Or maybe its just your way

Is there a wrong way to this hobby? Or is it simply that the masses believe one way and the minorities believe it another. Lately there have been a slew of CGC vs the Other Guys, and then Pressers vs Purists, and even Signatures vs True Blue. But is their a wrong way?

Taking the CGC vs PGX route I think the biggest issues with them that we have identified was their quality in grading, lack of a true Signature Series, and a lack of a registry. To me take those three items out and PGX seems to have the better product. A sturdier case, a quicker turn around time, and a lower cost. I have yet to see a bubble effect on their case well and they seem to at least get most of the labels right... granted they have less to need to produce. To me in my opinion these are all issues CGC could stand to at least take a look at and possibly deliver a better product to those of us that are so passionate about this hobby.

Lately times have gotten significantly better, but the ever-increasing costs have been going up and yet there are still so many issues left unresolved. If PGX or any company could jump in and remove the monopoly would we accept it. Or would we blow that company off as well as a simple, your not CGC, thus I do not trust you. Could ground be gained? Personally, I don't believe so. I believe PGX's history tarnished their name and I don't see anyone without a significant backing being able to jump into the pool without some serious street credit.

Pressers vs Purists has been an enjoyable board conversation and really it comes down to disclosure when reselling in my opinion. I have no problem with pressing. I'm trying to gain the highest grade for MY books. But that's the point for me. These books are mine and for me to do what I want with them. I'm not looking for resale value and not looking to trade them off. I'm looking to put them up in my home, slide them neatly into a box, or simply pass on to my kids as they get older. The grade I obtain isn't for anyone else's enjoyment but my own. I think the true discussion comes in when individuals look to sell their books and especially with those in the 7.5 -- 9.6 range. If I were to purchase a book in those grades I would want to know for myself if their grades could be improved upon. If the seller states been squished 4 times by CCS I may be less inclined to purchase that book if I am looking to improve upon it. I think the largest issue here is the lack of full disclosure by sellers which is what drives this discussion. For Tnerb, bagofleas, and others who have attempted to press a higher grade I think the key issue is they are looking to do it for no one else but themselves. If they do it and then sell it, its on them to be upfront as a seller about it.

And Signatures vs Blue tops. Really it comes down to opinion. I think an easy way of looking at it is the New Mutants 98, 10 mint sold for over 15K. If someone could obtain the same grade but with a Signature who wouldn't pay a higher premium. Then again it all boils down to the comics being worth it to someone else.

Any thoughts?

K

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