subject: Great Tips For Collecting Pinball Machines [print this page] Throughout your adolescent and teen years, you spent a lot, and we mean a lot, of time at your local arcade, enjoying all of the fun pinball games of the era. Now, you're all grown up, but you still love the game of pinball, and want to relive your memories of yesteryear. What is the best way to do this? Well, if you have a little bit of spare cash on hand, and some free space in your home, you can get started in the fun and exciting world of pinball collecting.
One of the first mistakes new collectors make is trying to collect everything all at once. Yes, this an exciting new hobby for you, and you are going to want to have as many pieces as possible to get your collection started, but, you need to set some limits, or your collection will never see an end (unless of course, this is what you are looking for, and if so, by all means, go right ahead).
Choose Your Category
Many pinball collectors tend to stick with a particular theme for their collections. For instance, some collectors only collect pinball machines that are related to rock and roll music. Others only collect machines from certain decades. Some collections are based off movie and television-themed pinball machines, while others focus on the earliest models that pioneered the game, including old bagatelle tables.
The thing you need to do when you are just starting out is to figure out if there is a category that your collection could fit into, or if you just want to get machines in general. If you are starting your collection because you loved pinball as a kid, then you may want to try and get some of the games that you loved playing then.
Or, you may want to collect only the newer machines that your kids love. The choice is yours, but sticking to one theme in the beginning is a great way to get your collection started. Remember, there are no limits to pinball collecting, so, no matter what theme you choose, you can always start in with new themes at any time.
Where To Find Pinball Machines To Collect
There are many ways that you can get your pinball collection rolling, no pun intended. Well, maybe just a little bit of pun intended. Anyway, there are a number of sources where you can find quality pinball machines for just about any budgets. You may want to begin your search by doing some research on the machines you are interested in collecting. Find out what they are worth, then, start looking.
- Online Auctions - This is a great way to start your pinball machine collection. When you visit auction sites such as E-bay, you can find some great deals on new and used machines, and, lots of parts too, if you plan on getting into repair and restoration.
- Private Collectors - You can find many private collectors who are always looking to buy, sell and trade pinball machines and parts. Check online for collectors groups, and don't forget to check your local newspaper's want ads too. You never know where you might find a great deal on a vintage pinball machine. Some gems have even been found at garage sales.
- Live Auctions - Many pinball machines are sold at auctions. These machines may have come from arcades that have closed, business that were changing their decor, private collectors, and numerous other sources.
Collecting pinball machines can be a fun, rewarding, and sometimes even profitable hobby that anyone can get into, no matter what their budget. So, if you have been thinking about starting your pinball collection, what are you waiting for?
