Discussion - Member to Member Sales - Research Center
Discussion - Member to Member Sales - Research Center
Is the Hobby Dying?
I think this individual brings up many good items which are great starting points for further conversations. Not just for fellow collectors but for key philatelic organizations.
I wonder what other members of the board think?
Moderator - embbed video
(Modified by Moderator on 2024-12-11 07:04:50)
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I tried to watch the video, but gave up after a few minutes. The prospect of watching some guy talking for almost one and a half hour in a rather bland tone, with very poor editing that is really distracting, was too much for me.
If he has something interesting to tell, I suppose I will not find out.
Could he not make his point in ten minutes or less?
And why is that printer there, right next to him?
If someone had the stamina to watch the whole thing, please provide a summary.
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What is your take on this subject?
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Yes... Stamp collecting is a dying hobby! Get out while you can! Being the nice guy that I am, I'll buy your collections for a penny on the dollar... 
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05:55:38pm
I couldn't get into the video either but I have an opinion. I seriously think that most hobbies that involve collecting will fall out of popularity as this generation of collectors dies off. Stamp collecting won't necessarily die off but it will drastically change. I don't see many of the younger collectors having an interest in the classic stamps, there are not a lot of them still available or affordable. This is all my opinion but I was in the antique business for many years and similar things happened (or are happening) there! Some things might not be affected, things that are popular with younger collectors, like comics, sports cards, etc.
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If the hobby is dying why are my local auction house prices rising?
I'll beat psgstamper's offer.
I'll buy at 5cents on the dollar!!!
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06:25:48pm
"If the hobby is dying why are my local auction house prices rising?"
Because us old farts are still adding to our collections. IMHO when we are "gone" the hobby will start going down hill. I hope I'm wrong, stamps take up very little room and this might make them popular with all those minimalists out there!
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Here is an AI summary:
Is the Hobby Dying?
In his lively stream, Chris discusses the current state and future of stamp collecting, addressing concerns about the decline of the hobby due to various factors such as reduced youth engagement, absence of local shops, and changing interests among young people. He provides insights into the evolving landscape of hobbies, comparing stamp collecting to other pastimes and suggesting that while stamp collecting may have become more niche, it remains vibrant and offers unique joys that other hobbies may not. Chris advocates for better accessibility and engagement strategies to attract new collectors, particularly younger generations.
Key Points:
Youth Engagement Decline
One of the primary concerns for stamp collecting is the noticeable drop in attendance at stamp shows by young people. Chris points out that this trend doesn't necessarily indicate the hobby's demise but could be attributed to how shows are structured and marketed, which often caters more to seasoned collectors than new participants.
Loss of Local Retail Spaces
The number of bricks-and-mortar stamp shops has decreased, largely due to high operational costs and the advent of online marketplaces. This issue is compounded by the changing demographics and the older generation of dealers retiring without successors, leading to gaps in local access to the hobby.
Changing Interests of the Youth
Chris addresses the common belief that today's youth are only interested in video games and electronic media. He argues that interests can evolve over time and highlights the potential for young people to return to hobbies like stamp collecting as they seek fulfilling offline experiences.
Market Value Fluctuations
Declines in market values for certain stamps have led to perceptions of the hobby dying. Chris challenges this view, suggesting that while prices may fluctuate, this is part of a broader market dynamic, including increased supply and an evolving interest landscape rather than a collapse of interest.
Shift in Hobby Dynamics
The progression of stamp collecting from a mainstream activity to a niche hobby reflects the natural evolution of many pastimes. Chris points out that while participation may look different now, the fundamental aspects of engagement, learning, and community can support its continued relevance.
Need for New Engagement Strategies
Chris advocates the development of programs that can attract youth to stamp collecting by leveraging technology and modern engagement techniques. He highlights an app initiative that aims to provide an accessible, structured introduction to the hobby for children, recognizing their shorter attention spans and differing interests.
Hobbies as Identity and Connection
A deeper exploration into what constitutes a hobby reveals that many people are drawn to collecting due to the desire for mastery, social connection, and personal expression. This suggests that stamp collecting can meet similar psychological needs as other trending hobbies.
Enduring Appeal of Unique Collecting
Despite challenges, Chris remains optimistic about the future of stamp collecting. He sees opportunities in diversifying how stamps and their stories are presented to younger generations, emphasizing the unique qualities of stamp collecting that resonate with personal and cultural identity.
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Haha! I was going to say well written and summed up jahayward. Until I saw 'Written by AI'. Quite shocking! Usually AI is so obvious in its style and content.
