(Close Window) Topic: Lassen/Schollcraft?
Message: Posted by: Christopher Williams (Apr 12, 2012 7:49am)
Hi guys,

I have sent both of these guys an email on the weekend, no sniff of a reply yet, how long do they usually take to reply?

Also, does anyone recommend any other gaff coin makers? Don't just want a list of them, but actually looking for a reputable dealer, good communication, good customer service, amazing craftsmanship and well recommended?

Thanks
Message: Posted by: Trooper11040 (Apr 12, 2012 10:40am)
The best way to contact Mr Todd Lassen is to call him...he is very friendly, and will answer all your questions quicker...he always says on his blog, that email is the worst way to get in touch with him...just call..he won't bite!
Message: Posted by: Trooper11040 (Apr 12, 2012 10:41am)
Oh and I've bad both schoolcraft and Lassen....I love my Lassen gaffs much more!
Message: Posted by: J-Mac (Apr 12, 2012 12:42pm)
Both are pretty much one-man operations and can take some time to reply. That said, I have gotten a response from Todd via email and it took about one week.

Jim
Message: Posted by: David Neighbors (Apr 12, 2012 12:56pm)
As has Been Said Call him! In the time It takes to do one E-Mail He can have 2-3 Gaffs Made! :)

I was Up at his Place 2 days Ago, And he was hard at Work! :)
Message: Posted by: bowers (Apr 12, 2012 9:04pm)
I have lassen coins also.his work is top knotch for sure.
but another choice for sure is roy kueppers.i have several
of his coins also.and his work is superb too.
todd
Message: Posted by: itlust (Apr 12, 2012 9:50pm)
Usually schoolcraft will answer ur email pretty fast (1-2 days)
lassen,will take a long time to answer your email ... I want to call him but because I live ouside US, its pretty impossible

Roy kueppers and xavier belmont work is top knotch too! and they will answer your email faster than the two mentioned above.
Message: Posted by: Chessmann (Apr 12, 2012 10:22pm)
For me, Lassen is the best of the craftsmen (I've owned from all standard names but Xavier, so I cannot comment on him).

I called him, left a message, and he called me back - even though I didn't ask him to call.

Lassen has a "cool Otis blog" (not sure what that means!). Just go to his site and he often lists things he is currently working on. When people see something they like they comment on that particular post (though I would call or email, as well, especially if you are not one of his regular customers).

My viewpoint is this: next year, will I care more that I got exactly what I wanted? Or will I care more that it took longer than I personally desired to get it?
Message: Posted by: BanzaiMagic (Apr 12, 2012 11:21pm)
Keep in mind that each craftsman has their own inventions/specialties. IMO no one else can match Todd Lassen in his 3t, Cerberus, Lassen reel, UWC, China bit, TWIAD, Morgan gravity flipper and the beautiful copper and brass coins he now mints himself. No one else currently makes Tango's superlative Morgan TUC. I can't yet speak of Xavier Belmont's Ambivalence (waiting patiently), but I have heard it is revolutionary. Roy Kueppers is getting a very positive (IMO well deserved) reputation for his split coin work. If you want any of these treasures, you will need to be patient and develop a relationship with them. It certainly doesn't hurt to do that anyway and I recommend doing it with all of them.

If all you want is a real silver ] or Exp] HH set or CSB there are several good reliable suppliers (Mark Mason, Roy Kueppers come to mind). I used to include Johnson pro line of real silver in the reliable list and I have a few coins from them that are well made, but I have heard some questions about their customer service lately.

Alan
Message: Posted by: Trooper11040 (Apr 13, 2012 12:33am)
Quote:

On 2012-04-12 23:21, BanzaiMagic wrote:
Keep in mind that each craftsman has their own inventions/specialties. IMO no one else can match Todd Lassen in his 3t, Cerberus, Lassen reel, UWC, China bit, TWIAD, Morgan gravity flipper and the beautiful copper and brass coins he now mints himself.


His gaff coins are top notch...my 3T should be here anyway this week!!
Message: Posted by: David Neighbors (Apr 13, 2012 2:28am)
Yea Just got A Morgan Locking half from Todd to match my Morgan 3T. ( both KILLER!!! ) I will be using both Of the Tapes !
Message: Posted by: cablerock (Apr 13, 2012 4:39am)
Between the 2 I prefer Lassen. Personally I feel the quality is a bit higher. Remilling is better, shells deeper, from my limited experience.

