Mea Culpa
"I've had a watch obsession for most of my life (I'm still young, 23, so that doesn't mean a long time). I lived in the world of $300-$500 for several years until coming across Panerai. The first one I purchased was a fake 196. I loved the look of it, and over the next year or so I bought my first real Panerai (164), and sold and bought a few more (111, 88, real 196 from another Paneristi, and a 176 from another Paneristi). Some from a local AD and others from this forum. I quickly developed a "fetish" for Panerai that I could not afford. I stayed a float by buying and than selling to continue to satisfy the urge without spending $15k-$20k. After observing this community I became even more in love with the watch and the brotherhood of this forum's participants.
I recently displayed a lapse in integrity and character by letting that urge for the next new Panerai get the best of me. I simply could not afford to continue at the same pace with the real thing, so I stooped to the embarrassing level of acquiring a couple of fakes (217 and 243) and trying to pass them off to others (and the saddest part, to myself) as authentic. Once I was called out (goes to show you can't fool a Paneristi) I spiraled into an even more disgusting damage control of lies. I have nothing else to say other than I'm am sorry and deservingly embarrassed.
I want to relay my affection for this forum/community and my sincerest apologies for disgracing the Paneristi name (for I used to call myself one). For anyone who I've done business with, I want to tell you that I've never and would never attempt to trade or sell any non-authentic watches or accessories. I know that statement may not carry as much weight now, but I feel the need to say it anyway. That is the truth.
I ask nothing more than for you all to let me go and learn in peace. I will no longer participate in this forum or any of it's events, give aways or local GTG's. My Father always told me I had to learn my lessons the hard way(and many times more than once). He was undoubtedly correct.
Sincerest Apologies,
Renfro"
