Changing Collecting/Fan Demographic

[sith-smith]

In terms of the vintage line then that is a very valid point to make. We're concerned about who'll be collecting - but in reality what might be left to collect if more things like the MOC deteriorate. Ultimately the vintage line can only become rarer due to the effects of time and damage (there are so many stories of damaged items in the post or even accidents at home)

I think in the end it will still come down to the basic supply and demand equation. There may be fewer collectors as the older one who grew up with vintage stop/sell up. There may also be fewer items left.

Personally I can't see younger generations being as interested in the vintage. They have no sentimental/nostalgic attachment to it like we do. And there's a whole host of really cool stuff constantly being released that is more easily obtainable.

The market could also become flooded as older collectors give up/sell off etc.

It's really hard to predict. Who, back in the 90's, would have even slightly imagine that vintage SW toys would be selling for many thousands of pounds?

 

[palitoyjunky]

Wow! A hell of a lot covered and it's pretty much all been said.
I also felt in the minority and of less significance at Cel. I think a big reflection of this was the ridiculous and highly frustrating positioning of the Collector Track stage! Being drowned out by the bloody rock concert outside really pissed me off!! Yep I guess I do sound like an old fart
I do think a bit more respect and recognition should have been given to the OT being this year is indeed ROTJ's 40th birthday!!
Clearly times are changing but I do like how Disney are doing their upmost to keep things going to the next generation & beyond!
Regarding the vintage toys, I agree with much of what has been said. I think the two main factors that could possibly see a price drop at some point in the future would be 1, many of us guys deciding to cash in for various reasons therefore causing a somewhat flooding of the market and 2, the passing on of the likes of us to whom the vintage toys mean the most! I'm sure there will be peaks & troughs over time and I think likes of the 12 backs and early stuff will stay/rise to the summit and be respected like first issue/early golden age comics etc.
Regarding the deterioration of vintage, yes it's true we have heavily invested in fragile pieces & factors ie bubble seals etc. However I think some guys are perhaps worrying a little too much at this point in time. Where the POTF line is the outstanding line that has shown heavy bubble decay, there are many Kenner, Palitoy, Meccano, TolToy etc pieces that are in A1 pristine condition showing no signs of deterioration-including the Tri-logo, one of the weakest known packaging! Some of these pieces are still perfect after nearly 45 years…so why not another 45 years?!
I'd love to see the next generation & beyond fall in love with the vintage and keep it going strong for many years to come because it's simply the best of the best part of this gigantic ever growing world called Star Wars….the Original Trilogy