Kaypros and Osbornes

From: Phil Clayton <musicman38_at_mindspring.com>
Date: Sat Jan 16 14:12:48 1999

Doug Yowza wrote: On Fri, 15 Jan 1999, Joseph S. Barrera III wrote:

> > Are Osbornes really that much harder to find than Kaypros? eBay currently
> > seems awash in Kaypros for under $30...

> eBay does not reflect reality, man.
> Both machines were very popular in their time and have no collector value
> beyond whatever sentimental value they have for you.
> -- Doug

Beg to differ, the Kaypro or Osborne I feel are considered a collectable by
most computer enthusiasts.. Does not matter if Kaypro's are currently worth
average
$30.00 in eBay.. In 2010 they may be worth $300.00, and in 2100 they will truly
be
a museum piece for display.. Yes there are still many in circulation, but as
the computer
collector population grows they will become less available and therefore more
valuable.

I also feel that eBay does somewhat reflect or give an indication of market
value.
True Osborne 01's sometimes go for $600.00 on eBay, but these are usually
purchased by someone (Like you said) for pure sentimental value..
However the average price is around $100.00.. So that is what I consider
current
market value.. Also does not matter if you get one at the local Thrift for
$5.00, like
I did, they thought it was a Portable Television..

A good example of a mass produced computer may be a Radio Shack Model One,
These computers were everywhere in the Mid/late 80's , as PC's took over
people began to throw them away. They were worthless to the masses..
Now in 1999 you have to really search around to find one at least in SW
Florida..
I will take a guess and say 75% of all the TRS-80 M-1 computers have been
thrown
away.. The remaining 25% are in the hands of collectors, and as the computer
collector
population grows so will the value of the limited units available..

The exception may be the Commodore 64 computer. In the year 2100 (I am
convinced)
people will still be selling these things at Yard Sales..
My guess is that there is still at least one of these
units in everyones closet in 1999.. <Grin>!!!
Phil...
Received on Sat Jan 16 1999 - 14:12:48 GMT