Collector Snapshot #10 – Thomas Quinn

Posted on March 25, 2015 by bobbybobs

Hello readers!

We’ve finally hit the big ten episodes of our ‘collector snapshot’ segment and what better way to celebrate than by welcoming Thomas Quinn onto the blog! I know I always say our participants are great guys and girls but seriously do collectors get any friendlier and easygoing than Thomas? I first met Thomas last year, when I sold him a Luke Farmboy cardback. I couldn’t believe how appreciative he was for selling him the cardback when I myself was happy to move it on from my collection (I don’t collect cardbacks). True reflection of the kind of collector he is. Since then I’ve got to know him better and I love seeing the effort he, along with Jason Thomas and Mike Boniface, puts into heading up the Empire State Star Wars Collectors Club. For the most part, their meetings are located in upstate New York, but they continue to recruit members from as far away as Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Western New York.The goal of their Star Wars collecting group is to both educate and create a community for their members. Thomas tells me that they embrace new and old collectors alike and that he is always fascinated to see what other people collect, and how they collect it.

Ok to the questions!

1. How long have you been collecting?

I have been collecting Star Wars since 1977, but that really doesn’t tell the story. I saw Star Wars as a seven year old and in 1977 I made my parents go to see it over and over again in the theaters. Of course, being that age, I couldn’t wait for Star Wars toys to come out. My father cut out an article about Kenner making Star Wars toys, but they weren’t going to be ready for Christmas of 1977. I finally got my first Star Wars toys for Easter 1978. I was hooked. Although I stopped collecting in 1981, I saved my toys in the basement. In the mid 90s when interest was renewed for Star Wars, I pulled them out of the basement. I began to research them on the new technology known as the ‘Internet’. Once eBay came along, I bought my first new figure: Hoth Princess Leia. I was hooked…again.

2. What do you collect?

I primarily collect loose figures in great condition, but I also keep quite a few beaters lying around to play around with. There’s something special about a well-loved toy. I also collect cardbacks and vehicles complete with their boxes. I have some carded figures but don’t consider myself a carded collector.

VSCW: Check out these pics of Thomas’ fantastic collection. Really is a great mix of loose, MIB, MOC and other vintage goodies.

3. What’s your grail?

Being a loose collector, I’ve been fortunate to be able to find most of what I look for at a reasonably affordable cost. However, the item I am looking for right now is a Palitoy Death Star. It is one of those things that I never knew it existed until I became an adult collector. When you’re a collector I guess you never truly stop looking for items.

4. What collectors inspire you?

The two collections that have blown me away are the ones owned by Mike Boniface and Yehuda. Mike is a loose collector like me. He has the patience of Job in searching eBay and finding great deals on unique items. Yehuda’s collection just blew me away when I got to recently see it. I love how he displays it, what he collects, and his willingness to open his home to show it off. You meet some pretty terrific guys in our hobby and we have some great guys in the Empire State Club.

5. What is your most embarrassing moment as a collector?

My dumb, naive, young collector moment was when someone asked me to do a trade and I got ripped off because I never got the items that were promised me. So, the “trade” turned into a one-way ticket. I blame it on my youth and lack of knowledge. Live and learn.

6. What is your favourite Star Wars film?

I would have to say my favorite Star Wars film is the first one, not because it is superior to the Empire Strikes Back, but because it drew me in to both the world of science fiction and collecting.

7. What would you change about the collecting community?

The one thing I think is over-emphasized in our collecting community is the grading process. I don’t get my toys graded. If I think they’re beautiful, that’s all that really counts.

8. Forums or Facebook groups?

When I began collecting, I was on Rebelscum every day. Now, I find myself on the Facebook pages. Facebook has become important to me for the Empire State Club, as it offers another way for me to connect with other people in our area interested in the hobby. I do think that both are great methods to communicate with other collectors.

9. What Star Wars character do you most resemble?

These days, I probably look more like Uncle Owen, but in my heart I will always be the farm boy looking to the stars.

10. Is there one thing that collectors may not know about you?

Most people have no idea, that in addition to my passion for Star Wars, I have an equal passion for Major League Baseball. I have been to 36 major league ballparks, and most of the spring training complexes. On my upcoming trip to Celebration Anaheim, I am able to visit three major league ballparks. Strangely enough, I bought game tickets, then later found out that 2 of the 3 games fall on the one Star Wars Night at the ballparks! I’m excited to combine my two passions into one trip.

VSCW: Thanks for coming on Thomas and see you in Anaheim!

Collector Snapshot #9 – Josh Blake

Posted on March 5, 2015 by bobbybobs

Welcome to our ninth segment of ‘Collector Snapshot’ where a vintage collector is given 10 short questions to answer. The same questions will be given to the next collector appearing on the blog. Next up is Josh Blake, a 35 year old from Cincinnati, Ohio. He owns a freelance graphic design studio where he creates marketing products for commercial businesses and individual personalised designs. It is these skills that Josh used to great effect during the recent SW vintage Facebook group anti-repro and u-grade combined initiative (check out our article here – http://vintagestarwarscollectors.com/the-day-facebook-groups-united-under-the-same-banner/). Not only did Josh, with some inspiration from Ross Barr, design the fantastic anti u-grade logo but he also worked hard to cobble together the banners of a number of groups, including two of the groups I admin. Here’s an example of one of the banners:

Fantastic stuff huh! Josh is a pretty modest guy and I was surprised when Ross told me that Josh actually runs the main Star Wars Micro Collection group on Facebook and that he is one of the hobby’s go to guys when it comes to this line of collectibles. Check out his Facebook group here:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/KennerStarWarsMicroCollection/

He also appeared in the Micro Collection section in Brian Stillman’s Plastic Galaxy! Very impressive. I love Plastic Galaxy and I urge anyone even vaguely interested in Star Wars vintage to rush out now and buy the DVD (or at least just click a few times and buy it online…). We actually reviewed the DVD in the earliest days of this blog:

http://vintagestarwarscollectors.com/documentary-review-plastic-galaxy-the-story-of-star-wars-toys/

Well I’d like to thank Josh one last time for his dedication to the wellbeing of our hobby and I’m happy to finally welcome him onto the blog!

To the questions!

1. How long have you been collecting?

I began rebuilding my childhood vintage Star Wars collection in December of 1993.

2. What do you collect?

I am known for collecting preproduction items relating to the Micro Collection 1982 line. My goal is to simply acquire items I find interesting – both vintage Star Wars and non-SW. My interest in prototypes occurred some time around 2002 when I began researching product plans for toys that never went into production. This was the milestone moment that ignited my collecting passion. I grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio and was one of the lucky collectors that got to see incredible items and spend weekends at those famous local flea markets.

VSWC: Josh and a taste of his micro collection.

3. What’s your grail?

My grails include three of the unproduced Micro Collection Playsets: Hoth Bacta Chamber, Bespin Torture Chamber and Jabbas Palace.

4. What collectors inspire you?

Alex Sleder was the first preproduction collector I met that helped guide me in the right direction, Bill Wills helped maintain a good balance between passion and priorities, Tracey Hamilton was the friend who always kept me encouraged when I considered throwing in the towel, Rob Amantea has helped facilitate the majority of my large purchases and Bill Byers consistently has my back and has more than once rejuvenated my passion for collecting.

5. What is your most embarrassing moment as a collector?

I generally don’t get embarrassed easily, although I do find myself having to ask some of the newer collectors what all of these online collecting acronyms stand for. Other moments may involve alcohol and past Celebration events.

6. What is your favourite Star Wars film?

The Empire Strikes Back.

7. What would you change about the collecting community?

It is my hope that we never lose perspective and always value friendships over the items we collect.

8. Forums or Facebook groups?

I have never been a huge fan of anything beyond a toy show and a phone call. When I started collecting there was no online community to speak of. I see the arguments for both camps and respect their positions. It shouldn’t be any surprise that the hobby has evolved into the Facebook format, so instead of fighting it I have adapted to that trend. This is why I felt so strongly about starting a Facebook group devoted to my specific collecting niche. I wanted all of the best guys under one roof! As for the debate of whether it’s good or bad for the community as a whole, my personal feelings fall somewhere in the middle.

9. What Star Wars character do you most resemble?

I would like to think that I resemble Chewbacca – a faithful companion and friend.

10. Is there one thing that collectors may not know about you?

I have been a percussionist for over 20 years and have performed in both professional and garage band settings. I have served as an ensemble instructor, taught private lessons and have composed dozens of scores.

Collector Snapshot #8 – Julio Zary (aka ‘Julioviper’)

Posted on February 15, 2015 by bobbybobs

Welcome to our eighth segment of ‘Collector Snapshot’ where a vintage collector is given 10 short questions to answer using only a sentence or two. The same questions will be given to the next collector appearing on the blog. Next up is 38 year old Brazilian Julio Zary, who is a military man and hails from Rio De Janeiro.

I’ve come across Juilo many times on Rebelscum where he is known as ‘Julioviper’. He has posted cool photos of his Model Trem collection and is also often selling Model Trems and Glasslite figures. I love to hearing his stories about being being a kid in Brazil when these figures were on sale there. He also actually runs a blog about Model Trems so go and check it out. All the cool collectors have blogs….

http://modeltremstarwars.blogspot.com.br/

I have a couple of Model Trems myself and am surprised these bootlegs are not more popular. For those who don’t know much about them, check out this great write-up by the undisputed bootleg king himself – Joe Y.http://www.theouterrealmsw.com/Model_Trem_Star_Wars.html

Now to the ten questions. Take it away Julio and thanks for appearing on the blog!

