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Original Prop Hobby – 2007 Year in Review

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What follows is a summary view of my perspective and personal opinion of the hobby, looking back at 2007. It has been a very interesting year, with a lot of activity and stories and experiences.

“Personal Notes”

For me personally, I found it to be a very exciting and rewarding year.

In terms of the community, I’ve made some new friends and strengthened existing relationships.

With the launch of this blog in April, I’ve had an opportunity to network with a larger circle of collectors and made some new acquaintances, as well as have an opportunity to share my personal views and “control the signal”.

With collecting, I’ve had an opportunity to add quite a few new pieces to my collection (all viewable at the “My Collection” link at the top of this page), which I continue to be excited about. Believe it or not, I find tremendous enjoyment in the pursuit and ownership of original props and wardrobe from films and television programs that are important to me. I think the challenges of the hobby happen to suit my nature, so the experience of finding, authenticating, and obtaining a piece with excellent provenance is as rewarding as subsequently owning the piece itself.

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What follows are news highlights and opinions of trends from 2007. Given that this blog launched in April, it is likely some eventful and notable events have been omitted. It took some time to go through the content that is already here for review…

“Top Ten News Stories and Trends of the Year”

10. The Christie’s Star Trek Lawsuit

This story was just breaking at the end of 2007; it would otherwise be much higher on the list. I have a feeling it will either quietly go away or gain more attention. Given the information available to date, it appears to be a non-starter to me, as far as the actual lawsuit goes, but stranger things have happened.

It’s too bad so much publicity is being paid to what will likely amount to a casual hobbyist not understanding the fundamentals of authenticity, rather than a true example of fraud in the hobby (of which there are many examples). Perhaps in 2008 the spotlight will be redirected on a more appropriate example.

In any event, the manner in which this story has been covered by the mainstream media, to me, is the real story, as it illustrates what little understanding there is with the public at large in regards to the hobby.

9. The State of The Marketplace

Of course, one of the major stories every year is the overall state of the marketplace, so this year is no different.

In terms of trends, it seems that the various “Studio Resellers” (i.e. Hollywood Vault, Premiere Props, It’s a Wrap, etc.) continue to flood the market, in many cases with anything and everything from a given production. My view is, there is a saturation point for such pieces, as well as a lack of interest in unrecognizable background pieces, so I believe some of the very inexpensive and unremarkable pieces go to casual collectors, or perhaps in some cases, strict utility use (i.e. an ashtray is an ashtray, but this one was from a movie and cost less).

The hobby is very small, so there are only so many buyers and so much money to support the sometimes overwhelming quantity of product that is unleashed into the marketplace.

Another trend the I perceive is somewhat of a “Professional Dealer” squeeze. I think it is easier for studios to “dump” (for lack of a better term) a film through a “Studio Reseller”, rather than piece out the better pieces through a “Professional Dealer”, so I believe there is more competition for product than in the past, as there are more outlets available with different business models. Another trend which negatively impacts the “Professional Dealer” is the rise of popularity of consigning better pieces through auction houses, Profiles in History in particular (see #6 below, for a dedicated discussion).

However, for those truly key and significant pieces, especially films not in current or recent theatrical and home video release, the “Professional Dealer” is still king. Companies such as Prop Store of London and ScreenUsed (and they are “the big two”, with all others being secondary) still get great pieces, but the pricing is at a premium as well. There is also a trend of such pieces being sold through private offers “off site” first, so that makes it a bit of a challenge for collectors as well, if the opportunity never presents itself.

The other dedicated outlet is the “Auction House” (i.e. Profiles in History, Christie’s, Bonhams, etc.). It seems as Profiles in History gets more popular, it has been at the expense of the competition. Apart from the Little John’s Stembridge Collection auction (see #2 below), and the Christie’s 40 Years of Star Trek the year prior, nothing else has offered anything comparable to the quantity and quality of each Profiles offering. Recent auctions by Christie’s and others may have a few stand out pieces, but the auctions overall have been quite lackluster.