As I said to my wife, it is not Our World anymore. Sighs.
Larry
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I really don't think the hobby is going down that much.
For what ever reason what I collect material that is more available today than in the past 20 years.
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The delivery leaves much to be desired. A cynic could say the video exemplifies the image of the hobby.
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I would not be at all surprised if interest in this hobby dwindles over time, but I don't think it will ever die completely. Today's youth have too many other options to spend their time. I got into collecting at a young age because my father did it. He was there not just as a knowledge base, but also support.
My kids have zero interest in the hobby, even though I try to engage them. I honestly suspect that if I die before I close my stamp store (Hipstamp), they will just shitcan everything. As we all know, this is a very detailed and time intensive hobby or business. If you didn't have a passion for it, you'd never spend the time and effort.
I think the biggest problem is no active and organized attempt to try to interest youth. The lack of brick and mortar stamp stores is one of the problems. There used to be 4 or 5 in my hometown. None now. People will say that with the internet that shouldn't make a difference. I disagree. I also tie trout flies...both for myself and a fly fishing lodge in Michigan. When I go into a fly shop it's like being a kid in a toy store. I could linger for hours (I have many times). Sure, I could see all that's in the shop online, but that is no substitute to being at the shop.....full of flies, material, tools, and, especially, fly fisherman.
Knowing what I do now, if I could go back to the beginning of my retirement (When I re-ignited my interest in stamps), I would spend time going to some of the high schools and offering to monitor a stamp club. I think that would attract some new collectors. Do any of the many societies out there (APA, BNAPS etc.) spend any serious time trying to target interest of our youth? If they aren't, then we as an entire group of collectors have only ourselves to blame.
We don't have many shows in my area, but the few I've been to would not appeal to a younger crowd.....usually in a VFW or similar venue, smelling like stale tobacco, and full of bored old farts (like me) sitting at tables with their wares.
I'm rambling...I'll stop.
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10:34:53am
I really envy those of you who still have actual physical (not online) stamp stores in your area. To be able to go into a place like that for supplies and to discuss stamps with the store owner or another collector occasionally would be fantastic!
I think I've mentioned this a few times but when I met my wife in university we started collecting stamps almost right away. It was because there was a nearby hardware store where one of the workers was a stamp person and sold stamps and supplies in the store. We both got hooked on the hobby right away! We used to hitch hike to Halifax on a Saturday morning to visit the several stamp stores on Barrington Street. One store had a huge barrel filled with stamps from all areas and we'd always end up with a fairly large bundle of great stuff. Kids nowadays would find this really boring but I fondly remember those outings!! And then the fun of sitting down when we got back to our residence rooms, spreading those treasures out and going through them. Our main areas were Canada, US, Poland and Russia but we also had a three volume second hand World Album to mount our other treasures in! Maybe if there were actual stamp stores in the area it might help with the hobby. I'm really not sure though if the kids would have the patience to deal with things like a barrel of stamps!
Like John said, I'm rambling about days that will never return. By the way my wife used to tie salmon and trout flies for her father's fishing in Newfoundland. I still have examples of her work somewhere among my numerous collections!
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Joe....I learned fly tying from a world famous tier named Christopher Helm.. He was so good that people would commission him to tie flies that ended up framed and on someone's wall. Salmon flies were among those..... great colors and presentations.
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Thank you for posting the AI summary. While I agree the presentation could have been done differently, I think it does not take away from the content of the material. I personally feel that the hobby is now a niche hobby and is the process of changing. I feel we can still honor elements of the past but open our minds to new approaches and hope that Philatelic organizations take the lead on supporting changes.
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09:03:23am
There's another part of this discussion. With the almost total lack of History and Geography being "taught" in schools now the incentive to collect stamps from other countries is quite low! I'm an ex-teacher and things were going to H#&& 11 years ago when I retired. This could be taken as a political statement but I don't intend it to be taken as one. It is a statement of fact. Ask some of your grand kids a few Geography questions and see what state things are actually in!!
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The below link for an excellent YouTube video:
Is the Hobby Dying?
I think this individual brings up many good items which are great starting points for further conversations. Not just for fellow collectors but for key philatelic organizations.
I wonder what other members of the board think?
Moderator - embbed video
(Modified by Moderator on 2024-12-11 07:04:50)
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Approvals
re: Current Status of the Hobby
I tried to watch the video, but gave up after a few minutes. The prospect of watching some guy talking for almost one and a half hour in a rather bland tone, with very poor editing that is really distracting, was too much for me.
If he has something interesting to tell, I suppose I will not find out.
Could he not make his point in ten minutes or less?
