Vintage Very Rare Kenmore Bugeye on ebay

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Welcome to Vacuumland, Ed, and thanks for posting. I appreciate that you included not only a link but also a photo that can be referenced when the listing expires. It's frustrating to peruse old threads with links that are broken.

Enjoy your Kirby collecting.
 
Thanks Ronni and electrolux137. I guess I am hooked now, after a finding a terrific kirby Model C on craigslist.

So the question I guess, Why is the vacuum really that rare?

Ed
 
It's only 'rare' because it's old and was the most expensive model (top of the line) at the time it was new. I have managed to find three, one in perfect condition, over the years. Many collectors think they are so desirable because of the unusual headlights. As a vacuum cleaner, the Kenmore was just "ok" - not nearly as good as a Hoover from the same time period, or even an Air-Way Chief.
 
I'm Alex not Caligula.

Hi poman31:

Caligula was a cat, in fact he was the only mascot the V.C.C.C. ever had. The name means 'Little Boots' in Latin denoting the gold marking on his paws.

Here he is.

caligula++10-22-2016-12-20-35.jpg
 
I have to admit it's a pretty cool design, very much an artifact of its era. I've never seen one of these machines before, much less considered owning one, but I can definitely see how its rarity and unique design would put it squarely in the 'collectible' column, regardless of how it performs.
 
The Bugeye...

I have personally seen with my own eyes and hands this very machine.. it runs (have used it several times)..flawlessly with that beautiful Birtman sound that one would know if they were aware of their products. The fact that the manual is there is such a wonderfully added treat. While I am very loathe of people using the word rare for anything other than a steak... This is an incredibly nice example and a very uncommon, and seldom seen or found unit. How many have any of you seen in person?. It shocks me how many surface suddenly when one is visibly up for grabs...also... While may not be one of the best vacuums ever made, it certainly one of the most admired examples of art deco design...and clearly any example sells for far more than most other cleaners of the time. Whoever gets this will be beyond happy with. Of course this personal guarantee comes from someone who was selling a Golden Anniversary Convertible of questionable lineage...so. Congratulations to the new owner!! You will be so very pleased! Chad
 
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Chad, my thoughts exactly. For me, there are more merits (or demerits!) to be considered as to the desirability of vintage appliances than just performance. In fact, given that no one should use rare old machines as "daily drivers," performance is in fact a secondary consideration. The design aspect is, to me, even more important.


 


There are a few vacuum cleaners that due to their exquisite design and aesthetics, exist in a realm of their own -- the Kenmore Imperial, the Singer R series, the Hoover 925, 150 & Constellation, the Electrolux XXX and the Kenmore Commander just to name a few.


 


Then there are machines so bizarre and seemingly otherworldly that they are noteworthy on that count alone -- the Haley's Comet immediately comes to mind.
 
This one is in remarkable condition

If you like that sort of thing.
I appreciate its design, and support those who 'fancy' them, although, not for me.
Yes, the newer members are unaware of some of the dramas in here. However,m I've no doubts that more will spring up.
, sadly.
Yes, over in Supermarket is where you'll find that reading....save it for some snowy night by the fire, lol.
I applaud all of the members who contribute info, insight, etc. on various vacs, and share info, photos, etc. It's very 'heartening' to see. I feel it far outweighs all of the other nasty, backbiting, stuff. Of course, there are a lot of personalities in here: sometimes more than one in one person, I guess. But.........
enjoy ALL of the REST of it. All aboard for the "high road"........
 

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