Calling him is a good idea. He was great to talk to and I can't recommend him enough.
Message: Posted by: Dollarbill (Apr 13, 2012 11:51am)
I'll follow suit. Todds work seems to be exceptional. I've never seen anyone elses work and am not sure I need to. Waiting for a quarter shell. I can't wait!
Message: Posted by: Christopher Williams (Apr 13, 2012 12:21pm)
The China Bit, is that the same thing as Chinese bit by Eddie Gibson but in Dollar size?
Message: Posted by: xav5000 (Apr 13, 2012 12:46pm)
Todd Lassen and Xavier Belmont are the best of the best
Schoolcraft is also good
I'm not a big fan of Kueppers.
I had a 2 euros shell and I was desappointed
Message: Posted by: Denis Bastible (Apr 13, 2012 6:01pm)
Hasn't this question been beaten to death in innumerable other threads??
Message: Posted by: Trooper11040 (Apr 13, 2012 6:17pm)
Got my Lassen TT today...GREAT piece!
Message: Posted by: polygonsmagic (Apr 14, 2012 1:25pm)
"Hasn't this question been beaten to death in innumerable other threads??"

Well, maybe, but I will say that this was a politically charged issue for many years. And during those years, the media was manipulated beyond belief here at the Café. If it wasn't for that, I sincerely believe that the two names would have never ended up in the same sentence together.. anywhere. Period.
Message: Posted by: Chessmann (Apr 14, 2012 1:30pm)
Quote:

On 2012-04-13 12:21, Christopher Williams wrote:
The China Bit, is that the same thing as Chinese bit by Eddie Gibson but in Dollar size?


The gaff is the same, but I don't know about accompanying coins. Eddie Gibson's was a 3-coin CSB, and I *think* Todd's is simply a CS variant.
Message: Posted by: Chessmann (Apr 14, 2012 1:31pm)
Quote:

On 2012-04-13 18:01, Denis Bastible wrote:
Hasn't this question been beaten to death in innumerable other threads??


In a word...*yes* :P
Message: Posted by: Mb217 (Apr 14, 2012 5:27pm)
Interesting comments.

Always wondering about what makes these guys so good. I've seen all of their works and all of it is good to me. I guess some of their things might be done a bit better than the others but does it really make that much of a difference? I guess it does with the way the comparisons are made. Never hear Tango put in the mix much but his TUC has probably outsold all the best stuff by all the rest here and is greatly admired I've seen. Definitely something that these others might've said, "Sure wish I had come up with that one." :D But why not any recognition from these guys of when their competition does really well on something? I mean Schoolcraft has done some wonderful work, of course Lassen's stuff is great and he has no problem telling you just that most times. :D Kueppers hits the mark a lot and X Belmont has a nice package of coins that really whets the coin man's palate. He won me over for just offering soft coins if you wanted them. Not many craftsman do that. And I still say that Johnson Coins are pretty good most times, maybe not custom level but definitely good enough IMHO and always at an affordable price. Heck, that's gotta count for something, especially in these tough economic times. :) It would be a good story for someone to write on this guys, covering their best works, what's good about each one and or what's not. To me, good communication is important. I don't mind the quirkiness of such supposed artisans but at least be courteous and provide good customer service, and save all that "Let 'em eat cake" nonsense at times. People shouldn't have to tippy-toe around these guys when spending hundreds of dollars for their works and or making any such excuses for their insensibilities when they roar. Again, I think they all do great work that I have seen. Probably best to buy from the guy that gives you what you want the way you want it, and makes you feel best about spending your money with them. Interesting.
Message: Posted by: Tony Thomas (Apr 14, 2012 10:25pm)
Is Schoolcrafts sets unique to him, OXF, 3CM, 3CF?
Message: Posted by: inigmntoya (Apr 14, 2012 10:56pm)
Quote:

On 2012-04-14 22:25, Tony Thomas wrote:
Is Schoolcrafts sets unique to him, OXF, 3CM, 3CF?


Oh boy... here we go.... :pop:
:)

Tony: PM sent with background info
Message: Posted by: Trooper11040 (Apr 14, 2012 11:05pm)
Quote:

On 2012-04-14 22:56, inigmntoya wrote:
Quote:

On 2012-04-14 22:25, Tony Thomas wrote:
Is Schoolcrafts sets unique to him, OXF, 3CM, 3CF?


Oh boy... here we go.... :pop:
:)

Tony: PM sent with background info


Haha I was thinking the same thing but didn't want to respond!
Message: Posted by: J-Mac (Apr 14, 2012 11:24pm)
Yikes! OK, I'm outta here! --------------------->

Jim
Message: Posted by: Tony Thomas (Apr 14, 2012 11:45pm)
Thanks for the info. Didn't mean to start anything. Just wasnt sure if I could buy the Oxf equivalent from Lassen. Both web sites tell you so little ab the details of their products, it makes it hard to know if you are comparing apples to apples.
Message: Posted by: Trooper11040 (Apr 14, 2012 11:46pm)
Lassen calls it as a joke, the OtisFX...I have one...it's awesome
Message: Posted by: pabloinus (Apr 15, 2012 8:20am)
My experience with both is that I was never able to talk or receive an email from Lassen. This happened several years ago and never tried again, I called once to Schoolcraft on a barber shell and he answered the call and I was able to buy it from him.
I did buy second hand an African dime shell and an African dime locking slippery sam shell from Lassen, I do like the shell and still have it but did not like the SS and sold it.
From the other 3 manufacturers, I only bought second hand Kueppers coins and they are ok, I contacted Tango by phone and email and I always got a pleasant reply from him, and bought several of his coins and I am very happy with all of them. And finally I contacted Johnson by phone and email and like Tango I always got a reply with the right information, I have several Johnsons coins as well and very happy with them
Message: Posted by: Chessmann (Apr 15, 2012 7:48pm)
Marion -

The OP's question was re: Lassen and Schoolcraft. The other gaffers seem to get plenty of love on other threads (surely you've seen the massive TUC topic).

