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Playing Card Chat ♠ ♥ ♣ ♦ => Playing Card Plethora => Topic started by: CBJ on December 11, 2013, 01:36:34 PM

Title: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: CBJ on December 11, 2013, 01:36:34 PM
via David Blaine's twitter

"Gatorbacks coming soon"


(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BbOV1WrIAAAilec.jpg:large)



CBJ
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: BiggerDee on December 11, 2013, 01:43:15 PM
I like. Stutzman could draw on a rock and I'd buy it! Good stuff!
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: CrankUP on December 11, 2013, 02:01:05 PM
So many new decks.......need...new...job....
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Anthony on December 11, 2013, 02:41:20 PM
Well I like the back design, can't wait to see the rest of it.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: chach on December 11, 2013, 03:27:02 PM
Well I like the back design, can't wait to see the rest of it.

+1, the back design looks phenomenal, very aesthetically pleasing.  But I'm thinking the courts will be of a standard nature. 
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on December 11, 2013, 03:37:46 PM
I have to have them.

I wonder if USPCC will print these?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Paul Carpenter on December 11, 2013, 04:35:18 PM
Really weird name, but the back design is quite awesome. Based on other Blaine decks, I would be confident in saying the faces will be very standard. Still, I'll have to get a couple.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Michael on December 11, 2013, 07:38:23 PM
+1, the back design looks phenomenal, very aesthetically pleasing.  But I'm thinking the courts will be of a standard nature.

Really weird name, but the back design is quite awesome. Based on other Blaine decks, I would be confident in saying the faces will be very standard. Still, I'll have to get a couple.

The spot cards will probably be standard but the court cards of Blaine decks have been custom haven't they? I happen to have his Split Spades Silver Edition on me and those are custom and if I remember correctly, his White Lions also had custom courts.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: MagikFingerz on December 11, 2013, 07:44:59 PM
The spot cards will probably be standard but the court cards of Blaine decks have been custom haven't they? I happen to have his Split Spades Silver Edition on me and those are custom and if I remember correctly, his White Lions also had custom courts.
Only some of the faces on the court cards are custom, depicting himself and several other people. Everything apart from their faces are standard USPCC courts.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Michael on December 11, 2013, 08:01:47 PM
Similar to the Rounders, the only court on the Split Spades Silver Edition is the Jack of Diamonds. My White Labels are all in a box at home so I can't check them but I think 11/12 would be considered most. And yes, everything else is standard other than the court faces but I very much prefer that because if you weren't paying attention (an very inexperienced), you wouldn't even notice they were any different from standard USPCC courts.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Mike Ratledge on December 19, 2013, 05:19:45 AM
I notice on his sale site (new as of a few days ago) they are described as "Gatorback Riders" as opposed to "Gatorbacks".  I suppose the latter is what we'll all call them?  Nice looking what you can see so far...
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on December 19, 2013, 08:11:35 AM
I have to have them.

I wonder if USPCC will print these?

There's a fair to middling chance that, with his connections to CARC/Bill Kalush and his artist Mark Stutzman, he might go with the same factory that was used for the Legends and Exquisites.  It's not a certainty, but it's definitely possible.

Similar to the Rounders, the only court on the Split Spades Silver Edition is the Jack of Diamonds. My White Labels are all in a box at home so I can't check them but I think 11/12 would be considered most. And yes, everything else is standard other than the court faces but I very much prefer that because if you weren't paying attention (an very inexperienced), you wouldn't even notice they were any different from standard USPCC courts.

The Rounders actually do have a slightly altered JoD.  The name of Daniel Madison's young child is hidden in the clothing near the face.  He uses the traditional Jack face to represent the child since there's no way to predict future appearance.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Gunshy1 on December 19, 2013, 11:49:08 AM
I have to have them.

I wonder if USPCC will print these?

There's a fair to middling chance that, with his connections to CARC/Bill Kalush and his artist Mark Stutzman, he might go with the same factory that was used for the Legends and Exquisites.  It's not a certainty, but it's definitely possible.

Similar to the Rounders, the only court on the Split Spades Silver Edition is the Jack of Diamonds. My White Labels are all in a box at home so I can't check them but I think 11/12 would be considered most. And yes, everything else is standard other than the court faces but I very much prefer that because if you weren't paying attention (an very inexperienced), you wouldn't even notice they were any different from standard USPCC courts.

The Rounders actually do have a slightly altered JoD.  The name of Daniel Madison's young child is hidden in the clothing near the face.  He uses the traditional Jack face to represent the child since there's no way to predict future appearance.


Wow, I had no idea about the rounders. That's a great little piece of info. Thanks, don!
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Jamm Pakd Cards on December 19, 2013, 10:16:51 PM
I like the back, Looks great!  Cant wait to see the rest of the deck!
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Michael on December 21, 2013, 03:00:43 AM
The Rounders actually do have a slightly altered JoD.  The name of Daniel Madison's young child is hidden in the clothing near the face.  He uses the traditional Jack face to represent the child since there's no way to predict future appearance.

