How to Buy Pin-up Model Calendars

Pin-up calendars have enticed the American imagination for almost a century. Recently, we’ve seen a new surge in the pin-up art world with new photographers, artists and models scripting another chapter of history. Are you ready to start your collection of pin-up calendars? Here are a few guidelines for the newbie collector.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Define your taste: Retro versus vintage, originals versus reproductions, photographers versus artists? The art of pin-up calendars originated at the turn of the 20th century. There is a lot out there to quench all kinds of different palettes. A good place to start is to identify your tastes. Are you looking for the antique calendars or the new calendars with historical references? Do you like art or the photographs? Search everything from books to the internet to find your niche.

2. Choice your ear/artist. More likely than not, you discovered your favorite era of pin-up during step one. Perhaps, some of you even figured out that you like it all--a collector who goes by the motto, “I know it when I see it.” Still, other collectors may decide to refine their collection even more by choosing to collect a particular artist during a set time period.

3. Define your collection goals. What is the purpose of your collection? Are you looking for exotic wall art or is this an extension of another collection? Are you looking for pieces that will increase in value or ones that just appease your taste? This will all determine how your purchase your pieces, as well as from whom.

4. Create your budget. Your budget should be determined by your collection goals. If you are a casual buyer, then a small budget and lots of fun hours cruising eBay may be enough, while a more serious collector may need to factor in travel, broker and other related costs.