Lassen, for example, makes a number of things not readily available elsewhere, or things that are available, but not in in silver dollars. I love his copper crowns, as well. I also like very much how the precision of much of his work allows me the flexibility to show the coins in ways I am not able to do with other's work.

On another note, I have never had to tiptoe around Lassen or Kueppers. Quite the contrary.
Message: Posted by: BanzaiMagic (Apr 15, 2012 7:57pm)
Quote:

On 2012-04-13 12:21, Christopher Williams wrote:
The China Bit, is that the same thing as Chinese bit by Eddie Gibson but in Dollar size?


China Bit is originally from the Tommy Wonder socked coins routine. If you want to see a China Bit used masterfully check out this video:

http://www.antena3.com/videos-online/programas/el-hormiguero/intercambiamos-monedas_2012013100146.html
Message: Posted by: Mb217 (Apr 15, 2012 8:02pm)
Chess, I was just giving my thoughts on all this, not really pointing at anyone. Perhaps you haven't had issues with them but I'm sure you have also read where people have spoken to that same "contrary" you speak of. Just think people should be nice moreso than not as to buyers and sellers. Oh and I brought up other craftsmen here because I think they are relative to the discussion. No disrespect meant to anyone as to any of it.
Message: Posted by: Bendy (Apr 16, 2012 12:52am)
Jamie has been at Magic-Con all weekend and there was travel and setup time prior to that. I know he made me a set a couple of years ago and contact with him and the work to be done revolved around his presentation schedule at a convention that was going on at the time. It was no big deal and he fully communicated that to me.
I'm guessing you'll hear from him shortly after he returns from the convention and has time to sort through his e-mails. I have a couple of friends with Lassen products. Though they're nice coins, I personally find Jamie's work/products superior to Lassen's. ...But that's just my personal viewpoint. Others will tell you the opposite. Personal choice. But it's a one-man operation and Jamie is currently out of his workshop on business. Please be patient while he returns and gets back to business. The result - in service and workmanship - will be worth the wait. :o)
Message: Posted by: itlust (Apr 16, 2012 3:08am)
Dunno why but I smell blood here ... (if you know what I mean ...)
Message: Posted by: Christopher Williams (Apr 16, 2012 8:54am)
Quote:

On 2012-04-15 19:57, BanzaiMagic wrote:
Quote:

On 2012-04-13 12:21, Christopher Williams wrote:
The China Bit, is that the same thing as Chinese bit by Eddie Gibson but in Dollar size?


China Bit is originally from the Tommy Wonder socked coins routine. If you want to see a China Bit used masterfully check out this video:

http://www.antena3.com/videos-online/programas/el-hormiguero/intercambiamos-monedas_2012013100146.html


Wow! Like that a lot :)

I have had contact with a coin maker mentioned in this thread who said he has a set of what I want but is also at a convention (Not Schoolcraft) so I will be getting that.

I have had both Lassen and Schoolcraft coins, I think both are work of arts, but I think Lassen just edges it for me. I know they are busy guys etc, just think they could either find half hour out of their day or get someone else to reply to emails and queries for them to maintain customer service, but I guess that comes from me being in Sales business for years. I'll probably get a little bashing for that, but it is only my opinion, even just an automatic reply set up saying it can take up to a week to reply would help
Message: Posted by: Chessmann (Apr 16, 2012 10:20am)
:) Christopher, you're not saying anything that has not been already been said. And really, you're right - it would be nice for communication to be better. But everyone decides to run their life and business how they see fit.
Message: Posted by: BanzaiMagic (Apr 16, 2012 10:26am)
Quote:

On 2012-04-16 08:54, Christopher Williams wrote:
Quote:

On 2012-04-15 19:57, BanzaiMagic wrote:
Quote:

On 2012-04-13 12:21, Christopher Williams wrote:
The China Bit, is that the same thing as Chinese bit by Eddie Gibson but in Dollar size?


China Bit is originally from the Tommy Wonder socked coins routine. If you want to see a China Bit used masterfully check out this video:

http://www.antena3.com/videos-online/programas/el-hormiguero/intercambiamos-monedas_2012013100146.html


Wow! Like that a lot :)

I have had contact with a coin maker mentioned in this thread who said he has a set of what I want but is also at a convention (Not Schoolcraft) so I will be getting that.

