I've already talked about some of the reality here on the ground in Seattle. I now have someone close to me who is advanced in years, showing symptoms, and is going to be tested for COVID-19. Its real AF for many of us, so while I'm open to debating responses and policies, I have little patience to engage with anyone referring to this situation as a hoax.
I value this community-its why this is the one website I've frequented pretty much since I began surfing the internet. It has consistently remained informative and above the fray of petty internet BS. I'm hugely appreciative of it in many ways-everything from learning how to analyze Chevrolet engine stamp pads to actually having several people share the wrenching loss of a spouse or child. That's not par for the course on internet boards.
I appreciate the honest and open discussion, and hope it continues in most ways. One thing I took away from the 2016 election/culture war, is that scolding-especially in a snarky, dismissive way-is really only for the poster's ego and isn't going to actually sway anyone's opinion. Nobody is listening after they are insulted. They just aren't, whether they've just been called a "snowflake" or a "deplorable". So, if you read back what you've typed and it reads like a scold for not feeling the way you feel, delete it and try again or go work on your car.
I love these old cars. They've been dominant in my life since I was about 4 (really) and my business for half my life. I'm 50 and I'm fortunate to have a comfortable life, mostly related to marrying a great partner with skills she could monetize. Most of my regular clients and close friends in this hobby are older than me-many are as old or older than my Dad. I'm not really sure where some of you get this endless optimism about the market for these cars, even the "blue-chip" collectibles. I certainly don't think the market is going to end in my lifetime, but I struggle to come up with people I know personally my age or younger who I really believe will EVER line up to pay six figures for a 1960's muscle car, regardless of how well their portfolio is doing. Who is in the BJ/Ebay/Mecum audience in 10 years?
As for the near future, I think that the best stuff will stay strong if the economic fallout isn't too severe. In 2007, I saw a lot of cars hit the market and a lot of serious collectors get squeezed by their debts. Most of them were self-made contractor types and they had too many notes come due. Not only were they no longer buyers, they were having to liquidate some awfully good cars. As for the rest, I can't see the bread and butter middle market doing anything but settling. Few people can be thinking of looking for a random Camaro or '57 Chevy to take to Cars and Coffee in the summer of 2020, whatever they think about their personal risk to Coronavirus.
As ever, thanks to the forum for letting me share my .02c.
TOM
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