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geekhack Marketplace => Great Finds => Topic started by: The_Beast on Sun, 16 June 2013, 22:41:59

Title: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: The_Beast on Sun, 16 June 2013, 22:41:59
http://www.ebay.com/itm/RAREST-IBM-Model-M-clicky-Keyboard-ever-only-4-known-MANDOLIN-CRYSTAL-/181159554873?pt=US_Vintage_Computing_Parts_Accessories&hash=item2a2df36f39

Such a #legit deal!
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: kmiller8 on Sun, 16 June 2013, 22:44:40
#MANDOLINCRYSTAL
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: calavera on Sun, 16 June 2013, 22:45:46
I'm seriously getting tired of that crystal BULL****. Didn't he get **** from literally every forum he posted? tsk tsk
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: tp4tissue on Sun, 16 June 2013, 23:04:14
so , this is not rare?
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: The_Beast on Sun, 16 June 2013, 23:05:18
so , this is not rare?

"This keyboard is even rarer than SSK, Industrial and M15 put together."

must be rare
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: keymaster on Sun, 16 June 2013, 23:21:05
The seller sounds like a real douchebag. I hope he's trying to be sarcastic, but I seriously doubt it.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: metafour on Mon, 17 June 2013, 00:21:29
**** yeah. Round 2. I believe this is half the previous eBay asking price.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: hoggy on Mon, 17 June 2013, 00:43:48
Hope he gets what he deserves.  I hate having to step over such listings. 

Maybe I should check mine - if I find a 5th I'll devalue his stock.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: dorkvader on Mon, 17 June 2013, 00:47:47
**** yeah. Round 2. I believe this is half the previous eBay asking price.

My only qualm with the auction is that while there exists photographic evidence of at least four of these on the internet, there are likely more than four in existence. Still, I can't just PM everyone with an early M to take theirs apart, can I?

Still, it's a good looking keyboard. You never know what it's worth to a collector.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: Larken on Mon, 17 June 2013, 02:36:23
actually, the previous listing was increased to 1500 for some reason. 

http://www.ebay.com/itm/TEST-MODEL-IBM-Model-M-Keyboard-Silver-Label-Resilient-Crystal-Clock-4Mhz-/181151999637

I don't usually have a problem with people listing what they think is a right price for their item (if its too high, just walk away), but I have to agree that this is pretty ridiculous. doubt there's only 4 in existence either.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: fohat.digs on Mon, 17 June 2013, 07:38:39
Like the bar advertising "the coldest beer in the world" and the owner says "As far as I know, nobody else's is colder!"

PS - the keyboard universe begins and ends with Geekhack. That's why Ripster was the #1 keyboard expert in the world!
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: Mandolin on Mon, 17 June 2013, 09:07:10
You keep on advertising my sales, stahp please  ^-^


More
(http://derpicdn.net/media/W1siZiIsIjIwMTIvMTIvMDYvMDNfNDVfNTlfNzk5XzE3Mzg3Ml9fVU5PUFRfXyJdXQ/173872__safe_glasses_crystal-empire_breaking-bad_walter-white_cgi.png)
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: asura on Mon, 17 June 2013, 09:42:34
I know little or nothing about most of it... However, as a budding gemmologist I feel I must point something out.

"[...]It uses real organic quarts crystal.[...]" from the listing

Quartz is an inorganic compound of silicone and oxygen.  And by real organic I presume you're implying that it's a natural crystal rather than a synthetic?  If so then you're undoubtedly incorrect.  They hydrothermal process is cheep, easy and produces perfect reproducible quartz kilo after kilo.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: dorkvader on Mon, 17 June 2013, 09:48:28
Quartz is an inorganic compound of silicone and oxygen.  And by real organic I presume you're implying that it's a natural crystal rather than a synthetic?  If so then you're undoubtedly incorrect.  They hydrothermal process is cheep, easy and produces perfect reproducible quartz kilo after kilo.

