I visited the show on Saturday under the threat of a tornado, violent winds and maybe a downpour of meatballs....all good signs for a great pen show. Bad weather drives people indoors and to local shows. There were almost 200 tables filling the foyer and ballroom. The crowds were well packed and it took me some time to wend my way through the aisles. What a pleasure to see some off my old friends from as far back as 40 years.
Given the state of the economy these days, the opinion of dealer friends is that business is still brisk with modern and vintage fountain pens. Pricing varies from "stable" to the rarest and most desirable vintage always holding value, and some increasing due to scarcity.
One can always find "motivated" dealers and collectors, depending on their financial situations...a tell tale sign are the crowds around their tables. The old-time rule, if you see a pen you want, don't dawdle...the time to buy that pen is when you see it.
My first pleasure walking into the show was meeting our friend Will Gunadi.
Follow this link for show photos. Modern, vintage, old friends, new inventions and simply a grand time.
Note: problem loading album. above and to right first picture of Shawn Newton you will see a circle with the letter "i" inside, this will allow my notes and descriptions of each photo. Click on that then just "right arrow" on each picture to go through the album. Photobucket - web host for the user that want to go mad prematurely !!