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Posts: 5881
Location: Colorado Rocky Mountains | For me personally . . .
Learning some history of the Kaman family, understanding the importance of regulating humidity in the band room, and appreciating the value of Trace Elliott amps . . . $470
Learning much about and developing an appreciation for Ovation’s vintage solid bodies, Storm series, Book Elite models, the entire Adamas line, and now the custom shop . . . very expensive.
Motivation to join a Praise Band, meeting new acquaintances and friends, and enjoying for many hours the amusing wit and humor of other members’ posts and responsive exchanges . . . priceless. |
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Posts: 3145
Location: Marlton, NJ | Well said! |
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Posts: 12755
Location: Boise, Idaho | What would really be priceless for some of us, would be the perfect reasons that would convince our SWMBOs why we "need" another guitar. DVD started a thread last October on my "patented justifications" for needing another guitar. I know, because I looked it up last night, trying to find something useful for the argument over the OFC guitar.
I have concluded that I don't need another guitar and there is no argument for one. Since my training tells me that I can't win an argument I don't believe in, I won't make it. This does not mean I will give up. I don't need a lot of things I need.
Without hijacking this thread, I propose a contest: Come up with the best (most convincing to SWMBOs) reason for buying another Ovation? Specifically, the OFC guitar. I'll be the judge, although I'll let Professor judge as well, since I did hijack his thread.
Winner gets to present the essay to my wife over dinner at my expense in one of the finer restaurants in Boise. I'll also buy a round of golf in Boise if you are so inclined and the opportunity to play any of my collection, which might include the OFC guitar if this contest is really successful. You guessed it, the winner has to find his or her own way to Boise. I might even throw in overnight lodging in the guest room, music room or cabin if you and I are so inclined. |
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Posts: 972
Location: PDX | Well, i'll tell you what works for me Mark, and it just so happens to be the truth.
I rotate through guitars looking for "the one". The one that has the tone and playability that keeps it next to the music stand and not in the corner.
i'm not really a collector of guitars so much as a collector of tones. I have the 1547, and a Suhr Telecaster that fit two niches quite nicely. I'm looking for a woodbox to replace my Martin 000-28EC. A jazz guitar to replace my Soloway Swan. And a strat.
Until i find those next three guitars i'll keep rotating them. Sometimes the inventory get's a bit backed up, but they will turn eventually. Every guitar i own is for sale except the 1547 and the Telecaster right now.
Works for me, and i have full support.
________________________
Back on topic; the benefits of OFC membership:
- Access to a pool of collective experience and knowledge
- Camaraderie with and exposure to an eclectic and diverse community
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gh1 |
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Posts: 1071
Location: Carle Place, NY | Mark, what if the best essay fails to work at convincing SWMBO?
I won't even try with my wife. If she ever found out that I bought a $4000+ guitar, she'd be immediately out to the BMW dealship to get a 3 series convertible.
Back on topic, I learned a whole lot about Ovations here. I would never have known what a 1537 was. Now I've got one. The advice about sending guitars back to the factory was great and now I have a factory referbed Custom Legend that's truly "one of a kind." Made some friends here too. The Tour last year was great and unless something wierd happens, I'll be there again this May.
I read what's on the board almost every day. |
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Posts: 1017
Location: Budd Lake, NJ | Mrs. Mark-in-Boise:
Yes, I know, he probably has more guitars than you'll ever see a need for; they may be run-of-the-mill, they may not. If it were my husband, though, and if there was even a chance he could afford it, then I'd probably go ahead and give him the o.k. Why? Because this one isn't run-of-the-mill, that's why--anything but. This one actually will be an investment for down the road--almost like that specially designed tennis bracelet that there's only a dozen of. Because it will be so limited, it should keep its' value really well or even appreciate. (And it wouldn't hurt to keep the idea of "leverage" in the back of your mind. ;) )
Here's for an amiable resolution,
Karen
(And just so you don't think Mark's the only crazy one, meet my crew: Gertrude (1111-4), Jewel (CE868LX-4), Blanca (Viper), Jazzey (Tornado), Naomi (foster child, 1869--I think), Gilda (Guild), Ivory (American Strat), Sugar (Steinberger 5-string Spirit bass), Plink (Galiano mandolin), Twang (Vega 5-string banjo) and Shriek (fiddle of uncertain antecedents) |
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September 2003
Posts: 9301
Location: south east Michigan | I've learned so much about my guitar brand of choice and guitars in general.
Without the OFC I would know nothing of 1537s, UTEs and Slotheads.
The factory tour and the hotel lobby jam. Don't miss it folks!
I've worn things I never thought I would.
