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I wouldn't sink any money in it as a project, but If I saw it at a yard sale... $5 to put on my work bench, as decoration, is ok.

James.

Boy Jerry....I don't know... there's a whole lot missing from that little fellow , and what is left doesn't look all that great !! I must give the seller credit for doing her homework on the history of Nipper . I was especially amused by the fact that she made a note that "ONLY 1 available" . Who would of ever Thunk it ?
I certainly do not know as much about the value of these guys, as You do Jerry , But I do know …. that if Anybody can bring that little Pup back to life …. It's You.
But … don't panic Jerry , I can't believe that anyone else is even giving this project a second thought besides you.

Good Luck if you go for it.
Jim

"Obviously, this little guy is far from pristine. Nevertheless, he is surely worth " saving" since the paper-mache Nipper with "gass-eyes" is the most scarce and in demand. (When found in excellent condition, auction prices have exceeded $2,000. )"

You've gotta love the reference to $2,000... This one "may" be restorable, but it will take a lot of time and effort to re-create the ears, front legs, back legs and feet. I'm not sure it will ever look right... unless you can find another wreck and marry them together.

It's somewhat similar to the VV-XVIII that was torn in half the long way. Matt did an excellent repair job that took many hours but the end result was a great looking Victrola. When it was time to sell, Matt's low asking price reflected the heroic repair. I've always wondered if the subsequent asking price for that same machine reflected the repair. It would be so easy for the next seller to admit that it was refinished and leave it at that.

This Nipper could be repaired but it will always only be about half a dog. I suppose it would always be a Robo-Nipper and not worth much to a knowledgeable owner.

Jerry Blais

Robo-Nipper!

That might be interesting, in a steampunk sort of way: replace the missing limbs with mechanical-looking prostheses; maybe make a tiny pair of goggles for him...

Bill

Just remembered a piece I did some years ago: "His Master's Vise". The character is a fox from a fantasy story site; but I couldn't resist the pun...

Since it's near Haloween, I have seen some skeleton dogs for sale. Maybe using skeletonized legs would be a great idea...

I hadn't thought of that. That's thinking outside the box! Jerry

Jerry B. wrote:I received a reply from the seller which said she would pay the shipping. But that leaves a $200 Nipper that needs both ears, both front legs & paws and both rear feet and that's still too much. Jerry

Boy, she hasn't got a clue if that's what negotiation means to her... She will never sell it for that, unless some creative Etsy-ite wants to use it as a popup when opening their upcycled VV-XVIII wine cabinet...

Jerry B. wrote:I hadn't thought of that. That's thinking outside the box! Jerry

Hi Jerry!

All kidding aside--if you are really looking for a nipper project I might have one for you.

I was rummaging through some boxes in my basement last night and came across an Original chalk Nipper about 5-6 inches tall. I have had the poor little guy for years thinking I could restore him; but I don't have the talent or desire. The little nipper has part of his nose broken off; but is in otherwise in good condition with a nice patina. If you are interested PM--Believe me--the price is right. I can post a photo on this topic or send you one PM. Best! Mark Roberts

Jerry Got is because he was the first to ask. Sorry--only had one. Mark Roberts