Why Vintage?

Why do customers buy vintage?

There are many reasons, and some overlap. The main reason is that the majority of items manufactured prior to the year 2000 were simply made better.

The materials used were better and the items were made to last. So much of what is currently produced is inferior quality and what is called “planned obsolescence”, meaning the item is designed to not last long, so you will have to replace it and buy it again.

I will use the example of a kitchen spatulas.

Most new spatulas on the market today are made of plastic and/or low-grade metal. Vintage Flint or Ekco brand spatulas are made of stainless steel with wood, or strong composite, forged with brass or steel rivets in the handle.

I find one of these 40 plus year old spatulas at most estate sales and they are in nearly the same condition as when they were made decades ago and will easily last another 40 years. I purchase them for $1-$2 and sell them for $30-$55.

Who would think that a spatula would be valuable? Through trial and error this is one of the many vintage items I learned is valuable and sought after. People buy them because they are superior quality and no company makes them this well any longer.

Another reason people buy vintage is they are seeking items they were familiar with when they were younger, which evokes a sense of nostalgia. I have received a good amount of feedback from customers who say “This was just like the one my Mom had…thank you so much”.

Cookbooks are in this category. True comfort food for many people is the meals their parents made when they were growing up.

The best sellers are Better Homes and Gardens and Betty Crocker and they go for $20-$100 depending on the condition and age…the older the better.

Vintage is also cool and fashionable. This has not always been the case, but nowadays people build a unique style with vintage clothing and home decor.

Pinterest has many examples of vintage home styles and outfits. Below you will find an eclectic style that blends a 1950’s, midcentury couch, 1960’s over-sized ceramic lamp, and 1970’s hanging lamps in the corner.

On the nearest table are a few modern handmade pottery dishes

Mid-Century Home Decor

Trendy Vintage Outfit and Accessories

Pictured above are some trending vintage finds: 501 Levi’s, a chunky earth toned wool sweater, and a tooled leather purse, likely all from the 80’s.