My Current Collection:
80% - From Maker
10% - From Web Dealer and/or Purveyors (dealers buy and sell; purveyors sell)
10% - From Other Collectors
My first couple years of collecting, I bought most of my knives from Dealer/Purveyor websites as most collectors just starting out find themselves doing. Let's face it, your other options are somewhat limited as you most likely don't know many other collectors. You know "of makers" if you have done research, however stand little chance of buying from them unless you are extremely patient and don't mind the wait or are able to go to shows.
I currently monitor approximately 15 different dealer websites. I will check most at lease once everyday.
Why would I make the effort if only 10% of my collection was purchased in this manner?
Because they contain most of the knife information a collector needs, about makers (most have bio’s), types/styles, prices, what’s available, what's moving, what's not and much more.
There are many advantages and yes some disadvantages in buying from any of the sources mentioned. I will name a few. I’m sure this thread will reveal many more.
Dealer Purchase Advantages:
• Availability - Hundreds of knives only a few key strokes away.
• Expertise of the owner or site personnel for guidance or advice – Les for example, an expert in custom knives and collecting for free.
• Good or professionals photos in most cases to aid in decision to purchase.
• Good information on knives to aid in decision to purchase.
• Security – three day inspection period.
• Trade in Policy – Some superb dealers offer previous amount paid toward future trade-in.
• Build relationship with owner which may help in listing and selling your knives on his site at lower commission rates.
Dealer Purchase Disadvantages:
• Possibly higher price: Not necessarily true in all cases, however dealers have to make a profit to stay in business. Most cases 10% to 15% higher than makers.
• Limits your exposure to makers in some cases.
• Risks greater for paying to high a price or buying the wrong knife if working with an unethical dealer.
Collector Purchase Advantages:
• Ability to trade knife for knife.
• Possible availability to special or collector/maker designed knives.
• Often get best price. Sometimes less than they originally paid?
Collector Purchase Disadvantages:
• Very often poor photographs to view before purchasing.
• Very often limited information available on the knives.
• Often price too high.
Maker Purchase Advantages:
• Gain knowledge on knife construction and materials by interacting and communicating with maker.
• Generally able to get lowest price on knives, however many dealers claim to offer same price as maker.
• On “custom design to make” pieces collectors are able to interact with makers and have knife made to their taste.
• Build relationships with the makers to the benefit of both maker and collector. Example is when the collector promotes the maker’s work by posting photos, talking him up, showing collection etc., and maker continues to work to increase interest and overall market to help collector’s knives appreciate in value.
• Maker’s preferred clients usually get first shot at special pieces.
• Maker’s preferred clients may get lower pricing.
Maker Purchase Disadvantages:
Possible long lead times to acquire knives.
(Just joking, sort of)