I have had both Lassen and Schoolcraft coins, I think both are work of arts, but I think Lassen just edges it for me. I know they are busy guys etc, just think they could either find half hour out of their day or get someone else to reply to emails and queries for them to maintain customer service, but I guess that comes from me being in Sales business for years. I'll probably get a little bashing for that, but it is only my opinion, even just an automatic reply set up saying it can take up to a week to reply would help


Perhaps you might want to read this thread where the business practices of our gaff makers are discussed: http://www.themagiccafe.com/forums/viewtopic.php?topic=417308&forum=202&start=90

Please remember, with all of the custom coin makers, they are artists and craftsmen first. Business is secondary.

Alan
Message: Posted by: Mb217 (Apr 16, 2012 11:45am)
Quote:

On 2012-04-16 08:54, Christopher Williams wrote:

...I have had both Lassen and Schoolcraft coins, I think both are work of arts, but I think Lassen just edges it for me. I know they are busy guys etc, just think they could either find half hour out of their day or get someone else to reply to emails and queries for them to maintain customer service, but I guess that comes from me being in Sales business for years. I'll probably get a little bashing for that, but it is only my opinion, even just an automatic reply set up saying it can take up to a week to reply would help


Yep, that's about how I see it as well...It truly doesn't seem like brain surgery IMHO. I mean "Cool Otis" is a pretty nice website truth be told, a little better communication and resposiveness should'nt be so hard, ya'think? :D But behind the demand for the work, such slack is allowed from these sellers and that's about how it has become an accepted standard around here as to the business part of this business. This is unique in that sketchy customer service usually doesn't continue to make you good money for long, or it least it shouldn't if it continues, becomes regular practice. If collectively people didn't stand for it so readily then it would change, usually for the better as the seller begins to feel the message in his pocketbook, artist or not. ;) Basically, you usually get what your hand calls for and in general if you keep doing what you always did, you'll keep getting what you always got, or somethin' like that. I'm just sayin'. :)
Message: Posted by: pabloinus (Apr 16, 2012 12:40pm)
Banzai, business is never secondary, unless they have another source of income and making coins is a hobby. Not sure on been Artists, for sure they are great machinist/craftsmen.
Message: Posted by: Christopher Williams (Apr 16, 2012 1:20pm)
Quote:

On 2012-04-16 11:45, Mb217 wrote:
Quote:

On 2012-04-16 08:54, Christopher Williams wrote:

...I have had both Lassen and Schoolcraft coins, I think both are work of arts, but I think Lassen just edges it for me. I know they are busy guys etc, just think they could either find half hour out of their day or get someone else to reply to emails and queries for them to maintain customer service, but I guess that comes from me being in Sales business for years. I'll probably get a little bashing for that, but it is only my opinion, even just an automatic reply set up saying it can take up to a week to reply would help


Yep, that's about how I see it as well...It truly doesn't seem like brain surgery IMHO. I mean "Cool Otis" is a pretty nice website truth be told, a little better communication and resposiveness should'nt be so hard, ya'think? :D But behind the demand for the work, such slack is allowed from these sellers and that's about how it has become an accepted standard around here as to the business part of this business. This is unique in that sketchy customer service usually doesn't continue to make you good money for long, or it least it shouldn't if it continues, becomes regular practice. If collectively people didn't stand for it so readily then it would change, usually for the better as the seller begins to feel the message in his pocketbook, artist or not. ;) Basically, you usually get what your hand calls for and in general if you keep doing what you always did, you'll keep getting what you always got, or somethin' like that. I'm just sayin'. :)


Too true, also, the item I wanted, as I said a coin gaff maker has got back to me and so he is getting the order from me. At the end of the day it is their jobs and they need money from customers to keep themselves in business, the gaff I wanted is going to cost me $400 in total with shipping too... I contacted 5 coin makers, Lassen and Schoolcraft were 2 of them, in the time since I have had still no reply, I have had a reply from 2 others, and already agreed to order from one of those... $400 is quite a sum of money, and I don't ever care what I spend as long as I am happy with the level of customer service I get
Message: Posted by: BanzaiMagic (Apr 16, 2012 5:05pm)
Quote:

On 2012-04-16 12:40, pabloinus wrote:
Banzai, business is never secondary, unless they have another source of income and making coins is a hobby. Not sure on been Artists, for sure they are great machinist/craftsmen.


Actually, if you have ever read Todd's blog, it kind of is. He consistently charges less than he could for his work, his kindness and giveaways to young deserving magicians are legend and his focus on quality and inventiveness sometimes leads to far lower profitability than he intended, yet he continues that focus regardless.