I figured having Eli written on the court doesn't really count as custom but I guess if we're being that picky about it, I'll go with the JoD being "altered" rather than "custom."

Either way, I'm looking forward to the next Blaine deck!
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Barry Hurton on December 21, 2013, 04:11:59 AM
Any idea about the name?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on December 21, 2013, 06:26:00 AM
Any idea about the name?

Yeah - they're called "Gatorback Riders"...like in the title of the topic...  :))

Did you have something else in mind when you asked?

If you meant, "Do I approved of the name?", well, it's OK.  As good as any other.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Barry Hurton on December 21, 2013, 12:12:40 PM
Any idea about the name?

Yeah - they're called "Gatorback Riders"...like in the title of the topic...  :))

Did you have something else in mind when you asked?

If you meant, "Do I approved of the name?", well, it's OK.  As good as any other.

I meant why the Gator part? I can't see any alligators, which is what I'd assumed.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: MagikFingerz on December 21, 2013, 12:23:07 PM
Any idea about the name?

Yeah - they're called "Gatorback Riders"...like in the title of the topic...  :))

Did you have something else in mind when you asked?

If you meant, "Do I approved of the name?", well, it's OK.  As good as any other.

I meant why the Gator part? I can't see any alligators, which is what I'd assumed.

Look closer, there's 4 of them near the middle ;)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on December 21, 2013, 02:57:57 PM
Any idea about the name?

Yeah - they're called "Gatorback Riders"...like in the title of the topic...  :))

Did you have something else in mind when you asked?

If you meant, "Do I approved of the name?", well, it's OK.  As good as any other.

I meant why the Gator part? I can't see any alligators, which is what I'd assumed.

Look closer, there's 4 of them near the middle ;)

Blaine also owns a pet alligator(s). He pulled one out during his real or magic TV special and has been known to tweet pictures of his alligator.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on December 21, 2013, 03:44:40 PM
Somebody said...  Carbon Clip?    8)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: anhedonia on December 21, 2013, 04:12:27 PM
Undercutting CARC. Interesting. But is it worth the extra $30 to NOT have the db logo?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Barry Hurton on December 21, 2013, 06:38:40 PM
Any idea about the name?

Yeah - they're called "Gatorback Riders"...like in the title of the topic...  :))

Did you have something else in mind when you asked?

If you meant, "Do I approved of the name?", well, it's OK.  As good as any other.

I meant why the Gator part? I can't see any alligators, which is what I'd assumed.

Look closer, there's 4 of them near the middle ;)

Ah I see them now... Just :L
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on December 22, 2013, 02:06:08 AM

Blaine also owns a pet alligator(s). He pulled one out during his real or magic TV special and has been known to tweet pictures of his alligator.

Yeah, I met that little guy - scared the crap out of me!
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on December 22, 2013, 09:08:32 AM

Blaine also owns a pet alligator(s). He pulled one out during his real or magic TV special and has been known to tweet pictures of his alligator.

Yeah, I met that little guy - scared the crap out of me!

Scared? You don't seem like that type of person?

I wonder what Blaine is going to do when it gets too big? Its NOT exactly a family friendly pet. Most people think they can just donate it to a Zoo. They're all cute as baby's. That tank I saw on twitter won't hold it for long.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on December 22, 2013, 11:21:54 AM

Blaine also owns a pet alligator(s). He pulled one out during his real or magic TV special and has been known to tweet pictures of his alligator.

Yeah, I met that little guy - scared the crap out of me!

Scared? You don't seem like that type of person?

I wonder what Blaine is going to do when it gets too big? Its NOT exactly a family friendly pet. Most people think they can just donate it to a Zoo. They're all cute as baby's. That tank I saw on twitter won't hold it for long.

He'll probably put it in the Everglades or something.  I think they're endangered there.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Frost on January 14, 2014, 02:03:34 PM
does anybody now when the gator backs are going to come out ?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: bhong on January 14, 2014, 08:12:24 PM
does anybody now when the gator backs are going to come out ?

I honestly don't believe anyone but maybe David Blaine knows. I'd imagine if there was a locked in release date, he's advertise already.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on January 14, 2014, 08:25:53 PM
He generally gives little notice, maybe a week or two, before releases.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: CBJ on March 14, 2014, 03:49:55 PM
Tweet tweet from blaine...

"Gator backs Coming soon"



(http://distilleryimage7.ak.instagram.com/33040fccabb111e3abff0e20f0e703f7_8.jpg)



CBJ
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on March 14, 2014, 08:45:59 PM
Tweet tweet from blaine...

"Gator backs Coming soon"



(http://distilleryimage7.ak.instagram.com/33040fccabb111e3abff0e20f0e703f7_8.jpg)



CBJ

Huge admirer of Mark's work. I get the whole back design (David's daughter and his gators). It fits what we know about David very well.

This forum is about honesty.

