My first machine - Round 2

[Addiction]

Gang,

As some of you probably know I started a thread yesterday when I was considering a Vendo 144.  At the end of the day it was too big and simply didn’t fit my desires.  Based on the excellent advice you guys gave me I’ve since redirected to a Vendo 110 that was really exactly the kind of machine I was looking for.  It looks like I can have about 10 selections easy, I can also vend 12 oz bottles and such.

Now I have three of these on my radar.  My initial plan was that I would spend about $500 on acquisition and as much as $2,500 later, over time.  And that I’d send the machine out for most of the work and from then on be responsible for an occasional repair as well as cleaning.  I have 3 candidates.  One is a refinished machine that was recommended by one of you who’s seen it.  It has been refinished and works.  There is a second one that works, but needs paint.  There is a third one that might work but only has one rack.

My current leaning is to go after the one that works but I need to get a better handle on the situation first.  So some questions:

- What should I realistically be looking to pay for a Vendo 110 in reasonable condition (no rust, cools, keys, etc)?
- What should I be looking to pay for one in average condition?
- What does it typically take in cost and hours (to a professional, not by a noob like me) to recondition one that’s not too bad off?  I know this is a tough question to generalize on but right now I have no idea if my expectations need to be adjusted.

I’ve seen this vintage cooler that’s actually a new machine, sells for between $600 and $800 and I’m having a tough time defending my decision to the boss (i.e. wife) in not simply getting the vintage remake.

Thanks in advance for your thoughts on this.

[MCarter]

I have a 110 Vendo that a friend of mine is has  for sale.  I think  Seven11 wanted the other machines in this lot sale off. The total was 1100 bucks for all three which in turn would equal around 370 bucks a piece. Let me know if you guys are interested. I can help on shipping.

[Addiction]

I am VERY interested.  IS it in good shape or does it need work?  Is it in working order?  I dont need a perfect machine, but I'd be much happer with one that works.

[Addiction]

Bryan

I thought, heck I still think, I’m only going to own one machine.  I simply don’t have the space for more and I don’t have to the mechanical wherewithal to really get serious enjoyment out of more than one.  However I saw the awesome candy machine with the pull knobs in one of the other sections of the site and I think I’m in love.  And I have spent about 6 hours a day over the last 2 weeks looking at this stuff.  Hmmmm……..

[MCarter]

I know it needs a coin door and mech. Can not tell you anymore about it. I know Seven181 had interest in the other two machines she had for sale. Let me know

[Addiction]

Actually I might be able to do without that since I won't use them in any case but I'm unsure really.  Is there someone I can contact to see pictures and and ask about the state of the machine in general?  Does anyone have an idea what you should pay for a working vendo 110?

[davethebirdman]

First of all welcome to the site.

Secondly don't ever think that you are only going to own one machine. I have been here two and half years and seen people come and go with the idea that they were only ever going to have one machine. A couple of them adamant. They now have at least three.

I was only ever going to have one machine. I've had four. Its all the bits that go with it too. The Candy Machine you highlighted. Before you know it you are going to convince yourself that its a "must have" item. My advice to you is.... give in. Grab what you can and enjoy.

As for new over old. There is no contest. Its not just the machine its the history. Every time I pop a bottle from one of my machines I think about who would have put there money in and got one 40 even 50 years ago and what they are doing now. You can't beat it.

The only thing that holds me back is availability (in its own sweet way a bit of a blessing).Go for a 110 or even a 56 or 81. If you are sure that you only want one (ha ha) get the best you can for your money. A good original that will be admired in its own right. It might have a few scrapes but will still look good in your room. You can then think about restoration.

I would lay money on the fact that you won't bother doing it up because before you know it you will have pumped your money into another machine.

Welcome aboard....

Dave

[FDNY1975]

I believe on of the machines you were looking at on ebay # 230121974100 belongs to a SMC member tomfromjersey. His number is in the listing try to get in contact with him looks like a nice clean machine.                                  Best of Luck, Matt

[SIGNGUY]

The one that Tom from Jersey has looks like a perfect candidate for you Addiction... restored, working, looks awesome and buying from a reputable member of this site! and priced right!!! You'd have 800-1000 in paint alone if you bought one that needed it!
It's a tough decision but fun... OH yeah I laughed out loud when you where talking about the Candy Machine, and how cool they are... You've now OFFICIALLY become ADDICTED!!! '>  Those are Stoner Candy Machines and they look great next to your Coke Machine. Welcome Aboard! '>

[Addiction]

I've been in touch with Tom from Jersey and I'm hoping I can work something out with him.  Thats the machine I really want.  I'm just worried because there are a couple of other machines one of which looks like its been sandblasted (but only half way) for $2000.  Those numbers are scaring the crap out of me frankly.

And I've already begun to think of getting a second 110 for the pool room, sigh.  Thankfully it doesnt count till I actually have 1!