Especially since the claim about these crystals is that they are better quality than the metal can type ones, I can't imagine why someone would want to use a natural crystal with all it's impurities over a synthetic.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: Mandolin on Mon, 17 June 2013, 09:55:35
Quartz is an inorganic compound of silicone and oxygen.  And by real organic I presume you're implying that it's a natural crystal rather than a synthetic?  If so then you're undoubtedly incorrect.  They hydrothermal process is cheep, easy and produces perfect reproducible quartz kilo after kilo.

Especially since the claim about these crystals is that they are better quality than the metal can type ones, I can't imagine why someone would want to use a natural crystal with all it's impurities over a synthetic.

Gonna change that then.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: ITzNybble on Mon, 17 June 2013, 09:57:10
Ill be watching this thread grow.....*grabs popcorn and sits back :p
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: 1391406 on Mon, 17 June 2013, 10:15:39
Mandolin, why do you keep changing the percentage that goes to charity each listing? For example, you changed the percentage to 100% on the last day of your $1,500 listing vs. only 10% for your current listing.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: ed_avis on Mon, 17 June 2013, 10:19:59
Can you use the crystal to realign your orgone chakra energy fields?
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: Mandolin on Mon, 17 June 2013, 10:23:00
Mandolin, why do you keep changing the percentage that goes to charity each listing? For example, you changed the percentage to 100% on the last day of your $1,500 listing vs. only 10% for your current listing.

As the final day of the listing approaches, I put it up. It Started as a 40%, then 7X%, then 95% and a hundred at the end. You can't take it back as you'd now. No reason really, just a whim. I could sell it with no charity percentage whatsoever. But I always choose that reasearch center because I'm commited to that cause in particular.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: 1391406 on Mon, 17 June 2013, 10:36:39
Mandolin, why do you keep changing the percentage that goes to charity each listing? For example, you changed the percentage to 100% on the last day of your $1,500 listing vs. only 10% for your current listing.

As the final day of the listing approaches, I put it up. It Started as a 40%, then 7X%, then 95% and a hundred at the end. You can't take it back as you'd now. No reason really, just a whim. I could sell it with no charity percentage whatsoever. But I always choose that reasearch center because I'm commited to that cause in particular.

Of course you could sell it with no charity attached whatsoever, but it's easy to claim you're not trying to rip people off if an item is linked to a charity, per this interaction:

metafour: "I guess someone's desired end is to take people's money. And lots of it."

Mandolin: "If you'd see in detail the ebay link, you'd get its for a good cause."

http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=44308.0

It's a good face-saving strategy.

Initially bump up the sell price and maintain a low charity percentage, and if the item fails to sell, raise both the sell price and charity percentage (ultimately to 100% on the last day) so no one will accuse you of price gouging.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: keymaster on Mon, 17 June 2013, 10:39:08
Mandolin, why do you keep changing the percentage that goes to charity each listing? For example, you changed the percentage to 100% on the last day of your $1,500 listing vs. only 10% for your current listing.

As the final day of the listing approaches, I put it up. It Started as a 40%, then 7X%, then 95% and a hundred at the end. You can't take it back as you'd now. No reason really, just a whim. I could sell it with no charity percentage whatsoever. But I always choose that reasearch center because I'm commited to that cause in particular.

Of course you could sell it with no charity attached whatsoever, but it's easy to claim you're not trying to rip people off if an item is linked to a charity, per this interaction:

metafour: "I guess someone's desired end is to take people's money. And lots of it."

Mandolin: "If you'd see in detail the ebay link, you'd get its for a good cause."

http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=44308.0

It's a good face-saving strategy.

Initially bump up the sell price and maintain a low charity percentage, and if the item fails to sell, raise both the sell price and charity percentage (ultimately to 100% on the last day) so no one will accuse you of price gouging.

You're pretty much spot on. I doubt anyone will buy it at the price listed.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: Mandolin on Mon, 17 June 2013, 10:48:50
Mandolin, why do you keep changing the percentage that goes to charity each listing? For example, you changed the percentage to 100% on the last day of your $1,500 listing vs. only 10% for your current listing.

As the final day of the listing approaches, I put it up. It Started as a 40%, then 7X%, then 95% and a hundred at the end. You can't take it back as you'd now. No reason really, just a whim. I could sell it with no charity percentage whatsoever. But I always choose that reasearch center because I'm commited to that cause in particular.

