5 comments about Collectible Microcomputers.

1. I like this book as there is almost no PC from the early years that escape it. But my biggest issue is I would like to see more background on more PCs, not just a brief list of specs. Very few have any history of any detail and they're the well-knowns, like Commodore and Tandy. Bigger, color photos would be a real plus as well.



2. If you are a collector of old microcomputers like myself then this book is a must. It's an affordable reference guide that you'll always be referring to. Personally I'd love to see a colour edition of this book, a more international (rather than US) flavour and I'd like to see the entries per manufacturer in chronological order rather that alphabetical order.



3. I was very impressed by this book. Lots of information on vintage computers, some quite in depth histories. Very enjoyable read and something you would go back to. Only one gripe I have is purely cosmetic in that it was all black and white photo's only and a fairly uninspiring layout.



4. If you are into collecting old computers (mainly the 8bit era), this is a must own. It has the specs and approximate prices for each machine from the first minicomputers to the mid 90's with the Amigas and soforth. Some x86 architecture items, mainly the revolutionary items for any 486/Pentium items since they are ... well the industry standard practically.
   
   I recommend in a heartbeat.



5. Or, if you just love the history of personal computers, then you'll be very happy with this volume. An excellent coffee table book with loads of great pictures and plenty of well-known and obscure systems. Photos inside are all black and white, but good quality and size. A handy field guide and highly recommended.
   
   David Greelish
   classiccomputing dot com

No comments about Warman's Children's Books: Identification and Price Guide.

5 comments about Wedgwood Jasper Ware: A Shape Book and Collector's Guide (Schiffer Book for Collectors).

1. The book, on the whole, does as its title asserts - uses good photographic images to show the reader the various shapes used by Wedgwood. It also offers some guidance as to the rarity of colors used and a basic historical reference.
   Even with the wide variety of shapes shown, there were some missing. The identification of the designs was most informative.



2. This is a great book on wedgwood jasperware. It will definitely help identify genuine pieces and offers great illustrations. I thought there would be much larger collection of pieces illustrated within the book though, so I was somewhat disappointed since none of the jasperware I own was even listed in the book.



3. The title of this book suggests that it is a guide to all Wedgwood Jasper Ware, but the author concentrates strictly on dipped jasper ware. The title should indicate this. The text of the book also is filled with the author's opinions that dipped jasper ware is somehow superior to solid Wedgwood jasper ware and that the latter category of wares is rather declasse. He is certainly entitled to his opinions but they should not be presented as standard for Wedgwood collectors. His collection (and therefore his book)concentrates on a very specific period of production that he prefers but as I stated above the title does not indicate this. Having said that, am I sorry that I purchased this book (indeed pre-ordered it and waited several months for it?) Not at all. The photographs are sumptuous, and that section of the book is superb. The shapes of the pieces and subjects of the bas reliefs listed apply to all types of Wedgwood wares, dipped jasper, solid jasper, basalt, Queensware, drab ware, etc. For this very reason, the book is a valuable reference. Quality books on Wedgwood are few and far between and older ones are difficult to find if one wants to own them and not have to go to a library. In conclusion, drool over the pictures, but divide the text into two categories: Wedgwood history (which the book is short on) and author's opinion (of which there is plenty.)

   An addendum of second thoughts:
   The book convinced me to acquire my first piece of dipped jasperware. I can certainly see why the author raves about the quality of the workmanship during this period of production. The dipped jasper has qualities that more modern solid jasper does not offer but the solid jasper has wonderful qualities of its own. I will not go so far as to say that one is superior to the other, but that each needs to be appreciated for what it is. I am grateful to the author for expanding my (Wedgwood jasper) vision.




4. While many books have been written about Josiah Wedgwood and 18th century "first period" production, there has been very little information for the collector of 19th century jasperware. Until now. Michael Herman has written a wonderful guide to explain and classify the wide range of dipped jasperware and bas relief ware produced by the Wedgwood factory. If all this book did was to identify the myriad of shapes with their proper shape names, it would be a must read for all collectors and dealers. But the author also provides a wealth of detailed information from his vast expertise on the subject of Wedgwood. A history of jasperware production is given, bas-reliefs are identified, the wide range of colors explained and dated, and there is even a section on jewelry. I definitely enjoyed reading the book and have discovered many new pieces that I want to add to my collection. I look forward to new books by this author.



