So, where do the unabashed collectors hang out?

[FrankS]

I have an interest in collecting and trying out the classics of the past. These are top end cameras that I had no hope of owning while they were current, but can now because they are used/old and "obsolete" due to the takeover of digital in the pro field.

4x5 speed graphic, Hasselblad, Rolleiflex, Leica, ...

 

[rjstep3]

"Collector" sounds like a collector of valuable art - but for cameras that is not really an option. The vast majority of cameras on the second hand market are film, which most people don't "collect" for the purpose of having some sort of asset that will be worth millions in a few years' time. I agree some cameras, a few, are "collectable" for their rarity and quality, but is a Pentax ME Super today a "collector's" item? I mean, it's not going to be worth half a million ££ in a couple of years.

Does the OP mean "hoarder"?

For me, the rise of digital has meant that I am finally able to buy some of the cameras I used to lust after - my weapon of choice nowadays being a Contax G2, which I could NOT have afforded when it came out. The same goes for other cameras I used to get serious GAS for years ago, but could not afford.

Does that make me a "collector"? No - except in a very minor way. I am just curious to buy old film cameras really cheaply and to have the chance to experiment, which I could't do before.

rjstep3

 

[Dralowid]

This is a bit like Alcoholics Anonymous...

I am here.

I am a collector, or you may call me a hoarder if you wish.

I collect black Leica ltm factory conversions.

I also collect clockwork 8mm movie cameras.

I also take a few pictures.

I see nothing wrong in collecting things.

I do not see it as a sin nor do I see it as some sort of congenital weakness.

I refrain from having a go at people who actually use cameras to take pictures.

I think I am reasonably normal...maybe.

 

[oftheherd]

I have an interest in collecting and trying out the classics of the past. These are top end cameras that I had no hope of owning while they were current, but can now because they are used/old and "obsolete" due to the takeover of digital in the pro field.

4x5 speed graphic, Hasselblad, Rolleiflex, Leica, ...

But my problem is that I seldom get rid of them after I am done using them, if I even get around to using them. But I usually put at least one roll of film through them. I even develop the roll sometimes. 😛

 

[lxmike]

Are there "Dentists Bars" like there are Cop bars ? 😛

if there are l bet they rinse and not drink in them

 

[Jack Conrad]

I only collect cameras that pass the cat sniffing test:
Olympuss RC

 

[rjstep3]

This is a bit like Alcoholics Anonymous...

I am here.

I am a collector, or you may call me a hoarder if you wish.

"I am here.

I am not an alcoholic - I am a connoisseur."

rjstep3

 

[shadowfox]

Collector, hoarder, whatever.
We know who we are.

It is liberating to accept that collecting is part of out nature as a human being.

The most challenging part is moderation and self-control.
The rest is just fun and community and camaraderie.