Of course you could sell it with no charity attached whatsoever, but it's easy to claim you're not trying to rip people off if an item is linked to a charity, per this interaction:

metafour: "I guess someone's desired end is to take people's money. And lots of it."

Mandolin: "If you'd see in detail the ebay link, you'd get its for a good cause."

http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=44308.0

It's a good face-saving strategy.

Initially bump up the sell price and maintain a low charity percentage, and if the item fails to sell, raise both the sell price and charity percentage (ultimately to 100% on the last day) so no one will accuse you of price gouging.

BRING IT ON! I stepped it up. See how I rip off people with a 100% percent giveaway. 

You either have the money I ask or don't, it doesn't matter what do I do with it, be it charity or some new rolex. That's as far as the buyer need to worry about.

More
Maybe I'd relist it 0% charity given percentage some of this days, who knows.

That quote you put was in the context of the last sale, as percetages may vary, it WAS for a good cause back then when I posted it, it might not be in the future for the same reason. Context, context, context.

If somebody offers me a deal outside ebay I might take it.

Face saving what? I've got no reputation to maintain. I didn't even ask for the forum attention, you people keep posting links to my auctions.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: SpAmRaY on Mon, 17 June 2013, 11:05:46
So just for reference how does a buyer know if the proceeds actually go to charity?

I mean 100% of the proceeds of anything I ever sell goes to either the charity called, 'My wife and kids" and/or the charity called "ray's geekhack fund".
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: Mandolin on Mon, 17 June 2013, 11:06:58
So just for reference how does a buyer know if the proceeds actually go to charity?

I mean 100% of the proceeds of anything I ever sell goes to either the charity called, 'My wife and kids" and/or the charity called "ray's geekhack fund".

Must trust ebay paypal giving fund hahaha. It wouldn't have to matter to the buyer, the charity is a thing for the seller, the buyer ought to worry to get his item only and have the money to pay for it, because if he was worried about some ONG or something, he/she could deposit to that organization directly.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: Tym on Mon, 17 June 2013, 11:08:43
So just for reference how does a buyer know if the proceeds actually go to charity?

I mean 100% of the proceeds of anything I ever sell goes to either the charity called, 'My wife and kids" and/or the charity called "ray's geekhack fund".

If its on ebay, ebay takes 10% of the money before mandolin gets it, so he only gets 90% then -5% ebay fees then -5% paypal fees etc etc.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: SpAmRaY on Mon, 17 June 2013, 11:19:16
So just for reference how does a buyer know if the proceeds actually go to charity?

I mean 100% of the proceeds of anything I ever sell goes to either the charity called, 'My wife and kids" and/or the charity called "ray's geekhack fund".

Must trust ebay paypal giving fund hahaha. It wouldn't have to matter to the buyer, the charity is a thing for the seller, the buyer ought to worry to get his item only and have the money to pay for it, because if he was worried about some ONG or something, he/she could deposit to that organization directly.

The point I was trying to make is if I am selling something and say I've giving 50% to cancer research then someone might pay more for an item to support a cause. Regardless of what something is 'worth'.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: 1391406 on Mon, 17 June 2013, 11:30:09
BRING IT ON! I stepped it up. See how I rip off people with a 100% percent giveaway.

You changed the percentage from 10% to 100% only after my previous post pointing out your inconsistency. The change is listed in the item revision history.

You either have the money I ask or don't, it doesn't matter what do I do with it. That's as far as the buyer need to worry about. I can give it away, I can spend it in some crazy pet, but that's my thing.

Who suggested you can't do what you want with the money?

That quote you put was in the context of the last sale, as percetages may vary, it WAS for a good cause when I posted it, it might not be in the future for the same reason. Context, context, context.

I started that thread and followed it. I'm fully aware of the context. You were basically accused of ripping people off. You rejected the notion by saying that the listing was for a good cause.

Face saving what? I've got no reputation to maintain. I didn't even post the link of the auction to the forum btw.

You were attempting to defend the price, were you not?