Of course, the biggest market is driven by general resale – private collectors and pseudo dealers, trading on forums and eBay. Trends here are hard to gauge, but typically it involves risk and reward. There is always the great find, or the great deal, but these are few and far between, and generally lost in the midst of over hyped marketing and poor authentication, not to mention fraud.

Overall, I think the weak U.S. dollar has impacted sales in a variety of ways as well. I think the trend of “less is more” is strong in the hobby (electing to seek out and trade up to fewer, better pieces). I think some collectors are becoming more discerning, but a many (especially newer and casual collectors) continue to believe they are buying one thing, and receive something that falls far short (see Christie’s Star Trek lawsuit).

  • Further OPB Reading: Too many articles to reference

8. The Writer’s Strike

I think this is a bit of an unreported story (and I’m just as guilty), but I see this event having a potentially significant affect on the hobby.

Given the unfortunate circumstances for all involved – a huge impact on production (and revenue) for the studios, and a loss of work and income for industry workers – the impact to the entertainment industry is enormous.

Studios and workers alike will be looking for ways to generate revenue, and I think that this will result in the sale of original props and wardrobe, both at the studio level and the individual level. So there is a likelihood that this will result in additional product being released into the marketplace, in a variety of ways.

On a large scale, we could see another studio event similar to the Christie’s Star Trek auction in 2006, which netted millions of dollars.

On a medium scale, more product pumped through “Studio Resellers”.

On a smaller scale, a variety of industry workers, from producers and directors, to prop masters, to actors, to grips and set decorators – those from all walks of life – may part with some mementos, given the circumstances.

Again, I think this may be more of a silent trend, but I think it will have a significant impact on the hobby going into the new year especially.

7. High Definition Arrives (Sort of)

This segment is covered quite extensively in the “Further OPB Reading” link below. Suffice it to say, Blu-Ray Disc and HD-DVD look and play wonderfully, the high resolution images will change the hobby, and, currently, it truly is a pain in the ass for collectors to be able to take advantage of this technology, regardless of their willingness to pay for it.

Given the studios’ concerns over piracy, what was easily done with standard definition DVDs – capturing static images – has been rendered “time, skill, and resource prohibitive” with these new format discs. It is possible, but far from easy or pleasurable.

Hopefully something will change in 2008 to make the ability to study and research the images on the discs you pay to own a little more simple.

In any event, the end results – however one ultimately gets there – are absolutely fantastic. This is a huge plus for the hobby, long term.

Of course, with every advance, there is a new opportunity for unscrupulous fraudsters to leverage the technology to make better fakes, but people should not be relying on screencaps alone for authentication.

6. The Auction House Shift

As touched on in #9 above, I’ve noticed a trend over 2007 – an increase in the popularity of the auction house model (Profiles in History) for the sale of pieces from private collectors.

Some years ago, it seemed a bit out of the ordinary for an average collector to consign a piece for sale through an auction house. Over the last year, it seems that it has become commonplace. Who didn’t have a piece in the last Profiles auction? Of course, this trend is driven by results. Oftentimes, “magic happens” with a high profile piece at auction, and the price realized far exceeds what could be obtained privately, on eBay, or through a professional dealer. If a collector wants top dollar for a prized piece, he is going to put it in Profiles.

Because of this, more and more it seems that auction house consignment, almost exclusively Profiles in History, is the very first consideration. Profiles has become the premiere high profile prop selling venue.

Having had an opportunity to speak with the owner of Profiles in History, Joe Maddelena, this trend does seem to be aligned with his vision.

Again, I think this trend has a significant impact on the marketplace overall. There is control, competition, opportunity, marketing – all of this is impacted not just with Profiles, but with all sellers and resellers as a result of what Profiles does. They truly drive the hobby in a variety of ways. I don’t want this to sound like a commercial for Profiles, because they do things that I do not agree with, but it is what it is.

Also, given #8 above, the writer’s strike, I think much of the product that would come from industry workers would go through Profiles, because it is very oriented to that group, it caters to them, and it understands them. It will be interesting to see how this plays out in 2008.