1. How long have you been collecting?

I have been collecting since 1986, stopped for a while from 2009 to 2013, and now I am back lol.

2. What do you collect?

I collect Model Trem Star Wars figures, Glasslite Star Wars figures, vintage Kenner and newer figures from episodes IV to VI.

3. What’s your grail?

My grail is a Model Trem Bib Fortuna all complete, with staff, cape and box in mint condition.

4. What collectors inspire you?

Patsy Pedicini and Martjin Emmelot (VSCW: both Model Trem collectors).

5. What is your most embarrassing moment as a collector?

I had to cry to buy the very last Model Trem from the shop, because it was forbidden after 1988, when Glasslite brought the first and unique wave to Brazil. And it worked, as I got a 2-1B.

6. What is your favourite Star Wars film?

Episode V, I think.

7. What would you change about the collecting community?

Change the thinking of some guys that collecting is a death race.

8. Forums or Facebook groups?

Forums, because I don’t have a Facebook account, hahaha. Forums are easier to find the info you need.

9. What Star Wars character do you most resemble?

Han Solo, I think.

10. Is there one thing that collectors may not know about you?

I like GI Joe too, haha.

Collector Interview #5: Carl, Gary and Ross from ‘Star Wars 12 Backs, 20/21 Backs, and Early Vintage Collectors Group’

Posted on January 12, 2015 by bobbybobs

I’m stoked to finally present Carl, Gary (Gaz) Edson and Ross Barr from the Facebook Group ‘Star Wars 12 Backs, 20/21 Backs, and Early Vintage Collectors Group’. Those who know this group may be surprised to see that I’m only interviewing three of the admins, when there are actually four. Well we actually set about conducting this interview months ago, when there were only three admins and I decided to restrict this interview to the first three founders as adding a fourth would make this interview even more massive than it already is.

I did though speak to the lads and they mentioned that former admin Jeff Walters did an absolutely fantastic job as an admin until he had to resign due to his increasingly busy work and personal commitments. Jeff is still an active member of the group though and both his attitude to collecting and his collection itself are credits to the hobby.

Steve Dwyer (aka ‘The Dark Artist’ on Rebelscum) is the latest addition to the admin team and what an addition he is! Steve is one of the most knowledgeable collectors around (particularly in regards to first 12 figure vintage prototypes – his 3D prototype focus has to be seen to be believed). Not only that but Steve is committed to improving the hobby and is also one of the loveliest blokes in the hobby. I hope one day to host both he and Jeff on the blog.

While I still prefer the collecting forums over the Facebook groups, this group is one of my absolute favourites. That’s not just lip service, I really do enjoy it and it seems to be growing into an influential group. And sincerely these guys are some of the friendliest blokes in the collecting world and they epitomise why I love vintage collecting – it’s as much about the people as it is about the toys themselves. Not only is this is a great group but it is also is a perfect example of collectors from all over the globe coming together to create a community for individuals to get together and share their joy of collecting.

Although there are still some teething problems with the use of Facebook to connect us to fellow collectors, it seems this format will play an important role in the future. For example, one of the main groups (created by British collector Jason Smith) actually has more than 14,000 members, which really is outstanding and highlights that vintage collecting is a growing and thriving hobby. That said, there is still a lot of debate going on in the collecting world about the value of these Facebook groups, more recently revolving around the issue that they may be causing fragmentation among Star Wars collectors – check out more about this in our previous article – http://vintagestarwarscollectors.com/forum-thread-of-the-month-september-2014-fragmentation-of-vintage-collecting-chat-via-rebelscum/

Now to the interview!

1. Before we discuss the Facebook group, it would be great to learn more about you guys. Ross you and I came up through Rebelscum together so I know you pretty well but Gaz and Carl I only really started to connect with you blokes through Facebook. Ross you are from the States (or ‘AMERICA’ as us non-Americans like to say) and Gaz and Carl you guys are British but where did you guys grow up? Are you all married with kids or are you footloose and fancy free?

Ross: Christian, I have always liked what you said in your posts on RS, and I am glad we have gotten to know each other even better on FB. As for my personal life, I have been married since August 2008, have a five year old son named Eli (my collecting partner – seriously, he can point out all flaws in a MOC in under 10 seconds), three year old daughter named Lana, and a one year old daughter named Sadie.

VSWC: Ross and the gang.

Carl: I started my early collecting days on a forum called SWCC (Star Wars Collectors Cantina). I was a mod on there in the early days and got to meet some great people, since then I browse RS for the sales but our Facebook page is the main one for me. I’m in a great relationship with Lisa , and have two kids of my own and two step kids.

VSWC: Carl and his family.

Gaz: I live in a small mining village called Shirebrook (near Mansfield) in the UK. I’m still there as of now. I’m 42 so a good age for collecting SW so they say. I live with my partner but I’m not married but I don’t think it will be to long thou. I have three kids as well – 24, 15 and 13 years old and all GIRLS (yes hard work). I’m going to be a granddad soon holy shit!!

VSWC: Gaz and his girls!

VSWC: Gaz and his wife looking sexy and dangerous.

2. So do you ever get teased about your collecting?

Ross: I do get teased occasionally, but even my friends that tease me do think it’s cool. I think there is still a misconception that all collectors and lovers of SW are nerds, but I am quick to tell those people that I have met some of the coolest and funniest guys I have ever met through SW collecting.

Carl: Do I ever get teased ? I’ve had the piss taken out of me a few times by my mates, that’s because I’m a massive wind up, and they know I would deffo do the same 🙂

When I first joined the Facebook pages, I didn’t realise pages weren’t private so I was posting my 12 backs etc and of course they were appearing on my Facebook feed. Then on a night out with the lads, about five of them started making chewie noises and taking the piss. I had to take it on the chin, because I would have done the same 🙂

Gaz: Do I get teased mmm well come on I do live with three girls lol! Seriously thou yes I did when I first got back into collecting, but now my close friends and family see the values involved in buying and selling they just leave me in my own little world which I’m more than happy about.

3. How long have you all been collecting, how did you catch the bug and what do you collect exactly?

Ross: I have been a lifetime owner of the toys and collector since I was a child, but started collecting again in earnest a few years ago when I dug out my loose figures, some carded stuff, and other random stuff. Having a son that was just as into it as me really gave me the fuel to collect again, and we went from there. My primary focus is my full run of 96 figures on their first “movie” card, but not necessarily needs debut card back – just the front. The first 12 must be on 12 backs (again, don’t care about A v. B v. C really), the next 9 on 20/21, all ESB characters on ESB card fronts, ROTJ on ROTJ, etc. I have a full loose collection in C9 ungraded condition, and have a few MIB vehicles and playsets that I like. I am also working on an “original” Han Solo (not Han Hoth, Han Bespin, etc. – just “original” Han) focus, with the goal of getting him on every card front and back that he has ever appeared on. Finally, I am working on a full set of the 12 inch figures MISB, and have “just” one (Boba Fett) until that is done.

VSWC: Ross and his growing Han Solo focus.

VSWC: Three of Ross’ favourite pieces. Vader is a production double telescoping saber (DT), while Ben is a hand painted first shot with mushroom tip DT saber and Luke is an engineering pilot with a production DT saber. Amazing pieces!

Carl: I’ve been collecting for about seven years, I have changed focus many times over that period, but now my focus is 12/20/21 backs and all early stuff. I got the bug seven years ago when I brought some loose vintage figures for my son. There were about 10 in total and when they arrived they were that mint that I couldn’t let him ruin them. So they went on my shelf and my collection grew from there.

I’ve also recently started collecting and an ESB/ROTJ run with clear bubbles.

VSWC: Carl standing guard over his stellar collection.

Gaz: I’ve only really been back into collecting for the last four years, yes I did have it all as a kid but like most people got rid of it all in my early teens. I got the bug back really just by looking up Star Wars on eBay and it carried on from there.

I remember my first figure was a loose Chewbacca with a repro weapon lol, then like Carl I’ve changed my focus a million times, just finished my 21 back run (all 12 Backs are A cards) and I have a few of the rare pieces. I also just started on the ESB line. I love the cartoon droids and ewoks so maybe I’ll collect them at a later date.

VSWC: Some of Gaz’s awesome collection.

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4. Do you ever meet face to face with other collectors?

Ross: Since I have joined RS and the Facebook groups, I have met more and more collectors face to face. I am part of an Ohio collectors group and have done a few events, meet friends on comic con events and toy shows, and have had friends I have met on RS and FB stay at my place or have met them out for beers and brought them back to share my collection. Having someone over to see the collection is a real treat.

Carl: Had a great time at Memorabilia in Birmingham and met up for the first time with some great lads Steve UKG, Adam Pemberton, Marcus Schroeder, Klause Dorscher (Marcus), Sheldon Wagstaffe, Gaz Edson, Paul Smith, Rich McLean, Marc Walsh, James Martin and Graham Hughes and had a few beers and a curry afterwards. Great night! Dean Keenan and Chris Hyden both live a few miles away so we also meet up for a beer and a chat . Also me and Gaz Edson meet up regularly. One day I would love to travel the pond to meet my USA bro Ross lol.

VSWC: The lads hanging out in Birmingham.

Gaz: I’ve only had a trip down to Carl’s to do a couple of SW deals over a beer, more on the horizon 🙂

VSWC: Gaz and Carl (left to right) hanging out recently.