Officially Davids store is calling this the "gator back". The name is perfect. As long as David's store is calling them "gator backs" that's what everyone will call them. So, it should not matter if the name is on the front tuck design or not. The only thing throwing me off is the wordmark sign on the box. David is such a strong brand, people that buy decks will know who and what they are. Plus the information is printed on the side of the box. I don't think there is a need to have the awkward workmark & premium edition on the box. Highlighting the gator (as they have done) and also highlighting the designs db opposite bottom of the highlighted gator is all that's needed.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Sher143 on March 14, 2014, 11:53:50 PM
Tweet tweet from blaine...

"Gator backs Coming soon"



(http://distilleryimage7.ak.instagram.com/33040fccabb111e3abff0e20f0e703f7_8.jpg)



CBJ

I really like this tuck. It reminds me of the Ultimate Deck tuck - shiny black on matte black.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on March 15, 2014, 01:18:35 AM
Who wants to wager that the part of the tuck box back that's white in this image will be silver foil on the box?  I'd even venture a guess that the end result box will be a gloss-black-on-matte-black similar to the Whispering Imps tucks.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on March 15, 2014, 07:20:16 AM
Who wants to wager that the part of the tuck box back that's white in this image will be silver foil on the box?  I'd even venture a guess that the end result box will be a gloss-black-on-matte-black similar to the Whispering Imps tucks.

Your most likely right.

I would have really liked a few non split spade colors. Gator Green and Sepia.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on March 16, 2014, 12:17:43 AM

I would have really liked a few non split spade colors. Gator Green and Sepia.

Well, the photo shows a deck in black - but David does offer his decks in three colors, the only exception being the Bee Split Spades, which were black and "inverse black".

Perhaps he's thinking like you are and aiming to make the colors match the environment of the alligator.  But since red and blue are the only two colors more popular than black for monochrome playing card back designs, I wouldn't hold my breath on that being the case.  It's possible but pretty unlikely.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: CBJ on April 11, 2014, 05:01:52 PM
From Blaine

"Gator backs proofs. Better than I imagined"


(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Bk9t2yjIgAAn1r_.jpg:large)


CBJ
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Afrank8 on April 11, 2014, 05:30:31 PM
Wow, I'd say put me down for one minimum. They, like the split spades, are gorgeous.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Aptombstone on April 11, 2014, 05:48:43 PM
So that's why they are called Gator backs!

I will get one for sure.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on April 11, 2014, 06:09:57 PM
Me want.  Me want now.

They really do look nice.  For all the color decks out there, a nice monochrome design can look so nice sometimes.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Paul Carpenter on April 11, 2014, 10:46:49 PM
Agreed, a great looking deck. I'll definitely grab a couple of those.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Jamm Pakd Cards on April 22, 2014, 12:03:41 PM
I like these, I will definitely have to pick up a couple!
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Frost on July 05, 2014, 08:33:13 PM
so much for coming soon !!! I have been waiting for this since forever .
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: _Daniel_ on July 06, 2014, 07:56:31 AM
I like. Stutzman could draw on a rock and I'd buy it! Good stuff!
Ha! I have to agree, these look like such cool cards. I know some people are all for the simple back designs, but these ones are my sorta cards.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on July 06, 2014, 06:27:41 PM
so much for coming soon !!!

Agreed.  Someone's concept of "soon" is a little out of whack with reality...

We started talking about this deck in December of last year.  We had an image of a partial tuck in March, a proof sheet in April.  It's July and still no Gatorbacks.  I've heard about teaser campaigns, but this is ridiculous.  With so MANY other decks on the market now and in the immediate future, it becomes easier and easier to ignore something that's taking so long to hit retail.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Rob Wright on July 07, 2014, 12:07:11 AM
so much for coming soon !!!

Agreed.  Someone's concept of "soon" is a little out of whack with reality...

We started talking about this deck in December of last year.  We had an image of a partial tuck in March, a proof sheet in April.  It's July and still no Gatorbacks.  I've heard about teaser campaigns, but this is ridiculous.  With so MANY other decks on the market now and in the immediate future, it becomes easier and easier to ignore something that's taking so long to hit retail.

Easy to forget about, until they actually drop. Then they will sell like hotcakes!(not Uusi's- actual hotcakes)  ???
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: MrMollusk on July 07, 2014, 12:22:25 AM
so much for coming soon !!!

Agreed.  Someone's concept of "soon" is a little out of whack with reality...

We started talking about this deck in December of last year.  We had an image of a partial tuck in March, a proof sheet in April.  It's July and still no Gatorbacks.  I've heard about teaser campaigns, but this is ridiculous.  With so MANY other decks on the market now and in the immediate future, it becomes easier and easier to ignore something that's taking so long to hit retail.

Easy to forget about, until they actually drop. Then they will sell like hotcakes!(not Uusi's- actual hotcakes)  ???

With $46,000 in funding, I'd say that Hotcakes DID sell like Hotcakes.  ;D

Jokes aside, I'm getting a bit impatient too. Especially since we haven't seen jokers, the AoS, or the courts (which I'm assuming will be the  same as the White Lions courts).
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on July 07, 2014, 10:06:47 AM

Easy to forget about, until they actually drop. Then they will sell like hotcakes!(not Uusi's- actual hotcakes)  ???