I had privately predicted, mid-year, that perhaps this trend might have a saturation point, but looking at the results of their December auction, I think I was incorrect in that prediction.

5. Transparency 1, Anonymity 0

This is another trend which is thoroughly covered in the “Further OPB Reading” link below, but it really is far reaching.

There seems to be two distinct philosophies regarding the hobby and the Internet and the choice each person makes in how they choose to interface with the community as well as how they present themselves and participate (or not participate).

One group is all about transparency, disclosure, and even the open and notorious ownership of props and facts surrounding them.

Another group wants to hide their identity and keep their business to themselves, while having access to information without ever really contributing.

And then there is everyone in-between.

Obviously, I am personally quite the proponent of transparency, which will color my comments in this analysis.

Over the last year, the notion of “Radical Transparency” has been a big story throughout the Internet at large as well as in business and news reporting (see WIRED article).

I think transparency and disclosure makes people accountable to their actions, their philosophies, and other things that speak to their character. It also offers great opportunities, in terms of meeting like-minded individuals and sharing and learning from one another, including one’s own mistakes.

Conversely, while some may feel they have good reason to operate quietly and without notice, they do not reap the rewards that go hand in hand with all that was just mentioned. There are also negative consequences.

The anomaly of the anonymous group are those that not only hide their identities, but adopt and employ false ones. This is one of the most troubling parts of the hobby I’ve encountered, as there is no legitimate reason for people to pretend to be something and/or someone that they are not. For me, that reflects an inherent weakness of both character and morality. Of course, many of these people that act and speak behind false identities do so to take advantage of others in some way. And once that false identity line is crossed, it begs the question: what other lines does this person feel at liberty to cross?

However, in review of 2007, it seems many of these individuals who have adopted such false identities have been revealed, and much through the effort of those who simply will not stand for such games. I think the tolerance for this behavior has run out, and there is a stronger expectation in the online community that if you want to participate, you really must be who you say you are, and leave games and deceit at the door. Those who are ultimately revealed to operate in such an unscrupulous fashion often damage their credibility and reputation beyond repair, which to me is an appropriate consequence.

I am not personally aware of any instances in which any collector has suffered as a result of having the moral courage to simply be who he or she is, be forthright, and sign their name to their opinions. I look forward to this trend continuing into 2008, and a score of Transparency 2, Anonymity 0 next year.

4. The Death of Good Will

This is another topic that has been discussed quite extensively throughout the year, so I will keep this one short. Suffice it to say, it has been disappointing to see, as well as experience, poor customer service and a lack of good will with some retailers in the hobby. It especially seems to be a problem in the “Studio Reseller” realm, likely attributed to the business model (not that there is any excuse for it).

Having said that, it seems there are some that buck the trend, at least in talking with other collectors. Such examples of good service include Backlot Props and Hollywood Vault.

The two companies that have demonstrated some issues and struggles in working with customers appropriately have articles which can be read from the “Further OPB Reading” links below.

Here’s hoping that good will shall rise like a phoenix in 2008 – or that the business these problem companies have will be transferred to companies that have more respect for their customers. Unfortunately, many new collectors have their first experiences with the hobby as a result of purchases from “Studio Resellers”, so I hate to think of the impact some of this poor customer service may have on the growth of the hobby.

3. The Black & White Original Series Star Trek Phaser

This will be a confusing commentary for those that are not members of the Movie Prop Forum, as this has been an ongoing discussion topic there for several months (see Movie Prop Forum topic, “STAR TREK (TOS): Original Black & White Phaser“).

Of course, it begs the question: If this is the #3 story of the year, why has it not warranted a mention on the OPB?

It truly has been the topic with no conclusion. There is still one outstanding element of the story which has not been resolved, so once that has concluded to my satisfaction, the event will be covered on the OPB to the best of my ability. It is a challenge to write about given the terms of service of the forum, since much of the story is based on accounts and the recounting of information and events and the participation and lack of participation in the topic itself. My recommendation to any hobbyist is to read the full discussion first hand and to arrive at your own conclusions.

