ahh...good old topps...part two

I suppose that Topps has created quite the ruckus with Gypsy Queen. After reading and responding to the comments yesterday, I am definitely glad to know that people have opinions on this whole matter, even if they disagree with me. Ryan G made a very good point about Upper Deck doing this with their 1989 release. In that example, I see that as good business. Here is why. Back in 1989 there were four companies (Donruss, Fleer, Score and Topps) making cards. Then Upper Deck joins the fray and blows away the competition with their 1989 set, which is still probably one of the most important sets released in the past 30 years. Thing is though there was actual competition back then. The pie was bigger but broken up into five parts. Here in 2011, Topps doesn't have that issue. The pie is all theirs. THAT'S why I am a little upset by their actions. They don't need to add hype to their products because they still sell and will continue to regardless. No one is taking away Topps' pie yet and I really don't think they need to worry about it. You know what though? Ryan also made another good point, in that maybe Topps wants to fix the whole autograph ordeal. If that's the case, then it is for the better but the early adopters will have to have their wallets suffer a little.

This hasn't sullied my experience as a collector, nor does it make me want the set any less. I don't plan on collecting the full set, nor did I ever. I don't usually piece together any sets aside from the basic Topps series 1 and 2, unless it really captures my interest. I will buy some GQ when I can and would love to go out and find some right now. I just don't want to overpay for some right now. I'll just have to wait and see.

Another topic that was brought up in the comments was about Triple Threads. I associate Triple Threads and Tribute pretty closely. Both are way to expensive for what you get in return and both don't usually justify the cost of the box. Good example; my local shop busted a box of Tribute. They are selling at an average of almost $400 online. I didn't ask what he paid, nor would he tell me (nor would I expect him to). His best hit of the box was an Ernie Banks auto/dual bat relic. A really awesome card. What can he sell it for though? $200, At most? I have no idea what justifies this product as being how much it is. As a retailer, I would be upset and never open any of it to resell because I'd never get my return. Just sell the boxes out at $350 or whatever and let the customers deal with what they get. I hear Triple Threads is even worse in this department.

Overall, I'm not trying to step on anyone's toes or try and get people to be mad with me and go storm the Topps building or anything. I, as a collector and a consumer, just feel that we shouldn't have to overpay for our cards and I won't. I can't. Obviously the rest of you have your own ideals and views and if you want to go out and find some Gypsy Queen, I wish you the best in your purchases and would still love to see what you all get but I will be sitting the bench on this set for the time being.