Personally, I don't really care how much you list it for. If someone's willing to buy it for a million dollars, more power to them. I'd think they're stupid but that's beside the point. The point is you're not very consistent, in my opinion. The only time you seem to care about listing the keyboard for charity (or giving a high percentage to such) is when someone questions your motives or the value of the keyboard. For example, how you changed the charity percentage from 10% to 100% in the last hour. People don't generally trust someone who's not consistent, so if you don't care whether you're consistent or not, that's your prerogative.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: 1391406 on Mon, 17 June 2013, 11:36:07
The point I was trying to make is if I am selling something and say I've giving 50% to cancer research then someone might pay more for an item to support a cause. Regardless of what something is 'worth'.

If you originally list an item for $400 and give 10% to charity, then a week later raise the charity percentage to 70% but jack the price up to $1,500, you're still making over $400 on the item after charity proceeds. Hence, while it looks like you're giving the bulk of your funds to charity(which you are), you're actually making more than what you originally listed the item for. If the item doesn't sell, you can simply raise the charity percentage to 100% prior to ending the listing to make it appear you're an extremely benevolent soul.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: Mandolin on Mon, 17 June 2013, 11:39:37
If it doesn't sell, no charity from now on. That should resolve the issue, no benevolent soul here.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: 1391406 on Mon, 17 June 2013, 11:40:32
It it doesn't sell, no charity from now on. That should resolve the issue.

Good for you.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: jalaj on Mon, 17 June 2013, 11:45:22
There's a setting on eB@y to set your auction/BIN item to fund a charity of your choice, with prescreening if it isn't already on their master list. The proceeds should automatically go to the charity organization. That's what I'm assuming from their FAQ.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: SpAmRaY on Mon, 17 June 2013, 11:48:16
It it doesn't sell, no charity from now on. That should resolve the issue, no benevolent soul here.

I think we as geekhackers just don't want to see anyone getting ripped off....

Not saying that's what your doing or anything.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: Mandolin on Mon, 17 June 2013, 11:51:03
It it doesn't sell, no charity from now on. That should resolve the issue, no benevolent soul here.

I think we as geekhackers just don't want to see anyone getting ripped off....

Not saying that's what your doing or anything.

Heaven does not have a pricetag.
(http://i.qkme.me/35us4u.jpg)
(http://cdn.zmescience.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/quartz.jpg)
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: Dimswitch on Mon, 17 June 2013, 12:33:04
10/10. Probably the most elaborate troll I've ever seen.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: hoggy on Mon, 17 June 2013, 14:02:21
On an unrelated note, how can I add someone to the ignore list?
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: jwaz on Mon, 17 June 2013, 14:09:09
On an unrelated note, how can I add someone to the ignore list?

geekhack » Profile of hoggy » Buddies/Ignore List » Edit Buddies
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: hoggy on Mon, 17 June 2013, 14:22:00
That's much better!  Thanks!

PS - JZ, sorry for the off topic post. :)
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: berserkfan on Tue, 18 June 2013, 12:55:24
is this listing for real, or is it just a joke? $1000 for whatever bs crystals?
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: Mandolin on Tue, 18 June 2013, 13:48:22
is this listing for real, or is it just a joke? $1000 for whatever bs crystals?

Real my friend, real as it gets.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: berserkfan on Thu, 20 June 2013, 06:08:41
what makes these crystals so unique and special, is what I'd like to know. Being 'of good quality' doesn't cut it.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: alaricljs on Thu, 20 June 2013, 08:33:37
In terms of impact to the keyboard as a keyboard, nothing.

In terms of impact to the keyboard as a collectors item., nothing if you don't have issues of some sort.
Title: EPIC CRYSTAL IS EPIC
Post by: Mandolin on Thu, 20 June 2013, 10:28:19
what makes these crystals so unique and special, is what I'd like to know. Being 'of good quality' doesn't cut it.

Crystal by itself nothing, you could buy a KG of quartz at your local store.
This particular square, w/4 pins, uncanned 4mhz high resilience crystal in a model M, is pretty rare.

