[Hallicrafters] Re: ID this Hallicrafters RX?

[Todd, KA1KAQ]

On 7/4/07, WA1KBQ at aol.com <WA1KBQ at aol.com> wrote:
> Whether we are willing to admit it or not most of us are concerned about  the
> investment side of the radio hobby aren't we?

Absolutely not. I've bought things for very good prices, and sometimes
paid more than what others thought was "the price" according to their
perceived value. Most (not all) of the guys I know who are into this
old gear feel the same way: if it was no longer usable tomorrow by
legislation or whatever, we'd not feel terrible for the choices we've
made, prices paid, and so on. Sure - we'd miss the fun of enjoying
'old radio' time, and maybe we'd have to get used to just admiring the
looks and quality construction of the items. But if you never pay more
for something than your comfortable never getting back, what's there
to miss? Most of us have other interests, other hobbies, lives beyond
ebay and so on.

I also have a few friends who are self-described collectors. They do
concern themselves with the perceived value of their gear and the
future ability to get their money back. One is currently clearing out
his garage and all excess gear because of this. He's decided to get
his money back now as best he can, before the market really gets
flooded in the next 10-15 years, and instead concentrate on the gear
he'll use and enjoy. Like gun collectors who never fire their weapons,
there will always be a few who are happy to admire the aesthetics of
this old stuff and be happy just to say they have one.

Seems most of the interest in boatanchors lies with those of us who
remember the gear or have had an interest in radio for many years.
There doesn't seem to be a large crowd gathering to pick up the torch
when we're gone, and we're leaving sooner instead of later with
respect to the age of the technology youngsters. Even radio is
changing with respect to the technology used to deliver it. Digital,
satellite, mp3s and so on.

I do agree that ebay has made it easier to find stuff, and saved a lot
of gear from being deep-sixed. It's also created its own set of issues
with misrepresentations and so on. But I've gotten some radios and
other bits there I'd never likely have found or even seen otherwise.
You just pay a premium most days for the convenience factor.

The other reference you make to knowing good 'paint and body men' to
repair shipping damage also has the good side of many folks getting
panels rescreened, cabinets repainted and so on. A lot of gear that
may have been ignored in the past has been revived through the work of
some folks who really enjoy the stuff. The end result is a lot of
good, clean gear moving forward, when demand is sure to drop off. Good
deals for future radioheads, not so good for those hoping to get rich
from it.

~ Todd,  KA1KAQ