I guess you could say that Todd is a pretty good businessman, because he has a loyal following and makes enough from his efforts to have a good life, but my point was to provide information to those who are considering buying from Todd so that they can know what to expect. Todd has written in his blog that he has tried to improve his email response and has even added a place to post complaints but he still gets very behind with the number of emails he receives. As many have said, telephone is best (sorry Europeans). Try to establish a relationship so that he knows who you are. Use his blog to communicate with him. Try to buy during runs that he is doing (much more efficient for him and speedy way for you to get items you want). If you need to complain, do so with respect.

Sorry about the description of Todd as an artist. That's probably a bit over the top. I have a bunch of his gaffs and they amaze me every time I use them and I think of them as art - but that's just me, I guess.

Regards,

Alan
Message: Posted by: lukecloughmagic (Apr 16, 2012 5:39pm)
I've emailed Todd about a week ago requesting details about gimmicks used in a video on his blog, with the aim of buying them, possibly two Triple Threats, and have yet to hear anything back still, being from UK phone calls are a bit out of the question! be nice to get a mail back as I was/am very interested!
Message: Posted by: J-Mac (Apr 17, 2012 1:49am)
I think that Todd Lassen probably makes as much as he possibly can and wants, based purely on his reputation. Yes, he could get greedy, hire some clerical types to handle orders and train a few apprentices... But like I said, he most likely makes all that he wants and prefers to make each single gaffed coin himself. He's an artist and to be honest he seems to get a heck of a lot of coin sets made all be himself. He has no need to change the way he does business, so I doubt that he will. Yes, there are other very good custom coin makers out there but I believe that Todd still has the reputation that keeps him perpetually busy running his business just the way it is now.

I'm a rank amateur and I really can't afford the kind of custom sets that you all are discussing. But if I could - and I really hope to be able to someday - I will order from Todd Lassen. If I'm going to spend that kind of cash, I am going to make sure I get the very best.

Thanks!

Jim
Message: Posted by: Mb217 (Apr 17, 2012 10:11am)
Well, even with the best stuff you might still be a rank amateur, actually most people are I would think. :D It's not really the coins but that's another story. :) Anyway, it's good to know that if you don't get to that point to afford "the very best" as you say, that you will still have other great craftsman to choose from and still be more than good enough. :)
Message: Posted by: J-Mac (Apr 17, 2012 12:15pm)
Quote:

On 2012-04-17 10:11, Mb217 wrote:
Well, even with the best stuff you might still be a rank amateur, actually most people are I would think. :D It's not really the coins but that's another story. :) Anyway, it's good to know that if you don't get to that point to afford "the very best" as you say, that you will still have other great craftsman to choose from and still be more than good enough. :)


Never, ever said that any gaff would make me anything more than what I am! ("I yam what I yam and that's all that I yam..." Remember him?!) However if I somehow had the discretionary funds sitting in my pocket just burning holes and screaming to come out - and I happened to browse by Todd's site and saw one of those things of beauty beckoning to me like Sirens - I might just buy a set to savor and drool over. ;) I doubt that I could do them much justice with these dry and very beaten hands but I would love them just the same.

Can you say that you own no magic apparatus that isn't necessary for your magic but you wanted it - well - just because you wanted it? You have never indulged yourself just a little? C'mon, Marion! Not even any boxing memorabilia that you just like to look at and admire? I'll go on record that if you say no to everything then I don’t believe you, big guy!

:nana:

:bg:

Jim
Message: Posted by: Mb217 (Apr 17, 2012 12:49pm)
I don't have any problem with "rank amateurs" heck, I resemble that remark myself. :D Just pointing out an aside as to the dynamics of what's best and what's what in the larger perspective. And I do understand collecting things for collecting-sake, nothing wrong with that and surely these craftsman make the little trinkets crazy coin guys like us like to have whether we can afford it or not. And I do have some nice sets, as I've mentioned before around this place but I'm sure I'd still be considered a hoofer rather than a dancer by most of these collectors. :D You could collect from the level where you're at, that's a thought as there's some real good stuff around there as well I hear. :)

Got some boxing momentos for sure but nothing I ever had to shell out big time for or perhaps would've if I could've. :D Best thing I ever got from boxing was something I could'nt show you if I wanted to, it was a big bear hug from Ali for teaching him a trick he always wanted to learn, but I digress (but just for you). :)

But I understand your point my friend and nothing wrong with getting it if you got it to get it with. Heck, that's what it's for. :D Hey and if you can't get it, then dreaming of it is the next best thing. Though I would prefer a set of them Sirens over a trick set of Morgans any day. :D

And don't worry, you'll be "drooling" soon enough my friend ;)...As in I'm sure that big set you want is on its way down to you from on high. :D
Message: Posted by: Chessmann (Apr 17, 2012 1:05pm)
There are certainly cases where it is the coins. I have one effect in a standard half and English Penny. I also have this is a silver dollar and copper crown. The effect is the same, but the beauty of the coins most definitely adds to the spectators interest and enchantment.

