Here, for the first time, is a colour
picture book which captures the timeless beauty of antique,
coin-operated gambling machines. The 115 full page colour
lithographs are linked together by a text that tells the fascinating
story of the automatic gambling machine industry. The machines
selected, photographed and presented in this book represent the most
exciting and colourful examples existing in private collections
throughout the United States. Nearly all have been meticulously
restored, revealing their rich and glamorous stature for all to see.
This collection thus provides a most unique glimpse of an
unparalleled segment of American history.
This work took nearly three years of
photography, research, travelling and organization. The results of
these efforts, taken from hundreds of photographs, is an exquisite
sampling of machines which are representative of the evolution of
slot machine development. This compilation was intended to result in
a classic of its time, and consequently no expense of effort or
money was spared which would compromise its quality or utility.
As its very name implies, Slot
Machines on Parade can be enjoyed by all: collectors, hobbyists,
historians, Americana buffs, artists, the curious or those who
simply admire the beauty of earlier generations. The nature of the
book allows the reader to take a quick glance at the creative genius
and design that went into the marvellous machines. Or it can be
leisurely read, to understand some of the untold story of the
mechanical gambling machine industry—about the people who invented,
manufactured, sold, operated, played and collect these fascinating
relics of a major American industry.
The author and illustrator are
certainly not newcomers to the field of antique gambling equipment.
Aside from being collectors themselves, they have previously
collaborated on numerous other books and articles about
coin-operated gambling machines. So it comes as no surprise that
through the combined efforts of Robert Geddes and Daniel Mead, with
untold hours of support and help from numerous collectors and
enthusiasts across the country, a book of this quality, beauty and
interest has been published at a time when possession of antique
gambling machines is rapidly becoming legal and their collecting is
becoming a national pastime.
Condition: A Very Good copy in
Very Good dustjacket. |