There's no denying they'll be popular, but "like hotcakes" remains to be seen.  Few decks these days sell like hotcakes because the competition has become fierce - there's just so many releases in a year, both professional self-funded decks and pro/am Kickstarter projects.  Individual decks don't get the fanfare they once did.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on July 07, 2014, 11:01:47 AM

Easy to forget about, until they actually drop. Then they will sell like hotcakes!(not Uusi's- actual hotcakes)  ???

There's no denying they'll be popular, but "like hotcakes" remains to be seen.  Few decks these days sell like hotcakes because the competition has become fierce - there's just so many releases in a year, both professional self-funded decks and pro/am Kickstarter projects.  Individual decks don't get the fanfare they once did.

The deck(s) do have plenty going for it to separate it from any competition. If David Blaine's name is not enough, we have the illustration by Mark Stutzman. Then there's the quality of Blaine's deck's, usually one of the more durable decks to be purchased. The price on release is usually fair and reasonable in comparison with other custom decks.

Maybe "sell like hotcakes" is not the best phrase. These will do very well. Better then most. Yes, better then Uusi hotcakes. Even Uusi would agree. On my list w/ Black Lions as a must have.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Frost on July 16, 2014, 01:05:56 PM
I just saw in David Blaine's twitter page that the deck is going to come out this month .
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on July 16, 2014, 01:36:00 PM
Sounds great!  I'm looking forward to this one.  Anyone know who did the printing?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: MrMollusk on July 16, 2014, 05:00:26 PM
Via instagram:
http://instagram.com/p/qeyQlpDPb_/

(http://i.imgur.com/biXeciC.jpg)

Looks fantastic so far.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on July 16, 2014, 07:30:46 PM

Looks fantastic so far.

Sure enough.  Still curious about the printer, though.  :))
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Magic_Orthodoxy on July 16, 2014, 10:24:26 PM
I want my gator backs.....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y1XfGTO2vh8
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: shadowkat on July 17, 2014, 04:41:17 AM
Sure enough.  Still curious about the printer, though.  :))

Me too!  My initial thought is, of course USPCC.  Given that Lawrence Sullivan sought out a different kind of card than USPCC and came up with Legends tells me that at least one Magician prefers a different handling deck.  I am not well enough versed in Magic tricks or flourishing to say which is better.  I do know that for the first 3 months after receiving the Legends Black version, I didn't really use another deck.  I know you are a big EPCC fan, Don, and a Magician. Do you prefer a EPCC deck for your Magic Act, if so which one? 
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on July 17, 2014, 09:08:14 AM

Sure enough.  Still curious about the printer, though.  :))

Me too!  My initial thought is, of course USPCC.  Given that Lawrence Sullivan sought out a different kind of card than USPCC and came up with Legends tells me that at least one Magician prefers a different handling deck.  I am not well enough versed in Magic tricks or flourishing to say which is better.  I do know that for the first 3 months after receiving the Legends Black version, I didn't really use another deck.  I know you are a big EPCC fan, Don, and a Magician. Do you prefer a EPCC deck for your Magic Act, if so which one?

I like EPCC and LPCC decks in my act, but most of them so far are a little on the costly side and scarce due to limited print runs.  The NOC deck would be a major exception.  The one deck I use most in magic from those two companies is a version 1 Legends deck - having a marking system and all kinds of little goodies hidden on them doesn't exactly hurt!

The thing of it is that I do most of my magic when I'm performing at the hospital.  There, I use whatever decks have been donated to me.  Could be anything from Tally Ho to Blades Blood Metal to Chinese-made Streamlines and everything in between.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: shadowkat on July 18, 2014, 04:39:08 AM

Sure enough.  Still curious about the printer, though.  :))

Me too!  My initial thought is, of course USPCC.  Given that Lawrence Sullivan sought out a different kind of card than USPCC and came up with Legends tells me that at least one Magician prefers a different handling deck.  I am not well enough versed in Magic tricks or flourishing to say which is better.  I do know that for the first 3 months after receiving the Legends Black version, I didn't really use another deck.  I know you are a big EPCC fan, Don, and a Magician. Do you prefer a EPCC deck for your Magic Act, if so which one?

I like EPCC and LPCC decks in my act, but most of them so far are a little on the costly side and scarce due to limited print runs.  The NOC deck would be a major exception.  The one deck I use most in magic from those two companies is a version 1 Legends deck - having a marking system and all kinds of little goodies hidden on them doesn't exactly hurt!

The thing of it is that I do most of my magic when I'm performing at the hospital.  There, I use whatever decks have been donated to me.  Could be anything from Tally Ho to Blades Blood Metal to Chinese-made Streamlines and everything in between.