The effect is the same, but the apparatus adds another layer. This can be said of all kinds of magic.

This is the same kind of discussion that has been seen here at the Café re: Sherwood Sterling Silver cups vs. less expensive cups.

Interesting discussions, and of course, no definitive 'right' or 'wrong' answers. :)

On a completely different note, re: any craftsman who works alone, I wonder if some of the issue might - in the back of their minds - revolve somewhat around how much work they can handle without getting overloaded. I suppose this would more likely be more an issue of advertising their work than customer service...though if customer service gets better, so will (ideally) be numbers of orders. Just an idle thought.
Message: Posted by: Mb217 (Apr 17, 2012 1:26pm)
Quote:

On 2012-04-17 13:05, Chessmann wrote:

Interesting discussions, and of course, no definitive 'right' or 'wrong' answers. :)



Yep, I agree. :)
Message: Posted by: Chessmann (Apr 17, 2012 1:35pm)
What's the deal with the "e" at the end of the word "Café" showing as a diamond with a question mark inside?

And for the apostrophe in the last sentence of J-Mac' post?

Is that just a Firefox thing? Have to test that out.
Message: Posted by: BanzaiMagic (Apr 17, 2012 2:28pm)
Quote:

On 2012-04-17 13:35, Chessmann wrote:
What's the deal with the "e" at the end of the word "Café" showing as a diamond with a question mark inside?

And for the apostrophe in the last sentence of J-Mac' post?

Is that just a Firefox thing? Have to test that out.


Doesn't show up that way on my IPad, Chess.

Marion, seriously? Ali? What trick did you teach him?

Just goes to show how much more memories are worth than "things".

Alan
Message: Posted by: J-Mac (Apr 17, 2012 6:13pm)
Quote:

On 2012-04-17 13:35, Chessmann wrote:
What's the deal with the "e" at the end of the word "Café" showing as a diamond with a question mark inside?

And for the apostrophe in the last sentence of J-Mac' post?

Is that just a Firefox thing? Have to test that out.


Huh? Are drinking something good there Chess? ;)

I don't see any of that. Sounds like a Unicode vs. Microsoft character set issue. When your browser doesn't recognize a character on a web page it replaces it with that symbol you see. :)

Jim
Message: Posted by: Chessmann (Apr 17, 2012 8:43pm)
It was there for a little while on Firefox. Went to IE, and it wasn't there. Re-opened Firefox and all was well. Odd, but kind of funny, too.
Message: Posted by: Dougini (Apr 19, 2012 5:38pm)
Quote:

On 2012-04-17 14:28, BanzaiMagic wrote:
Marion, seriously? Ali? What trick did you teach him?


Yeah, Banzai, seriously! Marion has a history in boxing. Incredible! I only spoke to Ali once on the phone when I was the executive producer for Smitty's Ringside seat (now a Showtime program). I cannot imagine being able to teach him a magic trick! AND getting a bear hug??? WOW! :wow:

Doug
Message: Posted by: cablerock (Apr 19, 2012 7:38pm)
Okay, I rang in a bit before, but very few people have the opportunity to do a real side by side comparison. Here is the thing that convinced me to stick with Lassen. Left=schoolcraft, right=lassen.

http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/12/img0500mh.jpg/

3 pics there. These are open flippers, showing the remilled edges/thicknesses.
Message: Posted by: Trooper11040 (Apr 19, 2012 9:07pm)
Quote:

On 2012-04-19 19:38, cablerock wrote:
Okay, I rang in a bit before, but very few people have the opportunity to do a real side by side comparison. Here is the thing that convinced me to stick with Lassen. Left=schoolcraft, right=lassen.

http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/12/img0500mh.jpg/

3 pics there. These are open flippers, showing the remilled edges/thicknesses.


I concur...I have had both schoolcraft and Lassen...Lassen is by far better in terms of quality...I will send my money to Lassen...
Message: Posted by: lukecloughmagic (Apr 20, 2012 7:03am)
That's a great pic, I'd love to see a comparison of the TTT and 3CM next to each other, from what I've heard the 3CM looks more like one coin when nested?
Message: Posted by: David Neighbors (Apr 20, 2012 10:21am)
Yea but you can't have it both ways! Then it looks way to thin when it's unnested ! :)
Message: Posted by: TWOCAN (Apr 20, 2012 10:36am)
This is true David.
Message: Posted by: cablerock (Apr 20, 2012 11:51am)
Quote:

On 2012-04-20 07:03, lukecloughmagic wrote:
That's a great pic, I'd love to see a comparison of the TTT and 3CM next to each other, from what I've heard the 3CM looks more like one coin when nested?


I only have a couple gaffs. I do have a 3t, but not a 3cm. The 3t is not particularly thin once nested, but the trade off is that each of the coins is very deceptive on its own, and the in***t is thick enough/good enough milling that I could easily get it mixed with other coins.
Message: Posted by: J-Mac (Apr 20, 2012 11:48pm)
Quote:

On 2012-04-19 17:38, Dougini wrote:
Quote:

On 2012-04-17 14:28, BanzaiMagic wrote:
Marion, seriously? Ali? What trick did you teach him?