5. Are there any good conventions coming up? Will you be going?

Ross: I attended an amazing toy show last month in Cincinnati, OH, the home of Kenner, and got to catch up with many old friends and meet many new ones. I don’t remember having that much fun locked in a room with a bunch of dudes. Well, I do remember, but I will keep this interview PG-13. Hahahah. As for conventions coming up, right now I am looking forward to attending Celebration 7 in California next April.

Carl: Just Memorabilia for me in the UK in November, more than likely I’ll go. I’m also thinking of going to Jedi Con in Germany. I had a great time meeting up with my two friends Marcus Schroder and Klaus Dorscher at this years Mem show so would love to do Celeration Anaheim in April and meet all the friends I have made from these groups, but I don’t think I will be able to have the time off.

Gaz: I’ve never been to one but would love to, so it’s something that’s going to happen.

6. What are you all into other than vintage star wars collecting? Is there time for much else?

Ross: When I first got into collecting as an adult a few years back, I was buying childhood collections and other items on eBay – mostly GI Joe and Masters of the Universe (He-Man). I needed to take a step back and focus on one thing with everything else going on in my life, so I am slowing selling off everything other than Star Wars stuff.

Carl: I have my own building firm that keeps me pretty busy and of course the Mrs and the kids lol. My other passion is football (soccer). I have a season ticket for Wolverhampton Wanderers and have followed them since I can remember. We also have three Bedlington Terriers, and enjoy nothing more than taking them walks on evenings and weekends.

Gaz: Not really, most of my spare time goes into SW, it’s hard for much more with work and family. I do love football and support Sheffield Wednesday I go to see them whenever I can.

7. Gaz I notice that you always seem to have top pieces for sale at decent prices and that you have a steady influx coming into your collection? How do you do it? Where do you find this stuff?

Gaz: I think I’ve just been lucky with spending hours and hours on eBay, sending messages asking if they had more for sale and doing deals away from eBay for better prices, so able to sell I bit cheaper and find some nice bits for my collection, but it’s getting harder and dryer out there.

8. So do you have any advice for newer collectors who are trying to find quality items at decent prices?

Gaz: Patience, believe it or not. Good deals do still come up from time to time and do your homework so you know what’s fake and what’s genuine, this way when good deals do become available you can hit ‘buy it now’ in confidence knowing it’s the real deal. Snooze and you lose in this game.

9. Carl what do you think about the current market at the moment? What is driving the current situation, where prices seem to be soaring?

Carl: Without a doubt the current market is on the up, which is a real shame, as this has put a lot of the items out of reach to a lot of collectors 🙁 My opinion is since the news of the new Star Wars movies, the prices of MOCs etc have started to soar , and as the film gets closer there’s a chance they could get even higher. Since I started collecting 7-8 years ago , prices have trebled to what they are now.

VSWC: 12 backs do seem particularly affected. I bought my 12 Back B Luke (AFA 80) for 500 pounds just before Christmas (admittedly a great deal) and now the same piece is selling for more than double. So do you think the Disney films will further effect this trend?

Carl: Definitely. In the last six months prices are creeping up, but the new films next December have definitely had an impact. I also I think that, because the original cast are back in (ie Luke, Leia, Han, Chewie , C3PO and R2) 12 backs could increase further …….

11. So are you dudes excited about the new movies? Can JJ do it for the fans or will it be the prequels all over again?

Ross: Great question. From what I have seen to date, there is a movement to use more props, less CGI, and overall be truer to the OT (original trilogy), all of which I hope and think will lead to a great product. Disney paid a ton for the SW franchise, and has to get it right. With that said, Star Wars is like sex to me. Even when it’s bad, it’s good!

Carl: Can’t wait mainly because the original cast are back in it after 30 years, let’s face it the new films can’t be any worse than the last three and with the addition of the Stormies \, Falcon , x-wings etc from the original trilogy. I can’t wait ….

Gaz: I’m buzzing about the new films even more so knowing we have some of the original actors in there 🙂 It’s going to be a BIG HIT !

12. Ross I noticed that you changed your Rebelscum name from Darth Roscoe to Ross_Barr (is this correct?), pretty much in line with what the old guard did a while back. Are you too good for us now? Did you get enacted into the inner circle without letting your mates know?

Ross: Lol Christian! If anything, I am worse off for having dropped my cool Darth Roscoe moniker… Seriously though, consistent with point (4), as I met more people face to face it was frustrating to explain that I was “Darth Roscoe” on RS, so I made things simpler and went with my real name. And I did join the inner circle – they have beer and cheap women!!!!!!

VSWC: Yep ‘Darth Roscoe’ is a pretty cool dude…

13. In all seriousness, you’ve only been collecting for just about three years yet you’ve amassed an enormous collection and I think you’ve almost finished your MOC run How the hell did you do it so quickly?

Ross: Thanks for noticing, Christian. I need just a fewmoreMOCs to complete my full 96 carded run. And to answer your questions, yes they are all US Kenner. I have some foreign pieces that are part of my Han Solo focus, but that’s it. I have done it relatively quickly through some hustle, networking and very little off eBay. All in all, I havecomeout of pocket to the tune of around 55% oftheactual current market value of my collection through a lot of buying in bulk (large collection purchases, etc.) and selling off pieces that don’t fit my focus for againin an effort to subsidize my collection, and buying items that are otherwise way belowtheiractual market value. But of course I have also laid out a lotofmy own money, and importantly it was all through extra savings and other money that my family doesn’t necessarily need and likely won’t miss.

VSWC: Yeah I remember the huge haul you scored where you had to cross the border into Canada. How did this deal come about?

Ross: Great that you rememberthathaul. That was one of four large purchases like the ones I described above that have allowed me to finance my collection. The seller was getting rid of his whole collection of Canadian and US carded figures (41 in all),MIB vehiclesandplaysets (35-40 of those) and lots of other memorabilia. He posted them all for sale at once on the big SW vintage Facebook group.Unlikeall of the vultures that gave him lowball offers and ridiculed him, I was nice to him, gave a reasonable offer, and since he lived an hour or so drive from, offered to come with cash in hand and pick the stuff up so he didn’t have to deal with shipping it all. We corresponded for a few days and agreed on a price. Needless to say from the pic, it was a ton of stuff, and I sold off enough within a few days to get my money back (and then some) and keep, free of charge, among other things, a Canadian 20 backSWBobaFett (ended up grading AFA 80), Canadian 12 Back VinylCapeJawa (I believe only two others are out there, and I have since traded it toaJawa focus collector), ESB 45backBobaFett, several other MOC figures, afewMIB items, and various other odds and ends. It was the deal of a lifetime for sure.

You should have seen the face of the US border patrol officer when I drove to the US border with a car filled with vintage SW collectibles!!!!! He thought I was INSANE!!!!

VSWC: The famous ‘thumbs up’ photo of Ross and his plastic contraband.

14. One last question before we get to your group. Carl you have been pretty vocal about reproductions recently, particularly repro boxes. Do you think this is one of the greatest threat to this awesome hobby of ours?

Carl: I don’t like reproductions. I despise them !!! Definitely going to affect the hobby in time, not so much the older collectors who can spot the signs, colour etc, but some of the newer and less educated collectors coming in could get stung. Some of these boxes that are being reproduced are superb, with just a small tab with reproduction written on them, that is NOT enough. These could easily be cut off so no one would know they are fake. Give some of these repro boxes 4-5 years of getting a bit of wearand tear and it will be very hard to spot. It wouldn’t be so bad if from the front it looked like the original, for display, but on the back it had ‘REPRODUCTION’ written in big letters or a totally different colour to the original. That way there would be no way of cutting that off or of anyone getting scammed. This is just my view, but I’d rather save up a bit more and get the original in not so perfect condition than these cheap fakes that are flooding the market …. This one does make my blood boil ……

15. So to your group now. Gaz can you briefly summarise what it’s all about?

Gaz: Our groups focus is from the first film Star Wars, which is by far the best film ever released (my view!). We see the group as a place to gather collecting knowledge, to help others spot fakes etc and as a forum to display all of these amazing collectibles.

It’s also a place to have a good chit chat and laugh between us all while discussing SW (we are all on the same wave length). As soon as I mention SW in my house everyone’s ears shut down and I end put talking to myself!

VSWC: So why did you choose to focus on these particular parameters?

Gaz: It was all Carl’s idea. I met him through the main vintage SW Facebook page and we got talking though there, then I received a message from him asking if I’d like to start a SW page just dedicated to the 12/20/21 backs and the early stuff (mailers etc) and as I said, Star Wars was by far the best film out of the three, so I thought why not 🙂

So I’d just like to thank Carl for involving me, cheers bro 🙂

17. Gaz do you all have specific roles within the functioning of the group?

Gaz: Not really. If there’s any decisions to be made we just have a three way vote, well four now as Jeff’s on board 🙂

But we all tend to agree and it generally runs fine. Ross is the one who mainly writes the important posts up (clever lad as) he’s very good at wording things. My spelling and wording of things is terrible which is why I’m the last to respond to this interview. Carl and Ross said it was a breeze, yeah right I wish!

VSWC: Haha no worries Gaz! It generally takes a while for people to get back to me with their answers. I’m just stoked that people are willing to give up their time to the blog.

18. Ross, I might be a bit biased but to me the group seems to run much smoother than a lot of similar groups on Facebook. It really is a tight ship. Why do you think that is?

