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Hello,
Well, I thought I would throw in my two cents worth here.
I believe the first "Tomcats" were actually a small number of prototypes that never went into normal production. They had radically different handles (I believe they were black micarta) and are very rare to find today. The first production Tomcat I's were made in Santa Monica, CA and were stamped "S.M.CA." on the blade below the SOG logo. The second variation of Tomcat I's were made in Edmonds, WA and were stamped "EDM.WA." on the blade below the SOG logo. The final variation of the Tomcat I's were made in Lynnwood, WA and do not have any town initials below the SOG logo.
I believe this information to be true. Please, anybody, correct me if I am wrong.
As far as values go, I too saw the auction where the one went for over $400.00 and I also believe that one was a bit steep (at least at this time). If you look at the bidding history on this one, you can see that it was basically two people battling this one out. There were only 3 bidders involved over $35.00.
Without getting into a lecture on selling on eBay, the main driving force on this knife (and any other collectible knife) are things such as a reputable company, condition, rarity, demand, etc.. My own personal opinion on this knife "as-is" would put this knife in the $150-200 range (at this time). If it were a mint knife with box, pouch, and papers, the price could go much higher. An example I can think of at present is that I saw a Buck 110 first version mint with box, sheath, and papers sell for around $1500. While more recently I saw another 110 first version with just a few scratches and without box and papers sell for just over $300.
I have also seen one auction where a SOG Desert Dagger knife (not the limited and #'d one) brought in $300. While most of the time they are sold for approx. $100. So, I wouldn't put too much stock in this one auction.
As far as values go, as most people would say "It's only worth what someone is willing to pay for it". I know that's the standard "cheesy" answer but it really is true. Another critical factor is "timing", getting the right people interested in your item at the same time.
Hope this helps you out some.
- Greg
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