Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 03/05/10)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account (twitter.com/jason_debord). Read more

Original Prop Blog Monthly Web Site Traffic Statistics: February 2010

The latest web site traffic statistics for Original Prop Blog, as of February 28, 2010… Read more

Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 02/26/10)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account (twitter.com/jason_debord). Read more

Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 02/19/10)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account (twitter.com/jason_debord). Read more

Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 02/12/10)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account (twitter.com/jason_debord). Read more

Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 02/05/10)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account (twitter.com/jason_debord). Read more

Original Prop Blog Monthly Web Site Traffic Statistics: January 2010

The latest web site traffic statistics for Original Prop Blog, as of January 31, 2010… Read more

Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 01/29/10)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account (twitter.com/jason_debord). Read more

Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 01/22/10)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account (twitter.com/jason_debord). Read more

Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 01/15/10)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account (twitter.com/jason_debord). Read more

Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 01/08/10)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account (twitter.com/jason_debord). Read more

The Original Prop Blog 2009 Year in Review: News, Developments, and Trends in Collecting Original Movie Props and Memorabilia

As was the case in previous years (see 2007 Year in Review, 2008 Year in Review), what follows is an editorial review of my personal views with regards to the hobby, looking back at the top trends, developments, and news stories of 2009. As always, there were a lot of interesting developments and events, and quite a bit to review and consider. Read more

Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 01/01/10)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account (twitter.com/jason_debord). Read more

Original Prop Blog Monthly Web Site Traffic Statistics: December 2009

The latest web site traffic statistics for Original Prop Blog, as of December 30, 2009… Read more

Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 12/25/09)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account (twitter.com/jason_debord). Read more

Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 12/18/09)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account (twitter.com/jason_debord). Read more

Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 12/11/09)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account (twitter.com/jason_debord). Read more

Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 12/04/09)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account (twitter.com/jason_debord). Read more

Original Prop Blog – November 2009 Web Site Traffic Statistics

The latest web site traffic statistics for Original Prop Blog, as of November 30, 2009… Read more

Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 11/27/09)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account (twitter.com/jason_debord). Read more

Annual Holiday Warning About Buying Fake and Fraudulent Movie Props, Costumes, and Memorabilia as Gifts

Since today is “Black Friday”, I thought it would be appropriate to republish an editorial that I posted last year as the holiday season approached, warning consumers against the purchase of television and movie props, costumes, and other assets as gifts for loved ones.  Read more

Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 11/20/09)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account (twitter.com/jason_debord). Read more

Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 11/13/09)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account (twitter.com/jason_debord). Read more

Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 11/06/09)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account (twitter.com/jason_debord). Read more

Original Prop Blog – October 2009 Web Site Traffic Statistics

The latest web site traffic statistics for Original Prop Blog, as of October 31, 2009… Read more

Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 10/30/09)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account (twitter.com/jason_debord). Read more

Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 10/23/09)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account (twitter.com/jason_debord).

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Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 10/16/09)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account (twitter.com/jason_debord).

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Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 10/09/09)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account (twitter.com/jason_debord).

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Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 10/02/09)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account (twitter.com/jason_debord).

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Original Prop Blog – September 2009 Web Site Traffic Statistics

The latest web site traffic statistics for Original Prop Blog, as of September 30, 2009… Read more

Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 09/25/09)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account (twitter.com/jason_debord).

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Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 09/18/09)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account. This archives all posts for the week ending 09/18/09. Read more

Video Interview: Joe Maddalena and Profiles in History “Hollywood Auction 37″, Disney/ABC’s “LOST” Auction Update

I spent part of the day yesterday at Profiles in History with President & CEO Joe Maddalena, who gave a personal tour and preview of some of the items offered for sale in their upcoming “Hollywood Auction 37″ event, to be held at Calabasas Hills, California on October 8th & 9th. Read more

Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 09/11/09)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account. This archives all posts for the week ending 09/11/09. Read more