Thanks Don.  I am still finding things on the V1 Legends.  The brick deal on NOC's with the free Zen Deck from CARC is tempting me.  I have liked the NOC's since I discovered them, but haven't played much with the V3's.  Now back to the thread, Gatorback Riders!  We shouldn't have to wait too long to see who printed these!   :)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: bhong on July 18, 2014, 10:58:12 PM
From how the tuckbox file is set up, I'd think it'd be USPCC printed. I find that EPCC and USPCC have different methods for how they create and assemble their tuckboxes especially their non-sideload tuckbox.

But it's exciting to see this deck out. I hope it's the usual DB deck price of 11-12$/2 decks which isn't too bad.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on July 19, 2014, 01:21:30 AM
From how the tuckbox file is set up, I'd think it'd be USPCC printed. I find that EPCC and USPCC have different methods for how they create and assemble their tuckboxes especially their non-sideload tuckbox.

But it's exciting to see this deck out. I hope it's the usual DB deck price of 11-12$/2 decks which isn't too bad.

Actually, as I look at the images here, I'm thinking that it's NOT USPC.

First, check out the uncut sheets.  Notice how the green sheet ends in a very narrow margin?  I own a number of USPC uncuts and none of them have a margin like that.  Granted, someone could have cut the sheet there, but why?  And look at the top edge as well - it just doesn't resemble a USPC sheet.

As far as the tuck box, we really can't tell.  While it does appear to be a top loader with a flap at the bottom (the EPCC template doesn't have bottom flaps, utilizing side flaps instead), it's also possible we're looking at a homemade prototype.  The bottom flap does appear to be held in place by the thumb of the hand holding the box.

Maybe I'm just hoping he changed printers?  :))
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: aldazar on July 21, 2014, 11:28:58 AM
Via instagram:
http://instagram.com/p/qeyQlpDPb_/

(http://i.imgur.com/biXeciC.jpg)

Looks fantastic so far.

The tuckbox looks AMAZING! Like everyone else though, I'm curious to see who the printer will be...
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: BiggerDee on July 21, 2014, 01:24:32 PM
Good eyes, Don. Something tells me that you've done this once or twice before...
;-)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Paul.Middleton on July 21, 2014, 02:54:41 PM
I think we would know by now if this was EPCC, could be wrong though.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on July 21, 2014, 03:34:58 PM
From how the tuckbox file is set up, I'd think it'd be USPCC printed. I find that EPCC and USPCC have different methods for how they create and assemble their tuckboxes especially their non-sideload tuckbox.

But it's exciting to see this deck out. I hope it's the usual DB deck price of 11-12$/2 decks which isn't too bad.

Actually, as I look at the images here, I'm thinking that it's NOT USPC.

First, check out the uncut sheets.  Notice how the green sheet ends in a very narrow margin?  I own a number of USPC uncuts and none of them have a margin like that.  Granted, someone could have cut the sheet there, but why?  And look at the top edge as well - it just doesn't resemble a USPC sheet.

As far as the tuck box, we really can't tell.  While it does appear to be a top loader with a flap at the bottom (the EPCC template doesn't have bottom flaps, utilizing side flaps instead), it's also possible we're looking at a homemade prototype.  The bottom flap does appear to be held in place by the thumb of the hand holding the box.

Maybe I'm just hoping he changed printers?  :))

You might be right. I still would be shocked if this was not USPCC. That's huge! USPCC should have Blaine under contract much like sporting apparel companies have athletes under contract. If your USPCC, you don't want David Blaine using anything but their playing cards.

I never thought I'd say this but the Taiwan manufacture (Legends & EPCC) are actually making progress taking over the custom card market. Whats USPCC's move?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: see_squared on July 21, 2014, 07:49:51 PM
They are definitely printed at USPCC....going by the template on the tuck artwork posted earlier.  Tuck templates for EPCC decks are different. 

Very excited about this deck...nothing beats the Blaine/Stutzman collab.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on July 21, 2014, 10:01:48 PM

I never thought I'd say this but the Taiwan manufacture (Legends & EPCC) are actually making progress taking over the custom card market. Whats USPCC's move?

Sending people their way because of how their designer customers get treated?  :))

They are definitely printed at USPCC....going by the template on the tuck artwork posted earlier.  Tuck templates for EPCC decks are different. 

Very excited about this deck...nothing beats the Blaine/Stutzman collab.

Not even Chelko/Stutzman?  :))
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Megadiscgolfer on July 27, 2014, 11:10:17 PM
Any update on these? I am looking forward to this deck above all others coming out at the moment
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on July 28, 2014, 01:00:55 AM
Any update on these? I am looking forward to this deck above all others coming out at the moment

Nope - what you see is what we have.  It's not like we're hiding anything...  :))

Welcome to the Discourse.  You should head over to the Introduce Yourself board, create a topic and tell us all about you so people can more properly welcome you to the community.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on July 29, 2014, 02:34:52 AM
 :mindf-ck:

Im just tired of waiting for this deck....

but i don't want the white lions series A fiasco to happen again....  :-\

When is Blaine going to release the decks!?!?! August right? right!?!?!

Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on July 29, 2014, 06:46:13 AM
:mindf-ck:

Im just tired of waiting for this deck....

but i don't want the white lions series A fiasco to happen again....  :-\

When is Blaine going to release the decks!?!?! August right? right!?!?!