So why is it one of the biggest stories of the year? It is reflective of many issues in the hobby, and incredibly multifaceted.

It illustrates issues related to authentication, the authentication process, inherent conflicts of interest with “in house” authentication, as well as third-party authentication.

It is an excellent case study of what happens with the sale of high end props “behind the scenes”, and raises many questions.

It raises questions in regards to what is or isn’t appropriate in terms of business decisions made, and shows how little oversight there is in the hobby.

Of course, there is a lot of “drama” with this story and how it played out as well – of much lesser interest and importance to the hobby, but it is there influencing the event none the less.

In any event, I will share a more thoughtful and thorough analysis of this topic, but this will now be in 2008.

  • Further OPB Reading: Coming in 2008

2. The Stembridge Collection

This rates highly on a more personal level, in addition to being an important and newsworthy event in the hobby. One of the most fascinating aspects of the event (and also highly controversial, even now) is that it managed to somehow fly under the radar for most collectors.

This was the sale by Little John’s Auction Service of a good portion of the “Stembridge Armory”, which rented guns to Hollywood from 1914 to 1998. Robert Peterson of Peterson Publishing purchased much of the collection, with the intention of showcasing them in a museum. This never came to fruition, so they ultimately became available for this sale event.

I had the opportunity to attend this event in person, and it was an amazing experience. I have covered this topic more than any other on the blog to date, so I will let those articles speak for themselves.

1. The Birth of the Discerning Collector

For me, the biggest story of the year by a landslide is what I see as “The Birth of the Discerning Collector”.

Now, I think discerning collectors have always been around, but I think some barriers have been broken where hobbyists are more comfortable talking plainly (and in many cases publicly) about important issues, and acknowledging problems. These are truly the seeds planted that will lead to change and growth in the hobby.

I’ve had an opportunity to speak private, semi privately, and publicly with a number of truly impressive individuals in this hobby. The knowledge and expertise is truly astounding, especially witnessing skill and character at work, in coordination with good intentions. That is what this hobby is about, and leveraging the Internet and a few solid tools, most especially the Movie Prop Forum. I think a great collective service has been underway for some time, and it continues to grow. This is, in my opinion, what will serve as the caretaker of the hobby – collective oversight, good will, and sharing with one another.

To me, the community is really the foundation of the hobby. That is why I feel transparency and honesty is so important – it is the building blocks, and we can collectively help build this hobby into something better than it is, in it’s current state.

The collectors and hobbyists – we are the ones who have the power to determine what is appropriate, in terms of standards of authenticity, expectations for customer service, and other key issues. It is a small hobby, but that is truly to our advantage. We all know one another. We all have a voice (hopefully one, and one that is our own). We can leverage that to do good things.

I am personally very positive about the hobby and the hobbyists that step forward to be counted and contribute in whatever way that they can.

I would like to make one personal note of thanks to Mike Mancini, who was one of the first friends I made who really sparked an interest in me with this hobby. Mike is also the founder and owner of The Movie Prop Forum, which I think far and away has done more for the hobby than any other thing.

I’d also like to thank my good friend Rob Steel – my first “true” friend in the hobby (who I met on the RPF) – who has been a huge help to me over the years and is one of the nicest guys I’ve ever met. He was instrumental in the set-up of this blog, including the logo, so many thanks to him for that and being a truly reliable friend.

Here is to a great 2008.

