Vinylmation Lots on eBay?

[robinb]

I know that one should be super careful about pins on eBay, but what about Vinylmations? My DD really likes to collect and trade but after Disney reduced our AP discount from 20% to 10% (and, I think, raised vinylmation prices) it's become quite an expensive hobby! Is there any reason why we shouldn't buy a lot on eBay and then trade the ones she doesn't want?

 

[robinb]

*bump* Anyone?

 

[figment_jii]

I have read about scrapper Vinylmations, so they are out there, but I don't know if there are "easy" way to identify scrapper lots.
http://vinylmationkingdom.com/2012/08/26/across-the-pond-guide-to-scrapper-dumpster-divers/

 

[roselark]

Avoid buying Vinylmations from Asia, and you are probably fine.

As far as I know, there have not been large batches of scrap vinyls being sold for resale to US buyers. The scrappers that I have heard about are ones that have been pieced together individually from discarded pieces at the factories. You might get one that has two right arms, no accessories like a hat that should be there, etc.

I have been outta the Vinylmation loop for about 6 months though, so I hope someone will correct me if I am wrong.

 

[figment_jii]

I haven't heard about scrappers originating from US sellers either. I'm sure it's possible, but most reports seem to focus on sellers from Asia. I think some of the basic warnings about scrapper pins also hold for Vinylmation. Be wary of super cheap lots (e.g., Vinylmations for a few buck or less), sellers who do not include the boxes, foils, or cards (if applicable), Vinylmations with damage., etc.

 

[super mike b]

I have had good luck with Vinylmations on Ebay. I too stay away from anything outside the USA.

 

[robinb]

Thanks everyone! I think I'll start buying some lots for our December trip. I didn't even think about buying trading lots until I saw a little girl and her family trading at Mouse Gears. She pulled out bag of plastic wrapped traders and I had an "aha!" moment.

 

[figment_jii]

Thanks everyone! I think I'll start buying some lots for our December trip. I didn't even think about buying trading lots until I saw a little girl and her family trading at Mouse Gears. She pulled out bag of plastic wrapped traders and I had an "aha!" moment.

Just keep in mind that Vinylmations are heavier than pins! There are also fewer trading locations...there was a thread a few days ago asking about locations. Still, I do Vinylmation trading as well...have fun!

In addition to eBay...check out the DisneyStore.com. They often have them on clearance at pretty good prices...sometimes as low as $3-$5. If you have enough other items you want, you can get free shipping (I think the minimum purchase is usually $75). Here is a link to the collectibles on sale: http://www.disneystore.com/mn/1001152+1000202/ Right now there are some Vinylmations from the Zooper Heroes and High School series for $3 each.