What fiasco was that?  I don't remember a fiasco, though I do remember the deck was pretty popular upon release.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on July 29, 2014, 02:52:23 PM
Exactly that...

It was so popular, that it vanished from the page very quickly and just like these deck it was announced a couple of times and the  BOOM! the flood gates were opened and the decks vanished.  :karrit:

Don't mind me, im just being impatient...

I hope we get the deck this week.  :-[
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on August 11, 2014, 09:27:10 PM
And David Blaine teases us again.


Gator Back in action (http://instagram.com/p/rf5UfYjPSj/?modal=true)

Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on August 12, 2014, 12:52:31 AM
And David Blaine teases us again.


Gator Back in action (http://instagram.com/p/rf5UfYjPSj/?modal=true)

Did you notice that it wasn't Blaine who performed the deck color-change trick?  The performer, Tony Chang, is wearing a watch, David isn't, and he also has different-colored pants.  I know Tony, though he never manages to remember me when I see him.  Then again, I'm usually seeing him after he's had a few drinks, so...  :))
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on August 12, 2014, 09:16:37 PM
And David Blaine teases us again.


Gator Back in action (http://instagram.com/p/rf5UfYjPSj/?modal=true)

Did you notice that it wasn't Blaine who performed the deck color-change trick?  The performer, Tony Chang, is wearing a watch, David isn't, and he also has different-colored pants.  I know Tony, though he never manages to remember me when I see him.  Then again, I'm usually seeing him after he's had a few drinks, so...  :))

Tony is one of the good guys in the industry.

Off topic: there's a few Video's or Instagram photo's that magicians have posted "this year" that shows more then I want to know about them. Not that I wasn't already suspicious. Where there's smoke, there's fire. I've been seeing the smoke all year long.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on August 13, 2014, 02:08:34 AM

Off topic: there's a few Video's or Instagram photo's that magicians have posted "this year" that shows more then I want to know about them. Not that I wasn't already suspicious. Where there's smoke, there's fire. I've been seeing the smoke all year long.

Perhaps you could share some of them, either in the Bonanza or the Parlor, whichever is the more appropriate?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: BiggerDee on August 13, 2014, 11:15:24 AM
Don, you're now in good with David...find out what the holdup is on the release of these! :-)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Rob Wright on August 13, 2014, 11:48:58 PM
How cool is it to be, David Blaine  8)

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfp1/t1.0-9/p480x480/10550884_744875532241969_7286925632543665773_n.jpg)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: DarkDerp on August 14, 2014, 12:41:23 AM
I don't know, but  I'm going to say.. Not nearly as cool as it would being Bono. The level of awesomeness required to  wear not only a sun hat, but a pair of   sunglasses in the middle of the night, and still have people (by choice) stand next to has to be off the charts.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Rob Wright on August 23, 2014, 01:52:32 AM
Quote
David Blaine @davidblaine     ·   Aug 15   

Have new Gatorbacks. If ur in penn station near amtrak between news and police, grab an unreleased deck now


(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BvFoh_xCQAEvSYp.jpg:large)

Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on August 23, 2014, 10:08:42 AM
 :mindf-ck:

Still playing with us....

Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on August 23, 2014, 10:35:26 AM
Well, we know they're real, they're printed - and that probably means they're releasing soon.

Remember that David often likes to use a deck design exclusively for a while before he puts them on sale.  I'd say before year's end, but when before, anyone's guess is as good as mine.  Yeah, they said what, August?  We'll see.

(Who wants to release a deck this close to Labor Day weekend?  People are taking vacations!)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: bamabenz on August 23, 2014, 11:14:41 AM
Well, we know they're real, they're printed - and that probably means they're releasing soon.

Remember that David often likes to use a deck design exclusively for a while before he puts them on sale.  I'd say before year's end, but when before, anyone's guess is as good as mine.  Yeah, they said what, August?  We'll see.

(Who wants to release a deck this close to Labor Day weekend?  People are taking vacations!)
Jackson Robinson and Brain Vessel, for starters.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on August 23, 2014, 01:41:07 PM
 ???

David has been teasing this deck for too long.

And now he is giving away stuff and making all the international fans jealous as hell.

Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Nurul on August 26, 2014, 06:25:51 PM
Finally, the time has come :)
Sept 1st (no specific time yet)

Taken from db's Instagram page - thank you social media
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on August 26, 2014, 06:51:08 PM
 :mindf-ck:

Oh god YES!!!!!
YES YES YES!!!!

