Pace reel console values

[Phan000]

Hello all,


I’m looking (virtually) at a pace reel console at a local auction.  The vendor states that the electrics work, but it is not playing at the moment.


No bids yet, but asking around $400.


This would be my first 1940s slot.  Is this a fair price?


Are they hard to fix and find parts for.


Cosmetically,  it is in pretty decent condition and looks fairly well maintained.




Thanks in advance.

[shortrackskater]

This isn't the best forum for mechanical slots but glad you posted here since I've restored a few Mills Vest Pockets and a Mills Black Cherry.
Most mechanical machines aren't too hard to repair. Parts can be a problem at times and Pace machines aren't at the top of all collectors lists but this one looks decent cosmetically. However, it would be helpful to see the INSIDE of this machine, the mechanism. Most problems occur when people try to "bend out" old springs, and saturate the machine with oil in attempts to "fix" problems. Over oiling just makes a mess and usually the problem is grime from old oil. Cleaning all the grime out is the way to start, followed by oiling the proper areas with the proper oil along with replacing the bad springs. I think this Pace has a circular escalator so you may not have trouble with that, but escalators are usually the #1 problem with machines jamming along with people who try to force the arm down during a jam. Not good!
In the past I've seen these machines go for about that price but I've seen a few on Craigslist as low as $100. I'd strongly recommend getting a shot of the inside. It would be best if you could see the machine in person. In my opinion I would not pay over $400 if it was complete and not a disaster inside. Remember you will have a buyers premium as well.
I'll contact another NLG member and see if he'll throw in his two cents worth here.

[Phan000]

I appreciate the advice.  May stay away from this particular machine at $400,  unless lower offers can be made.


I have attached the photos of the interior that were posted on the auction listing.

[shortrackskater]

Ok that mechanism is very similar to my Pace, which came of Harveys in Tahoe. It actually wasn't hard to work on and that one appears clean. I'm not entirely sure what all the electrics in there are for. Obviously cosmetic lighting of course but (I could be wrong) it looks like each row might illuminate separately depending on the win outcome? That would be a fairly simple circuit tied into some sort of contact switches alongside each reel. I'm totally guessing at this!
Interesting machine. Hell try bidding. It's definitely a lot easier than working on an electro-mechanical machine of this type.

[MONTI'S SLOTS]

Sorry for the late response here but with the fires here in the last few weeks I have not been on this forum recently!
Shortrack had emailed me about it!
These consoles are pretty straightforward to work on basic mechanism with the additional wiring, usually old cloth wrap wiring hooking up for lighting, Etc.
These Pace consoles, unlike the early Bally consoles that had "coin slicers" with a solenoid for kicking out an individual coin on each solenoid pull like the Bally Draw Bell for example, these Pace consoles paid out of the mechanism payout slides!
But I have have to say that the collectable market on these is rather low as it takes a collector who is into these cabinet units unless it is an old PACES RACES or one that is more desirable, but this is just my opinion in today's market!
Bona Fortuna!
MONTI

[Phan000]

I really appreciate the feedback.  The auction closes this evening, so your input is quite timely!  I was definitely looking at this machine as an investment rather than for my collection.


I will probably pass, considering that it would be close to $500 with the fees & is not currently functioning. 


Thanks again.

[shortrackskater]

I wonder if you can put in a lower bid if no one bids?

[Phan000]

$400 was the reserve.  Ended up selling for around $750 with fees and sales tax. 


I guess someone fancied it.  Seemed promising, but too risky for me.   

[shortrackskater]

$400 was the reserve.  Ended up selling for around $750 with fees and sales tax. 


I guess someone fancied it.  Seemed promising, but too risky for me.

I guess that's all it takes... two or more bidders that really want it. Keep looking and let us know if you need more advise. Monti knows his stuff!

[Op-Bell]

It was very old, probably 1940s. If it hadn't been a console it would have fetched a much higher price. All mechanical slots can be fixed with a bit of effort, though if parts are missing you might have to make them.