Ross: Facebook is kind of the wild west of SW collecting. It is certainly instantly gratifying when compared with some of the chat forums like RS and SWFUK, but there is so much less respect paid from one collector to another on Facebook, and zero moderation on most of the groups. Once Carl proposed the group to Garry and I, we discussed a few light rules that we had seen on RS that worked there and could provide a little organization to our group and encourage people to respect one another. The three of us (now four, with the addition of Steve Dwyer as an admin).

So how many members do you have now? Is the sky the limit in regards to membership?

Ross: As of today, we have just around 3,500 members. When Carl first proposed doing the group, I thought maybe it would be cool if we could get our friends from the forums and a few other random members together and some day have 500 or so members that enjoyed the early vintage as much as we do. It blows my mind that just over seven months later we already have 3,500.

As far as whether the sky is the limit, you always want to have more members naturally as it is more people to connect with, more interesting posts that will be made, and just better content. However, I have no desire to get so big that we have internet “trolling,” off topic posts, and disrespectful members running rampant. This group, in my mind, was always supposed to be a bunch of like minded collectors in a niche group. I hope we never lose that.

19. Carl there seems to be a recent flood of niche vintage collecting groups on Facebook. Do you think there are too many?

Carl: I really enjoy these niche groups but I am biased, if your focus is ANH, ESB, ROTJ, POTF , pre production, Lili Ledy etc there is a group for you out there. Plus the multiple general Star Wars pages, I don’t think there are too many but saying that, I turn notifications off on a lot of them, and just read the three or four I want to 🙂

VSWC: So what are your favourite groups then?

Carl: Of course my favourite page is the 12/21 back page without a doubt 🙂 I also enjoy checking out Echo base UK and Empire/ ROTJ pages. I’m also fascinated by the pre production pages, to see where all the toys we collect started and the different stages. There is so much to learn from that page . Matt (Matthieu Barthelemy) also does a great job on his La Guerre Des Etoiles page. I love seeing the Meccano and other designs for the foreign cardbacks.

21. What other niches are yet to be filled?

Carl: What other niche groups? Ask Ross lol! He will probably be helping with them!

VSWC: Haha you’re right! I should have asked Ross that one. I do like to call him the ‘King of the internet.’

22. So with you guys being so active on Facebook, do you still have much time for the forums?

Ross: I certainly have less time for RS as I used to, but I make an effort to go on there still as much as I can, and still would say I am active. It is still in my view the best place for information, and has the best classified section. It is well run and organized, and is an overall great site. As I said in my first RS post about the 12 back group, I think RS is the steak of the SW forums, and our niche 12 back and early vintage group is the red wine that compliments the steak.

Carl: Unfortunately I don’t really have the time for forums, with the two pages I help run plus everything else. Lisa would definitely not be with me if I spent anymore time on Star Wars than I already do 🙂 I look on RS and SWFUK and TIG when I can, as there’s so much information stored on these pages, but it’s more limited than I would like.

Gaz: I always like to log onto RS and SWFUK and have a quick look, although I use RS mainly for WTB threads for the bits I’m after which usually works.

VSWC: So what would you guys say is your favourite forum?

Ross: RS, hands down. In fairness to the others, I haven’t spent much time on SWFUK and TIG other than on SWFUK when the Toy Toni stuff came out and TIG to confirm my weapons’ authenticity.

Carl: My favourite forum, I guess, it’s got to be RS nowadays followed closely by SWFUK.

Gaz: RS.

24. On to my final question, which is – to grade or not to grade?

Ross: For me it is a mixed bag. For my MOC figures, while I rarely buy an already graded figure (because, among other things, they are almost always too expensive), I buy near mint to mint pieces and almost always have them graded. I like the look and protection of the figure and card in acrylic, and the costs of the graded piece is really just another $30 or so more than it would be for the acrylic case itself. And the sad fact remains that if that grading turns out to produce an AFA 80 or 85, it results in an increase in the value of that figure in the market place, so it is money well spent in my view. I also like the ability to track my pieces by serial number, and have seen the AFA serial number come into play and be helpful in stopping thieves and scammers.

Carl: In my collection I have both graded and ungraded pieces , I have nothing against the grading , it protects the pieces and I love how they look. Luckily for me I bought most of mine before the prices really shot up and if I was collecting all the 12/20 backs now I would definitely be buying ungraded.

I think, like everything, AFA has its good points and bad points. Bad being: inconsistency with grades and u grading (well don’t get me started on that). It’s a shame prices go so high after grading but I guess for some it’s worth the price just to know what they’re getting and that their piece is authentic. So for me to grade or not to grade – I’m both ……

Gaz: I’m easy as most of my 12 backs are graded except for a couple, my other nine of the 21 backs are mainly ungraded (three are graded) but they are all displayed in AFA style cases as they display better and protected. I’ll probably be getting them graded when I get around to it.

Well thanks so much for your time guys and keep up the great work with the group. I definitely feel that I know you all better after that and I hope our audience feels the same way. I’m sure we will catch up sometime, somewhere for a beer.

Collector Snapshot #7 – Clio (aka ‘Jitterbug’) and Noel (aka ‘IG127’)

Posted on December 1, 2014 by bobbybobs

Welcome to the seventh installment of our regular segment, where a vintage collector is given 10 short questions to answer. The same questions will be given to the next collector appearing on the segment.

This episode is huge! Not only is it a double-header, but the featured collectors are a couple! I know there are a few collector couples doing the rounds but it’s not something you see every day. I’m thrilled they agreed to appear on the blog.

So who are the lucky couple? Clio is a collector who I’ve previously bumped into on Rebelscum and was actually one of the members to respond to my first ever thread on that forum. She’s 28 and works as a ‘Environmental Geoscientist’ in Calgary, Canada and when she’s not collecting vintage Star Wars she’s neck deep in her other hobbies – Kenner SuperPowers, Wonder Woman, hockey and cake decorating. Yep pretty much the perfect woman.

Clio’s boyfriend Noel is 32 and works as a ‘Geotechnical Engineering Technologist’ (I had to google both of their jobs!) Noel’s into table hockey, classic Mega Man video games (and a lot of other video games), strange pets, Dr Who, NHL and collects hockey jerseys. You can check out more about Noel on his website:

www.noeldiques.webs.com

Considering this is a special episode I thought I’d let Clio talk us through how her and Noel met. Take it away Clio!

“We met three and a half years ago, mostly due to our shared work in the field of

geosciences and our love of hockey. I mostly collected Wonder Woman, fossils and some Royal Doulton figurines, I knew nothing about vintage Star Wars, I didn’t even know it existed. The first time I went to Noel’s apartment, he showed me his collection. He had an entire wall of MOCs, all neatly hung, and then a glass case with some loose figures, ships, and play sets. It was a pretty impressive collection and he had amassed it in less than four years. For the first year of our relationship, I just listened to him and watched him make deals and learned how it all worked. The passion Noel had for his collection and the community was infectious and I wanted to be a part of it so I picked up my first piece about a year after we started dating. Noel’s goal was to have one of every figure MOC, mine was to get as many bad guys, especially Snowtroopers, as possible. We don’t go to any conventions or anything like that, mostly to toy and collectible shows that we find in and around the city. As our collections progressed, we both began shifting to Canadian MOCs. Noel began replacing his American MOCs with Canadian ones and I focused less on Snowtroopers and more on getting the bad guys I liked on Canadian cards (still as many as possible) and developed a love for Hoth Leia.

Six months ago, we packed up our collections, bought a house and moved to Calgary together. We now have one collection room that houses all of our things together. The room is probably 85% vintage Star Wars (the rest is Mega Man, Wonder Woman, and my Super Powers collection). Noel’s MOCs cover the walls and fill up the cabinets and shelves, his loose figures stand in long wall-mounted cases, my case of a Super Powers/Star Wars loose mix hangs below. I have a small corner dedicated to my MOCs, but since the Toy Toni scandal I have put my collection on ice and have been selling off pieces rather than acquiring them, but I always have my eye out for some Canadian baddies and Hoth Leia MOCs. Noel also introduced me to Kenner’s Super Powers line, and I’m focusing on them a bit more these days. I still love vintage Star Wars, but acquiring them isn’t a priority for me right now. Noel’s collection is now nearly completely Canadian, and he’s almost got all the loose figures as well. We would love to get to know some more collectors, so if you’re ever in Calgary, get in touch!”

Thanks for that Clio now to the ten questions!

1. How long have you been collecting?

NOEL: 1989 to 1996, 2007 to present
CLIO: 2012 to present

2. What do you collect?

NOEL: Canadian MOCs
CLIO: Canadian MOCs, “bad guys” (Snowtroopers, Stormtroopers, AT-AT Drivers, TIE Pilots, and Biker Scouts), Hoth Leia

VSWC: Check out a selection of their fantastic collection.

3. What’s your grail?
NOEL: That I own: MOC wind up R2-D2. That I want: a Canadian multi-pack.
CLIO: That I own = GDE Stormtrooper, That I want: Meccano Snowtrooper MOC

4. What collectors inspire you?

NOEL: Scott MacDonald got my collecting started again.
CLIO: Actually, Noel inspires me. He’s very detailed and meticulous. Everything I know about Star Wars collectibles, I learned from Noel! I also admire those collectors who are humble and collect what they love, no matter the flack they get from anyone.

