'Til Death do us part

[RWS]

I was wondering what generally happens to the value of a custom knife when the knifemaker kicks the bucket. I haven't yet experienced owning a knife of a deceased maker.

I guess in some cases the value of one maker's knives would shoot up dramatically and stay strong while in other cases other knifemaker's knives values will gradually decline, and continue to decline, as their names fades into the past after they're gone.

I'm guessing that most of us here aren't in this very fun knife collecting hobby for investment purposes, but what do you guys feel will be the market's short-term and long-term reaction toward the market value of your favorite makers knives after they've vapor locked and passed on?


EDITED TO ADD:
I'm hoping that none of the makers that frequent here find this to be morbid curiosity on my part. I really do hope and wish that you all will live forever. :thumbup:

Names need not be mentioned. Just more of a general discussion on the effects of value on a passing maker's knives.

 

[Kevin Jones]

We will most likely continue to see demand for the maker's knives who has worked hard, not just to make outstanding knives but to create a long standing market for his/her knives.

By working hard, I mean utilizing strong marketing practices and good business principles in building a strong collector network who will continue to seek his/her knives after death or retirement. A loyal following of collectors will not necessarily dissipate after a maker stops making knives. In fact demand will most likely increase for a maker's knives who has prepared for this.

On the other hand, a maker who has been haphazard in taking care of business and his collectors will most likely fade quickly in the minds of those in the custom knife community.

One doesn't have to look too hard to find examples of both these makers.

 

[RWS]

I think your right, Kevin.

I'm guessing though that there are some currently very "hot" makers out there right now whom if they passed away, their star would fade pretty fast as time passes, say two or three years down the road.