Reply to: RE: [VAC] Interior modifications
Well, this is like discussing religion, no-one agrees, and everyone else is wrong ;>)
I equate it to a little bit of history.
In the 1920's and early 1930's, big ornate radio consoles were made by the tens of
thousands. Post WWII brought about shrinking of radio size and improvement of the
reception & operation. By the thousands the console radios were made into linen
cabinets, spice racks, or had their workings modified or replaced. Nobody thought
otherwise - there were "plenty", and these appliances were "outdated". Today a Sparton
Equisone or Zenith Robot-dial can fetch about $600 to $900, but one without the
original innards can be had for $100.
Same can apply to Airstreams. There are plenty, but as each year passes, more and more
bite the dust through neglect and "modifications". Let's face it, it is the old-time
quality and period looks that attract people to vintage Airstreams rather than a new
trailer or another brand/type.
I have been following Airstream sales closely for 2 years now for the website, and
notice that a vintage unit in original and undamaged condition will generate quick
activity and a sale. As many of you know, we are looking for a 1950's Safari. We've
come across the trail of 5 in the last few months. 3 were in fairly original
condition with few mods - and each had been snapped up almost immediately. The other
2 were still for sale for months (one still is).
But you say your '60's or '70's trailer is not in that category? No one will care if
it is original? "There are 100's of these trailers", and so on. That's what the
owners of those old radios or the '50's Safari's thought, too. For whatever reason
that we who lived through the era's can't explain, the 1960 & 1970 interiors will be
found fascinating, too.
That doesn't mean that the internals can't be improved, or additions/modifications
can't be made using period materials & methods. Shoot, each Airstream was custom in
it's own way. For those who just have to have a modern or super-custom interior,
there are many stripped out or heavily modified trailers out there, just ready for
such a make-over. And they are cheaper too. That should be a hint right there.
Later,
RJ
VintageAirstream.com
stevec wrote:
>To all-
>
>Is there a overall consensus in terms of improving or reducing market value
>of the typical vintage unit...when updating certain items to a "modern"
>look; vs. left alone in "original" condition?
>
>I'm in the middle of updating Formica counter tops, flooring and other items
>which will forever change the appearance inside my little hut. I will
>reconsider or modify the degree of changes if history shows this to be
>unadvisable.
>
>Steve C
>'69 Caravel in TC Mich.
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