Im ordering a lot of those... i hope the price stays the same...
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Fess on August 26, 2014, 09:16:25 PM
I'm excited about these too. September is going to be another expensive month for me lol.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Jamm Pakd Cards on August 27, 2014, 12:12:49 AM
Finally, the time has come :)
Sept 1st (no specific time yet)

Taken from db's Instagram page - thank you social media

Those looks awesome!
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: HandSkillz on August 27, 2014, 09:57:30 AM
I'll probably wait until christmas time - guessing there will be some sort of deal/discount.  Very nice though!
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Rob Wright on August 31, 2014, 02:14:13 AM
Quote

(https://fbcdn-profile-a.akamaihd.net/hprofile-ak-xfp1/t1.0-1/p50x50/320243_403206879742171_1722763152_n.jpg)   David Blaine

Liked · 2 hrs
 
Metallic green Gatorbacks on sale sept 1 at noon. First 24 hours 5$ per deck, min orders 12 decks



(https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/10636164_752901201439402_2229025660714193140_n.jpg?oh=0784bd647e6e0c42822afb3cc27ff5bd&oe=5463F49F&__gda__=1416093479_93813560b60e36fd922b137a99a3ac28)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: HolyJJ on August 31, 2014, 10:11:53 AM
$5 per deck is a GREAT deal... if you live in the states.

On the other hand, those of us who are international customers would still end up spending a lot...because the international shipping that DB's store charges, it'd tear us a new one.

I remember it being something like $52 shipping just for purchasing a carbon fiber clip (despite the package being no bigger than the size of a deck, and weighing as much as 13 playing cards!).
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on August 31, 2014, 12:08:56 PM
I remember mentioning that I wish these would come in colors that were not traditionally used with DB's Split Spades (green & sepia). (I know there were black SS.) I think DB is doing exactly that. The brown/black (sepia) could be released a month from now? If black, then maybe a black Friday release. You have to wonder then about when black lions would be released?

Look closely at the Tony Chang video. Those are not just green! :))
http://instagram.com/p/rf5UfYjPSj/ (http://instagram.com/p/rf5UfYjPSj/)

Quote

(https://fbcdn-profile-a.akamaihd.net/hprofile-ak-xfp1/t1.0-1/p50x50/320243_403206879742171_1722763152_n.jpg)   David Blaine

Liked · 2 hrs
 
Metallic green Gatorbacks on sale sept 1 at noon. First 24 hours 5$ per deck, min orders 12 decks



(https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/10636164_752901201439402_2229025660714193140_n.jpg?oh=0784bd647e6e0c42822afb3cc27ff5bd&oe=5463F49F&__gda__=1416093479_93813560b60e36fd922b137a99a3ac28)

Referencing the image above, I believe the green tuck to the green cards is the tuck on the left with part of its corner showing. The tuck to the right is for the black/brown gator-backs. The green tuck should be the one with a green foil gator as shown in the Tony Chang video.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: sprouts1115 on August 31, 2014, 06:08:17 PM
So what are we looking at here?  I like the Joker.  It's fine, but what is the other "J"  It can't be the Jack.  No suit index and it has a smaller font than the courts.  It must be the 2nd Joker.  That's great.  I like it already.  You need a Major and Minor Joker.  Which one is Major; who knows?  The back of card is fine.  It's a glorify mirrored spade.  Don't see anything gatory about it.  Which to me is a disappointment.  The box has a alligator on it.  Whoot!   

What is the card next to the back on the right.  Must be a gaff card.  How exciting.   
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on September 01, 2014, 12:07:41 PM
They are out!!! just bought some of them.

FYI

You can only buy bricks of the deck.
Its a 24 hour only deal
Its going to be MORE EXPENSIVE.


ITS ONLY THE METALLIC GREEN ONE.  :-[

So either he launches the Black ones on another date or he will just won't release it....


Good luck!
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Magasaki on September 01, 2014, 01:23:54 PM
aw man, I was going to buy a brick for that price but the postage to the UK is roughly the same cost as the cards so i'm out. I'll grab a couple off ebay later.:-(
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Nurul on September 01, 2014, 01:30:22 PM
I purchased a brick but had it sent to my shipito account. In the long run, works out much cheaper. It'll be half of what DB site is charging for international postage
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on September 01, 2014, 03:13:20 PM
You guys are really slacking about posting LINKS when these things go on sale...  :))

http://shop.davidblaine.com/collections/frontpage/products/metallic-green-gatorbacks

EDIT: bought one brick.  I don't usually buy anything by the brick.  I would have liked a redesigned set of faces, but I'm sure I'll be happy.

BTW: are these USPC or EPCC?  I think they're EPCC.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: HolyJJ on September 01, 2014, 03:37:23 PM
Don, the product description page on Blaine's site confirms that it's a USPCC deck.

Appears to be different card stock also.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on September 01, 2014, 03:38:08 PM
Maybe they are EPCC??

btw Can you tell me if the White Lions (first edition) were printed somewhere else? or If the stock was any different? I keep getting messages that tell me that, the White Lions 1st edition were the best Blaine deck (quality and stock wise) ever, UNTIL The gator backs... which people are implying are even better than those ones...  ;D
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on September 01, 2014, 04:34:24 PM
Maybe they are EPCC??

btw Can you tell me if the White Lions (first edition) were printed somewhere else? or If the stock was any different? I keep getting messages that tell me that, the White Lions 1st edition were the best Blaine deck (quality and stock wise) ever, UNTIL The gator backs... which people are implying are even better than those ones...  ;D

All of Blaine's prior decks are from USPC.  White Lions came in a "Series A", a "Series B", "Black Label" and "Stealth Cards" (gaffs).  It's the Split Spades Lions that have "1st Edition" printed on the box - and no subsequent edition was ever made.  I think they were released in '09 (the year is printed on the box above the title) except for the metallic "Silver Split Spades" of last year (BTW, that was his first deck to use any metallic colors).  Additionally, there were a smattering of gaff cards released (I'm sure just a fraction of the ones that were made for Blaine himself) as well as three gaffed decks manufactured as "Bicycle Split Spades" in both prototype and production editions, each with different boxes.

