I have noticed some rare lenses go for reasonable prices. I have also noticed that some remain unsold at high rates that they once sold for easily in the past. Chime in everyone!! Are people starting to dump their equipment. Is there a change in the dynamic of wet plate afoot!!! Zounds!!

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I've noticed the same. Except for some cult items, most seem to be bringing a lower dollar value and, I believe, the result is a slower market with more people seen to be holding onto their collectibles. I used to see many more rare items on the auction block than I am seeing today. The trend seems to engender more buy-it- now sales, too. Presumably because of the lower prices the auctions seen to be bringing.

Paul I wish I had more $$ I would have taken some of your posted items.I am in it for shooting rather than collecting.I guess I would
Have liked to one example lens by major makers.would like an hbh, dallmeyer,etc. Have a cc Harrison. I liked your p&l;

The P&L; is a perfect example of what I mean. A very rare and classy lens, to be sure. I bought it 'high' and have only received very low offers. For that reason, I am holding onto it for now. Although I really could use the money, it just isn't worth it to me to take such a hit when - one day (fingers crossed) - it is only going to be older, more rare, and hopefully be more valued.

I'm with you Paul, I have invested a lot in early, obscure lenses, mostly time, and mostly because I like them. I have seen happen what I predicted a few years ago - common, mass produced petzvals like Darlots have gone down or stabilized. A cult maker that also starts with a "D" kept going up and up until even that bubble is letting the air out.

Both of these "D" makers made thousands of lenses for generations. I can predict that the more uncommon, early maker lenses will always have a better potential, though they may not see "supernova bubble" increases. It's like studebaker cars today. Most car guys would rather have a Corvette, but when someone wants a Studebaker - they have to look hard and pay high.