And why is that printer there, right next to him?
If someone had the stamina to watch the whole thing, please provide a summary.
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re: Current Status of the Hobby
What is your take on this subject?
Login to Like
this post
re: Current Status of the Hobby
Yes... Stamp collecting is a dying hobby! Get out while you can! Being the nice guy that I am, I'll buy your collections for a penny on the dollar...
3 Members
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Login to Like.
Back when I had a bunch! I think, therefore I am - I think! Descartes, sort of!
10 Dec 2024
05:55:38pm
re: Current Status of the Hobby
I couldn't get into the video either but I have an opinion. I seriously think that most hobbies that involve collecting will fall out of popularity as this generation of collectors dies off. Stamp collecting won't necessarily die off but it will drastically change. I don't see many of the younger collectors having an interest in the classic stamps, there are not a lot of them still available or affordable. This is all my opinion but I was in the antique business for many years and similar things happened (or are happening) there! Some things might not be affected, things that are popular with younger collectors, like comics, sports cards, etc.
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this post
05:55:59pm
re: Current Status of the Hobby
If the hobby is dying why are my local auction house prices rising?
I'll beat psgstamper's offer.
I'll buy at 5cents on the dollar!!!
3 Members
like this post.
Login to Like.
Back when I had a bunch! I think, therefore I am - I think! Descartes, sort of!
10 Dec 2024
06:25:48pm
re: Current Status of the Hobby
"If the hobby is dying why are my local auction house prices rising?"
Because us old farts are still adding to our collections. IMHO when we are "gone" the hobby will start going down hill. I hope I'm wrong, stamps take up very little room and this might make them popular with all those minimalists out there!
1 Member
likes this post.
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07:54:36pm
re: Current Status of the Hobby
Here is an AI summary:
Is the Hobby Dying?
In his lively stream, Chris discusses the current state and future of stamp collecting, addressing concerns about the decline of the hobby due to various factors such as reduced youth engagement, absence of local shops, and changing interests among young people. He provides insights into the evolving landscape of hobbies, comparing stamp collecting to other pastimes and suggesting that while stamp collecting may have become more niche, it remains vibrant and offers unique joys that other hobbies may not. Chris advocates for better accessibility and engagement strategies to attract new collectors, particularly younger generations.
Key Points:
Youth Engagement Decline
One of the primary concerns for stamp collecting is the noticeable drop in attendance at stamp shows by young people. Chris points out that this trend doesn't necessarily indicate the hobby's demise but could be attributed to how shows are structured and marketed, which often caters more to seasoned collectors than new participants.
Loss of Local Retail Spaces
The number of bricks-and-mortar stamp shops has decreased, largely due to high operational costs and the advent of online marketplaces. This issue is compounded by the changing demographics and the older generation of dealers retiring without successors, leading to gaps in local access to the hobby.
Changing Interests of the Youth
Chris addresses the common belief that today's youth are only interested in video games and electronic media. He argues that interests can evolve over time and highlights the potential for young people to return to hobbies like stamp collecting as they seek fulfilling offline experiences.
Market Value Fluctuations
Declines in market values for certain stamps have led to perceptions of the hobby dying. Chris challenges this view, suggesting that while prices may fluctuate, this is part of a broader market dynamic, including increased supply and an evolving interest landscape rather than a collapse of interest.
Shift in Hobby Dynamics
The progression of stamp collecting from a mainstream activity to a niche hobby reflects the natural evolution of many pastimes. Chris points out that while participation may look different now, the fundamental aspects of engagement, learning, and community can support its continued relevance.
Need for New Engagement Strategies
Chris advocates the development of programs that can attract youth to stamp collecting by leveraging technology and modern engagement techniques. He highlights an app initiative that aims to provide an accessible, structured introduction to the hobby for children, recognizing their shorter attention spans and differing interests.
Hobbies as Identity and Connection
A deeper exploration into what constitutes a hobby reveals that many people are drawn to collecting due to the desire for mastery, social connection, and personal expression. This suggests that stamp collecting can meet similar psychological needs as other trending hobbies.
Enduring Appeal of Unique Collecting
Despite challenges, Chris remains optimistic about the future of stamp collecting. He sees opportunities in diversifying how stamps and their stories are presented to younger generations, emphasizing the unique qualities of stamp collecting that resonate with personal and cultural identity.
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Auctions - Approvals
re: Current Status of the Hobby
Haha! I was going to say well written and summed up jahayward. Until I saw 'Written by AI'. Quite shocking! Usually AI is so obvious in its style and content.
As I said to my wife, it is not Our World anymore. Sighs.
