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Any reviews or comments on the Chicago show last week?

This year went better for me. The machine that was on reserve for me, was not sold out from under me. I dealt with a seller that has a lot of integrity, despite temptations to sell my machine to others, for more than our agreed price. Three cheers for "Bill".

Meh.....Did both Friday and Saturday. Not the worst, not the best. Lots of items changing hands, so I would say that was a good thing, however a lot of what I saw was the same old stuff. First sale in a long time that I didn't buy a thing, but did enjoy visiting with a few folks. I still think it is turning more towards a flea market/swap meet atmosphere, rather than a coin-op show......but given the direction of the hobby, it is to be expected.

My first show. I walked it Friday and Saturday. I did get to meet some people that I have dealt with in the past. That was nice. Lots of stuff to look at. Not as many slots as I was expecting. Being that it was my first show I did get up early and walk the parking lot. I can't see myself doing that again. Damn cold. I would of liked to see more slot related literature and parts. It would of also been nice to meet some to the people from this Forum. Just a thought. I did pick up a couple of project machines. A Lions Head that needs lots of work. It will keep me out of trouble for awhile.(I'm looking for a wood cabinet base if anyone has something) I also picked up a nice QT Firebird on the original metal stand. Just needs glass, cleaning and a couple of locks. Now I need to find a way to break into it. I have no keys.

The show was weak with early buyers and also with the general public. But this has been the trend for as long as I can remember. November is the strong show. Also I think the harsh winter we had hindered the search for fresh merchandise. A lot of the dealers do the spring show so they can hold onto their spaces for November. I bought 12 slots with me plus an assorted grouping of other coin op and only brought back six slots and one other piece. Traded some of the slots away. Also the gentleman who bought Tom Krals inventory didn't set up ( he had his arm in a sling) but did walk the show handing out his card announcing his purchase of said inventory. As far as the flea market swap meet feel of the show......we'll as long as I can remember it has been like that in the parking lot. I think that is the whole fun of that show running around and trying to find various treasures. Be it as may the show would never have survived being coin op only. And it has always had vintage advertising and toys and other related items for sale. How many collectors have walked into that show looking for something other than coin op and would see something that would start him to collect coin op too. It all goes hand in hand with collecting for fun. See ya in November !!!