The popularity of collecting vintage pinball machines shows no signs of slowing down, with prices of classic pinball games reaching mid to high four figures. Novice collectors looking to purchase their first machine should exercise a lot of patience and proceed with caution. As a result of the complex collectors market that has emerged for machines in original working condition, I have listed several top tips to help anyone looking to buy their first vintage pinball machine. Novice collectors should take this advice, as a lot of mistakes new collectors make can easily be avoided with a little bit of patience, and a whole lot of research.
10. Purchase a solid state machine only if buying your very first machine. Solid state machines were introduced in the late 1970s and are the mainstay of the pinball collecting world. They replaced a lot of the earlier mechanical components with computer chips and modern-era parts. This means these kinds of machines break down a lot less than their 1960s and earlier counterparts. They also possess electronic scoreboards, flashing lights, and even synthesized voice. It is these machines that are the most collectible. With pinball machines, earlier is not always better.
9. The price doesn’t necessarily matter. I know several people who found what was thought to be an incredible deal on a rare game at auction, only to later learn that the cost of restoration and repair would cost more than buying the same machine in near mint condition and working order. Leave the auctions to the experts. You want a near mint, already functional machine with a warranty. This will cost more, but in the long run will save a ton of money on costly repairs.
8. Research, research, and more research. The internet contains one of the best resources for any aspiring owner. Check out the Internet Pinball Machine Database at www.ipdb.org for a complete look at almost every game ever created with user reviews of each machine. After you begin your research, head over to www.pinside.com and join one of the best online forums for pinball collectors, investors, and enthusiasts.
7. Avoid buying modern machines produced in limited numbers. Thanks in part to the increased cost of manufacturing and creating modern-era games, few pinball machine manufacturers still exist and operate today. Those that do offer special enhanced, limited-edition machines based on enduring properties like “The Game of Thrones” and “The Wizard of Oz.” In my opinion, it is not wise to purchase these kinds of machines. Yes, you will be getting an expensive, brand-new game with virtually no issues. However, you will also be paying a substantial premium for a game that few enthusiasts know about. Nostalgia equals monetary value in any collecting field. Why pay a premium for a game that will most likely substantially depreciate after you use it? Go for a classic game instead.
6. Go for the vintage classics. Remember back in the 1980s and even 1990s? The popular machines of that era are what you want to go after - games like Pinbot, Bride of Pinbot, High Speed, Funhouse, and Medieval Madness. If it isn’t a game that has moderate demand, proceed with caution. All the popular games from the 1980s and 1990s have experienced the best returns on investment.
5. Don’t just buy for investment. Pinball machines are not like most other collectibles. They are big, bulky, take up a lot of space, and are a hassle to transport. They also cost a lot of money to repair and maintain. It is never wise to own one simply for investment. Most passionate collectors will make money over the long haul because their love and dedication to the games ensure proper maintenance and use. Investors are less likely to see returns and generally sell at the wrong time or when the need arises.
4. Do not finance your first machine. I cannot stress this enough, but how you pay for your first machine is almost as important as what and where you buy it. Do not refinance your house or use a credit card to buy your first machine. Go in with cash and negotiate from a firm who specializes in refurbishing vintage machines.
3. Do not buy one for cash flow. This should go without saying, but the entertainment vending business is as good as dead in the United States. Unless you own a business with a high volume of foot traffic, buying a pinball game with the anticipation of making money from the purchase is not cost effective. The wear and tear on the machine will require heavy maintenance and repair that will outweigh any and all profit. This is one of several reasons why arcades are a dying business in the United States.
2. Patience, patience, and more patience. The time to buy a rare antique is when you see it. The time to buy a vintage pinball machine is when you learn and understand the basics. Know what you are buying and pay a realistic price. Avoid any high-pressure sales tactics. You do not want to make a bad financial decision on an electronic collectible costing several thousands of dollars.
1. Have fun. Owning a pinball machine can be a great luxury. Remember why you are buying the machine, and have fun with it. If you take your time and do your research, a pinball machine can be one of the most rewarding collectibles ever!