There are really, at least, two types of collectors. The first type we can call the "entrepreneurial collector". This type of collector sees the goal as buying cameras at the lowest price and selling them for a profit. They derive untold pleasure from picking up a rare, collectable camera at a bargain-basement swapmeet for next to nothing from someone who is in the dark as to the true value of the camera, and selling it at auction at Christie's for five figures.
On the opposite extreme is the collector who keeps whatever cameras they buy. These "pack-rat" collectors may be interested in the same cameras as the "entrepreneurial" collectors, but for different reasons. This group selects cameras more carefully since they don't plan on parting with their rare finds. They become part of "the family". Their goal is not the market value of the camera, but it's history, special features -- such as color -- and how it fits in with the rest of their collection.
The cameras for either group may be in working or non-working condition. They may be attractive or in horrible shape. But the first group will only buy if they are convinced that they can sell for a profit. The "pack-rat" collector, on the other hand, focuses on the rarity of the camera.
Some cameras are easy to find while others appear for sale one or twice a decade. Needless to say, those that are rare usually command a much higher price. The "entrepreneurial" collector, tends to focus on the monetary value of the camera. Some cameras that are very common are in high demand and so are a good value to the seller. Other cameras, even some that are unusual, are not in demand, and consequently are not a good value for the seller. But a "pack-rat" still might seek them out.
For books that deal with collecting cameras (and there are many) -- see the Library.
COPYRIGHT @ 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 by Joe McGloin. All Rights Reserved.