The recent resurgence of nostalgic interest in old technology, particularly the once-popular Sony Walkman, has led to a thriving market for collectors and enthusiasts. Mark Ip, an avid Walkman collector, has gone to great lengths to acquire rare and pristine models, including the silver-plated Tiffany Walkman of which only 250 were ever made. Ip’s collection now totals around 1,000 tape players, which he displays on his popular Instagram page, @boxedwalkman, and also shares with the public at exhibitions.
Ip’s passion for the Walkman dates back to his youth, when he could not afford a model of his own. Now, through his meticulous collecting and sharing of his collection, he aims to introduce the younger generation to the significance of this iconic device, which played a crucial role in the lives of many from previous generations and also means so much to him personally. Similarly, not so far from Ip, Stephen Ho, a fiftysomething retiree from Hong Kong, has moved to the U.K. bringing his precious collection with him, owning hundreds of Walkmans. He tries to limit himself to a budget of about $600 for new acquisitions, but confesses to paying slightly under $2,500 for one of the Tiffany Walkmans and that’s not for sale, and he is buying more than he’s selling, and trying to keep expended lifespan of old Walkmans.