It gives you epic bragging rights
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: berserkfan on Thu, 20 June 2013, 10:31:34
haha! bragging rights! Yup, it takes a collector to appreciate these things!
Title: ERASE
Post by: Mandolin on Thu, 20 June 2013, 10:39:08
.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: 1391406 on Thu, 20 June 2013, 11:02:01
I consider myself a collector of sorts, but it'd take something other than a rare quartz crystal to make it a collectible for me.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: nubbinator on Thu, 20 June 2013, 11:55:55
Mandolin threads never cease to amuse me.  Looks like I need to bust out the popcorn.  When he first showed up, I noticed he was racing to try and hit the min for classifieds (http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=34990.msg875623#msg875623) so that he could sell stuff to the community and make a profit off of it.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: Mandolin on Fri, 21 June 2013, 13:31:24
Info added to the sale: Crystal made by TEW denpa co. ltd (Tokyo, japan), outer shell made of glass.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: dorkvader on Fri, 21 June 2013, 15:52:25
Info added to the sale: Crystal made by TEW denpa co. ltd (Tokyo, japan), outer shell made of glass.

Interesting! Where did you come by this information? I wonder if we can find out more, like the ppm specification.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: Mandolin on Fri, 21 June 2013, 21:03:46
Info added to the sale: Crystal made by TEW denpa co. ltd (Tokyo, japan), outer shell made of glass.

Interesting! Where did you come by this information? I wonder if we can find out more, like the ppm specification.

In the same crystal: Y1: 1351544 4.00MHz TEW5 43 A

TEW appeared after looking it up was as prominent company specializing in crystal oscillators from way back, as of today, hence the link.
The first number must be the model or manufacturer ID of some sort, but its not currently listed anywhere. I sent a inquiry to them to see if the could get me some more info and I'm waiting for the answer.
The outer glass shell is because at the time it was used, but I must confirm it still.

I recommend this series of videos to anyone wanting to get a quick review of crystal oscillators. He shows some vintage ones:

Finally, to sum up my sentiment:

When the rain came I thought you'd leave
Cause I knew how much you loved the Crystal
But you chose to stay, stay and keep me warm
Through the darkest nights Ive ever known
If the mandolin wind couldnt change a thing
Then I know I love ya

Oh the rubber domes fell without a break
Model M died in the frozen fields you know
Through the coldest winter in almost twenty five years
I couldnt believe you kept your shine
Now I can rest assured knowing that weve seen the worst
And I know I love ya

Oh I never was good with romantic words
So the next few lines come really hard
Don't have much but what Ive got is yours
Except of course my crystal
Ha, cause I know you don't play canned
But I'll teach you one day
Because I love ya

I recall the night we knelt and prayed
Noticing your caps were thin and pale
I found it hard to hide my tears
I felt ashamed I felt I'd let you down
No mandolin wind couldnt change a thing
Couldnt change a thing no, no

The coldest winter in almost fourteen years
Could never, never change your mind

And I love yer 4 Mhz
Yes indeed and I love your trans-lu-cen-cy
And I love yer Quartz
Lordy I love ya Crystal
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: Soarer on Fri, 21 June 2013, 21:54:33
Sigh. From my LED-less 1386719...

[attachimg=1]

IBM put their own part numbers on just about everything they could - from the CPU down to the smaller logic chips - probably anything big enough to print on. Most likely 1000s of crystals as well.  :p
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: E TwentyNine on Fri, 21 June 2013, 22:34:49
Great.  Now Mandolin has to add a 5th keyboard to his (re)listing.

I'm sure he'll do that right after he puts that 100% charity thing back in there.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: kmiller8 on Fri, 21 June 2013, 22:37:15
Oh snap, Soarer has a square crystal AND green PCB, I'll give you $2k for it right now.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: bazemk1979 on Fri, 21 June 2013, 22:48:18
That's a spirit OP keep em coming http://www.ebay.com/itm/Final-Fight-NIB-for-snes-mint-in-box-factory-sealed-/181160709332?pt=Video_Games_Games&hash=item2a2e050cd4#ht_449wt_1399

I think I'm going to wear my socks to work for 7 days straight and all day long, even go to sleep with them. after a week I'm going to post them on ebay as rare unwashed item, starting bid $99. Hope you bid on it Mandolin.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: Mandolin on Fri, 21 June 2013, 23:19:00
That's a spirit OP keep em coming http://www.ebay.com/itm/Final-Fight-NIB-for-snes-mint-in-box-factory-sealed-/181160709332?pt=Video_Games_Games&hash=item2a2e050cd4#ht_449wt_1399

I think I'm going to wear my socks to work for 7 days straight and all day long, even go to sleep with them. after a week I'm going to post them on ebay as rare unwashed item, starting bid $99. Hope you bid on it Mandolin.

