Help on buying a table
- Thread starter Ipmtim
- Start date
Be ready to be shunned by most mechanics and charged way past the premium who will agree to do do anything, such as moving it.
Can you exaggerate please?
I can't say I have my heart set on this table, I would just like to know more about it.
I've done a bunch of reading here about tables, and spent time researching on ebay but would like to hear from the experts here.
Thanks,
Tim
Because to tell you the truth, most antique pool tables are a pain in the ass to work on, they've for the most part....seen better days. Pockets and cushions made today, should the table require them, are not interchangeable with today's products. Special tools are required to take the rail bolts out just to remove the T-rails, a lot of mechanics today don't even know what tools are required.
I'm pretty certain that I found the table in question.. It looks like it is in pretty decent condition, though you'll likely want to replace the cushions (note the brown discoloration on the top side of the rail cloth). Even still, I don't think that $1500 is a bad price, but you'll want to make sure that you hire a good table technician to work on it.
Fortunately, you're not too far from Chicago, so I'm certain that you can find someone qualified. In fact, I have heard very good things about Jerimy Chambers. I'm not sure if this is too far out of his service range, but it might be worth contacting him. I understand that he has extensive knowledge of antique Brunswick tables, so it may be worth calling him about this table anyway.
Don't be surprised when the cost, to move, replace cushions, and set the table up, is more than you paid for the table.
Fortunately, you're not too far from Chicago, so I'm certain that you can find someone qualified. In fact, I have heard very good things about Jerimy Chambers. I'm not sure if this is too far out of his service range, but it might be worth contacting him. I understand that he has extensive knowledge of antique Brunswick tables, so it may be worth calling him about this table anyway.
Don't be surprised when the cost, to move, replace cushions, and set the table up, is more than you paid for the table.
I know nothing about the table but it seems that when its all set up you could buy a brand new Diamond for the same money. unless you have your sights only on an antique and have the money for it.
I have bought & restored several tables. That one looks good in the photos. Inspect the rails at each pocket for cracks. get under the table & inspect the slates. Take the Rail blinds off, if the owner will allow it, to check the rails. Check the cushions for hardness of cushion and/or looseness along the rail.
One problem with an old table is this. They do NOT play like the Diamonds, Gandy's & GC's in the Pool Rooms, otherwise they are a joy to own. Ask Glen (RKC), he knows tables. He might change his mind after he has seen close up pics. This table looks nice.
Moving it is very simple, put it in the back of your Pickup. I took a 10 foot Snooker Table home in my 1500 EX Sierra, Just be careful with the slates. The tool to take the rails off is $20.00
There is nothing like learning....
One problem with an old table is this. They do NOT play like the Diamonds, Gandy's & GC's in the Pool Rooms, otherwise they are a joy to own. Ask Glen (RKC), he knows tables. He might change his mind after he has seen close up pics. This table looks nice.
Moving it is very simple, put it in the back of your Pickup. I took a 10 foot Snooker Table home in my 1500 EX Sierra, Just be careful with the slates. The tool to take the rails off is $20.00
There is nothing like learning....
Thanks everybody for the replies.
I realize the endeavor of buying a decent table is not cheap and I think the old ones are kind of cool and like the idea of preserving one. I'm going to look at it next week, all tied up right now.
Might have to settle for something a little newer, the good news is it's a buyers market for used tables and found several others that will work just fine in my basement.
Tim
I realize the endeavor of buying a decent table is not cheap and I think the old ones are kind of cool and like the idea of preserving one. I'm going to look at it next week, all tied up right now.
Might have to settle for something a little newer, the good news is it's a buyers market for used tables and found several others that will work just fine in my basement.
Tim
Wish I had not read this thread. I have an old Brunswick Madison that I am going to recover next week. Hope it's not going to be too big of a pain in the ass.
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Personally, I think the least expensive option for a great table is getting a Brunswick GC 1-3. They can be had for around $1000, and they are built like tanks. Parts are available and mechanics are easy to find if you need help.
Diamonds are a great table, but I couldn't find a used one at a reasonable price verses paying for a new one.
Whatever you do, I wish you the best of rolls.
Ken