Frequently Ask Questions
Pricing pinball machines is complicated. Even pinball machines of the same model sometimes differ very much from each other. No two pinball machines are alike, which makes it impossible to find a uniform price for a device and also makes it difficult to compare prices. Factors such as the technical and especially the optical condition, the basic substance, the condition of the playing field, damage to the housing or plastic, the condition of the back glass, and the popularity of the device affect the price.
If you decide to buy a pinball machine from a private seller, be sure to check the machine’s condition! Every pinball machine has other things that can be susceptible to, so it also helps if a knowledgeable friend accompanies you during the purchase. Especially for pinball novices without technical and electronic know-how, it is recommended to buy machines from a specialist. Not only do we offer pinball machines of impeccable quality that expert hands have restored with a lot of passion and time, but we also continue to be there for our customers after the purchase. If you have any questions or problems, please contact us at any time so that we can help with any problems that may arise.
All of our pinball machines have experienced their history over the years and are technically back in perfect condition after restoration. What our various restorations include in detail can be found under “conditions.”.The short answer is: Much longer than you think! One must not forget that pinball machines were traditionally built for commercial use, are therefore particularly robust, and are certainly better treated in private use.
Pinball machines differ in many aspects. In particular, the newer pinball machines from ’91 onwards are strongly differentiated by their respective thematic focus. So families, movie, sports, or music fans will find the right pinball machine for them. Pinball machines differ mainly in their design. There are EM (electromechanical) machines from the 60s/70s, EE (Early Electronics) pinball machines from the 80s, and DMD (Dot Matrix) machines from ’91. In the meantime, there are also current devices with LCD screens. While EM pinball machines are rather recommended for collectors, the gaming fun increases considerably with the EE machines. Devices from about 1985 inspire with ramps, music, and speech. Just browse through our store or contact us by phone or via the contact form—we will be happy to advise you.
Vintage pinball machines are typically those manufactured between the 1950s and the early 1990s. They are characterized by mechanical gameplay and classic designs.
Vintage pinball machines can be purchased from specialized retailers, online auction sites, collectors’ forums, and pinball expos or conventions.
Check the machine’s condition (cosmetic and mechanical), playability, and whether it has been restored. Verify authenticity and ask for maintenance history if possible.
Typically, vintage machines sold by private sellers or at auctions do not come with warranties. However, some retailers may offer limited warranties on restored machines.
Many collectors view vintage pinball machines as investments due to their potential to appreciate in value. However, market trends can vary, so research is crucial.
Here is a timeline of the history of pinball. 1931—Gottlieb introduced the first commercially successful pinball machine, “Baffle Ball.” ABT Manufacturing introduced the very first electrical tilt mechanism in “Autocount.” 1936—Bally introduced the first “bumpers” in a pinball machine in “Bumper.
Pinball Machines were considered a game of chance and therefore gambling so they were banned in most major cities from the early 1940s to the mid-1970s in the United States.
Yes, the deposit that you pay is then deducted from the final agreed sale price.
. Our policy is to only buy Vinateg Pinball machines that are in good, or better, condition. Worn-out machines are avoided unless, of course, there are sufficient spares available to get them returned to an acceptable standard. The vast majority of machines offered for sale are from our collection or a machine that we have purchased for restoration and future resale.
No, we only sell fully refurbished pinball machines.
All our refurbished pinball machines come with a one-year part and Labour warranty. In addition, many good used spares are available for sale, so there’s little reason why your machine cannot be kept in good working condition for many years to come.