What ties it all together has been the opportunity to interact with an interesting, smart and diverse group of fine people. |
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August 2002
Posts: 8307
Location: Tennessee | Hi Honey,
I am finding myself in the middle of a mid-life crisis. I've tried and I've tried to get past this, but it's just not working. But I think it has come down to one of two things that will get me through this. So I'm asking for your help and you can decide -- I either need to buy one of those OFC guitars or I need to have a torrid affair with your aerobics instructor Candi. Please let me know.
Love,
BlackEyedBobbo |
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January 2005
Posts: 4903
Location: Phoenix AZ | For me finding the OFC was a breath of fresh air and confirmation that I was "not alone". I learned that it was actually OK to like guitars with plastic backs. Sort of like a little gay kid being sent away to boys camp for the summer.
I digress. I've learned a HELL of a lot here. Just when you think you know "it", you find someone else who knows "it" a whole lot better. I have definately been turned on to some great guitars and have had my vision expanded about all kinds of possibilities.
However, all the aquired guitars (and ukuleles) in the world could just go right in the dumpster before I'd pass up on any of the close friends I've met here. You know who you are. If you THINK you know, but aren't sure, then you're probably wrong.
Dave |
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Posts: 12755
Location: Boise, Idaho | Stonebobbo, could you include a picture of Candi with your submission? As a fellow Porsche owner, you should know that the male menopause excuse gets old fast.
Jewell's Mom, I really liked yours, but could you leave out the part about the tennis bracelet? I don't want to give her any ideas.
Mitch, I have a deal for you. SWMBO says I need to sell the 3 series BMW convertible to buy the OFC. She's a tough case. I tried to convince her that I was getting her a silver BMW for our 25th anniversary. She didn't buy it for a second. She's never liked it. It is an Mtechnic, which is almost as rare as the OFC guitar. |
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Posts: 5881
Location: Colorado Rocky Mountains | Mark: This one uses a more analytical approach. I apologize for the length. Some of it is tongue-in-cheek, but the overal concept might be the most effective approach to use on an "A" type personality. Again, you and I have exchanged ideas about this before, and personally, I would and do use an entirely different approach. I also was not under oath when I wrote this. Nonetheless, here you go . . .
This strategy is based on the presumption that any middle-aged male of reasonable intelligence, affluence and security will (1) have a hobby in which he is passionately interested and involved, (2) be willing and able to dedicate time and passion to the pursuit of that hobby, (3) be concerned with his own emotional healthiness and well-being, and (4) be reasonably sensitive to ensuring that there is a certain amount of congruence between the resources (time, money and skill) required vis-a-vis the resources available for the pursuit of that hobby in light of the needs and priorities of other demands that may, from time to time, be placed on those resources. Accordingly, with the presumption serving as the foundation, the strategy is a s follows:
1. Self-realization: First, acknowledge that you are a guitar collector, that it is your hobby, and that you receive immense satisfaction not only by handling and playing the guitars you collect, by yourself as well as with your friends and family such as your lovely daughters. You may be a low-key collector just starting, or a seasoned professional. No matter what level of your collection experience, acknowledge that you receive immense satisfaction and pleasure in the mere ownership of guitars, inspecting and marveling at their craftsmanship, studying and learning all that you can about their history and how they are built, comparing their relative features and characteristics, and discussing them with others who share this same fascination. This is your hobby and you are passionate about it. Be ready to admit that it isn’t the only thing that brings you pleasure and satisfaction in your life (even if it that may very well not be altogether true), but it is a significant contributor.
2. Relatively Inexpensive Hobby: As hobbies go, guitar collecting is not unreasonably expensive. For instance, buying, say, four guitars a year at an average cost of $1,500 each totals $6,000. Use cost figures most appropriate for your level of collecting. Unless you are also into the reconstruction, rehabilitation or outright creation of guitars (an entirely different hobby), the maintenance cost of those four guitars will be negligible. The hours spent playing these guitars, or even just idly sitting in a room surrounded by your guitar collection, costs absolutely nothing. Compare that with golf. Not only is there the initial cost of clubs, bag, shoes, attire, and the ongoing cost of balls and time practicing on the driving range, a round of golf on a public course is, what, $50 these days? On weekends, it could be more. Adding a cart increases the cost another $15 to $25, while private club membership is cost prohibitive for all but the very most privileged. There’s also the cost of fuel to and from the course. Even on the cheap, a hobby that includes a weekly trip to the golf course will cost $3,000 to $4,000 annually. At the end of the year, the golfer has a stack of score cards, some good memories of comradery with friends, and, if they’re lucky, a decreasing handicap. On the other hand, the guitar collector has a stack of new songs that he or she can play, over an over, some good memories of comradery with friends, and, if they’re lucky, increased skill. However, the guitar collector also still has $6,000 worth of guitars, or very close to it. Compared to other hobbies such antique car, tractor or motorcycle collecting, world traveling, off-road racing, sailing, watercraft sports, recreational vehicle travel, raising llamas or anything else that eats or requires visits by the vet, or skiing, guitar collecting is a downright financial bargain.