5. A collector's guide and shape book filled with wonderful color photographs of the many varieties of Wedgwood jasper ware dip. Author Michael Herman shares his knowledge and experience with other collectors.
   It not only provides basic information so important to the beginning collector. It is a resource for all collectors in this area. Each piece is identified as fully as possible-including the bas relief figures.
   Dark blue does predominate, not a surprise, as it was the most popular color. Still the other jasper ware colors are well represented.
   Most of the pieces illustrated were made between the mid 19th century and the virtual end of jasper dip production in 1940. It is indeed refreshing to have a book that focuses on this period in this area of collecting. The timeless appeal of Wedgwood jasper ware is so well illustrated.

5 comments about Calder Jewelry.

1. This book is a beautiful celebration of Calder's gorgeous and playful jewelry. The pictures are lovely and the jewelry itself is simply amazing. It's hard not to feel joyful flipping through these pages. Buy it and enjoy!



2. This book is an inspiration to anyone who makes jewelry. The use of cold connections is terrific and can show you what can be done without the use of solder.



3. Merely walking by this book makes my artisan heart tingle. The genius, the simplicity and golden aura of beauty makes this book a "must own." The photographs are gorgeous and the descriptions beautifully written. Get inspired.



4. Anyone who appreciates well-made, original design in jewelry needs to have and read this book. What an inspiration! Although I was familiar with Calder's mobiles, for which he is most renowned, I was even more impressed with his jewelry designs. All one-of-a-kind. A definite must for the coffee table or even to read and enjoy. As a jewelry designer influenced by other cultures, this has been most helpful in inspiring me to follow my instincts and to design the items I've seen in my dreams. What a book!



5. Expertly photographed, beautifully styled catalog of A. Calder's jewelry. A great purchase, no regrets.

5 comments about Glass Hen on Nest Covered Dishes: Identification & Value Guide.

1. Not a really good reference guide especially for the ones who need the most guidance...like a new collector. Too complicated.



2. Wow. It is rare to find an antiques book like this in any field-- Smith's book is authoritative, complete, easy to use, and profusely illustrated.
   
   THis book covers all of the known hen on nest dishes made in America and abroad from the 1800s through today. Photos are big, easy to see, and really helpful. If you buy this book, you will definitely be able to identify the maker of your hen on nest dish, and to learn a good bit about the manufacturer. I especially appreciated the sections on Atterbury, Challinor Taylor, Flaccus, and Portieux/Vallerysthal. Those who collect more modern dishes will appreciate the Westmoreland, Fenton, Hazel-Atlas, Indiana, and dozens of other sections.
   
   Shirley Smith's book has been reviewed the National Milk Glass Collectors Society and has been endorsed as accurate and excellent. I personally found it to be exactly what I needed and incredibly helpful.
   
   The only thing I would caution readers about it the "price guide" aspect. Antique prices fluctuate dramatically and regularly, and prices for hen on nest dishes have dropped in the age of online auctions.



3. This is a comprehensive book on glass hen-on-nest covered dishes. Kudos to Shirley Smith for a job very well done. She has made it quite easy to identify most any hen-on-nest dish you will encounter. It is a must have for any collector.



4. like it picture are great way to compair. Need to have a few more definitons on Glass type and colors.



5. Shirley Smith's GLASS HEN ON NEST COVERED DISHES IDENTIFICATION & VALUE GUIDE packs color photos on nearly every page of its value guide, and is a pick for any who frequent flea markets or garage sales in search of glass hen on nest covered dishes. From American to Asian and European productions, identifying marks, written descriptions, and comparisons and contrasts between makers and items seek to clarify the collecting experience to avoid confusion between makers and products.

1 comments about The Cabinet-Maker and Upholsterer's Guide.

1. Excellent service and excellent prodoct. Would order from them again.

1 comments about Jewelry International: Volume I (Tourbillon International).

1. I wanted a book on gems. This is a book about Haute Couture and their designers. It does discuss types of jewels esp diamonds and pearls. It does have colour and close-ups photos but it does not tell you the difference between ruby and spinel. Also there are lots of ads. Think 4 issues of Vogue in hardcover form.
   There are 4 pages devoted to cuts of diamonds. Many pages are then devoted to pearls then the famous design Houses and their gems. Lots of colour, a lot of history.

No comments about Celebrating Snow Globes (Collectibles).

3 comments about Art & Design in Modern Custom Folding Knives.

1. TOP QUALITY BOOK WITH EXCELLENT PHOTOS AND ARTICLES. A MUST FOR ALL REAL ENTHUSIASTIC KNIVE MAKERS AND COLLECTORS.



2. As a custom knifemaker I'm always excited to see new publications related to the collected works of knifemaking. Of very special interest to me are those books which focus on the art and ingenuity of custom art knives; books which explore the art not only with good photography of quality knives but also with accompanying text providing insight into the methods and intent of the maker. Truly this area of artistic endeavor has been but scarcely examined and over the years I've found only a few books which approach these criteria and which, for the most part, now sit on my bookshelves. There have, however, been two books I've come to treasure above the others; Art and Design in Modern Custom Fixed-Blade Knives and Art and Design in Modern Custom Folding Knives, both by Dr. David Darom.
   
