I know this can be a boring topic for many, but since I spent an hour typing it on request for a friend I will post it for those who may have interest.

I do not know how many guys are out there that collect porcelain, but I see it posted, and I am getting many inquiries via e-mail for individual pieces and questions, but not unlike most collectables one must use caution and discretion.

Keep in mind, that all the dont's posted have cost me money so if someone wants to complain if I make a blanket statement which I will, Tough!.

The post is geared for collectors and the community, if it saves them heartache or headache then it has served its purpose.

I will start with Allach as that is my main interest, and it applies to the rest with exception of market prices.

#1) Ebay/Europe

Most often what one considers mint is different then what someone else considers mint, so Ebay Europe is a dont as you are not protected for paypal, most of the Europeans want wire transfers and they may say mint, but you cant inspect it, so if you buy a 1000.00 piece and then have to handle the shipping yourself and its not up to par with the description, then you have invested time,shipping costs,conversion fees etc. So even if you have the ability to send it back your allready in for an amount where its just not worth it as your loss will almost be the equivelant of what it would be if you turned and sold it with an honest description.

#2) Shipping

Dont think that because a dealer is top notch and has hundreds of items, that he knows what a perfect piece of Allach looks like, or more importantly how to pack and ship it. Its not a dagger or a piece that can withstand a lot of pressure, that being said, clear communication and a reputable dealer makes this situation much more comfortable as they are for the most part honorable buisnessmen. But they can also miss flaws and repairs as to be frank its not their specialty in most cases.

#3) Market

It appear's that Allach has come onto the radar screen in a big way as it is popping up a lot, not because its fake, but more so because of the price increases, this morning 2 pieces were sent to me via e-mail that I did not know existed for the years they were dated, and I am seeing it a lot more than 8 or 10 years ago when I first got in. If you look around on dealer site's the prices are in my opinion way too high for the pieces they offer, that being said I have always been a firm believer that if you like a certain piece and want it buy it! Dont allow someone to stop you from buying a piece over market if it makes you happy, life is short and these are pieces to be proud of.

#4) Reference material

Well this is easy, throw it out, of course im kidding, but there are 2 main references, one is Oliver's book done in the 70's and the reprint catalog these are must have's. However keep in mind they are wrong, not only that, Allach factory record's are also wrong. This was one of things that bothered me for some time as their measurement's are generally not correct. The catalog lists one measurement, Oliver's book list another and original factory measurements a third in some cases. And they are in some cases all wrong when you get an actual piece in you hand, but not all pieces, some are dead on. I wont get into speculation as to why this is now.

#5) Repro's

I know that some molds did survive and I have seen attempt's to do it, but not one comes even close to passing the eyes. The ones I have taken note of was a fake plate, Bugling elk, fighting bears, this does not include foolish attempts I see on ebay of newly manufactured pieces and pieces that have had runes added to another makers piece which are blatant frauds.

#6 Markings

Olivers book lists I think 5 different markings, the reality is there are probably another 4 variations 2 of which seem to fall into early manufacture prior to what most reference refers to, its also interesting to note that these piece's show a more intricate or more of a hand done attention to detail, they probably fall into 36-37.

#7 Screw-ups

The first piece I saw was probably in the early 90's in a large assorted collection of militaria. It was the Youth drummer and it took me in. I started to buy the plates and various pieces a couple years later, and not knowing then what I have picked up along the way, I ended up with a couple screwed up pieces, add that to the frustration in reference material and lack there of I blew it all out. It was I guess after another 5 years and handling other piece's and such that I got back in. You will most likely make a mistake, try and make it an inexpensive one.

#7 Repairs

I dont really have the patience and dont think I can convey in words what a headache this has been since day one as each piece is different and you cannot apply one set of standards for it, there are easy pieces and hard pieces, what may appear to be a repair may not be. It's a chapter and another thing you have to take on a one by one basis.

#8) Availability

Allach figures of the political or presentation type are extremely rare and command top dollars, trust me on this. However in a market where you can find 10 rare Himmler SS or Rohm daggers, you cannot go out there and find these pieces with relative ease, one of the way's I have found to grab a couple is to literally track them down from reference books that list the collection a piece is in, or fire off e-mails to the top dealers expressing my interest, and calling them so they do not forget I want something. A Fencer or a Standard bearer or SS rider is as rare as an honor dagger, the Rider and the Standard bearer even more so, numerically known examples in undamaged condition anyway.

Best,

Kris

Kris,

A "boring" subject to some possibly, but certainly not to me. I find the entire spectrum of Third Reich art to be an illuminating and important aspect in the understanding and appreciation of the history of the period. You are to be complimented on your research and knowledge and, most especially, your willingness to share this with others.

Thanks,
Ed

Thanks for all your help Kris with this interesting facet of Militaria. As a new collector you have been a big help to me. Still like my Squirrel!

Hey Kris...I live by your rule #3.

I checked my example of the base of Der Fecter and it matches yours exactly, no color at all.

Best Regards and I agree with your observations. Allach is "rare air" and not for the faint of heart.

Mark

Ej, Erich,

I think its a good guide but mostly common sense, but I dont know many people that have not sacrificed that on occasion in a moment of haste. Hope it helps. Hold on to that squirrel as its not easy to get.

Mark,

I forgot about that, I thought it was marked differently for some reason, but I cant remember which is marked what without looking at them anymore.

And #3 well its been my justification more than once im afraid, at least on the rare piece's anyway. I can be frugal on some piece's as well, should have bought that dam squirrel before Erich grabbed it but discipline reared its ugly head and I waffled for 2 long.

Cant have it all.

Enjoy,

Kris

Kris,

Thanks for taking time to post your helpful advice. In my mind, anyone who contributes something to a given body of knowledge with insightful information is to be commended.
It's always a good idea to pay close attention to those who've been there and done that.

Hopefully, it will inspire a few of our members to try their hand at collecting these wonderful pieces of historic artwork and someday add their own insightful thoughts and comments.

Best regards to one and all!

Bill

Kris!Excellent post.Contained all useful information.As for shipping Allach items,Bill is going to hand deliver my plate at the next local monthly show we attend in our part of the world.[8th.Jan.] ,Paul

Paul,

Yes, he does come up with some nice piece's and I almost moved on that myself just to get the box.

Hand delivered is my preference as well, if it is an option. But im sure Bill will enjoy handing over that piece to you in person.

Enjoy it!

Kris

Bill is a good guy to buy from. I got my Squirrel from him.

Kris!perhaps as not as happy hand delivering it as me handing over the $$$. Paul

Paul, How many Allach pieces do you have? Is this your first?

Eric!Yes, this is my first.looking forward to adding to it though.Paul

Good helpfull advice,some can be used for all areas of TR collecting.
I only have 3 Allach pieces , but could easily get addicted Its nice to have a few pieces,helps set of the collection amongst medals ,documents and badges.