State of the Market for Common Machines NC

[Granby]

Hey Chris, Does the earlier XI have record shelves or slats and is the motor the same that was used on some outside horn machines? Thanks,

Good to hear from you.... It has vertical numbered slats. And, the motor looks early, very similar in style and mounting style to external horn machines. I'll see if I can get some pics tomorrow or Monday. Thanks!

[Granby]

I believe that the deals that you describe are more of a combination of luck and perhaps geography rather than the state of the market.

However, as far as the state of the market for common machines, I think that this, in general, has certainly softened. This is true of just about all "common" antiques. The advent of the internet has made EVERYTHING easier to find, so the common stuff can be had without much effort. I have been an antique dealer in some form since I was was 13 or so, and have certainly seen the changes. A common Victorian kitchen clock used to go for $200 or so. Now I am lucky if I can get half that. But the market for rarities has only gotten hotter, perhaps for the same reason. I can be bidding on a rare item all the way across the country from my computer, whereas before the internet, I may not even have known about it.

I agree with your points, 100%. I have dabbled in antiques since I was a teenager in the late 1990's and have noticed the same thing with other collectibles.

And, I try to keep my head down and stay humble.... but, I must confess, I have been quite lucky in being in the right place at the right time. I have to pinch myself sometimes.... I think some of my bargain acquisitions are luck, no shame in admitting that.

[Granby]

Hey, quick follow up.... regarding the inquiries about the turntable area and record storage, see the pictures below. I also felt kind of bad I cropped out my VV-220 in the original photo, I will upload a slightly wider angle shot. And, yes, for you historic house lovers out there, you can probably tell by the walls and floor, it's a VERY old house....