Great stuff is coming in the future. I've got a panic restaurant and flintstones  surprise at dinosaur peak for nes if you're into games, I'm gonna post them to ebay next week. Keep an eye open for how much they go if you're interested in my sales. Actually, OP is "the beast"  ;), but thanks for the publicity.

Great.  Now Mandolin has to add a 5th keyboard to his (re)listing.

I'm sure he'll do that right after he puts that 100% charity thing back in there.

Added. Charity makes people go crazy. I'd never put it up again.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: 1391406 on Sat, 22 June 2013, 12:19:18
How can this be the rarest when there are 5 others (that we know about) like it?
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: BlueBär on Sat, 22 June 2013, 14:34:07
Mandolin, I don't see how you don't understand that what you expect to happen isn't going to happen. There are more keyboards like yours out there. It's just one different electronic part. There's not really that much to it. Where did you find it? In a electronics scrapeyards? I am going to quote you a few times now:
Where have you asked already?
In my country I went to the electronic scrapeyards, public institutions that may got them in warehouses, schools, house of electronic enthusiasts, university, etc, and found a couple, but almost anywhere I went had tons of them a year ago, or tossed them away the past month week. I recommend you to go places, talk to people, and do it while you can, as they're rare, but they are becoming rarer.
It is not even a brand new keyboard and even a brand new one will not reach such a price.

When you started here on GH you dug up old threads and spammed some newer ones. I think most of these posts have been deleted. As nubbinator said, it was becoming obvious that you wanted to reach your 60 post count. I posted as well in the "New user post limit" thread because I was getting annoyed by this too. You even had a link to one of your auctions in your signature.

So today I took my time and went through your posts, all of them. Pretty interesting. Here are some interesting posts (some parts underlined by me, but nothing shortened):
Whenever there is a ebay auction, koreans get to participate and buy them eventually in some cases.
Why is that?
I mean, spanish keyboards? german layouts? arabic layouts? what for.
Which vintage switches are the rarest and priced the highest or get crazy prices in ebay auctions?
Maybe some fellow korean collector will pay him that much. I think 500 usd is the market price for the one he has, it's not a deal of how fare it is, as in any collectors item, value depends on rarity and what collectors are willing to pay. Good for him though, I hope he sells it at that price.

You also advertised your own auction:
The seller of those blue alps must be awesome  :cool:
[...]
Just 6 hours to go  :confused:
And after the auction was over:
I'm the seller of the switches, and I just got a email from the winning bidder that didn't read well about the shipping and he pulled back, so the switches are still available.
[...]

Please consider not just coming to GH to sell things. People have called you out a few times now, and you have attracted negative attention here (1 (http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=43131.msg877843#msg877843) & 2 (http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=37647.msg875134#msg875134)) and also on Deskthority (http://deskthority.net/marketplace-f11/ibm-model-m-silver-label-138671-early-production-model-t5839.html). Don't you think it's time to change something? I bet your answer is simply "no".
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: nubbinator on Sat, 22 June 2013, 14:54:22
Thanks for that awesome post BlueBär.  I am getting tired of this endless self promotion, putting up his ebay sales in the great finds section, the worthless spamming and necroing he did to hit 60 posts, etc.  If there was some content actually being generated by him and he actually posted in the classifieds (like you're supposed to), that would be one thing, but just the attempt to use Geekhack as a cash cow is annoying.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: Thechemist on Sat, 22 June 2013, 14:59:25
It's time to just lock and delete all of Mandolin's threads of self promotion and ban him for breaking TOS multiple times. He hasn't positively contributed to the community and is only aggravating everyone with his self-promotion.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: Mandolin on Sat, 22 June 2013, 15:10:25
I don't advertise my sales here anymore, you keep posting them, in the great finds section last time were "the_beast" and  "1391406" who posted them. I just answered questions and post updates on them.

