Have I been foolish?-opinion wanted.

[hairy]

After years of searching for a copy of Charles Darbys "Pacific Aircraft Wrecks (and where to find them)", I have finally bought a mint (it appears unopened) copy for $80.00 .

My question is............

Am I a fool for paying soo much or should I feel smug for getting a mint copy of a rare book?

;D

P.S I know of two other copies currently for sale, anyone interested?

[corsair67]

I think you've done alright, Hairy. My opinion on these things is that if it's something that you've always wanted and you are happy with it, then it doesn't really matter how much you paid for it.
Too many times have passed where I've seen something that I want, only to walk away thinking "Oh, it's too expensive/I don't need it" and I end up regretting that decision later! Bryan Cox's book 'Too Young to Die' is a good example of this: I wanted to buy it when it came out in the mid-1980s, but decided I didn't need it as the library had a copy, but ever since I have regretted not having it in my collection - Bugger!

[Bruce]

I have the same issues with models mate, Ive just spent over $100 on a model Beech King Air! its always a little sobering to think what you could have spent the money on, but if its rare but important to you, its worth doing....

[Dave Homewood]

Personally I have only ever seen one copy of this excellent book, in the Cambridge Library. I went recently to see if they still have it, they don't. They sell a lot of their older books for a few dollars, and probably had no idea of the rarity and value of the book.

Even Charles Darby's other book, RNZAF The First Decade, is quite sought after, but nowhere near as rare. I do have a copy of it in good condition.

Corsair, as for Bryan Cox's brilliant book, why not drop him an email and see if he has any copies left. He's a member of this forum, and tou'll find him on the member list. Yoiu never know, you might get lucky. Bryan's a really nice chap, and will undoubtedly assist if he can.

[corsair67]

Thanks Dave, I have been in contact with Bryan recently to buy two copies of his 'Cats Only Have Nine Lives' but never thought of asking about 'Too Young to Die'. I might drop him another line this week.

[hairy]

corsair67 said:

Too many times have passed where I've seen something that I want, only to walk away thinking "Oh, it's too expensive/I don't need it" and I end up regretting that decision later! Bryan Cox's book 'Too Young to Die' is a good example of this: I wanted to buy it when it came out in the mid-1980s, but decided I didn't need it as the library had a copy, but ever since I have regretted not having it in my collection - Bugger!

I know where there are a couple of copies (hardback and softback) availiable, if you are interested.
I just can,t help myself when it comes to second-hand bookshops when I see one on my travels, I just have to check them out.

[corsair67]

Hairy, I'd love to know more!