Larry
4 Members
like this post.
Login to Like.
re: Current Status of the Hobby
I really don't think the hobby is going down that much.
For what ever reason what I collect material that is more available today than in the past 20 years.
1 Member
likes this post.
Login to Like.
re: Current Status of the Hobby
The delivery leaves much to be desired. A cynic could say the video exemplifies the image of the hobby.
4 Members
like this post.
Login to Like.
re: Current Status of the Hobby
I would not be at all surprised if interest in this hobby dwindles over time, but I don't think it will ever die completely. Today's youth have too many other options to spend their time. I got into collecting at a young age because my father did it. He was there not just as a knowledge base, but also support.
My kids have zero interest in the hobby, even though I try to engage them. I honestly suspect that if I die before I close my stamp store (Hipstamp), they will just shitcan everything. As we all know, this is a very detailed and time intensive hobby or business. If you didn't have a passion for it, you'd never spend the time and effort.
I think the biggest problem is no active and organized attempt to try to interest youth. The lack of brick and mortar stamp stores is one of the problems. There used to be 4 or 5 in my hometown. None now. People will say that with the internet that shouldn't make a difference. I disagree. I also tie trout flies...both for myself and a fly fishing lodge in Michigan. When I go into a fly shop it's like being a kid in a toy store. I could linger for hours (I have many times). Sure, I could see all that's in the shop online, but that is no substitute to being at the shop.....full of flies, material, tools, and, especially, fly fisherman.
Knowing what I do now, if I could go back to the beginning of my retirement (When I re-ignited my interest in stamps), I would spend time going to some of the high schools and offering to monitor a stamp club. I think that would attract some new collectors. Do any of the many societies out there (APA, BNAPS etc.) spend any serious time trying to target interest of our youth? If they aren't, then we as an entire group of collectors have only ourselves to blame.
We don't have many shows in my area, but the few I've been to would not appeal to a younger crowd.....usually in a VFW or similar venue, smelling like stale tobacco, and full of bored old farts (like me) sitting at tables with their wares.
I'm rambling...I'll stop.
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Back when I had a bunch! I think, therefore I am - I think! Descartes, sort of!
11 Dec 2024
10:34:53am
re: Current Status of the Hobby
I really envy those of you who still have actual physical (not online) stamp stores in your area. To be able to go into a place like that for supplies and to discuss stamps with the store owner or another collector occasionally would be fantastic!
I think I've mentioned this a few times but when I met my wife in university we started collecting stamps almost right away. It was because there was a nearby hardware store where one of the workers was a stamp person and sold stamps and supplies in the store. We both got hooked on the hobby right away! We used to hitch hike to Halifax on a Saturday morning to visit the several stamp stores on Barrington Street. One store had a huge barrel filled with stamps from all areas and we'd always end up with a fairly large bundle of great stuff. Kids nowadays would find this really boring but I fondly remember those outings!! And then the fun of sitting down when we got back to our residence rooms, spreading those treasures out and going through them. Our main areas were Canada, US, Poland and Russia but we also had a three volume second hand World Album to mount our other treasures in! Maybe if there were actual stamp stores in the area it might help with the hobby. I'm really not sure though if the kids would have the patience to deal with things like a barrel of stamps!
Like John said, I'm rambling about days that will never return. By the way my wife used to tie salmon and trout flies for her father's fishing in Newfoundland. I still have examples of her work somewhere among my numerous collections!
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re: Current Status of the Hobby
Joe....I learned fly tying from a world famous tier named Christopher Helm.. He was so good that people would commission him to tie flies that ended up framed and on someone's wall. Salmon flies were among those..... great colors and presentations.
3 Members
like this post.
Login to Like.
re: Current Status of the Hobby
Thank you for posting the AI summary. While I agree the presentation could have been done differently, I think it does not take away from the content of the material. I personally feel that the hobby is now a niche hobby and is the process of changing. I feel we can still honor elements of the past but open our minds to new approaches and hope that Philatelic organizations take the lead on supporting changes.
Login to Like
this post
Back when I had a bunch! I think, therefore I am - I think! Descartes, sort of!
15 Dec 2024
09:03:23am
re: Current Status of the Hobby
There's another part of this discussion. With the almost total lack of History and Geography being "taught" in schools now the incentive to collect stamps from other countries is quite low! I'm an ex-teacher and things were going to H#&& 11 years ago when I retired. This could be taken as a political statement but I don't intend it to be taken as one. It is a statement of fact. Ask some of your grand kids a few Geography questions and see what state things are actually in!!
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Login to Like.