5. What is your most embarrassing moment as a collector?
NOEL: Forgot my wallet at the booth at a Toronto Toy show then spotted a loose Imperial Gunner in a $3 bin. Ran back to get my cash, but by the time I got back to the booth selling the Gunner, someone was buying it. I also turned down a case (like 24 MOC) of UZAY figures in the early 90s. Guy was selling them for $20 each (Blue Stars were $40). I bought a 12” IG-88 instead. (I still have the IG-88).
CLIO: My most embarrassing moment was when I had bought Noel a MOC for his birthday that he really wanted. We happened to be in a local vintage toy shop that had the exact same MOC and Noel was determined to buy it. I did everything I could to try and convince him not to buy it and when he wouldn’t back down I had to tell him that I’d already bought it for him. I was bummed! It was disappointing for sure, but more embarrassing that we were having these very serious, geeky discussions as to why Noel shouldn’t buy a MOC in public and I got to feel like that annoying, nagging girlfriend.

6. What is your favourite Star Wars film?
NOEL: Star Wars – A New Hope.
CLIO: The Empire Strikes Back

7. What would you change about the collecting community?

NOEL: Get rid of scammers, fakes and repros.They are all bad for the hobby, and waste my time during online searches.
CLIO: More female collectors so I can geek out with other ladies!

8. Forums or Facebook groups?

NOEL: If you want good answers without a bunch of keyboard ninjas hijacking your threads then forums. Sales are much better on Forums too. Facebook is full of flakes who never come through on deals. If you want to show off your collection for immediate applause (I do sometimes) then Facebook. Facebook has an extremely short memory too. I could showcase my Sears Vaccuform figures every week and have to explain to people what they are each time.

CLIO: Both have their advantages and drawbacks. I definitely prefer the forums and use that as my major source of information and prefer to sell there as I have had more success on the forums than Facebook. If I just want to see awesome pictures of collections and share some, or connect on a more personal level, then I’ll go to Facebook.

VSWC: I’m in awe every time I see these Sears vaccuform figures.

9. What Star Wars character do you most resemble?

NOEL: Luke when my hair is long, Imperial Commander when I wear a hat, Madine when I’ve been in the oil fields unshaven for too long.
CLIO: When I’ve been caught in the rain/early morning: Chewbacca. When I’m going out in Canada in the summer: Hoth Leia. When I’m going out in Canada in the winter: Snowtrooper.

10. Is there one thing that collectors may not know about you?

NOEL: I’m a very underrated collector. I’m 32, but have been collecting since I was in grade 2. I’ve seen it all in this hobby, and know a lot. I do get annoyed when noobs don’t do any research and post easy questions, then other noobs post wrong answers.

CLIO: I am not a completest at all, even when I have a focus. I really only collect the pieces I really, really like and don’t care if I have one example of everything. Also, after the ToyToni scandal, I took a very long break from collecting and still have yet to purchase a new piece because I’m so put off by the whole thing. I’ve been focusing on my Super Powers and Wonder Woman collections.

VSWC:Well thanks to both of you for coming onto the blog. It was a real pleasure having such a great couple here and great to get to know a little bit more about you both. Good luck in your collecting and Clio I hope Toy Toni doesn’t permanently dampen your collecting experience. I myself was stung twice by him and it took some time to recover but now I’m as happy collecting as I ever have been!

Collector Snapshot #6 – Krille Söderlund (aka ‘yeahsus007’)

Posted on November 12, 2014 by bobbybobs

Welcome to the sixth episode of our regular segment, where a vintage collector is given 10 short questions to answer. The same questions will be given to the next collector appearing on the segment.

Next up to bat is Krille Söderlund. He is 38 years old and was born and raised in Sweden where he lives with his girlfriend and their daughter.

VSWC: Here’s Krille relaxing after a tough day playing with his Star Wars toys.

If you’ve ever come across Krille on Facebook or the forums (he is yeahsus007 on Rebelscum and Yeah-sus on SWFUK), more than likely you’ve noticed what a positive collector he is and that not only does he have a beautiful collection but he it always willing to contribute to vintage discussions. Krille is also very modest so a lot may be surprised to see how comprehensive his collection is.Yes that’s right, Krille is another example of how annoying Scandinavians can be – they all seem to be good looking, self-confident, friendly and intelligent.

Here we go!

1. How long have you been collecting?

I started with my childhood collection back in 2006 after a double date with a couple my girlfriend knows. He showed me his toys and when I pulled out mine from the box in my parent’s garage I was hooked and have never looked back.

2. What do you collect?

I started with collecting loose ships and figures,variants,boxed ships and now I’m mainly collecting carded figures. During the years I’ve been able to pick up oddballs, posters and some paperwork. My ‘goal’ is one MIB of every ship and figure released by Kenner. I also have a soft spot for Playmix/Scanditoys marked toys and everything relating to Star Wars in Sweden.

VSWC: Check out Krille’s collection. Not only is it filled with fantastic pieces but the set-up is as stylish as you’ll get. Even the Persian rug is all class!

3. What’s your grail?

I’m one of those lucky bastards with my grail already in my collection. A 12-back Palitoy Darth Vader MOC with a Swedish price sticker.

VSWC: Photo of Krille’s grail below. Yep he’s definitely one lucky bastard!

4. What collectors inspire you?

I’ve been inspired by collectors with great knowledge and who help out in the community. I will take the time to thank my Swedish mentors who always watch my back: Mattias Rendahl, Daniel Bornheim, Johan Sydling, Fredrik Juthberg, Rasmus Hult , POTF Micke and of course the rest of the gang in SSWC (Swedish Star Wars Collectors).

5. What is your most embarrassing moment as a collector?

I don’t have any shame in my body so until now nothing.

6. What is your favorite Star Wars film?

As a kid Return of the Jedi but as an adult Empire Strikes Back.

7. What would you change about the collecting community?

In a perfect world we would all be friends, be happy for the collections of others and their scores. I hope someday everybody understands we are collecting toys and it’s meant to be fun.

8. Forums or Facebook groups?

I love forums for the knowledge and all of the info that is easy to reach but Facebook is great for superfast answers and is the easy way to publish photos

9. What Star Wars character do you most resemble?

I see myself as Yoda but I think my friends think of me more as Han Solo; loud but kind.

10. Is there one thing that collectors may not know about you?

I’m a hoarder and hate to let go of things. My motto is “Buy it so you have it.”

VSWC: Well thank you so much for joining us Krille. I know you’re a busy man so I appreciate your time. Keep collecting and stay cool!

Collector Snapshot #6 – Chris Bernst

Posted on October 24, 2014 by bobbybobs

Welcome to the sixth episode of our regular segment, where a vintage collector is given 10 short questions to answer. The same questions will be given to the next collector appearing on the segment.

My next victim is my friend Chris Bernst, who has being a big supporter of the blog from day one and for that I’m very grateful. Chris is 41 years old and lives in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada with his wife and their two girls but he spent most of his life in Victoria BC with a couple of three year stints in Vancouver and Toronto…He’s a bit of a jack of all trades and has worked as a cook, waiter, bartender, carpenter, horse and buggy tour guide, security guard, toy show vendor, fire investigator, and most recently a fibre-optic splicer….His newest venture includes his family as they prepare to bring life back into a vacant heritage building with a neighbourhood pub…

Chris is an avid Star Wars collector and runs two collector groups on Facebook ” Batteries not Included Collectors Group Inc.” and “Indiana Jones and Collectors Covenant”. I love the “Batteries not Included” group as it provides a meeting place for both modern and vintage collectors and the admin team encourages intelligent and respectful discussion. Bad seeds are very quickly weeded out.

Chris’ love for Star Wars came at the age of five when his older brother, who he always looked up to, introduced him to the world of Star Wars. Like most of us, he was hooked line and sinker. His parents built (bought!) his Star Wars universe….When he received a good school report card or scored a touchdown in a football game he would be rewarded (like lots of kids in the 1970s) with Star Wars figures. And he had them all…from the start It was on…..and he hasn’t stopped..

Here we go!

1. How long have you been collecting?

I’ve been collecting Star Wars literally since they were first released. I remember my brother getting the early bird certificate when we were kids,and when I first saw his figures I needed them too….the passion never really stopped for me. I mean it tapered in my mid to late teens when I discovered rock music and that girls had boobs…I moved around a lot so I kept my stuff packed up at my grandmas from the time I was 12 until I was about 24 (it remained untouched) with the resurgence of the POTF2 line. That’s where it started again for me in 1997.

2. What do you collect?

Well I collect a lot but my main focus is vintage. There is just something about these toys that meant so much to me growing up. I have a near complete vintage Kenner collection and I’m only missing seven items; which are readily available. Perhaps something inside me is holding back on finishing the complete set because then I’d have em all. Now what? I also collect modern figures. I have almost 800 MOC figures dating back to 1997 to present. I’m also into vintage Star Wars cards, comics, mags, ect….I do collect lots of other toys but for now let’s stick to Star Wars.

VSWC: Here are a few photos of Chris’ enormous collection!

3. What’s your grail?

Well my grail is one that’s worthless and would end up on some Facebook group as a $2 beater. I mean I have pieces worth hundreds of dollars but my Big Head Han with his crazy glued head is my jewel. He’s been through everything with me, first day of school, doctor visits, dentist visits, funerals, hockey games, foot ball games, college – this little guy has been through it all. He was even in my breast pocked when I married my beautiful wife. To me this figure is priceless.