“Notable Online Studio Auctions”

Notable Public Auctions

Sold at Auction: Important Pieces & Notable Prices

Profiles in History Hollywood Auction 27, April 5, 2007 in Calabasas Hills, CA

  • H.R. Giger Alien Creature Suit: $110,000 ($132,000 assuming 20% Buyer’s Premium)
  • Christopher Reeve Complete Superman Costume: $100,000 ($120,000 w/ premium)
  • Winkie Guard Costume from The Wizard of Oz: $100,000 ($120,000 w/ premium)
  • Val Kilmer Batman Costume from Batman Forever: $55,000 ($66,000 w/ premium)
  • Mace Windu Stunt Fighting Lightsaber from Star Wars: Attack of the Clones: $35,000 ($42,000 w/ premium)
  • Hugh Jackman Wolverine Hero Claws from X2: X-Men United: $35,000 ($42,000 w/ premium)

See Profiles in History (Auctions -> Prices Realized) for all prices realized

Antiquorum’s Omega Auction, April 14-15, 2007 in Geneva

  • The Seamaster worn by Daniel Craig in Casino Royale: $49,500 ($58,500 assuming 18% Buyer’s Premium)
  • The Planet Ocean worn by Daniel Craig in Casino Royale: $177,140 ($209,000 w/ premium)
  • The Seamaster worn by Pierce Brosnan in Tomorrow Never Dies: $57,680 ($68,050 w/ premium)

Little John’s Auction Service: The Stembridge Collection, June 5, 2007 in Orange County, CA

  • The Blaster used by Harrison Ford in Return of the Jedi: $180,000 ($201,600 assuming 12% Buyer’s Premium)
  • The Pistol used by Harrison Ford in Raiders of the Lost Ark: $65,000 ($72,800 w/ premium)
  • The Pistol used by John Wayne in True Grit: $81,000 ($90,720 w/ premium)
  • The Rifle used by John Wayne in Stagecoach: 115,000 ($128,8000 w/ premium)

See OPB Article “Stembridge Auction Report, Part 5: Prices Realized List” for all prices realized

Profiles in History Hollywood Auction 28, August 2-3, 2007 in Calabasas Hills, CA

  • Johnny Five robot from the forgettable Short Circuit: $120,000 ($144,000 assuming 20% Buyer’s Premium)
  • Peter Mayhew original Chewbacca head from Star Wars: $100,000 ($120,000 w/ premium)
  • Hero laser gun from Lost in Space: $80,000 ($96,000 w/ premium)
  • Obi Wan Kenobi (Ewan McGregor) lightsaber from Star Wars: Episode I: $42,500 ($51,000 w/ premium)
  • Anakin Skywalker lightsaber from Star Wars Episode II: $40,000 ($48,000 w/ premium)
  • Grail tablet from Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade: $35,000 ($42,000 w/ premium)
  • Original Klingon Disruptor from Star Trek at $35,000 ($42,000 w/ premium)
  • Original Star Wars & Star Wars ESB Stormtrooper helmet: $32,500 ($39,000 w/ premium)
  • Vivien Leigh’s hat from Gone with the Wind: $32,500 ($39,000 w/ premium)

See Profiles in History (Auctions -> Prices Realized) for all prices realized

Profiles in History Hollywood Auction 30, December 13-14, 2007 in Calabasas Hills, CA

  • Endoskeleton from Terminator 2: Judgment Day: $425,000 ($510,000 assuming 20% Buyer’s Premium)
  • 1:1 scale T-Rex head from Jurassic Park: $110,000 ($132,000 with premium)
  • T1 Armored Drone from Terminator 3: $95,000 ($114,000 with premium)
  • Full body Terminator from T3: $65,000 ($78,000 with premium)
  • “Teddy” from AI: Artificial Intelligence: $45,000 ($54,000 with Buyer’s Premium)
  • Insert Velociraptor Head from Jurassic Park III: $42,500 ($51,000 with Buyer’s Premium)

See Profiles in History (Auctions -> Prices Realized) for all prices realized

Christies Film & Entertainment Memorabilia, December 19, 2007 in South Kensington, UK

  • Pierce Brosnan Goldeneye Costume/Suit: Approximately $38,000 including Buyer’s Premium
  • Star Wars C3-P0 Hand: Approximately $43,000 including Buyer’s Premium

See OPB Article “Christies Film & Entertainment Memorabilia Auction – South Kensington, December 19, 2007 – Auction Results” for additional prices realized

“Born in 2007”

“Public Events Highlights”

Jason De Bord