QUALITY LASTS

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We are in the age of "Throwaway Electronics". Surface mount technology, cheap labor during manufacturing, and expensive labor when it comes to repairs makes it easy to justify throwing the broken item away, and buying a new one, because "It's cheaper". After all, who would want to spend up to twice the purchase price for a repair??

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I recall when electronics made in Japan were considered cheap and unreliable, yet today, you almost drop to your knee's in a prayer of thanks when you find out your electronics item comes from Japan (China is where Japan was 45 years ago, as far as quality control).

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A quality transceiver will not only give you many years of enjoyment, but it will continue to retain a fair amount of value should you want to sell it. For example, Yaesu's FT-101 series, which was born in the very early 70's has held a consistent value for decades. In the mid- 1980's I bought my first 101 (used, of course), for about $350. A lightning strike killed that one, but I really liked the 101 so around 1989 I bought another one for about the same price. The 1990's were no different - a Fox Tango 101 was still in the $300-$400 range.

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And then came the turn of the century, and in the year 2005, they still remain consistent with the price range of the '90's, and 80's.

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The same thing goes for CB Radios made in the 70's, like the President line, Uniden, Cobra, Robyn, Rat Shack, etc. If you watch the EBAY auctions you'll see that these rigs, from that era of quality still bring in a hefty price, but as you get into the late 80's and 1990's, much of what was manufactured then is taking a nose dive.

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I wouldn't be surprised if FT-101's are still in the $300-$400 range ten years from now.....

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'Nuff Said

Woody