Milestone: Original Prop Blog’s 1,000th Article

This article marks a milestone for the Original Prop Blog – the 1,000th article.  When I started the site back in April 2007, I honestly did not ever imagine that I would produce this much content.  So the occasion provides an opportunity to reflect back, look forward, and thank those that have supported this endeavor. Read more

Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 09/04/09)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account. This archives all posts for the week ending 09/04/09. Read more

Original Prop Blog – August 2009 Web Site Traffic Statistics

The latest web site traffic statistics for Original Prop Blog, as of August 31, 2009… Read more

Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 08/28/09)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account. This archives all posts for the week ending 08/28/09. Read more

Review: “PROP CATALOGS Entertainment Film Memorabilia Database”

Two years ago, I published a favorable review of the website, www.propcatalogs.com (see Website Review: PropCatalogs.com).  Since, the curator of the database has closed down the online service, and made the same material available for purchase on DVD-ROM.  This is therefore an update to the original review, keeping these changes in mind. Read more

Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 08/21/09)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account. This archives all posts for the week ending 08/21/09. Read more

Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 08/14/09)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account. This archives all posts for the week ending 08/14/09. Read more

Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 08/07/09)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account.  This archives all posts for the week ending 08/07/09. Read more

Original Prop Blog – July 2009 Web Site Traffic Statistics

The latest web site traffic statistics for Original Prop Blog, as of July 31, 2009… Read more

Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 07/31/09)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account.  This archives all posts for the week ending 07/31/09. Read more

San Diego Comic Con 2009: Short Video Interview with Mark Hamill (Return of the Jedi Lightsaber, “Lost” Tatooine Cave Scene)

While attending San Diego Comic Con, I had an opportunity to meet and chat with Mark Hamill, who portrayed Luke Skywalker in the original Star Wars trilogy.  Based on an article written last week (see Revisting the Elstree Props “Return of the Jedi” Star Wars Lightsabers: The $50,000 Question (Original or Replica?)), and a series of articles published in 2007 (see Market Watch | Elstree Props | Return of the Jedi), I thought it would be a good opportunity to ask Mr. Hamill a few questions about the original lightsaber props he used in Return of the Jedi, as well as address the long-running controversy as to whether he filmed a scene in which he portrayed his character building his new lightsaber. Read more

San Diego Comic Con 2009: Video Interview with Joe Maddalena, Profiles in History (ABC’s “LOST” Auction)

I spent some time at the Profiles in History exhibit at San Diego Comic Con, and was especially interested to learn more details about the recently announced LOST auction, an event planned to coincide with the conclusion of the popular series in May 2010.   The following video interview with Joe Maddalena, President of Profiles in History, offers some great information about the LOST auction, the overall auction schedule of the company over the next year, and other items of interest to hobbyists. Read more

San Diego Comic Con 2009: Video Interview with Alec Peters, PropWorx

I had an opportunity to meet and chat with Alec Peters, CEO of PropWorx, while attending San Diego Comic Con.  The video interview includes a recap of the Battlestar Galactica auction (past and future), a “state of the hobby” review, talk about competition among other dealers/resellers and auction houses, a discussion of issues in the hobby, and news about the future of PropWorx. Read more

San Diego Comic Con 2009: Video Interview with The Prop Store of London (Stephen Lane, Brandon Alinger, Tim Lawes, Dan Hill)

I had an opportunity to meet and chat with Stephen Lane, Tim Lawes, Brandon Alinger, and Dan Hill of The Prop Store of London while at San Diego Comic Con.  The video interview includes an introduction of the group, a review of the original props and costumes on display at the show, and a discussion of their experience at the convention this year. Read more

Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 07/24/09)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account.  This archives all posts for the week ending 07/24/09. Read more

Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 07/17/09)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account.  This archives all posts for the week ending 07/17/09.