Yeah, Banzai, seriously! Marion has a history in boxing. Incredible! I only spoke to Ali once on the phone when I was the executive producer for Smitty's Ringside seat (now a Showtime program). I cannot imagine being able to teach him a magic trick! AND getting a bear hug??? WOW! :wow:

Doug


A history in boxing?!? An understatement! I've been trying to get him to give me HIS autograph!

Here's a comment a bout one of his TV shows:
Quote:
Marion Boykin, one of the world's most knowledgeable and passionate boxing experts, was the Creator, Host, Producer of the now legendary, "Boykin on Boxing" cable TV show. Boykin, a Harlem native and a pillar of the community, is a long time Time Warner Cable TV executive and heads a nationally ranked Little League baseball team in North Jersey.


Take a peek: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EDz-exjMFz4

:bg:

Jim
Message: Posted by: BanzaiMagic (Apr 21, 2012 7:30am)
Thanks, Jim.

I still want to know what trick Marion taught Ali.
Message: Posted by: Mb217 (Apr 21, 2012 9:54am)
Boxing was an interesting part of my journey alright, as magic has been and quite a few others things in my life. :) I came out of a tough area in NYC and before boxing there was fighting, a lot of fighting, just the way it was. Eventually I found my way out of that part of the ring into a more productive aspect of it that allowed other things in me to develop, like writing and speaking. One thing led to another and the next thing I knew I was covering heavyweight championship bouts in Las Vegas at the request of Don King. It all eventually led to Ali down the road apiece again and again. And if you were around Ali and this scene, then you were always around interesting people from every walk of life, famous and infamous. If I may digress for a moment...One of the trinkets that do mean a lot to me during those times is an old beat-up, autographed paint brush given to me by a great man and good friend, Sports Artist, LeRoy Neiman. He saw it all and captured every sporting moment of it on canvas' now featured in galleries around the world. Maybe you've seen some of his work. :) I remember sitting with him at a fight once while he was quickly sketching the now recently late/great, Boxing Historian, Bert Sugar, another good friend from the game and quite a magical guy indeed.

So one time I was traveling with Ali to promote a couple of books and we had lunch together at a table to ourselves. He showed me a trick and then I showed him one and he playfully threatened me with that old Ali snarl he had realistically given to Smokin' Joe Frazier and Big George Foreman in great fights. After some laughs about it and his continuing plea to know, I showed it to him...It was Tenkai Pennies. :D

Ali said that the magician Presto from Harlem/NYC had showed him that once and he always wanted to learn it. I remember him fiddling with it all the rest of the day throughout the remainder of the tour. :) And yeah, magic is a special part of all the special stuff that has been my life, it has always opened a special door for me here and there, this time with The Greatest. :) Tyson was another champ that was just simply over-the-top amazed by magic and enjoyed it every time I got a chance to share it with him here and there, but that's another champion and another story. :)

Funny, somehow Lassen, Schoolcraft and many others that are so highly revered just don't cut it much for me. With all due respect, I guess it's just a matter of perspective and where you sit ringside as to any true essence of people. Probably why I can recognize real "Champions" anywhere I go in whatever ring I'm in. It's not just about winning all the time. ;)
Message: Posted by: Atom3339 (Apr 21, 2012 11:19am)
Marion, Time for you to publish your autobiography! Thanks for sharing, Man!
Message: Posted by: cablerock (Apr 21, 2012 12:36pm)
Thanks for sharing Marion!
Message: Posted by: Chessmann (Apr 21, 2012 7:33pm)
Quote:

On 2012-04-20 07:03, lukecloughmagic wrote:
That's a great pic, I'd love to see a comparison of the TTT and 3CM next to each other, from what I've heard the 3CM looks more like one coin when nested?


I have owned both and do not concur with this. I kept the Triple Threat.

At the end of the day though, they're both good and they both work.
Message: Posted by: BanzaiMagic (Apr 21, 2012 10:47pm)
Quote:

On 2012-04-21 09:54, Mb217 wrote:
So one time I was traveling with Ali to promote a couple of books and we had lunch together at a table to ourselves. He showed me a trick and then I showed him one and he playfully threatened me with that old Ali snarl he had realistically given to Smokin' Joe Frazier and Big George Foreman in great fights. After some laughs about it and his continuing plea to know, I showed it to him...It was Tenkai Pennies.


Great story!

Were it not for your post I would never have known Ali was a member of the magic fraternity (a coin magician, too!) - another reason to like the guy.