3. Inherently self-controlling: Because guitars are relatively large instruments when compared to other collectibles such as coins, stamps, baseball cards, books or lead soldiers, there is a self-controlling or restraining feature built in. There is only so much space available to store or display the collected instruments. Once the space is used up, then the total number of units ceases to grow, and additional guitars can be added to the collection only as replacements to existing models, typically following the sale of a previously owned model. In addition, once the collection expands to fill the size of the space dedicated to its storage or display, the cost of adding new models to the collection will be offset by the proceeds of the sale of the replaced models. Accordingly, while the collection may continue to grow in value and benefit to the collector, it doesn’t necessarily need to grow in size.
4. Investment diversification. Nearly all financial advisers suggest a diversified portfolio of investments including stocks, bonds, mutual funds, treasury notes, cash savings, and well chosen capital assets. With thoughtful and selective consideration, these guitars will not only serve as appreciable assets, but will also provide years of satisfaction and enjoyment that other investments, liquid or otherwise, can not. Just how satisfying is it to read your monthly investment statements, anyways? Between 2000 and 2004, it was not very satisfying whatsoever!
5. Guitar collecting is clean and vice-free: As hobbies go, guitar collecting does not (necessarily) require the involvement of sex, drugs, or other vices. Guitar collecting does not lead to chemical dependence. Neither does it involve toxic chemicals, the use of dangerous equipment, nor high risk physical activities that could jeopardize personal safety or cause harm to life (other than a slight hearing loss to varying degrees) or property. Life and health insurance premiums will not be jeopardized by collecting guitars. The same can not be said for drag racing or scuba diving.
6. Guitar collecting is not an all-or-nothing endeavor: Guitar collecting can start with one guitar. A collection of two guitars each worth less than $200 can be extremely satisfying to the right collector. The age, size, value, type, make, model configuration, color, or any other characteristic of a guitar within a collection can vary as widely as there are colors in a rainbow. Not everyone needs Eric Clapton’s collection of over 900 guitars to be satisfied.
7. Guitar collecting contributes to emotional health and well-being: Guitar collecting and playing can be stimulating for the heart, satisfying to the soul, and provides a sense of accomplishment. It improves self-worth. It helps build personal skills. It can negate the effects of depression, pressure, and stress. It provides a forum or outlet of expression for those who might not otherwise be comfortable expressing themselves. It gives energy and enthusiasm to the non-energetic, and provides a means of release to the overly-energetic. It makes negative people positive. It improves outlook and disposition. Guitar players and collectors and happier people. Emotionally healthy people make better spouses, companions, fathers, sons, neighbors, colleagues and lovers (although not necessarily all at the same time).
In summary, guitar collecting combines a healthy, economical, safe, and immensely enjoyable hobby with an investment strategy whose long-term performance characteristics measure well against other capital asset investments, and that can contribute to the stability and balance of an effective investment portfolio. More importantly, it contributes to making collectors better people. |
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Posts: 11840
Location: closely held secret | Prof, you have given this some serious thought. I like it. |
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December 2003
Posts: 13987
Location: Upper Left USA | Darl'in,
You know I get totally obsessed in whatever I do and unless you want me hanging around giving you my undaunted affection and attention I suggest we get me a hobby!
Since at their worst these guitars cost a lot less than a Fishin'Boat, Huntin' Rifles, hangin out in Bars pretending to throw darts or chasing young women I think it'll work just fine. I can even play in church on Sundays.
I won't expect you to make dinner for any of my guitar buddies and you'll know what room I'm in when you need chores done.
Love,
Jailhouse Fingers Bailey
PS - When I get home and find another UPS box I will still hug you first before opening it! |
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March 2005
Posts: 12755
Location: Boise, Idaho | Prof, very professorial. I guess I shouldn't have volunteered you as a judge. You're too good as an advocate. Might have to get rid of my golf, though. She likes the boat, so I probably won't have to get rid of that. I'll just have to stick with the 22 year old outboard for awhile instead of replacing it with something newer. |
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March 2002
Posts: 15664
Location: SoCal | Prof,
That was pure genius. I am impressed with your logic and thought process.
