It is true that high-end phonographs will surely appreciate over time, although the rate of appreciation has historically been slow, with some exceptions of course. Common models, such as most Edison Standards and Homes have appreciated little over the past ten years, emphasizing the fact that one should buy the very best machines one can afford. As mentioned, the Opera in mint condition at Union for $9,000 seems expensive, but that is not unusually high (if original and mint) since one sold for $9,000 (with cracked horn) in 1999, and another (restored) for $8,650 the same year, and several have sold in the past two years in the range of $7,000 to $7,500. I think we should not buy phonographs solely as a great investment, but rather to enjoy and preserve them, with the reasonable expectation that they will probably not depreciate over time! Ray
----- Original Message ----- From: "john robles" <[email protected]> To: "Antique Phonograph List" <[email protected]> Sent: Thursday, June 17, 2004 1:48 PM Subject: Re: [Phono-L] Union Disappointment > Useful information, Rick. As someone who once worked in the investment field, I applaud your view on the future appreciation of phonographs. Antiques and collectibles are considered as appreciable assets in the investment industry when creating a portfolio. > How often have we cringed at the price of a phonograph only to say a few years later, "If only I had bought it back then"... > John >