With Twitter, in addition to posting notices of new Original Prop Blog articles, also published are brief reports and links to information of interest to readers that does not warrant a full report here on this site.  If you want all of the news and updates, you can follow me on Twitter at:  twitter.com/jason_debord Read more

Building on the Original Prop Lexicon: “Anti-Provenance”

I’ve found that there are many concepts in the original prop hobby for which words do not exist.  Having words to use with specific and unique meaning are powerful tools, and when there are none available that fit the need, putting together a new word with hopes it may be adopted can be productive.  In this case, a term is needed to describe an instance in which the source or an entity in the chain of ownership of a prop, costume, or other artifact has a distinctive and negative impact on the authentication of such a piece.  The word I plan to use to describe such a circumstance is “anti-provenance”. Read more

Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 07/10/09)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account.  This archives all posts for the week ending 07/10/09. Read more

Problematic Words in the Hobby: “Production Made”

Going back to the very first articles of the Original Prop Blog – The Hobby Without a Name & What is “Original”? – there are always words that are frequently used that are problematic.  This will be the first in a series of articles which discusses some of these terms in some detail.  The term for this article: “Production Made”.

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Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 07/03/09)

This is a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account.  This archives all posts for the week ending 07/03/09.

As recently announced, in addition to posting notices of new Original Prop Blog articles, also published are brief reports and links to information of interest to readers that does not warrant a full report here on this site.  If you want all of the news and updates, you can follow me on Twitter at:  twitter.com/jason_debord Read more

Original Prop Blog – June 2009 Web Site Traffic Statistics

The latest web site traffic statistics for Original Prop Blog, as of June 30, 2009… Read more

Digital Screen Capture Software: “Aviary Screen Capture”

As a follow-up to an article published a year ago (see Digital Screen Capture Software: “SnagIt”, “ScreenHunter”), software company Aviary has released their own screencapture software which is very competitive with SnagIt and ScreenHunter, only it is either web-based or built-into the browser and is also free to use, which is in contrast to the previously reviewed alternatives which must be installed and stand alone at a cost. Read more

Original Prop Blog on Twitter – ‘The Week in Tweets’ (Through 06/26/09)

This will be the first in a weekly feature archiving the “tweets” from the official Original Prop Blog Twitter account.  This archives all posts through 06/26/09. Read more

Follow The Original Prop Blog on Twitter

I am now publishing short reports on Twitter.  In addition to notices of new Original Prop Blog articles are brief reports and links to information of interest to readers that does not warrant a full report here on this site.  If you want all of the news and updates, you can follow me on Twitter at:  twitter.com/jason_debord

Read more

Original Prop Blog – May 2009 Web Site Traffic Statistics

The latest web site traffic statistics for Original Prop Blog, as of May 31, 2009…

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Original Prop Blog – April 2009 Traffic Statistics

The latest stats for Original Prop Blog, as of April 30, 2009… Read more

Original Prop Blog: Two Year Anniversary

Today marks the two year anniversary of the Original Prop Blog.  So it was two years ago today that I published its first article, “The Hobby Without A Name…” Read more

Original Prop Blog – March 2009 Traffic Statistics

The latest stats for Original Prop Blog, as of March 31, 2009… Read more

eBay’s Feedback System: Why It’s Broken

Back when I first joined eBay (over 10 years ago), I remember that member feedback seemed to have real meaning.  I believe the original intent behind the system was to quantify how people do business, which would create some semblance of an “online reputation”.  Read more

Book Reviews – “Watchmen: The Film Companion”, “Watchmen: Art of the Film”, & “Watchmen: Portraits”

This is a review of the three new books released by Titan Books in promotion of the film, Watchmen.  The three volumes are Watchmen: The Film Companion, Watchmen: The Art of the Film, and Watchmen: Portraits.

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Original Prop Blog – February 2009 Traffic Statistics

The latest stats for Original Prop Blog, as of February 28, 2009… Read more

The “Billboardization” of eBay: Auction Site or Advertising Machine?