From now on I won't interact in them, that should fix the issue. Though, I'd continue to post things on ebay, just don't bring them up to avoid disturbances.

Cheers. :-*

pd: If I broke something in the TOS, ban me indefinitely. As I haven't, I dare you.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: neoezekiel on Sat, 22 June 2013, 15:15:27
That's a spirit OP keep em coming http://www.ebay.com/itm/Final-Fight-NIB-for-snes-mint-in-box-factory-sealed-/181160709332?pt=Video_Games_Games&hash=item2a2e050cd4#ht_449wt_1399

I think I'm going to wear my socks to work for 7 days straight and all day long, even go to sleep with them. after a week I'm going to post them on ebay as rare unwashed item, starting bid $99. Hope you bid on it Mandolin.

Great stuff is coming in the future. I've got a panic restaurant and flintstones  surprise at dinosaur peak for nes if you're into games, I'm gonna post them to ebay next week. Keep an eye open for how much they go if you're interested in my sales. Actually, OP is "the beast"  ;), but thanks for the publicity.

Great.  Now Mandolin has to add a 5th keyboard to his (re)listing.

I'm sure he'll do that right after he puts that 100% charity thing back in there.

Added. Charity makes people go crazy. I'd never put it up again.

You've got to be joking. You sold another of the exact same Item not even a week ago, for $76.44 with free shipping. You didn't even bother to put up new pictures.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Final-Fight-NIB-for-snes-mint-in-box-factory-sealed-/181156759710

WTF is wrong with you? Or are you just here to troll us?
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: berserkfan on Sat, 22 June 2013, 15:20:37
I'll go one up on it and say what I think, at risk of offending people (other than Mandolin, whose opinion I could care less about).

I think it it outright dishonest. He's basically got crap and is trying to make it sound like gold to fool people.

If I sourced 100 Model Ms from different junkyards, I would probably come up with a few custom-made for some industrial plant or unique corporate customer. They would have different keycaps, or maybe different connectors, or some kind of unique element. Originally there could have been 1000 such keyboards, but time has led to maybe 900 disappearing and another 99 in low profile locations (eg your grandpa's workshop or granduncle's garage). Then if I proclaimed the Model M as 'unique and specially made for the unique conditions in a certain factory that is long gone', I could also put it on auction for 1000$.

And worst of all, there would be suckers who bought it for $1000. Considering how many Americans believed in George Bush's WMD lies, that's a pretty big pool of gullible folks out there.

As a guy who has benefitted greatly from this forum because there are tons of enthusiasts here who can share their experiences and knowledge, it totally irks me that there are people who treat this forum as a way to promote their dubious auctions.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: neoezekiel on Sat, 22 June 2013, 16:32:33
I'll go one up on it and say what I think, at risk of offending people (other than Mandolin, whose opinion I could care less about).

I think it it outright dishonest. He's basically got crap and is trying to make it sound like gold to fool people.

If I sourced 100 Model Ms from different junkyards, I would probably come up with a few custom-made for some industrial plant or unique corporate customer. They would have different keycaps, or maybe different connectors, or some kind of unique element. Originally there could have been 1000 such keyboards, but time has led to maybe 900 disappearing and another 99 in low profile locations (eg your grandpa's workshop or granduncle's garage). Then if I proclaimed the Model M as 'unique and specially made for the unique conditions in a certain factory that is long gone', I could also put it on auction for 1000$.

And worst of all, there would be suckers who bought it for $1000. Considering how many Americans believed in George Bush's WMD lies, that's a pretty big pool of gullible folks out there.

As a guy who has benefitted greatly from this forum because there are tons of enthusiasts here who can share their experiences and knowledge, it totally irks me that there are people who treat this forum as a way to promote their dubious auctions.

