This is the first in a series of articles reporting on the Stembridge Armory Collection Auction in Los Angeles, hosted by Little John’s Auction Service. This was an amazing event, and I’ll be sharing in my experience via a series of articles over the next few days. [Read more…]
Little John’s Auction Service: Stembridge Collection – June 5, 2007
Little John’s Auction Service is going to be holding an auction offering pieces from the Stembridge Gun Arsenal Collection. [Read more…]
Authenticity & Burden of Proof
One interesting phenomenon I’ve picked up on in the hobby is the vast differences of perspective in regards to the burden of proof and authenticity.
One viewpoint is that a piece is as the seller claims and that the burden to prove otherwise is on potential buyers and/or critics to prove otherwise. Though the seller/owner does not share any material facts to prove the piece authentic, he or she expects compelling evidence to debunk the piece.
Of course, the converse view (held by myself) is that the seller must come to the table with material facts and evidence that support his or her claims of authenticity and use in the property (film or television product). [Read more…]
The Original Prop Purchase Checklist & Questionnaire
Article Summary: The rationale for and development of an “Original Prop Purchase Checklist & Questionnaire” for discerning prop collectors to use in contemplating the purchase of a prop or costume. [Read more…]
“Made for Production” Props
Article Summary: An opinion piece and analysis of the “Made for Production” trends and classifications (Made for Production, Not Used in Production; Unfinished; Finished Post Production, etc.) in the hobby. [Read more…]
Challenging The Hobby: The COA & The Guarantee
Article Summary: An opinion piece about original prop Certificates of Authenticity and dealer/retailer “guarantees”, including the Origins of the COA, The “Guarantee” (Money Back, Lifetime), The Studio Reseller COA & Guarantee, The Professional Dealer COA – Issues of Lost Provenance, Professional Dealer COA Questions, Individual & Private Seller COAs & LOAs, and the Auction House COA & Guarantee. [Read more…]
Buyer Precautions & Considerations, Part I: The Mechanics of the Deal
Article Summary: Personal observations and recommendations for collectors to consider in acquiring original props, including an overview of contracts, documentation, eBay, PayPal, use of credit cards and alternate payment methods, insurance, shipping, and other considerations. [Read more…]
The Red Flags of Authenticity
Article Summary: A discussion and analysis of various seller tactics I’ve witnessed over the years, and my names for them and reactions. These are all potentially problematic marketing techniques that should not be dismissed by the discerning original prop collector. [Read more…]