4. What collectors inspire you?

Well immediately Sir Steve comes to mind. The guy is a wealth of Star Wars collectible knowledge. He literally wrote the book (s) on the subject. How can you not be inspired by that? Look at Bill McBride’s Vader collection….that’s unbelievable. There are so many collectors I meet who have these great collections, good people who are willing to help other collectors attain their goals….that in itself is inspiring.

5. What is your most embarrassing moment as a collector?

I’m not sure I’ve had enough embarrassing collecting moments that warrants a best…I do remember in 1997 I was living in Victoria, BC. One of my best friends and I were making pretty fantastic bootleg copies of “The Holiday Special” to sell in the line up at the theater opening night. He did the artwork for the cover while I duped the movies…we walked up and down the two block line-up trying to flog the tapes…..there was a comic book store / directly beside the theatre I went in thinking well shit this guy will want them. I was wrong he wanted no part of it of what I was offering. He literally chased me out of the store into a sea of Star Wars fans yelling ” Star Wars Bootlegger”. My friend and I did ok though lol….Later that night on the local news there was a guy attending the later showing of the film who actually brought his TV and VCR and was playing our tape in the line-up.

6. What is your favourite Star Wars film?

No question for me….Empire…I loved the snow scenes as a kid. Growing up in northern Ontario we get a lot of snow in the winter and I could really relate to seeing my childhood heroes in the snow…that and the toys from Empire kicked ass!! I was able to recreate so many scenes from Empire..

7. What would you change about the collecting community?

I’d like to see online FB transactions documented as best as they can be(at least the bad transactions) I’d like to think that I am doing my part with my Feedback list on “Batteries Not Included.” Our goal was to make the ‘Buy, Sell and Trade’ community a safer one and with the help of two great admins, Gary Haygood and Paul Galactic Armory, we have created and maintained a very useful feedback list. The list has over 400 users (and growing daily) with positive transactions. As well as a list of bad sellers and buyers. Star Wars is big business for some collectors and I hate hearing the stories of people getting ripped off…

8. Forums or Facebook groups?

I’m pretty partial to the FB community when it comes to Star Wars. I’ve met a lot of great collectors online that I now consider friends. It’s really quite amazing how this social networking site brings us who share the same passion for these movies and toys all together. I know there is a lot of drama sometimes and I’ve been caught in the middle on occasion but there is way more good than bad in these groups.

9. What Star Wars character do you most resemble?

The older I get the more I’m looking like Obi-Wan. I think I could pull off a sweet Jedi costume.

VSWC: What do you guys think? Chris is not that old is he????

10. Is there one thing that collectors may not know about you?

I’ve led an exciting and happy life. I’ve enjoyed rock climbing in the Rocky Mountains and I’ve surfed in the Pacific Ocean, worked in some extreme and exciting situations. I’ve been to over 300 concerts in so many awesome venues in North America. In my early 20s I spent three months in my 71′ VW van following Pink Floyd from venue to venue. I have multiple passions that I am fortunate to dabble in. I married my college sweetheart and I have two beautiful girls.

Well thanks Chris for joining us. It has been a treat learning more about you and your passion for this great hobby of ours really shines through. Keep doing what you are doing!

Collector Snapshot #5 – Troy Patterson aka ‘Troyig88’

Posted on October 10, 2014 by bobbybobs

Welcome to the fifth episode of our regular segment, where a vintage collector is given 10 short questions to answer. The same questions will be given to the next collector appearing on the segment.

Next batter up to the plate is Troy Patterson, a collector who I know from Rebelscum. Troy absolutely loves his vintage collecting and I’ve been very keen to coax him onto the blog. Thanks Troy for giving up your time.

So a little bit about Troy before we get to the ten questions. He’s 45 years old and lives in Alabama. He grew up loving Star Wars from the movies, behind the scenes action and the toys. It was a great time to be a kid and he has collected about 2000 pieces with no signs of slowing down!

Here we go!

1. How long have you been collecting?

Pretty much from the beginning, around 1978, but I could only get things every once in a while on birthdays and Christmas. I took a break from it around 1985 to 1989. That was when I got into cars, but I got back into collecting in 1990. I still have everything from when I was a kid.

2. What do you collect?

Production stuff, autographs, and prop replicas. Prototypes don’t interest me at all to collect but I do think they are cool and I really don’t care for bootleg merchandise. I am currently working on collecting a complete set of Star Wars figures on Empire cards and only have four more to get to complete the set. I have some mini rigs to get and a few other things.

VSWC: Heres’ a sample of some of Troy’s fantastic collection.

3. What’s your grail?

I would say a complete POTF coin set. I have 30 so far and need 32 more.

4. What collectors inspire you?

I would have to say Jeff’s Museum (Jeff Jacob) inspires me. I will never reach that level of a collection but it sure is fun trying. I also like Gus Lopez’s collection as well. I would love to have my collection throughout the house.

5. What is your most embarrassing moment as a collector?

Not getting the vinyl cape Jawa when I first got back into collecting. The vinyl cape Jawa was like $300.00, so I said to myself I would get that later. Well before I knew it $300 became $400 then $600 to $1400 and finally $3000. Then it began to bug me every time I would read something on Star Wars collecting that would talk about the Jawa. After that, I made a big decision to sell all my 12 backs and some of the POTF figures to fund the Jawa and just start over. Well I got the Jawa and began to “rebuild” my collection. I am happy to say I have all of them back, but only one Luke Stormtrooper which I plan to get next year.

6. What is your favourite Star Wars film?

To me The Original Unaltered Trilogy is just the one movie. I love it.

7. What would you change about the collecting community?

I really don’t like the idea of “U” grade. The thought of someone ripping a figure off a not so prefect card just makes me sick. Also reproductions, a seller may be selling a figure that he may not know has a repro gun or helmet.

VSWC: Please check out this link if you’d like to learn more about the ‘U grade’ and its impact on the collecting community:

U Grade

VSWC: And when it comes to reproductions, here is another great article:

http://vintagestarwarscollectors.com/guest-collector-ian-cowley-the-hazards-of-reproductions-on-vintage-collecting/

8. Forums or Facebook groups?

Forums are great, but Facebook is good too. When you are looking for a really hard piece everything thing helps.

9. What Star Wars character do you most resemble?

Yak face

VSWC: I literally laughed out loud when I read this answer! I think Troy is being a bit harsh on himself here. I can’t see any resemblance!

10. Is there one thing that collectors may not know about you?

I love to collect movies. I am a huge dog lover and I feel every home should have a dog. Every dog needs a home.

Well thanks Troy for coming on the blog. Thanks for the support you’ve given us so far. Good luck with your collecting and we hope you finally obtain your holy grail!

Collector Interview #4 : Wolff aka ‘Wbobafett’

Posted on September 12, 2014 by bobbybobs

I’m pumped to present an interview with a collector who I sincerely look up to – Wolff aka ‘Wbobafett on Rebelscum, The Imperial Gunnery and Star Wars Forum UK. Wolff is one of the hobby’s leading variant collectors and when I decided to create this blog, he was one of the first people that popped into my mind as potential interviewees. The work he has undertaken on the COO guide is phenomenal, so good in fact that I voted him as one of the Scummers of the year of 2013 (the entire Rebelscum thread is here – http://forum.rebelscum.com/t1105235/). Not only is this outstanding work but he also seems to me to be very modest about it. I’m a variant collector myself so obviously I appreciate the work he has done and hopefully will continue into the distant future

If you haven’t seen Wolff’s COO guide or his amazing website, don’t wait one second longer!

COO Guide 3.0

Now to the questions!

1. Hi Wolff. Welcome to the blog and thanks for joining us. I know you’re a busy man, especially these days, so I appreciate your time. So you’re German right? Germany is one of my favourite places in the world. Where are you from exactly?

W: Yes I am from Germany. I come from “Baden-Württemberg” and was born near Stuttgart. I still live near Stuttgart…well at least kind of 😀

2. Is there much of a collecting community there?

W: Oh… sadly not. I guess you have much better chances of finding collecting buddies in the far north of Germany. In the far south of Germany the collectors seem to be more shy and do collect more “off the radar”. Some are on the forums but never post, most are just out there…staying unknown. I met a handful of those collectors in Stuttgart once. All of them mostly collect MOC stuff, AFA and have their loose set but no-one has what “we” call the “variant bug”…hahahaha….pity though.

The internet is my (only) way to talk to persons with the very same interest :D. So actually only one of the “variant guys” out there has seen my collection in person: Kenneth_B.

3. Did you get the chance to go to CE2 (Star Wars Celebration Europe 2)?

W: Yes I was at CE2. Only for one day, but it was worth it. I think because I rarely see collectors in person I was a bit too shy to talk to everyone that was there. I just couldn’t do it: Hey Gus Lopez…I am Wbobafett (Wolff) the variant “idiot” from Germany….nahh…that wasn’t really my thing, but I stood next to a lot of the famous guys and listened to them talking to other scummers….great fun though 😀

4.What do you do for work?

I am an art restorer, mainly paintings and sculptures. I am a freelancer, so I am often on the road. I still don’t have “internet” when I am away from home…no smartphone etc. I can assure you that makes people go crazy….”How can you bid on ebay stuff, read the forums, etc. ???….well it is simple: I just miss it! All the time! LOL!

5. I’ve seen photos of the star wars dioramas that you made. They really are a sight to behold and I don’t think I’ve seen a better collection set up. Is this is a skill you’ve acquired during your professional career or did you just learn as you went along?

