[Steve S.]

A lot depends on the economy at the time of purchase. When people have more expendable cash on hand, the more they are willing to pay for their "Toys". And like anything else considered "Collectable", it's condition, condition, condition of the item at the time of sale. All I know about are the U.S. prototype Aster engines. Of those there are only a couple of models that you could sell in this present economy and make a substantial profit on, and that would only be if you bought it at it's introduction price.

 

[Steve S.]

Steve

Substantial profit? If you take into account the amount of inflation of the US dollar, I do not think the K4, NYC Hudson, Daylight, or Big Boy are actually bringing a big profit to the seller. If you IGNORE inflation, it appears that the seller might be making as much as 50%, possibly more. If you sell a Berkshire for what you paid new, you have actually lost a few hundred dollars.

My personal observation is that the Gauge One models that increase in value are the ones that were done in batches of 10 or less, not ones that were produced in quantities over 50. Even Fine Art Models locomotives and cars seldom realize much over their original prices, Gary Kohs' desires not withstanding.

It is the market, not the model.

Just my opinion.

Good added points Dr. Rivet. I agree.

 

[Steve S.]

To answer the original question Q: "do Aster locomotives still hold in value overtime?"
Better then the other I think?

Trouble maker..........he, he

 

[Steve S.]

After viewing the Heritage auction results, the answer to the opening question, "Do Aster engines hold their value?" is .............. NO.

That being said, it looks like Dr. Rivet was right. Only things that are made in extremely limited quantities (less that 5) seem to hold their value or increase.

WOW !!!!! Their were some incredible deals made in that auction, or....... they were not actually great deals, just what those items are actually worth at this given time. And, it just seems like great deals to me because I love live steam.

 

[Steve S.]

So Sam, you got the Garatt............ you lucky Dog. I am happy for you.

 

[Steve S.]

Hello Sam, you remember the trouble you went to packing the BB for me. You packed it as perfect as perfect could be. Then I had it UPS overnight before noon next day delivery. (About $800.00 with insurance) You had it packed so well a earth quake could not have hurt it.........but, UPS still could.

They still managed to drop the crate on it's end causing the beast to shift forward enough for the cow catcher to bend into the front wheels. Caleb came to my rescue helping me remove it and bend things back to the way it should be.

I remember how I felt waiting for the BB to arrive knowing that you did everything perfect and UPS could (and did) screw things up. Lets all think positive for those waiting for Loco's from the auction, so all will arrive in great shape.

 

[Steve S.]

Its a hobby, not a business.

John, very well said. If somebody worries about loosing money on their "Toys" they should have not bought them in the first place.