* * * * * * It is NEVER TOO EARLY to plan a GTG...here is the next BIG one....* * * *

[watchfan1]

...as many of you know, we have started a trend in 2006 that brought many WIS
from all around the world even closer. Some guys just jump in the car and get there,
(some lucky ones just take a cab or subway)…but many have boarded the planes
or crossed the oceans !

Not that GTG’s are something new, but I think that back in 2006 we started something very special.
Something that brings this great watch enthusiasts community even closer and something that
is actually ‘way’ beyond watches. I am glad that watches are my hobby ! Because of them I have
met many great people whom I am proud to call my friends now !

What started innocently in fall of 2006 is now slowly but surely becoming a tradition.
By now we had 2 nice autumn meetings in Tampa:

Fall 2007

....and two in spring that took place in New York.

Spring 2007

Spring 2008


In-between these larger events several of us met in Las Vegas, London or Basel, but somewhat
the FALL/TPA and SPRING /NYC meetings that are 6 months apart are becoming the events that we
hope will become a part of your WIS calendar someday and we hope that these events will only grow.

Ladies and gentlemen, WIS crazies of the world – start making plans !
“Our 3rd Annual Tampa GTG will be on SAT, November 15th 2008, 3-8PM”

While the GTG meeting itself is always on SAT from about 2/3 – 8 PM, we like to make the trip worth the while
for those that come from further away. Many folks start gathering on THU or even earlier. Mid November is usually ‘perfect’
when it comes to weather in Tampa bay area and I sure that beaches and beach bars will see their share of nice watches :D
There WILL be ‘after GTG” activities on SAT night and for those who like NFL (or never even saw a game) – Buccaneers
are playing at home on SUN. Make it a nice weekend in Florida!

Of course as time goes on, more details will follow, but for now at least you know…..’WE HAVE A DATE – NOV 15th, 3 - 8 PM”
This event is open to ALL watch enthusiast (AND their family & friends) regardless of the watch brand or watch forum !

Hope to see many old friends there and meet even more new ones !

Milos (WatchFan1)

PS: For those that never attended one, HERE are some pictures and reports.




PS: While I am staying out of organizing the accommodations, I made a phone call to THIS NICE HOTEL,
and was asking about a "group rate". Regular price is $249 or $294 for Gulf of Mexico view.
I was told that if at least 10 rooms are booked the rate could be $179 (or $219 for Gulf of Mexico view.)

For those of you who attended before - "Most likely" the GTG will be held at the same place as it was last two years in a row.
However, it is not 100% done deal yet as they are still getting back to me.
Even if you know me personally, pre-registration is mandatory,
so we can plan for a place of appropriate size.

The actual location will be e-mailed the last week before GTG only to those
that register. Please send me e-mail WatchFan1_at_hotmail_dot_com (NOT a PM) if you are coming and how many are in your party.

Please do not send me numerous e-mails with several questions. Unfortunately, I do not have much spare time.
The week of GTG, everyone that registered will get an e-mail with all details and chances are,
that all you potential questions will be answered there anyway.

Looking forward to see you in Tampa. Remember this great gathering of WIS
is not tied to any watch brand or any forum. Any and all watch fans are welcome !
__________________

[chopperboy]

Where Is The Picture Of The World Famous MONS VENUS?

[stevemulholland3]

in that one picture you posted of the shot showing the clearwater beach causeway you can see hulk hogans rrof on the far left,,just a tid bit of info.I see that scene everyday on my way to my job....very beautiful-I would go to this thing if I know anyone who will be there,any watches for sale there?

[watchfan1]

Steve,
why worry about knowing anyone there ?
These GTGs are designed to meet people with similar hobbies and interests.
Many people will bring some or part of their collections. Being collectors, I am sure
some watches are 'always for sale'
We had a blast the last two years. In 2006 we had about 40 people, last year we had 55.
Local Rolex AD was also attending and brought some nice pieces to show as well as some door prices for the raffle .
Ball watch USA was on hand and free BALL WATCH was a give away for the main
price during our last 4 GTGs that were organized in Tampa and new York.
You will have a great time, and you will meet several new friends there, trust me

[Chris B]

Jeez I love that part of the world, sadly won't be able to make it

[SLS]

Milos, we need more of these on the west coast!
Steve, I have attanded GTG's in Vegas and here in Sacramento, they are a blast!
~Scott

[HockeyBrand]

I'm down for the NYC gtg next year Milos. SLS is right, Vegas would be my first choice for the West Coast WIS's

[Idle Swede]

I'll be there for sure........:)

[SLS]

Originally Posted by Idle Swede

I'll be there for sure........:)

Nice to see you over here Leo! I was just thinking of sending you a PM yesterday. How are things!
~Scott

[Idle Swede]

Originally Posted by SLS

Nice to see you over here Leo! I was just thinking of sending you a PM yesterday. How are things!
~Scott

Hey Scott,

Good to see you, are you coming to the GTG?

Any good finds lately?

[astcell]

I'll still be in Canada. Maybe I'll make up for it by getting a Rolex here at a lower exchange rate!

[CVerKuilen]

I'm very interested in meeting all of you guys, I'll have to try to make it down...

[watchfan1]

just follow the link and send me e-mail letting me know how many total in your party......

[watchfan1]

Again, we will have some nice door prizes and some lucky WIS will go home with a free BALL watch & ORBITA winder,
because of the continuing support from those great companies. These GTGs are very special because of the support
of our sponsors. I would like to thank Jeff Hess and the rest of the crew from Ball Watch USA for their continuing support
of all of the GTGs. John Brozek will be there as well with his goodies and his book and local Rolex dealer (Avantgold) will bring to show us
a nice Rolex collection, donate also some door prizes....and most importantly provide us with off duty police officer for our protection

[stevemulholland3]

I will be there.

[diamondgirl]

Yea, I'll be there too! I am in all the other GTG pictures, so I might as well!
Can't wait to see some old friends and meet some new ones!