W: Thanks for the kudos. 😀

I would say it is kind of both reasons. I am of course not bad with my hands, otherwise I wouldn’t have studied restoration of art. On the other hand I was never shy to try things and I love to “solve problems” (manual problems of course). I built lots of stuff as a kid and my father built great stuff for me too…always. So it’s kind of a tradition. We both have very messy hobby rooms with lots of stuff laying around that should be repaired, built or just is exploited.

VSWC: Some of Wolff’s amazing dioramas. Take a deep breath before you open these thumbnails!

W (continued): I really hope that one day every diorama is finished like I want them to be. But it is very similar to my collection. You are always close…but never finished. My current project is building the Khetanna (Jabba’s Sailbarge) for 3 3/4″ of course. I really got this going on but then I was missing some spare time and it was laying around for …hmm…nine months or so. I am now back trying to finish this project….sometimes frustrating but mostly lots of fun and a real challenge.

6. You also seem to be a master at identifying paint discolouration, issues with plastic degradation etc on vintage figures. Where did you pick up this skill?

W: Uhmm…wow…okay….I think master is a bit too much. I do my best!

In general it is a mixture of common sense and decades of experience. I grew up in a family of collectors. I’ve been going to flea markets and toy markets almost every weekend since I was born. I am very familiar with every kind of damage to tin toys, celluloid dolls, wind-ups toys, trains, action figures, comics etc.

I also started collecting “Kinder-Ferrero” figures when I was a kid. There were lots of high priced accessories that were nearly perfectly faked in the 90s. People started to use the UV light for those already in the 90s.

And of course it is again my profession that helps me a lot. You need to know every chemical process on colors, adhesives and other materials before you start restoring a painting. I am very good with colors on paintings therefore, but most of the theoretical and chemical reactions can be transferred on the figures’ paint as well.

8. Do you get much time for other hobbies?

Other hobbies?? I don’t have other hobbies. Well I have my own family now and I like to watch movies and television series. All my spare time I have I spend with my daughter right now….and sometimes sneak out to quickly check what’s going on in the SW-universe 😀

9. You are the one of a handful of people that really are active on the three main forums – RS, TIG and SWFUK. Do you have a favourite?

W: Aren’t there more people active on all three forums?? If I think this through you might be right. Well there are some “issues” between TIG and SWFUK so most people choose only one of those….just a guess though.

I personally do not have a favorite and when I do have one it can change any time.

TIG is known for its variant guys and experts on loose weapons. Rebelscum just has gathered the largest wisdom on all stuff surrounding the SW vintage collecting. SWFUK is the most “honest” forum out there. You can meet nice people and friends in all three forums so why not be a member on all three….and honestly I am member on quite a few other forums… 😉

VSWC: You’re right. There are many other forums, I should have said ‘English speaking forums.’ From what I know there is a pretty popular German SW forum and also a big Spanish one, not sure about languages. I would have also mentioned Joe’s fantastic forum Trilogo.info but this is more of a niche forum.

I’ve always been curious why there is so much discussion about variants on TIG. Is there a reason why so many variant collectors are so active on that forum? I mean why not on RS for example?

W: The discussions on RS were pretty much “useless” when it came to variants. It mostly got out of hand and the majority of the variant hunters didn’t post anything anymore. The newly formed and published TIG was a kind of a collecting pond for frustrated variant hunters I think?

10. I haven’t seen you around the Facebook groups though? Have you given them a try?

W: I am not on Facebook…not even private. I quit Facebook eight years ago or so for several reasons. I have no interest at all joining it again. It might be fun but from what I am hearing it is even worse with all the hassle and stuff?!?!?

VSWC: I can’t argue about there being a lot of dramas on Facebook. Something definitely has to be done to improve the experience but I guess these groups are all quite nascent so hopefully they will improve over time. Facebook is a great way to meet other collectors though. Maybe we’ll see you back one day 🙂

11. I have a few questions about your variant collecting now. How long have you been doing it and how did you get so utterly deep into it in the first place?

W: That is a good question. I have been asked this a lot of times and the answer can’t be given exactly.

I am way too young so I actually only had one figure from the stores: Klaatu. The rest of my childhood figures came from my father who bought them at flea markets and gifted me one from time to time, you know…for washing the bicycle or dusting his collection etc.

When I was older I started to recognize variants on those. I had a Trilogo Fett and I was able to buy a vinyl cape Jawa at the flea market myself. So I was always looking for Stormtroopers and variants.

I started to collect online around 2000. I already had a big collection with about 200 figures and several ships from flea markets. First mistake: I bought repro weapons to complete my childhood collection…..just to burn them all five years later….Dooooohhhhh.

From then on I collected on ebay, always looking for variants. I browsed webshots for pictures to learn about variants. In 2008 I joined RS and from then on I really learned a lot and it took me to a much higher level.

So over all you can say:

1986-1999: Trying to build a complete set (only missing Blue Snag and Luke Stromtrooper)

2000-2008: Buying main variants and foreign variants (GL, TT, LL)

2008-today: Research research, research. Trying to bring light to several collecting areas: weapons, coos, Lili Ledy, PBP, Poch etc

12. So how many variants do you actually own then?

W: Hahaha…good I just updated my Excel-file! 😀

But the answer isn’t that simple after all. Coo-research is done for me. I am trying to downsize and I am sorting out many figures, back to the roots if you will. I am trying to build a variant collection again with the bonus of what I have learned by doing the coo research. What is left is making those final Coo-sheets. Some are done…some not. So being in the middle of a change I have exactly 1003 figures plus 55 bootlegs and of course fodder box and spares. Most of them are complete. I am guessing that 250-300 figures will need to go….though. The more interesting question is what is really left??

VSWC: Wow that is amazing! You have a couple more variants than me…So can you make a guestimate about how many are left for you to find?

W: There will be always figures I urgently need to upgrade, but really missing is only one figure at the moment. 😀 Well maybe five or six more minor ones but mainly one. What is missing mostly here is some of the rare accessories I really would like to add, i.e. my second pair of LL CCP (Cloud Car Pilot) accessories and a lot of PBP weapons. And of course I am still missing a few grail pieces bootleg wise….if I only could find that Polish Leia.

VSWC: Some of Wolff’s breathtaking collection!

13. To your mind what is the hardest to find variant?

W: Depends what you call a variant 😉

Coo-wise and variant wise it should be the scarred out PBP Luke Farmboy. There are lots of figures out there that are extremely rare but to be honest 99 percent are just mass produced. Some are rare but can always be found, most are just common. But as said: some you have one chance in your lifetime to get them….better be there 😉

VSWC: How many scarred out PBP Luke Farmboys are confirmed to actually be out there?

W: Difficult question because rumours and people claiming to have one are out there from time to time! Uncracked with original PBP saber – there is only one IMO and it is mine. But there must be more in collections still in the dark. I have seen pictures of three loose ones in collections. There are many more MOC figures especially because this variant is a) very unknown and b) seemed to have appeared on several cardbacks (PBP, German and Palitoy) but thanks to TT (Toy Toni) we will never know for sure….

To make it short: I have seen three confirmed loose ones and I have seen about 10 MOCs (only two are PBP MOCs)….the figures are confirmed whereas the seals (some are “ironed”) are not….sadly

14. I know that variant prices have dropped in the last couple of years. In your opinion will this trend continue?

W: This is not completely true in my opinion. It always depends on what you are looking for.

PBP, POCH and Lili Ledy went down. Some more, some less. Common variants also went down, maybe because they are really common?? Glasslite and TopToys took a huge step upwards in the last few years. Similarly for bootlegs – Mexican and Polish went down, Uzay and Polish originals went up. It is and will always be the “taste of the month”. I can see why many people are a bit fed up with the things that went down. Many, many important people turned their back on variant collecting. Very new ones are filling these gaps. In my opinion there is a lot of information that was lost between these two generations. There are a few guides and webshots albums that are not known these days, this information is lost forever if you will. Newer collectors are confused because of that lack of information. I can see that especially with Spanish figures: the overall view and the developments made since 2008 can’t be seen…which is kind of sad.

But on the other hand I cannot see why some of the PBP figures that are clearly different have dropped that much. Seems like most collectors do not appreciate those figures that much anymore. Kind of sad, because I would have killed (nearly.. 😉 ) for some of those a few years back.

15. Thanks for that market analysis Wolff! Very informative. So now to your COO guide. When did you first start working on it?

W: Must have been in the early part of 2008. I noticed that combining my finds with Rog’s guide was already huge and wondered what more would be out there.

16. Is the COO Guide 3.0 finished yet?

W: It isn’t finished yet…sadly. For me personally it is very boring to do those COO sheets. I have examined COOs for nearly a decade and I know them all. The first guide was a journey, and with the help of fellow collectors there were lots of new things that were discovered. The COO guide 3.0 is simply writing down what’s in my collection and head. But never say never…..especially Patrick (pattejan) and Alex (General Kahn) could find a few minor variants I didn’t know about. So especially ANH was great fun to finish.

VSWC: Do you think you’ll continue producing these guides? I hope so, as I’ve pretty much learnt most of what I know about COO variants from your site.

W: I am not sure if I will make further guides. With the COO guide 2.0 I just wanted too much. It should include 1) COO variants 2) side by side comparison 3) mold comparison 4) color comparisons etc. I simply gave up, especially because the templates were horrible to change if something new popped up. I can see now a few guides that are in the making I always wanted to do, and I think they are in good hands.