This.
This is exactly what I was thinking, but could not verbalize.
GeekHack is a place for people to come together and share a passion.
It is not a place for *******s to try to rip people off.   :mad:
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: Mandolin on Sat, 22 June 2013, 16:35:24
Simple solution to everybody: as I don't advertise my sales anymore in the forum, don't bring them up/post them. I'd sell my stuff through ebay and won't discuss any sale from now on in the forum. More so if they are not related to keyboards.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: Dimswitch on Sat, 22 June 2013, 22:02:19
Guys: this isn't a ripoff scam - it's a troll attempt.

And so far Mandolin has been extremely successful with it.

Ignore it and it will go away. Keep posting about what an outrage it is, etc... Well, that's exactly what he wants from you.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: The_Beast on Sun, 23 June 2013, 03:54:41
(http://i.imgur.com/x7KKGcJ.jpg)


Looks like I found another one.... sad day Mandolin, that value of that "rare" keyboard keeps falling
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: berserkfan on Sun, 23 June 2013, 06:09:59
well done, Beast. BTW do you think (As you are the thread opener) you could stop posting anything related to Mandolin? It's just attracting our disgusted reactions and giving that guy free publicity.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: The_Beast on Sun, 23 June 2013, 06:12:31
well done, Beast. BTW do you think (As you are the thread opener) you could stop posting anything related to Mandolin? It's just attracting our disgusted reactions and giving that guy free publicity.


It's not mine. I was just google searching and found it..........


.....speaks a lot about the "rarity" of these boards (also sorry for bring attention to him even more, but I find it extremely funny)
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: Thechemist on Sun, 23 June 2013, 06:14:35
He is talking about this tread, maybe it would be better if you just lock it.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: berserkfan on Sun, 23 June 2013, 12:39:02
Hi the Beast and Chemist

I'd like to suggest (since you guys are moderators) that we create a 'joke' section. That way everyone knows that anything posted there is meant to be laughed at.

When you, a forum longtimer and moderator, posts an auction and makes semi-serious comments and follow up these comments with discussion, newbies may not be sure if you are being sarcastic or if you want to draw our attention to some kind of ultra rare great deal.

This isn't the first time I"ve seen ultra bad deals posted in the 'great finds' section. Great finds should be for us guys to discuss or buy.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: Halverson on Sun, 23 June 2013, 13:02:33
You guys like rare crystals of power?

http://item.mobileweb.ebay.co.uk/viewitem?itemId=290936219753
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: Tym on Sun, 23 June 2013, 13:03:29
You guys like rare crystals of power?

http://item.mobileweb.ebay.co.uk/viewitem?itemId=290936219753
Lul what?
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: Halverson on Sun, 23 June 2013, 13:05:34
You guys like rare crystals of power?

http://item.mobileweb.ebay.co.uk/viewitem?itemId=290936219753
Lul what?

Crystal porn
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: BlueBär on Sun, 23 June 2013, 13:15:36
You guys like rare crystals of power?

http://item.mobileweb.ebay.co.uk/viewitem?itemId=290936219753

Could I get autographed prints?
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: Parak on Sun, 23 June 2013, 13:35:05
You guys like rare crystals of power?

http://item.mobileweb.ebay.co.uk/viewitem?itemId=290936219753

No EXIF data in the JPG files = FAKE. This is clearly a scam to lure those expecting mint original JPGs directly from a camera, wake up sheeple!
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: berserkfan on Sun, 23 June 2013, 15:37:16
awesome! We really need a joke thread and we can keep finding those $1000 junk keyboards and have a laugh at them.
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: brialona on Sun, 23 June 2013, 16:05:07
mandolin seems like a ***
Title: Re: Super rare IBM Model M - Only 4 in exsistance!
Post by: tsangan on Sun, 23 June 2013, 16:23:11
Yeah, this has gone on long enough, this thread has gone from talking about the item to a 10 vs 1 thread, regardless if he's right or not he has the right to sell it for whatever he wants on eBay, that's why you always have to do your research before using eBay

For anyone to drop that amount of money on a keyboard I am sure that person would do enough research before purchasing.

Making a joke thread regarding high price items sure, but making a thread regarding a member because his items are priced high that's no go