• Master
    17 Sep 2016, 3:16 p.m.

    I've waited a long time to do this reveal and it's still very hard to write this.

    This watch should still be on the wrist of the previous owner and looking at the watch or writing this story fills me with immense sorrow for the loss of a fine young man way, way before it was supposed to be. Giovanni, I (and I know plenty of others) still miss you every day.

    I still remember that 14th of February this year when I got a whatsapp message telling Giovanni passed away after a heart attack. My own heart skipped a few beats and I was in complete disbelief. Such a fine young healthy man. A sportsman, a family man and someone who was always a bright light at any meeting. When more messages arrived, it was clear there was no mistake, the unbelievable had happened, something you never wish to experience but something inevitable too.

    The funeral was really overwhelming. Too many young people, all grieving for this immense loss and I still get a lump in my throat thinking back at that day.

    After the funeral, I was invited with a few of Giovanni's close diving friends to grab a bite and we spent an hour or two talking about our dear friend and remembering stories. I also learned that you should NEVER order a double espresso in Italy and more important why: in Italy, you don't drink an espresso by yourself. You always order two, one for yourself and one for a friend (or the barista). Oh how I wish I could have another Espresso with you Giovanni and chat about watches, Porsches, our kids or anything else.

    sibon.triple-it.nl/images/stories/IW544403/IW544403_Wrist_20160304.jpg

    sibon.triple-it.nl/images/stories/IW544403/IW544403_Wrist_20160304_2.jpg

    sibon.triple-it.nl/images/stories/IW544403/IW544403_Wrist_20160527_4.jpg

    Signing off whith tears in my eyes,

    Clemens

  • Master
    17 Sep 2016, 3:33 p.m.

    Ditto. Fond memories with profound sadness as well. I am bound to Giovanni as well with his CFP that will always have is name engraved on the back. Nice tribute, Clemens.

  • Master
    17 Sep 2016, 4:07 p.m.

    This was very hard to read for all the sentiments you so eloquently articulated. But, it does bring solace to know there is a community of friends that can honor the memory by casting a glance at a special watch...a tangible fitting memorial to a good man.

  • Master
    17 Sep 2016, 5:52 p.m.

    Few things I can say in this post.
    One is that I miss Gio, I also feel for Mark as I always felt for Alan too.
    Gio was Gio a super fun guy period.
    I am still in denial.
    Clemens I am very happy for you buddy. It suits you perfectly well.

  • Master
    17 Sep 2016, 7:42 p.m.

    Clemens, indeed not a day goes by that we don't think about Giovanni and cherish the many wonderful memories I have of the "Italian Stalion".

    He would be honored to have you (and the other guys) wear his watches, and would most definitely have approved you getting the Regulator (he would of course have demanded the PISA in return - he loved that piece too!)

  • Master
    17 Sep 2016, 10 p.m.

    Beautiful tribute Clemens, can't say more than that.

    Groet,

    Bob

  • Master
    19 Sep 2016, 6:12 a.m.

    What a wonderful memory of Gio you have there Clemens.
    I'm very happy that you have this piece with you now. We remember Gio itch great fondness and miss him.