old Kirby's going for big money

[vacmadman]

It looks like these old Kirby's are starting to go for big money. This 505-factory rebuilt model sold for over $400.00, not bad for a Kirby 505 with very few original parts. Even the wheel screws and power switch housing screws were replaced with Phillips screws. All trim and wheels were replaced as well. Interesting indeed.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/4036048084...cTqf5pV9Hw%3D&orig_cvip=true&nordt=true&rt=nc

 

[huskyvacs]

It's been happening for awhile. People have more money than brains and just want to buy buy buy and not care what they have or how much over value they are paying. Same people that put down $25,000 for a 30 year old car at a dealership I guess.

This Sanitronic went for $800 and it was built with parts from 3 different Kirbys, not even new. No mention if the motor was redone or anything, just shined it and changed some parts.

 

[tolivac]

When these older machines sell for the "designer","collector" prices I am NOT interested.This same nonesense has spoiled the lamp,radio,and fan collecting hobbiesRemember when these items USED to be able to be bought at REASONABLE prices?.And they used to be common at yard sales.

 

[luxz80]

Hi all,

I have noticed the same thing here also. People seem to just flex their spending muscles and pay stupid prices for vacs.

I only buy if really needed.

As for the Kirbys I would love to have one and get it shipped here but they just go for silly prices.

Saying that I have seen an older Kirby on here rebuilt in the tradition blue and it just seems to look so stylish.

I hope to find one someday.

 

[vacmadman]

Good and bad

The higher prices are good if you're looking to sell your Kirby's, but bad if you're trying to add these to your collection. I have an extra 510 and 505 with original parts I might put up for auction. I might even consider thinning out my collection.

side note: I had someone tell me on Facebook that the reason this sold for so much money was the fact that this is a 1945 pre belt lifter 505 witch he said was "far more desirable" then the 1946, and 1947 models with the belt lifter.

 

[rugsucker]

"--REASONABLE prices?"

What do you mean used to!?
I have 20 or so Kirbys I have begged collectors to get at $40-$100!A 505 for parts(if I still have)& probably every model after 505 up to Omega.Most with genuine bags & original cords.Most traded in years ago with low mileage.
Also big boxes,hoses,attachments,polishers,handy butlers,waxer,shampooer from Sanitronic & up & more.
These need new homes or can be part of your next Pepsi can.I no longer care.
Jimmy
423-268-4841

 

[KirbyCollector01]

Vacmadman

That would be me.

And I can add to how many expensive Kirby’s I’ve sold and bought. My C series machines. One was expensive, and the others were a steal. I used to have an all factory original 508. But needed the money. I managed to get a good amount for that. As well as a 514, 510, 509 and 505. Had a hard time letting them go, but made bank. So that made up for it:

 

[bnsd60m9200]

this is a biased and unfair litmus test of the actual market. i look for vintage vacuums several times a day and there are vintage kirbys in the 500-heritage series i OFTEN see for $25 or less for sale on FB marketplace. sometimes 50-100 with all the attachments. you cannot GIVE used kirby's away 90% of the time. facebook marketplace has replaced ebay for sane selling prices or vintage vacuums in general.

ebay has turned into a price gouging online antique mall. restored machines are usually listed high, but often do not sell, and the people who do buy them are too scared to plug them in and vacuum thier carpet with them.

 

[vacmadman]

Facebook marketplace

9 times out of 10 when I go to Facebook marketplace and put in vintage Kirby all I see are older G series Kirby's which I have no interest in. I have only purchased one 500 series Kirby there.

 

[huskyvacs]

I noticed more intense bidding and buying on Kirbys that are of the following;

1. early 500 series
2. DS80
3. Tradition
4. Avalir 2
5. Generation 3
6. Sentria 2

It seems like every time they come up they sell fast and if it's an auction there's fights into the triple digits. The Tradition sells for over $100 on a nearly constant basis. Most of the rest of the G series is passed over by collectors. The poor Classic 1-CR/Omega is just totally brushed off.

I was lucky enough to get my G3, Tradition, Avalir and Sentria 2 as a stripped motor unit for less than $50 a pop to get around those high selling prices, and can build them up again over time when I can find the parts cheaply.

 

[gottahaveahoove]

I'd LOVE to sell my Kirby Tradition

and it's cousin Heritage with the blue tools!!!

 

[huskyvacs]

[No message]

 

[rugsucker]

Tradition

One of the few post Sanitronics that I have is a NICE early Tradition with working headlight LO switch,big box,attachments,manual,dated bill of sale,etc.Would be priced more than most here but less than 'EBay price' for similar.

 

[kirbyclassiciii]

huskyvacs

A lot of that is due to them being better quality machines than what came after them.

~Ben

 

[gottahaveahoove]

I'd gladly sell

both mine, + the tools.

 

[luxz80]

FB marketplace is fine but 9/10 times it is collection only. I doubt someone in Fla will drive to NC for a vac. They might but I doubt it, Nor would anyone drive from Ohio to Washington state.

Ebay is high but most cases a delivery option is offered. Listings here as well as there don't sell well if postage is not offered. You would have to get a buyer that either does not mind driving to you or someone who lives in the next town over.

 

[vacmadman]

sold

Not too bad!

https://www.ebay.com/itm/284795883813

 

[rivstg1]

nice $ for that! conrats

 

[vacmadman]

sold

Again, not to bad for a 512.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/284817257563?ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT&_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649