How to Collect Vintage Computers

Collecting vintage computers has become a hobby for some technology and computer enthusiasts within recent years. Some collectors enjoy playing games on older, vintage computers; whereas other collectors enjoy the challenge of restoring the computers to their original working state and appearance. Vintage computers can be obtained from multiple sources; including flea markets, garage sales, thrift stores, electronic shops, and more. In some cases, you can purchase vintage computers from schools and universities who upgraded to newer equipment years before, but never disposed of the equipment; whereas various websites on the Internet can also be a good resource. Continue reading this guide to learn where you can find and purchase vintage computers for your personal collection.

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Steps

Retail Stores

1. 1
   Look for vintage computers at thrift and consignment stores. People often donate their older, outdated computer models to thrift stores or sell them to consignment stores.
2. 2
   Search for vintage computers at electronic repair or surplus shops. Some repair shops may have vintage computers that have been resting in storage rooms for extended periods of time.
3. 3
   Consult pawn stores regarding vintage computers. Although pawn shops are less likely to pay for outdated computers provided by patrons, they may acquire vintage computers specifically for selling to collectors.
4. 4
   Consult with store clerks regarding bargain prices. In some cases, store clerks in thrift shops, consignment stores, surplus, or repair shops will lower the prices of computers if they have had them in stock for long periods of time.
   • Ask the store clerks specifically when sales will occur. This will allow you to revisit the store when sales occur, and purchase the vintage computers at lower prices.

Garage, Yard, Estate Sales, and Flea Markets

1. 1
   Search for vintage computers at garage sales, yard sales, and estate sales. Sometimes people will clean out their attics and basements and realize they never disposed of their outdated computer models.
2. 2
   Visit flea markets to look for vintage computers.
3. 3
   Determine when sales events will take place in your area.
   • Review classified ads in local newspapers and online to learn of the dates and times that garage sales, yard sales, estate sales, and flea markets will occur.

Schools and Businesses

1. 1
   Contact schools, colleges, and universities in regards to vintage computers. Locales such as these may have upgraded their computers several times throughout the years and are storing their equipment on the premises.
   • Speak with administrators or professors that work specifically in computer science, library, chemistry, biology, physics, and similar fields that require consistent use of computers and technology.
2. 2
   Consult with large corporate buildings or businesses about vintage computers. Some companies may sell you their older computers or provide you with information about the distributors they return their older computers to.

Websites and the Internet

1. 1
   Collect vintage computers from auction websites. Websites such as eBay will feature vintage computers for sale by small businesses and individuals from around the world.
   • Review the feedback ratings of sellers before purchasing their vintage computers. This may prevent you from having to deal with unreliable or dishonest sellers that will not honor the sale or allow product returns.
2. 2
   Review classified ad websites for vintage computers. Websites such as eBay Classifieds or Craigslist may feature vintage computers for sale by sellers in your local area.
3. 3
   Perform an Internet search for vintage computers. There are a variety of web stores, businesses, and organizations that sell vintage computers you can collect.
   • Enter keyword search terms such as "vintage computers for sale," then review the search results that appear to locate websites selling vintage computers.
   • Review the terms and conditions on each website before finalizing your vintage computer purchase. Some websites may sell the computers "as is" and may not honor a return or refund if you are dissatisfied.

Tips

• Review local media sources such as newspapers and television news periodically to determine if vintage computers will be featured and sold at upcoming festivals or expo center events.
• Publish a wanted ad in the classified ad sections of newspapers and websites that state you are looking for vintage computers. You may be contacted by several people who want to donate or sell their vintage computers to you.
• If you were unable to negotiate an acceptable price for a vintage computer at a flea market, return to the flea market at the end of the day and examine the nearby dumpsters or trash areas. Since vintage computers are often heavier in weight, the owners may throw them away or place them by the trash to avoid having to haul them back home.
• Contact scrap or salvage yards in your local area and ask if they have received any vintage computers. If so, they may be willing to negotiate a sale price with you.