When a titlist is converted and left as a full cue, then the potential benefit is the "full" splice hit. Now that to some is reason enough to have a cue converted. When a ring is installed above the wrap, this effect is then nullified. In theory you could split a ring, but I have yet to see this done. When the ring is installed, you just have a "short" splice cue, made with a titlist.
A lot people love the old school titlist look and that is why they go that route. It's also easy to qualify because titlists are so popular.
Does a titlist mean more money? Not necessarily, if the cuemaker is known, then his blanks are probably a key component to his cue build. It's really a decision for the buyer. If the cuemaker is breathing, I don't think I would say that a titlist is an instant increase in price.
If you look at Balabushka, his titlists are generally worth less than comparable cues with Spain / Davis and Szamboti forearms. Why? One factor is he got better as he went along, so the cues in general are better. One factor is the name of the blank makers. A four point plain titlist Bushka, with all other factors being the same is generally worth 500-1000 less than the others. However there are collectors that favor the titlist over the others.
JV