I always made guides for my own fun, not to manifest an investment. With my family growing and me being finished with my collection (nearly) I think I won’t start new guides in future. the younger ones are faster anyway 😀 😉

17. Do you feel that your work on the guide is appreciated in the collecting world?

W: Depends. Sometimes yes, sometimes no. I get lots of positive feedback, mostly in private via PM. On RS I always missed the support from the “inner circle”. On TIG I was never asked to be in the Dev Team ….etc. I know I have my outs here and there and I won’t complain…..but I would have wished for more support from time to time. I cannot thank enough Shawn_K for the possibility he gave me. Also Joe_O and Chris_B always supported me, even though none of them has the variant bug or collect COOs. A few of the guides wouldn’t have been possible without them!

18. You are arguably one of the variant collecting masters, which I’m sure you’re too modest to admit but who are the other big variant collectors out there?

W: Hahahaha…oh well. First of all: I am not the only variant collector out there. There are lots of great collections out there and by far better ones as well. I personally love focus collectors, they do know their stuff much better. So General_Kahn (Luke Bespin), psybertech (Leia Bespin), cocofstar (Yoda), M4K3R1 (Vader) and many more have great collections!

Some of the variant guy’s collections are known (mostly), like Kenneth_B, Mike_Skywalker and some stay unknown, but I can assure you “just wow” like Lee_M, Ilseeker (Carlos) or Javiswspain and Sergio. I am sure there are many people out there with incredible collections…..not sure how many grails DrDengar and Walkie already have hoarded…though.

I personally think HWR (Henrik) is going the best way. He is patient….god is he patient…..he only collects true and significant variants (whatever that means)…is slowly building and never gets tired! I like this way of collecting….he takes his time….whilst all the new guys always seem to be in a rush….and you never know when someone is selling it all again looking for new goals…..Henrik will keep his collection forever I am guessing…..so will I hopefully!!

19. Before we finish I have to congratulate you on your latest hard to find variant. Do you want to tell us a bit about that?

Oooooohhhh…..you must mean my little babygirl…not that Palitoy three-legged R2 I just found….. 😀 😀 😀

Kidding aside, she is the love of my life! It is great to be a dad, and especially a girl I am guessing. I never understood other parents reporting every little step their kids do, but I do understand now….”WOHOOO….she turned around the first time!!! “..”Wohooo….finally the diapers are…..” well… guess you do not wanna hear this, but it is correct: You are happy with every little step your miracle does. It never gets boring!

VSWC: Well thanks Wolff for joining us. Has been great to pick your brain a bit and to learn more about you, your collection and your views on the hobby.

W: It was a pleasure and an honour Christian. I have to thank you for giving me this opportunity. Thank you and thanks for reading everyone.

Collector Snapshot #4 – Richard Hutchinson aka ‘Cc4rhu’

Posted on September 1, 2014 by bobbybobs

Welcome to the fourth episode of our regular segment, where a vintage collector is given 10 short questions to answer. The same questions will be given to the next collector appearing on the segment.

Our victim this time is Richard Hutchinson, known on the forums as ‘Cc4rhu’. Richard’s second home is Star Wars Forum UK (SWFUK) and he is actually one of the hosts of their fantastic podcast. I love Richard’s role on the podcast and I for one appreciate the time that he and the rest of the crew put into recording it for our viewing pleasure. Keep it up fellas! Check it out if you get the chance. Also see our review of the SWFUK podcast here:

Review: SWFUK Podcast

So a little bit about Richard, He’s 38, lives in Gateshead, UK and while he’s not getting paid millions to host the SWFUK podcast he’s working for free as an Assistant Head Teacher, mainly teaching computing and running the ‘Duke of Edinburgh Award’. Richard’s a huge Arsenal FC supporter, loves reading (mainly Tolkien and other Sci-Fi and Fantasy Novels), and is into rock music (Guns n’ Roses, Alice Cooper, Iron Maiden etc).

Check out the photo of Richard at Celebration Europe 2 in Essen, Germany.

So to the questions!

1. How long have you been collecting

I have been actively collecting vintage Star Wars items for a little over two years now. It took a lot to sit down the other half to say, “I want to start collecting children’s toys!” It was a lot easier than it could have been though as my family knew I was Star Wars crazy from my already impressive collection of Expanded Universe (EU) and video games.

2. What do you collect?

The EU is my main passion and most of my focus goes on novels and comics. When it comes to vintage Star Wars I am aiming to collect every playable item in good condition but loose. The packaging, fortunately, doesn’t interest me and while it is nice to see the awesome displays from some collectors, that route isn’t for me. I enjoy touching my items and easily moving them around for a different visual experience. My only limitation is space as I’m confined to my bedroom and the shelves that I have available. It has gotten to the point where if I buy a new novel I’ve been told to get rid of two! I have completed the entire loose figure run, including the double telescoping sabers and other major variants in varying conditions, own most of the ships and vehicles and hunting down the last of the playsets and 12” figures as and when they become available at the right price.

Some photos of Richard’s collection. Outstanding job for someone who has been collecting just over two years.

3. What’s your grail?

I don’t really have a grail. As a loose collector most of what I want is obtainable, also I am not interested in pre-production which makes things easier. I suppose the early bird gift certificate set which I acquired recently was my ‘grail’ for the nostalgia and importance of the piece. It’d also be nice to own a better condition DT Ben which I will one day.

Richard with his early bird set

4. What collectors inspire you?

Every collector inspires me but especially those who are active members in the hobby. I don’t care if you have one beater figure, or a collection to rival Sansweet’s, they are all lovingly put together by like-minded individuals with the sole intention of sharing their Star Wars goodness. It’s part of the reason I love co-hosting the SWFUK podcast.

5. What is your most embarrassing moment as a collector?

As a teacher I have plenty of embarrassing moments in real life so I can’t think of any with regards to Star Wars offhand. With the correct intent sometimes I may have given out some advice which may be incorrect or inaccurate but I don’t make the same mistake twice.

Actually I have just thought of one. To put this story in context it was difficult growing up in one of the northern towns of the late 70s / early 80s – think Billy Elliot. BE was a tale about a boy wanting to do something different. It didn’t matter what it was but if you didn’t follow the norm then you were often shamed or beaten. I remember being beaten and humiliated for wearing a Batman t-shirt when I was around the age of 12 by my father and told that I had to grow up. All my childhood stuff went very quickly after that.

Fast forward to 1996 and I had just read the Timothy Zhan trilogy for the first time and I wanted to read more. I found online that the next book (or so I thought) to read was Dark Empire and could not find that novel anywhere. Eventually I ordered it at a local book store and was surprised when I picked it up a week later to discover it was a comic. My girlfriend was waiting outside the store and I felt so embarrassed showing her my new comic – I’m sure she replied with a typical northern attitude along the lines of, “aren’t those for kids?” Needless to say that once that barrier was crossed things got a lot easier. Sometimes my friends from the north don’t understand why I collect. I don’t get embarrassed by it anymore but it does annoy me when most of their questions focus on price.

6. What is your favourite Star Wars film?

I like all of the Star Wars movies for different reasons. I’m going to say Empire, although I’m not fussed on Yoda, for the Hoth scene which is by far my favourite from all the movies. Jedi is a close second.

7. What would you change about the collecting community?

This is a difficult one. The most obvious aspect is repro items and the tolerance, or disinterest, from many collectors who I respect. However, I wouldn’t want to see a forum where everyone agrees which would become pretty boring very quickly. I have many gripes with regards to the following – u-grading, bashing newbies, AFA is gospel, arrogance and finally America having so many cool Star Wars events.

8. Forums or Facebook groups?

Forums, although without facebook I wouldn’t have gotten to meet so many great collectors either. For me it’s quality over quantity and the three main forums, together with about half a dozen of the facebook groups are awesome. It’ll be interesting to see what happens over the next few years

9. What Star Wars character do you most resemble?

At the end of A New Hope when the rebel troopers are all lined up from the back if you count forward four rows and then three guys to the left – that guy looks like me.

Oh yeah there he is. Or is it? I can’t tell. I give up!

10. Is there one thing that collectors may not know about you?

Many! Although I am a very open person so perhaps some may know this. Here goes….. we were so poor as kids I remember getting nothing for Christmas once, I left home at 14, I have two children, I’ve been engaged for 20 years, I enjoy working with children in pantomimes (I’ve written many scripts) and taking them hiking and camping, and finally I love the SW community and would be at Anaheim if it wasn’t for my job and the fixed holidays!

Well thanks Richard for joining us. Look forward to hearing you on the podcast and seeing around the boards.

VINTAGE STAR WARS COLLECTORS

A blog by a collector about collectors

Category Archives: Collector interviews

Collector Snapshot #10 – Thomas Quinn

Collector Snapshot #9 – Josh Blake

Collector Snapshot #8 – Julio Zary (aka ‘Julioviper’)

Collector Interview #5: Carl, Gary and Ross from ‘Star Wars 12 Backs, 20/21 Backs, and Early Vintage Collectors Group’

Collector Snapshot #7 – Clio (aka ‘Jitterbug’) and Noel (aka ‘IG127’)

Collector Snapshot #6 – Krille Söderlund (aka ‘yeahsus007’)

Collector Snapshot #6 – Chris Bernst

Collector Snapshot #5 – Troy Patterson aka ‘Troyig88’

Collector Interview #4 : Wolff aka ‘Wbobafett’

Collector Snapshot #4 – Richard Hutchinson aka ‘Cc4rhu’

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