is more than a Boss. He is a friend, a real one, and one I am lucky to call my best friend.

Without Bill, I wouldn't have accepted his offer to be a Moderator here. I had the pleasure to meet him in December 2006, and it was friendship at first sight.

Without Bill, we wouldn't have all these informative posts about Vintage Rolex, even if he is guilty of having dried the market of vintage Rolex bracelets.

Without Bill, we wouldn't have some of the best internet moments, such as the fabulous International Gathering in 2011, in Vegas.

All those who had the opportunity to meet him can witness his incredible generosity and sense of friendship.

We love you, Bill.

Ok, now some pictures and facts about The Man, the Star for those who don't know him personally.

Did you know that in his young days, he was a famous rock star?

And that much later, he ran a very prosperous business as a famous waffle maker in Belgium?

He is also known as Popeye the Sailor Man, and developed a strong love for boats. The man, his watch, his wrist and his boat:

He is a man of Passion, for everything in Life; His family, watches for sure, wine, cars, and his friends.

Man you took your time to post your 30, 000th. Many times, I had an eye on your posts, hoping that I won't be late and miss the opportunity of putting this well deserved homage to you... But the pleasure, the reward and the honor are in the wait, as we used to say.

Kudos to you, my friend, and once again, thanks for everything you did, for me, for us, for our virtual home, for our members.

All the best, mon ami.

Nicolas

Key Points from the Discussion

Bill expressed deep gratitude for the community and specifically praised Nicolas (amanico) as the 'unstoppable engine' out front, acknowledging the moderator team and all members for their collective contribution to the platform's success.
The forum's longevity and quality are attributed to Bill's foresight, energy, dedication, technical expertise, and financial commitment, making it a significant 'horology home' for many enthusiasts.
Many members, despite not knowing Bill personally, recognize his crucial behind-the-scenes role in holding PuristSPro together, emphasizing his dedication, great taste in watches, and friendly nature.
Bill's leadership style is characterized by his humility, with many members noting that his significant role was not widely known, a testament to his 'pure' approach to maintaining the site.
Bill is consistently described as a 'true Renaissance man' and 'gentleman extraordinaire,' celebrated for his world-class watch collection and being one of the nicest individuals encountered on the forum.
Members express gratitude for Bill providing, maintaining, and developing the forum as a 'home away from home,' appreciating his supportive, understanding, and helpful demeanor as a 'landlord' and friend.

The Discussion

Nov 17, 2024

Wonderful heartfelt tribute and no doubt deserving for those of us who don't know Bill personally. M4

Champthekid

Nov 17, 2024

I always enjoy seeing your top quality vintage watches.

penfriend

Nov 17, 2024

And your support whenever needed - it’s always a pleasure, hope we will meet some day

bimbeano

Nov 17, 2024

.. and Bill ;-) December 2006 ... that's 18 years ago ... so you all aged by 18 years I guess ... and so did i :-(. Time really flies. Bim

Gelato Monster

Nov 17, 2024

Thank you so so very much Bill. We love you.

MichaelC

Nov 17, 2024

Everything you have done here, much of which is well under the radar - you lead by example. And a fine one at that!

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WatchProSite Community: Bill's 30,000th Post

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