All of the recent, and mostly detrimental policy changes and other developments aside (see Related Articles), I’ve found that there seems to be a significant shift with eBay in placing more and more advertising in front of its customers.  Read more

Original Prop Blog – January 2009 Stats

The latest traffic stats for Original Prop Blog, as of January 31, 2009… Read more

The “Original Prop Community” Now Online

I am pleased to announce that a new online discussion forum – the Original Prop Community – is now online, as part of the Original Prop Blog. Registration is open for well-intended individuals in the hobby who are interested in open forum with which to network with other collectors. This is something that I’ve contemplated for some time, and I hope that there are a few collectors who will find it to be of use. Read more

The “Original Prop Directory” Now Online

The Original Prop Directory is online, and part of the Original Prop Blog (also accessible via OriginalPropDirectory.com). The Original Prop Directory is designed to be a “white pages” for the hobby – an online public resource which lists the names and contact information for those who elect to participate. Read more

Original Prop Blog – December 2008 Stats

The latest traffic stats for Original Prop Blog, as of December 31, 2008… Read more

Original Prop Hobby – 2008 Year in Review

As was the case last year (see 2007 Year in Review), what follows is an editorial review of my personal views with regards to the hobby, looking back at the top trends and news stories of 2008.  As always, there were a lot of interesting developments and events, and quite a bit to review and consider. Read more

A Case Against Buying “Original” TV & Movie Props, Costumes, and Memorabilia as Gifts

This will probably be the shortest editorial I’ve written, as it is an easy argument to make.  My view is – and this is something I’ve personally stressed to friends and family for years – buying an “original” movie or television prop or costume as a gift is a well-intended but very bad idea.  Read more

Original Prop Blog – November 2008 Stats

The latest traffic stats for Original Prop Blog, as of November 30, 2008… Read more

Original TV & Movie Prop “Red Flags”: Detrimental Trends in the Marketplace

I’ve noticed a number of trends on the rise of late, in the marketing and sale of original movie and television props and costumes in the marketplace, that are to the detriment of consumer hobbyists.  Read more

Book Review – Bond On Set: Filming Quantum of Solace (007)

This is a review of Bond on Set – Filming Quantum of Solace (published October 20, 2008). As was the case with the Filming of Casino Royale book that was published two years ago (see Book Review), it is a great example of what it has set out to be – a (nearly) all photographic coffee table book. Read more

Original Prop Blog – October 2008 Stats

The latest traffic stats for Original Prop Blog, as of October 31, 2008… Read more

Book Review: Dressed, A Century of Hollywood Costume Design

This is a review of Dressed: A Century of Hollywood Costume Design by Deborah Nadoolman Landis. This is hands down one of the most impressive books in my library of works related to original props and costumes. Read more

Original Prop Blog – September 2008 Stats

Below are the latest traffic stats for Original Prop Blog, as of September 30, 2008: Read more

Book Review: Hollywood and History, Costume Design in Film

This is a review of Hollywood and History, Costume Design in Film. This book is an excellent resource made up of a series of essays and photos outlining the comprehensive history of wardrobe design in film.  Read more

Screen-Match Examples Series: Rush Hour LAPD Credentials

Back in April 2007, I published an article titled “Screen-Match Examples“, which presented photos of props which “match” stills from movie and television featuring that same original prop or wardrobe piece.  Given that this is a popular topic in the hobby, I thought I would develop this into a series of articles feautring additional examples.  This update presents a match from the film, Rush Hour. Read more

Website Review: HeroComm (HeroComm.com)

HeroComm is an excellent website dedicated to providing fans of Star Trek with a tremendous library and resource dedicated to the study, authentication, and celebration of the classic communicator prop from the Original Series.  Read more

eBay “Drop-Off” Seller Editorial: Response to Reader Comment

Rick Spector of Stairway to the Stars published a “Reader Comment” to this week’s editorial about eBay “drop-off” sellers (see A Case Against eBay “Drop-Off” Vendors Selling Original Props).  Given that Rick takes issue with me on a number of fronts, I took the time to respond to each of his points, and thought it would be appropriate to highlight his concerns.

