IBM PC parts

From: Dwight Elvey <elvey_at_hal.com>
Date: Wed May 3 18:47:36 2000

ard_at_p850ug1.demon.co.uk (Tony Duell) wrote:
>
> > I'm waiting for the day that some Antiques Roadshow person starts to
> > Gush about the fine old 'patina' on the metal parts of some floppy drive.
> > I plan to throw up right about then...
>
>
> The day I am told I've ruined the value of %common-machine by repairing
> it is the day I leave this hobby. Permanently! Computers were designed to
> run programs, and run programs they shall !

Hi
 I think Tony will win in the long run on this.
Even the road show indicated once that silver is meant
to be polish while most copper art isn't. Each type
of item is different. As for value of a computer, I'm sure
that the value of a computer will follow the following levels:

1. Working, all original
2. Working, minor repairs
3. non-working, all original
4. just plain trashed

 While some put a large effort into locating exact dated
parts, I don't think using what is available moves it
from 2 to 4. It might move it from 2.01 to 2.00 but that
is about it. Even things like classic cars, one still
replaces the tires and battery when shot. It adds little
value to have a bad original battery in a car that won't
start. Trashed seat covers will not win many shows but
restored seat covers may put it in top place.
 The future value will be determined by how people in
the future look at these things. A non-working cylinder
record player is useful for parts. A working one is
what is desired.
 I think that restoring an old computing machine to working
condition is the highest achievement that any computer collector
can achieve. If others don't feel that way, they should be
collecting beanie babys.
IMHO
Dwight
Received on Wed May 03 2000 - 18:47:36 BST