Philly Show this weekend...

[docpatlv]

I only attended the show on Friday, so I can only speak from that experience. As I walked around the show, I noticed a few things:

1. Pre-war material was definitely there, although prices as usual seemed high. Lots of nice cards there (tobacco, caramel, cabinets, type cards, PCs, etc.). As mentioned, the T208s were a sight to see.

2. It seemed as though there were very few collectors there. I don't know if it was because it was Fri. evening, or the economy, but it seemed kind of dead. Many dealers sitting around with no customers and exasperated looks on their faces. I'm not sure if I even saw one kid under 12-13 y.o. the whole time I was there. That just can't be a good sign.

3. There seemed to be no excitement in the crowd, no sense of anticipation or eagerness from those waiting to get in. I remember at Ft. Wash there always seemed to be a "buzz" in the air as people waited to get in. Not so at the KOP show.

4. I know many hated the Reading site, maybe more so for location than venue, but I just don't like the KOP convention center. It seems so dark, and I just don't like the whole set-up.

5. I was finished looking after less than 2 hours. Normally, it would take a good 3-4 hours for me to look around on a Friday. There seemed to be an absence of some dealers who used to set up at Ft. Wash. If I wasn't waiting for a card to be slabbed at SGC, I would have left before 7pm.

6. Many nice dealers, but also the usual charming guys who don't even look up when you're perusing their merchandise. Also dealers who would rather chat with their buddies than make a sale. I waited a couple of times to ask a dealer a question, but after waiting a couple of minutes I just moved on. It's a shame, because I came home with a pocket still full of cash.

This is just my experience. I'm sure others have differing opinions, but I thought I'd share. It seems like it has changed so much even in the last three years. I've attended almost every show since around 1993 and although I like having less competition for cards, it's a little disheartening to see what the show has become. Hopefully Sat and today are better.

Mike

[danmckee]

I was set up for the last time. I think the show has a dead atmosphere. Roger Nuefeldt a long time and full time dealer refused to do it and was smart. My VIP booth cost $1350 which is National prices and no one is buying unless they can beat you to death on price. I know the economy had a lot to do with it but that show has just been changed. I think for worse for the vintage dealers.

Anyway, I may shop it in December or March but I even doubt that.

I actually did ok, a bit better than the last time in Valley Forge, but not anywhere comparable to even my worst show at Reading.

Say what you want about ole Bob, but he knew how to run a great show!

I heard that the Gun show that was in the same exact building and floor last time only charged $60 a table.

I think I will start selling guns.

[toppcat]

Dealers like Roger Neufeldt passing on the Philly show do not bode well for its future as a mecca for quality items. This is depressing but inevitable. Hopefully things will pick up or table fees will be lowered or else the National will be all that's left.

[thegashousegang]

Dan, I didn't realize a VIP booth was that much. Wow. I agree, it was pretty dull in there...even at peak time on Saturday. I'm sure the economy did keep the attendance down a bit, but it was still disappointing. Put it this way, while browsing a fellow board members booth, I looked next to me and Johnny Bench was going thru some old memorabilia...without practically a soul even noticing him! Being respectful of him, I didn't want to bother asking for a pic but I would have expected more of a reaction from at least a few people. That being said, the show is a short ride for me so I'll continue to attend. But, I really don't expect much from the shows.

[danmckee]

Yea I am bummed, I really looked forward to the Philly shows to see people and find neat items. I would like to do a show in March and October but there really isn't many choices. May just have to hang up the show biz and just list all of my cards on ebay without dates in the title and starting at .99 in the cards category. Oh and I had a double booth.

[oaks1912]

Dan...If you start selling the vintage collectible guns, just be on the lookout for early Colt revolvers with the rare "Red" overprint. From what I hear, some T-206 guru has expanded his area of expertise... Mark

[tycobbfanatic]

It was great talking to both of you . As usual, you were the highlights of the show .
Lyle

[cfc1909]

that is funny!