Re-release of a sold out limited series. (1 Viewer)

[Naps...just Naps]

I was wondering if anyone would be that bothered if a manufacturer re-released a toy soldier or a group of toy soldiers which they had previously announced as a limited release.
For example if Collectors Showcase re-released the Polish Lancers because they were so popular would there be many complaints from collectors?
Are there that many people out there that are actually more attracted to a toy soldier because it is limited in production? If so why?
Does the collector believe or hope that the value of that item will increase?
Or do they just want something that someone else hasn't got.
I personally don't like the limited series business model. I see both the collector and the manufacturer losing out.
The collector that can't buy into the limited release when it comes out, for whatever reason, can miss out on something they would have eventually bought if given more time.
The manufacturer loses out if they sell out a limited series and there are more buyers than items produced.
Any thoughts or comments?
Paul

 

[The Collectors Showcase]

I was wondering if anyone would be that bothered if a manufacturer re-released a toy soldier or a group of toy soldiers which they had previously announced as a limited release.
For example if Collectors Showcase re-released the Polish Lancers because they were so popular would there be many complaints from collectors?
Are there that many people out there that are actually more attracted to a toy soldier because it is limited in production? If so why?
Does the collector believe or hope that the value of that item will increase?
Or do they just want something that someone else hasn't got.
I personally don't like the limited series business model. I see both the collector and the manufacturer losing out.
The collector that can't buy into the limited release when it comes out, for whatever reason, can miss out on something they would have eventually bought if given more time.
The manufacturer loses out if they sell out a limited series and there are more buyers than items produced.
Any thoughts or comments?
Paul

I would disagree from a sheer business point of view. First 300 was a great run right on our products a few months ago. And we are now raising our numbers to 400 as the demand for our products has steadily grown.

But keep in mind these numbers were meant to ensure product sell out as we need to ensure good cash flow as we expand our ranges. So its really a business decision that dictates the need for low numbers not doing the low numbers for the sake of a limited edition product. Now that being said the side benefit that the products are limited enhance the collectability very much going forward, and that is a benefit to all that have acquired the items for their collections.

Hope that helps some.

Kind regards,

Brian

 

[Mitch]

Paul....

Just raised similar points to the limited range in the K&C part but, I don't buy for resale or hoping they will become more valuable in the future. If they do great if not don't care.

I would not mind if a series was released again due to popularity in the slightest though, I am sure some would be against it. I can't see the harm at all it does not make any difference to me whether 100 people or 10,000 people have the set I do as long as the set I like is in my cabinet is all that counts.
Mitch

 

[Spitfrnd]

I think limited numbers for some manufacturers are more a function of cash flow than enhancing collectability as Brian said for his company. To me, it only matters that I get what I need when I want it. So long as there is warning given of the scarcity, I really don't care how many there are.

 

[thebritfarmer]

I think limited numbers for some manufacturers are more a function of cash flow than enhancing collectability as Brian said for his company. To me, it only matters that I get what I need when I want it. So long as there is warning given of the scarcity, I really don't care how many there are.

My thoughts exactly Bill.

 

[Phantom Warrior]

Well it looks like I am diametrically opposed to all of the foregoing opinions on "limited" runs. I to collect only for what I like and do not plan on making big profits on resales, especially as most items don't go up in value very much anyway. But I think that in stating an edition is limited, is like a contract between the manufacturer and the purchaser. Other collectale markets have been ruined by re-issues i.e. Formula 1 racing car models.

There is nothing to stop the manufacturer from adding new sculpts to a popular line. CS could make 6 more Polish Lancers in a higher number than 300, but re-issuing the originals is not something I agree with.

Terry

 

[nysoldiers]

I agree with Phantom Warrior...........
For the collectors who look for future resale value or just want something more unique "limited editions" are their choices.
Like JJ recently did with the BOM series he came out with new sculpts of retired figures in response to heavy demand.
"Unique" and "limited" often drive market price and demand. Of course quality and interest still remains the main driver for most collectors.
The art of the hunt for limited and retired sets makes our hobby more appealing.
Again if demand is that strong just keep upgrading the figure or vehicle and smile on the way to the bank.

 

[Bama Boy]

Wow, very good, but tough question!!!

 

[Naps...just Naps]

Thanks for all the feedback and your opinions guys it's very much appreciated.

And thanks Brian for your business perspective view. I do understand the instant hit cash flow scenario a limited series provides but to my mind it's short term gain and not a long term strategy. I believe there is probably a lot more money out there if the series is time limited (say 18 months) rather than numbers limited.

As far as collectors are concerned it looks like there is a split between those that collect what they want and don't mind if it's limited or re-issued and those that feel a limited series should remain limited and not be re-issued if that is the way it has been advertised.

I suppose I sit in the "don't mind re-issues" camp mainly because I buy what I like, when I can afford it and won't resell it. Also my cash flow means I often miss out on limited series such as the Polish Lancers.

As far as I am aware there are only two stockists of Collectors Showcase in England so when they have sold out that's it for me and any other English collector (and they have sold out). Buying from outside the UK is a non-starter due to the additional cost of VAT and import duties.
If anyone knows of a UK dealer that has any PL's left I would appreciate their name and address.

By the way I did like the idea of a re-issue of Polish Lancers with new sculps. That works for me.

Thanks again guys