Still, it sounds like a man who's trying desperately to justify a large guitar purchase (say an OFC guitar?) to himself and his significant other...... |
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August 2002
Posts: 8307
Location: Tennessee | Professor ... nice work. But you gotta lose number 6. It might give someone the impression that two should be enough and 900 is too many. That'll never do. ;)
Of course, lady stonebobbo wouldn't buy any of it, anyway. It's sorta like trying to justify and rationalize the purchase of a Porsche. It's a passion thing. 100%. So I just go with that approach ... as long as there's passion, there's room for one more. If ya know what I mean. :cool: |
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January 2006
Posts: 5881
Location: Colorado Rocky Mountains | Mark, I'm working for you, Brother, but you didn't disclose the boat and golfing! I could come up with some other example if necessary.
Moody, you are correct. This is purely a theoretical argument for the desperate, which is, if I understood Mark's post, where I thought he was coming from. Personally speaking, this would never work in my marriage. My wife is of the creative type and doesn't do well with investment logic. I intend to buy the guitar and disguise it, use smoke, mirrors and deception if she discovers it, then if all else fails, get on my knees, beg forgiveness, and pay her off. |
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April 2006
Posts: 2491
Location: Copenhagen Denmark | wonder what Proff. has got against our Sportscarcrazy Maître,for his post would prompt Mrs.Maître to keel the poor man straight into therapy Why not stick to the TimeProven Method of, falling on yer knees and sob yer heart out,( it seems that Women enjoy being Protective )
Put the idea to yer Daughter,Yuh know,get a 2nd opinion ,I`d like a table not too far from the buffet,for starters, a voleauvent and then a mousse crevette avec moules souffle,garnished with crouton l`aille,caviar et confiture fraise followed by a Tournedos (rare to medium)pommes sauté avec des haricot verts ,sauce cantarelles,rounded of by a pèche melba with a dash of pernod, Oh, Chablis (not too chilled)to accompany les fruits de la mer,and a Bordeaux with the Tournedos,while You are pouring the Champagne (any Mouton Rothchild will do,I`m not a picky person)I will be dancing with Mrs.Maître,assuring Her that You are a Wonderful Chap who deserves to be a partner of Ovation Guitars,and that the sleek lines of a Lamborghini Diablo would not only complement,but accentuate Her Natural Grace,and that You are,in fact ,the Liaison,between Her and the Wonderful world of Delicate tones,and that no Man but You ,could perform the Divine task of guiding Her on the Perilous path that leads through,Danger,yet Exitement, towards a Sea of Tranquility and Enchantment, transforming into Heavenly Bliss
~~Just let me know when You want me on that plane ,
Ah yes,after the dance,crêpe suzette with grand marnier and a café crème with a courvoisier by the side,
As allways,Yer coffeedrinkin`whiskeybellying buddy from the OFC ,
Good Luck
Vic ;)
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" I play Ovations,therefore I am " ( Enlightened ?! ) |
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Posts: 10582
Location: NJ | how about.
if I don't buy the guitar Al will have to move in with us. |
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August 2006
Posts: 2804
Location: ranson,wva | al,i wouldnt object if you brought your collection with..lol jason |
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April 2006
Posts: 2491
Location: Copenhagen Denmark | And once again ,our very own Alpep proves his ingenuity and Wisdom by being Concise ,and with the sharpness of a scalpel eliminates all competition,...Alpep..Alpep....
( Ì wish He would devote his time to making a decent Country List instead of running of with my dinner )
Vic ;) |
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March 2005
Posts: 12755
Location: Boise, Idaho | I didn't say you got to choose dinner. I forgot we had a decent French restaurant here. They don't usually last too long here. Al's is definitely the scariest.
Porsches, golf and a boat are additional vices. I have a lot of them to work with. Then there's spending way too much time on this site. |
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February 2005
Posts: 11840
Location: closely held secret | Mark, compared to your other vices money spent on guitars would appear to be inconsequential.
IMHO, your problem is not the vice. It's the visibility.
Take a clue from the IT world. You, my brother, simply need some off-site storage.
Rotate them in and out, she'll think you're selling just as many as you're bringing home. |
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June 2003
Posts: 1792
Location: Rego Park, NY, | I think many of you have over looked the obvious. Sometimes you just have to keep it simple. Here's what I might . try:
"Pearl, did you know that if you were lucky enough to be voted the OFC Member Of The Year you are required to purchace the OFC guitar? Due to the fact that I was voted the first Honoree and that my name is on the first fret of the 12 fret neck. I MUST buy one of the first 12 OFC guitars that Al has. I also would not like to stop a tradition before it gets started"
P.S. All of you will know if I actually tried this due to the fact that I will probably be a no-show at the tour. :eek: Or if you see my picture on a milk carton. |
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July 2005
Posts: 3410
Location: GA USA | I don't think I could list all the benefits, but how about...
That shot has at least 3 to start with: Jamming with Phil, playing CHolloway's original slothead, and the Wooden Roundback. |
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OFC Membership Benefits . . .
