Just wondering if anyone would have some advice on the Morley Bright Inst-a-Tector (watermark detector). Have looked through the SOR archives and the last discussion was in 2004. Do they last for a long time or does the fluid inside dry up after a year or two? We tried out a brand new one at our stamp club meeting last night and it was difficult to see any watermark - do they need to be "broken in" or should they work right out of the box? Have been using lighter fluid but really like the idea of not having fumes, mess, etc.... Any comments (good and bad) are appreciated.
i'm not a fan of these things. i probably was among those commenting previously, so don't count me twice. The goop does become less maleable as they age, so their functionality diminishes over time. Worse, i don't think they do a great job even when new. I bought mine to use on covers, and it's had disappointing results.
David
Login to Like this post
"Save the USPS, buy stamps; save the hobby, use commemoratives"
I've had one for about a year and I do not like it. I've been mainly into British Empire and it is easier just to either put the stamps face down on something black or hold up in the air with a light behind them.
HEY! Guys & gals! Guess what? Lighter fluid. I too, thought about one of those wm detectors. Have been told numerous times they don't work that well. One of the premier dealers of the FSDA (Florida Stamp dealers Association) recommended lighter fluid. Works great and a big can is only $1.57 at Wally world. However, the M-B one is a lot easier to use.
(Message edited by Stampaholic on March 25, 2010)
Login to Like this post
" I have a burning love for stamps. Lord A'mighty ,feel my temperature risin'! "
There is nothing new about using lighter fluid to see watermarks. I have been using it since 1946. Just place stamp in black tray, pour a bit of fluid in, and usually watermark comes up. Difficult to see on orange & yellow colored stamps. Remove stamp with tongs, wave it in the air and blow on it, and it quickly dries. Richaard
Does anyone have any information on early Chinese stamps, SC# 25 & up with overprints. I have been asked to check the millimeters between the value print & Chinese letter print. I am told there are four types. I have found two types. Richaard
Thanks to all for your opinions. Have been using lighter fluid for years but always looking for something easier, less messy, etc.... This looked really spiffy, and one of the dealers at our last show had one that worked great. Anyway, appreciate the input. Sally
Login to Like this post
Please Note: Postings that were loaded from the old Discussion Board cannot be edited.