   In these books can be found not only the exquisite photography which occurs occasionally in other collective works but also a depth of writing exploring the knifemaker and his focus on the knives being regarded. With his writing Dr. Darom provides rare and wonderful insight into the world of knives which transports the reader, both those experienced as well as novice, to a higher level of understanding the unique experience of knifemaking. His critical selection of art knives and insistence on only the highest quality of photographs reproduced using top quality printing methods and materials have created the finest art knife books I have ever owned. Coupled with Darom's focus on quality is Amazon.com's ability to bring this treasure to the public for an amazingly low price. I applaud Dr. Darom's efforts and welcome the long awaited USA release of Art and Design in Modern Custom Folding Knives. It is my hope Dr. Darom continues to explore the rich and diverse field of custom knifemaking and finds it worthy of producing future volumes not unlike this one.
   
   In short; Art and Design in Modern Custom Folding Knives is without a doubt indispensable to both professional and the enthusiast alike. This book is of such fine quality I truly must wonder at the ability to offer it for so low a price and advance the suggestion this serves to make it the perfect unique table book or addition to any fine art book collection.
   
   -Charles Kain



3. I want to say right up front that I am David Darom's partner in his third knife book, "The Art of Modern Custom Knifemaking, 100 Custom Knife Related Projects in the Making" (soon to be released). I very much wanted to write this review, but because of my current relationship with David I was concerned that some might question my motives. But I can tell you that I would not have even met David had it not been for this incredible book.
   
   I first heard about "Art & Design in Modern Custom Folders" a couple of months prior to its release. I am a part-time knifemaker, and a member of a group of online forums that are devoted to custom knifemaking. David had "teased" us with sample photos from his soon-to-be-released book. And the preliminary taste worked...Like most of our 7000+ members, I was more than a little bit intrigued.
   
   Hard bound, printed in Italy, 260 full-color pages filled with breathtaking photos of the some of the most exquisite knives in the world... The book sounded incredible and I couldn't wait to get my hands on a copy. And so with the single-minded goal of acquiring my own copy, when the book had its world premier at New York's annual East Coast Custom Knife Show, I drove up with a few friends.
   
   When we arrived I made a beeline for David's table...I was fortunate enough to meet him, if only for a few minutes (he was swamped with fellow enthusiasts trying to get their own copies). The meeting was brief but enjoyable...and I got what I came for...my own signed copy of the exciting new book.
   
   As soon as I got home I dove in...Every page was a delight and I spent hours and hours fully immersed. David's love for his subject matter was apparent...Never before had we seen such a collection of photos...no props, no distracting backgrounds, just page after page of beautifully-done, world class photography, that showed off the knives in all of their glorious detail.
   
   Needless-to-say, I couldn't wait to tell all of my online friends about this wonderful new book and I posted my own review, followed by much discussion. This ultimately led to an ongoing, long-distance correspondence with David. We became good friends. Several months later he asked me to write an article for his second knife book,"Art and Design in Modern Custom Fixed-Blade knives"...and that experience eventually led to our partnership in the 3rd book.
   
   Not a week goes by when I don't refer to my copy of "Art & Design in Modern Custom Folding Knives"...The pages are now quite dog-eared. I have a sizeable collection of knife-related books and magazines, but this is easily my single, most often used resource for inspiration and ideas.
   
   Am I prejudiced? Absolutely! But I can say without reservation that for overall production value and presentation, David has set the bar high with this book. Nothing else out there comes close. The skill and love that went into the making of this magnificent "coffee table" book of museum quality, folding art knives is unequaled. This masterpiece led me to David...And I am honored to have become his friend and associate.
   
   It is impossible to glance at even one page of this book without being completely drawn in. If you are a knife enthusiast, or if you simply appreciate any form of extraordinary art and craftsmanship, this book is a joy to own.
   
   Dennis Greenbaum

2 comments about Turn-of-the-Century Doors, Windows and Decorative Millwork: The Mulliner Catalog of 1893.

1. This is a good reference to the time period. This is not a "how to" book but rather a period catalog expertly reproduced. This book is good for someone who is interested in creating a home with elements from the late Victorian era.



2. This is apparently a reprint of one of the really great old catalogs of Victorian Millwork! It has fabulous designs for window ornamentation, verandas, brackets, gable ends, fireplace mantels and most especially doors. Black & White sketches show an impressive variety of ideas.