Regards,

Alan
Message: Posted by: Mb217 (Apr 22, 2012 5:25pm)
Well, Ali certainly likes coin magic but is probably much more into any sort of closeup magic. He had big smiles and great attention for it all. :) He useta actually carry around the Vanishing Hanky (TT) trick with him most times I remember (One of the greatest closeup tricks anywhere, IMHO). :) Useta see him doing it for folks here and there. :) A few other champs that really enjoyed magic were Heavyweight, Riddick Bowe, Lightweight, Pernell "SweetPea" Whitaker and I used to do tricks for current champ and recognized best pound for pound in the world, Floyd Mayweather when he was just a kid running around the gym watching his uncle, Welterweight Champ, Roger Mayweather workout and train. :)

Oh and back on the trail here, my friend had his Triple Threat with him yesterday at lunch and it was nice to fiddle with and very well made that I saw - to be honest it was perfect. In general I suppose that you can't go wrong with either of these 2 super craftsman, their work is well done, and you're hearing that from a guy that's happy as punch with just Johnson Coins. :D He also had a set of those Cartel Coins with him and those were really cool too, nicely made coins that could survive the deepest scrutiny, very well made and quite slick as to their handling. :)
Message: Posted by: Zombie Magic (Apr 22, 2012 8:17pm)
I could listen to MB all day long!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Message: Posted by: Rory111 (Apr 30, 2012 3:22pm)
Lassen is truly a fine craftsman...
Message: Posted by: The Count (Sep 17, 2012 12:04pm)
My 2c.
I believe we have to accept people at face value and not try to change them or expose traits we don't like. I think bad business should be acknowledged but not for personal reasons or bias, but don't beat to death a dead horse. We all have less than stellar traits, maybe just in different areas. If you like them or their work, do business with them. If you don't, stop whining, it's that banter that helps keep needless things alive and sometimes it helps them escalate. I knew this girl once.... never mind, see I got off track. It is up to them on how they decide to run their business and by the looks of it all is well in Denmark for all parties mentioned here.
I had my first custom coin made in the mid seventies by Johnson Products. It was a Sun & Moon coin made with a walking liberty, one of the first they had done. It was perfect and I still have it. I've had others made since as back-up (2 more, just in case), they are perfect. I do feel that gaffs should be held in the highest regard to craftsmanship. On the other hand if you have spectators asking to see the coins you haven't done your job right. Work within your limits.
I went outside of my box or comfort zone and bought the Johnny Wong Super Triple. It's not a silver coin which is all I use but heck, something different but also you can't let someone stare at the edge or leave on the table, but it's a great coin and it blows the crap away for laymen. I love it. What more do you need? So my point is the craftsmanship should be at a comfort level you can deal with according to your budget, expertise, and possibly if you like the guy, etc, etc etc. But you are the artist - the ultimate story is on whether you produce a great coin effect or not, - not the coin makers. I agree having the best tool for the job can make things easier, but sometimes reality and cash availability sets in. :)
The first car (steam) of sorts was built in 1692 by Ferdinand Verbiest. The first production cars were made by Karl Benz in 1888, Ford wasn't till 1903, (along with Harley Davidson). The point is since the car was invented if we had only one car, one craftsman, we wouldn't have diddly for cars today. There are many makes of cars now with a slew of options at different prices - most travel on four wheels, have doors to get in and out, steering wheel, brakes, etc. - you get the idea. You buy gaffed coins you like, at a budget you can afford (hopefully) and generally from someone you can trust. I buy my coins that way. And if I have to wait a little longer than I want for what I want, well, that's life, isn't it ...
Message: Posted by: Poof-Daddy (Sep 17, 2012 1:36pm)
Quote:

On 2012-04-12 07:49, Christopher Williams wrote

Also, does anyone recommend any other gaff coin makers? Don't just want a list of them, but actually looking for a reputable dealer, good communication, good customer service, amazing craftsmanship and well recommended?

Thanks


seems this thread missed the point and turned into a "my dad is bigger than your dad" between Lassen and schoolcraft
Mark Mason of JB Magic - very PROMPT customer service
Joe Mogar - answers his phone and is easy to deal with and nice to talk to got his coins and Jhonny Wong's
Johnson Products - answers phone, very helpfull
Roy Kueppers - havent yet tried but have heard good things
Tango - well made mass produced and useable
these are the ones I have dealt with or heard about - other than Lassen and Schoolcraft - there are more out there I'm sure
Message: Posted by: Pzak97 (Sep 26, 2012 11:39am)
I just received my OxF from Schoolcraft. The craftsmanship was amazing and the service was fast with good communication.
Message: Posted by: J-Mac (Sep 26, 2012 10:50pm)
Quote:

On 2012-09-17 13:36, Poof-Daddy wrote:

seems this thread missed the point and turned into a "my dad is bigger than your dad" between Lassen and schoolcraft



They always do, Poof.... Always.

Jim
Message: Posted by: Magic Alaskan (Sep 27, 2012 3:26am)
Count: Are you kidding me? Who cares? Really......