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A Case Against eBay “Drop-Off” Vendors Selling Original Props

As inherently problematic buying “original” props and wardrobe on eBay may be, the risks are that much higher if the seller listing the item is a “drop-off” company.  Such offerings introduce additional issues that collectors should be aware of and consider.  Read more

eBay “NARU” Status: Irrelevant? Meaningless? Temporary?

I’ve noticed more and more of late that eBay users will have their accounts converted to “NARU”, or “No Longer A Registered User” (also “Not a Registered User”) status by eBay, and then later the accounts appear reactivated.  Read more

Original Prop Blog – August 2008 Stats

Below are the latest traffic stats for Original Prop Blog, as of August 31, 2008: Read more

Tools of Authentication: Categorizing & Classifying COAs

This is the first in a series of articles intended to discuss and build upon the tools of authentication: concepts, terminology, definitions, analysis, and more.  While Certificates of Authenticity, or “COAs”, have been the topic of a number of previous articles, the scope of this feature is to define and categorize COAs by 1) their source and 2) their function. Read more

Featured Audio Interview: Alec Peters, Propworx (Battlestar Galactica Auctions)

I spent some time today talking with Alec Peters, CEO of newly created Propworx, about the upcoming events promoting the final Battlestar Galactica episodes and the auction of original prop and costume assets from the show, in conjunction with NBC Universal Television (see Press Release).  In order to share a great deal of information about these topics, I conducted a taped interview which can be heard using the MP3 player below (Adobe Flash required): Read more

kellysheroesmilitaria Update 6: eBay Third Party Reporting Case Study Conclusion

As noted previously (see kellysheroesmilitaria Original Props: Update 4, eBay Third Party Reporting Case Study), I had used the eBay third party reporting systems (see eBay & Third Party Reporting (Fraud, Violations of Policy) to alert eBay to problematic listings while testing the effectiveness of sharing material information directly with eBay through their public systems in an effort to help them to enforce their own policies.  This article serves as an update and conclusion, marked by the occasion of kellysheroesmilitaria relisting one of the primary auctions reported to eBay. Read more

Jack Markowitz, The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: Movie Props are Silly Junk

There is an interesting article in the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review by “retired business editor” and columnist Jack Markowitz – “Pop Culture Collectors Really Need to Take Stock” – which essentially denigrates the entire pursuit of collecting and preserving original movie and television props and costumes, as well as those who participate in the hobby.  This is my first exposure to this journalist’s work, but his premise seems to be that if something is not a Rembrandt or otherwise predate the invention of automobiles, film, and television, it is of no value – though value and money seem to be the focus of his feature. Read more

Original Prop Blog – July 2008 Stats

Below are the latest traffic stats for Original Prop Blog, as of July 31, 2008: Read more

Comic-Con 2008: Event Recap & My Personal Experience

I thought I’d share my own personal impressions and experiences about Comic-Con International 2008 in San Diego, to close out my series of articles and features on the event.  Some bits admittedly off topic… Read more

Comic-Con 2008: James Duval “Reunited” Video Interview – Behind the Mask (Frank the Bunny & Donnie Darko)

I will open this feature with a disclosure – the original “Frank” the bunny mask original prop from Donnie Darko featured in the Profiles in History auction next week was consigned from my personal collection.  I knew it was going to be on display at Comic-Con, but I never imagined it would lead to my meeting the actor who actually wore the mask in the film as “Frank”, Mr. James “Jimmy” Duval. Read more

Comic-Con 2008: Three Questions for Joe Maddalena, Profiles in History (Video Interview)

Joe Maddalena, owner of Profiles in History, took a moment to answer a few questions at Comic-Con International 2008, marking their sixth exhibit at the show: Read more

