So the camo-skull thing reminded me of this topic: http://www.texaskayakfisherman.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=20&t=178768

And how it's a good thing I'm broke right now because I might get sucked into the antique rod & reel game.

A couple images-

Before:


After restoration:


FYI- the pictured reel is worth about $4500 on the collector's market.

That seems reely expensive.

My only experience in antiques is watching Pawn Stars, but isn't it bad to "restore" antinques...kinda ruins the $4500 value doesn't it.

FIDO- I wondered the same thing. Evidently not. It's worth more restored than in the "before" state. Of course, I'm sure there's a huge difference between professional restoration and some schmoe doing amature work.

Also, apparently a lot of guys fish with those old school rods & reels.

seems like a drag to me.

Great looking reel both before and after.

I always hear the same thing regarding the value of an item and restoring vs. leaving as is. I guess it really goes to show how important it is to do your homework BEFORE beginning a restoration project. You may end up costing yourself some big bucks!

I dont get it. I must be an outcast.

To answer the original OP, my man cave is currently decorated with 3.5B Legos...some assembled in Star Wars or Ninjago creations, but others mostly scattered in several cheap plastic bins.

There's also a smattering of old beat up Thomas the Tank Engine wooden engines that are lined up on a shelf...divided in two groups "Steamies & Diesels".

At any one time you will find countless orange/pink foam darts used in a variety of Nerf N-Strike weapons. Most of these darts have either been chewed by the dog or mangled in a FTF issue.

We do have some framed A&M & Texas Ranger jerseys we acquired at various silent auctions, but they are covered up by old youth soccer/baseball jerseys and cheap plastic gold trophies from Southlake Baseball Association, Grapevine-Southlake Soccer Association, and Southlake Lacrosse Association.

We have a few shed antlers and jaw bones that mom won't allow in any of the other rooms as well.

I guessing my man cave is about like everyone elses!

[This message has been edited by FIDO 96 (edited 5/15/2012 10:01a).]

quote:

---

I dont get it. I must be an outcast.

---

nah...you just didn't fall for it hook, line & sinker!

Mine is now occupied by the bonus baby (who's 7 now) and her stuff. Don't forget birth control, no matter how many kids you have. All my crap now resides in the garage.

I've got all hockey stuff in mine

Visit: Texas Gun Forum!!!! http://texasgunforum.com/index.php

Ive got antler mounts, an old bond movie poster, gun calendar and pictures, some fishing stuff hanging on walls. Rest is cabinets and tools on the wall

My reloading man cave is located in the master closet. Something about having primers, brass, projectiles, gunpowder, equipment and your wife's lingerie all together that is appealing.

One day the office will be my business man cave. I intend to make it into a man's office, despite every objection from the wife. Wet bar in the globe, leather high backed chairs, mounts on the wall, the whole 9 yards.

Other than that, I have the barn and the garage.

"Before" was the way to go...