I've been debating as to whether or not to make this post for quite a while. Finally, I decided to go with my philosophy of "the only stupid question is the one not asked." I also figured this was the place to ask! Most of you that know me know that when we meet at conventions, I'm often seen drooling over items in various collections. I know that handcuff collecting is a rather expensive hobby. Is it possible to collect handcuffs with limited resources? I'm not talking a couple hundred dollars for a pair of handcuffs, I'm talking about less than fifty. My resources are extremely limited, but I would like to be able to do more than just be extremely envious of you who do have these wonderful collections. Maybe one day after kids are grown and gone, but before they come back, I'll be able to spend more money on cuffs.
Margarette
Ive been a collector of vintage and antique metallic goods since childhood. Some of the many things that Ive collected include: vintage vending/amusement machines; cast iron mechanical banks; metallic balance sculptures; antique cutlery; locks and, of course, handcuffs.
Since my obsession with fine metallic goods has always greatly exceeded my income, Ive learned to keep most of my highly cherished items safely packed away and generally inaccessible. Once in a blue moon or on a special occasion, Ill randomly remove a box from storage and feel as if Id been reunited with a long lost friend. By contrast, some of my most coveted vending machines being too large to pack away were for years prominently displayed in my den. My guests would ogle them when they visited, but in time, I actually grew blind to their presence, even at times feeling burdened by having to clean and polish their surfaces. Nothing can diminish the desirability of a rare antique like being exposed to it on a daily basis. Likewise, the most desirable pair of handcuffs are often the ones that you cannot get your hands on, or in, as the case may be.
My obsession with collectables reached its peak in the early 80s. By then, Id become acquainted with other antique collectors, and would carpool to distant antique shows/flea markets, etc. on a regular basis. We learned that the best deals could be had in remote, rural areas, and having a few friends to share traveling expenses meant having more money to shop.
Haggling sure beats bidding from a buyers perspective. An old miser taught me the merit of hitting outdoor antique shows on overcast days, when attendance was usually very low. The vendors, having already reserved a table, cannot obtain a refund unless it is raining at opening time. I would survey the tables, making a mental note of what I wanted to haggle on. As soon as I felt the first raindrop, Id make my offers for any items of interest. Youd be surprised at how much less they would accept when faced with the prospect of having to pack up their antiques and leave early. As much as I enjoy e-commerce, I sure do miss the good old days of outright haggling for goods.
Since new collectors and venues such as e-Bay have greatly increased the selling price of vintage cuffs, you might try striking up a deal with one of the collectors who has duplicates in his or her collection. I know that many handcuff collectors are disinterested in examples with non-factory stampings, more than 10% plating, loss, etc., so you might have more success if you dont mind some blemished, fully functioning examples.
Happy hunting
Jason