Comic-Con 2008: Three Questions for Stephen Lane, The Prop Store of London (Video Interview)

Stephen Lane, owner of The Prop Store of London, took a moment to answer a few questions at Comic-Con International 2008, where the London and Los Angeles stores hosted their first exhibit for this annual event: Read more

Thoughts on Los Angeles Times “Global Antiques” Feature

I wanted to share some thoughts and reactions to this week’s feature in the Los Angeles Times about the “Global Antiques” auctions on eBay.  Overall, I am very pleased to see the issue presented to a huge audience, and I think the reporter, Ms. Ryan, did an excellent job of giving voice and perspective to a wide array of principals and relevant third parties.  My interest is to look at each of those contributions and responses (or lack thereof) to determine outstanding questions. Read more

eBay & Third Party Reporting (Fraud, Violations of Policy)

One of the most frequent topics that original prop collectors bring up with me is with regard to fraud on eBay.  This is often coupled with expressions of frustration by collectors who have found that they do not understand how to report fraud and violations of eBay policy with eBay directly, when they are not party to any transaction.  Though eBay has a number of appropriate policies in place, it is challenging for eBay members to find the appropriate method by which these experts in the field can share material information directly with eBay in an effort to help them to enforce their own policies. Read more

Original Prop Blog – June 2008 Stats

Below are the latest traffic stats for Original Prop Blog, as of June 30, 2008: Read more

Original Prop Blog – May 2008 Stats

Here are the latest traffic stats for Original Prop Blog, as of May 31, 2008: Read more

Auction House Buyer’s Premiums: On The Rise

Christie’s and Sotheby’s made news recently with announcements about raising their Buyer’s Premiums (the amount the winning bidder pays on top of the hammer price of an item at auction).

Per AntiquesAndTheHearts.com, Sotheby’s made the first announcement, characterizing the changes as follows: Read more

Book Review: The Complete Making of Indiana Jones

This is a review of The Complete Making of Indiana Jones (published May 20, 2008). This is “the” must have book for any fan of the Indiana Jones films – if you are only interested in one book on the property, this is it.

This work delves into every facet that would interest readers, including the origins of the films, interviews of all the key principals, “making of” segments, a focus on each of the four films, and tons of photos and images. Like “The Making of Star Wars” (see OPB Book Review) which was published about a year ago and by the same author – J.W. Rinzler – this is a true archive of information and visuals and should be particularly valuable to original prop collectors. Read more

Book Review: For Your Eyes Only: Ian Fleming and James Bond

Book Review: For Your Eyes Only: Ian Fleming and James Bond

This is a review of For Your Eyes Only – Ian Fleming and James Bond (published April 7, 2008). This book is an interesting work about both James Bond and his creator, and is intended to be a companion piece to the current exhibit at the Imperial War Museum in London (see “Ian Fleming’s “James Bond” Letters Fetch Nearly $30,000 at Auction“). Read more

“Original Prop Purchase Agreement” Template

One thing many collectors do not consider are the potential (unfortunate) “what if?” possibilities we can encounter in buying and selling original props, wardrobe, and other artifacts from film and television.

In the event a problem arises, it is best that both Buyer and Seller have a common understanding of the consequences and responsibilities.

Also, there are areas in which specifics are often not addressed or clarified appropriately, such as ancillary costs and other details beyond the “purchase price” (i.e. shipping costs, shipping method, etc.).

I recently developed an “Original Prop Purchase Agreement” for one of my own purchases, so I decided to simplify it, convert it into a more basic template, and offer it here as a tool for other collectors to consider, edit, amend, and/or employ however they see fit: Read more

Studio Reseller Certificates of Authenticity: Premiere Props & Hollywood Vault

Over the past several years, the Certificates of Authenticity (COAs) issued by two of the biggest “studio resellers” – Premiere Props and Hollywood Vault – have evolved. Unfortunately, the changes made have been to the detriment of provenance and is a significant missed opportunity given that these companies are in the position of releasing props and wardrobe into the marketplace that are sourced direct from the studios in a fully authorized capacity (making the pieces both authentic and with clear title).

