Topic Split - Great suggestion @punkin 


Early on in the discussion, Andy @oldskool1969 mentioned that an original Fathom was hard to track down, so I was referring back to the early days when it was almost impossible, but after waiting and looking high and low - I found one. After that purchase, I think I've bought 5 or 6 Fathoms, and I know of one that might be for sale in QLD in the coming months. In the last 2 years, JUNKERS from dealers have gone for ok pricing. My eyesight is terrible these days, but I can't see where I have "covid" in capitals ? Nor a reference to 2016 ? My point is that you guys looking at buying Fathoms for $3500 missed out a long time ago, BUT, if you look hard, they are around, and not for $9000 in decent condition. $9K is covid price. It is NUTS for any Bally SS from that era with the exception of KISS or Playboy. If I missed a $3500 Fathom, I would know it would be difficult to find a nice $7000 (their true pre covid value). This is the MASSIVE issue with prices at the moment. Sellers can name their price (any game), and people will pay it. So there's an argument of sellers' greed and buyers' impatience. Or you can sit on your hands and wait it out. I can go through my list of "Holy Grails" and not once did I even get close to over paying. Now, almost every game sold in the current market is WAY overpriced.


So in my case, I look at the price of $11.5K for a remake, and I'm left in disbelief. I live in the present too and I can guarantee I will find a VERY nice Fathom between now and next year for $5500 TOPS by calling people and keeping an eye on the marketplace. Bookmark this thread. If it falls though, bad luck, if not, I'll supply photos.


When I'm referring to "homework" - It is the basic background checks and due diligence required before buying something. It is really rare for anyone these days to buy something without looking around. That's the point I'm making. I receive calls almost every day for "hard to find" parts and machines, and I have the same stock standard answer that if you do your homework and be patient, you will find what you are looking for at a fair price. It is like the Woodrails. They rarely change hands or go up for sale. Does not mean they are extinct or cost millions. It means you have to shake the tree, do some "homework" and you will have a Woodrail or two. I know of 1500 woodrails in QLD - just sitting there, rotting away. It is no big secret, many pinheads know the story.


The short version of my point is that I struggle with the idea that pinheads will part with $11.5K on a remake of a game, when the original can be located for less. If you have $11.5 to burn - good luck to you - I hope you LOVE the game. If you want something "modernized" - I have no problem with it. Is it really worth $11.5K - I don't know - I've never built a pinball (Hats off to those that have). I would not part with $11.5 for a remake BECAUSE I know that I can buy and original, in good condition, for less.