The experience as to what constitutes acceptable condition ranges, current prices, & relative rarity
Private dealers, such as myself, who have a long history and extensive worldwide contacts in the field of Rare Books & Manuscripts often help clients buy single items or build collections using our ability to offer objective advice without overhead or inventory cost pressures affecting the advice we give.
Since 2003, I have neither maintained an open retail site nor any personal inventory (beyond the occasional irresistible acquisition).
This allows me the liberty of absolute objectivity—whether what’s best for my client is pursuing something coming up at auction, grabbing an item currently in another dealer’s inventory, or waiting for a better find to come along because of cost, item condition, or the state of the market.
I keep a close and vigilant eye on auction houses, dealer catalogs around the world, and top dealer postings on the reputable websites. (That is to say, no eBay.)
As a seasoned dealer who has seen so many copies of so many rare and important titles, I have a vast matrix of experience as to what constitutes acceptable condition ranges, current prices, and relative rarity (even among the rarest of the rare).
I am willing to consult on an individual purchase of substance within my areas of expertise, or assist in long-term, strategic goals around either building personal collections or helping an institution of a client’s choice.
Please feel free to contact me for more information on obtaining short-term or long-term professional expert advice.