I thought it would be informative to compare and contrast COAs issued by Premiere Props and Hollywood Vault to see exactly what changes have been made over the years, and the current state of certification and provenance offered by these two dealers. Read more

Condé Nast Portfolio – “Reality’s Bites”

There is an article on Condé Nast Portfolio written by Cathleen MacCarthy, “Reality’s Bites“, which discusses the “topping out” of baby boomer memorabilia and the rise of high end collectibles that are a draw for Generation X, including skateboarding, videogames, and ’90s rock.

The article cites many examples from different fields reflecting the birth of the market of pop culture rising from Beatles and Rolling Stones memorabilia in the early 80s, compared with interest today in Nirvana and Guns ‘N Roses. Read more

Original Prop Blog – April 2008 Stats

Here are the latest traffic stats for Original Prop Blog, as of April 30, 2008: Read more

The Side Arms of James Bond, 007: From The Walther PPK to the P99

I recently acquired a very rare James Bond Walther PPK for my own collection, so I have done some research as to what handguns have been offered to the marketplace attributed to use in the films as the side arm of James Bond. I thought it might be of interest to readers to know “what is out there”. The focus of this article is primarily hero and “real” firearms (no stunts). Read more

Original Prop Blog: One Year Anniversary & Why The Hobby Matters

So it was one year ago today that I published the first article for the Original Prop Blog, “The Hobby Without A Name…” Read more

Original Prop Blog – Annual Statistics

The end of March marks twelve months of activity on the site (with the launch date of the Original Prop Blog being April 5, 2007). As such, it’s interesting (and quite frankly shocking for me) to review the growth of the audience, traffic, and activity over the last year.

Here are the stats, April 2007 through March 2008: Read more

Competing Original Prop Auction Events: The Ides of March?

So at least as long as I’ve been collecting original props, this month, March 2008, is unprecedented in the hobby. And it all begins tomorrow, March 15…

As everyone knows, there are two big auction house events this month: Guernsey’s “Pugliese Prop Culture Collection” (March 15-16) and, just two weeks later, Profiles in History’s “Hollywood Auction 31″ (March 27-28). Read more

Original Prop Blog: Continued Growth & Interest

I am still surprised at the end of every month when the site seems to reach new heights, in terms of growth and activity. I honestly expect it to level off or drop off at some point. In any event, January was a month with significant growth over the previous high in the preceding month, so sincere thanks to all who take the time to read and participate. Read more

Website Reviews: The Star Wars Helmet Archive, The Sci-FI Movie Helmet Archive

This is actually a joint review of two websites from the same creator/owner:

Website Name: Star Wars Helmet Archive

Website URL: http://www.starwarshelmets.com

Website Description: “Welcome to www.StarWarsHelmets.com the helmet, armor and costume archive from the Star Wars galaxy. This site is a showcase of the very best Star Wars props; Original, Licensed and Fan-made.” Read more

Original Prop Hobby – 2007 Year in Review

What follows is a summary view of my perspective and personal opinion of the hobby, looking back at 2007. It has been a very interesting year, with a lot of activity and stories and experiences. Read more

Original Prop Blog – Year End Recap

Since starting the Original Prop Blog in mid-April, there have generally been consistent gains in activity, month to month. Read more

Star Trek Christie’s Lawsuit Story, Fundamentals of Authenticity, & The Mainstream Media

As reported here Friday (see “Star Trek Collector Sues Christie’s, CBS & Paramount Studios for $7 Million Dollars“), a collector is suing CBS and Paramount Studios and Christies for $7 million dollars, claiming that the pieces won at the 40 Years of Star Trek: The Collection auction event were “fake” or inauthentic. Read more