Split Spades Lions were very popular for the handling and stock, as were the White Lions - but the White Lions stock was a bit heavier/thicker, if I remember correctly.  Some people loved this, some preferred the SSL stock better.

I'm reasonably sure that these Gatorbacks are EPCC-made, which is why there's such a hubbub about them.  If they were USPC, I doubt he'd have sold any respectable amount for $5/pack by the brick - the profit margin would be pretty narrow.  EPCC has gone up a little in price but they're still well-enough below what USPC charges for even a basic deck.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: bamabenz on September 01, 2014, 04:42:52 PM
Maybe they are EPCC??

btw Can you tell me if the White Lions (first edition) were printed somewhere else? or If the stock was any different? I keep getting messages that tell me that, the White Lions 1st edition were the best Blaine deck (quality and stock wise) ever, UNTIL The gator backs... which people are implying are even better than those ones...  ;D

All of Blaine's prior decks are from USPC.  White Lions came in a "Series A", a "Series B", "Black Label" and "Stealth Cards" (gaffs).  It's the Split Spades Lions that have "1st Edition" printed on the box - and no subsequent edition was ever made.  I think they were released in '09 (the year is printed on the box above the title) except for the metallic "Silver Split Spades" of last year (BTW, that was his first deck to use any metallic colors).  Additionally, there were a smattering of gaff cards released (I'm sure just a fraction of the ones that were made for Blaine himself) as well as three gaffed decks manufactured as "Bicycle Split Spades" in both prototype and production editions, each with different boxes.

Split Spades Lions were very popular for the handling and stock, as were the White Lions - but the White Lions stock was a bit heavier/thicker, if I remember correctly.  Some people loved this, some preferred the SSL stock better.

I'm reasonably sure that these Gatorbacks are EPCC-made, which is why there's such a hubbub about them.  If they were USPC, I doubt he'd have sold any respectable amount for $5/pack by the brick - the profit margin would be pretty narrow.  EPCC has gone up a little in price but they're still well-enough below what USPC charges for even a basic deck.

From the product page:

"This is the first time that the US Playing Card Company has printed a deck with metallic green ink backs and metallic faces to match."
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on September 01, 2014, 06:28:26 PM
Quote
I'm reasonably sure that these Gatorbacks are EPCC-made, which is why there's such a hubbub about them.  If they were USPC, I doubt he'd have sold any respectable amount for $5/pack by the brick - the profit margin would be pretty narrow.  EPCC has gone up a little in price but they're still well-enough below what USPC charges for even a basic deck.

I'm not saying they are or they are not EPCC. I don't think we should use his narrow profit margin as a factor. This $5/deck brick sale is only for 24 hours. David sold his silver edition split spades on Black Friday for what amounted to around $2.75 a deck. I think this is just David giving card and magic enthusiasts a nice deal for being on the ball.

Quote
The seal ensures that the cards have not been tampered with and help retain the deck's value for collectors.

Nice product description. Looks like they thought of everything. Written to hit all card buyers.

YES, It does say USPCC.

Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: ruicorreia on September 01, 2014, 06:39:54 PM
Finally!!
But the problem is really the shipping: $52 bucks (plus custom taxes) it's too much.

So, for all of you that live in the US, that are considering to buy 1 brick but are having doubts, here's my proposal: 6 decks for you and 6 decks for me. I pay immediately the price for the 6 decks plus the shipping to Portugal (real shipping price only). For those interested, please PM me.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Rob Wright on September 01, 2014, 06:55:43 PM
Finally!!
But the problem is really the shipping: $52 bucks (plus custom taxes) it's too much.

So, for all of you that live in the US, that are considering to buy 1 brick but are having doubts, here's my proposal: 6 decks for you and 6 decks for me. I pay immediately the price for the 6 decks plus the shipping to Portugal (real shipping price only). For those interested, please PM me.
I was going to make an offer to do that, but..............SOLD OUT!
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: bamabenz on September 01, 2014, 07:08:14 PM
Finally!!
But the problem is really the shipping: $52 bucks (plus custom taxes) it's too much.

So, for all of you that live in the US, that are considering to buy 1 brick but are having doubts, here's my proposal: 6 decks for you and 6 decks for me. I pay immediately the price for the 6 decks plus the shipping to Portugal (real shipping price only). For those interested, please PM me.
I was going to make an offer to do that, but..............SOLD OUT!
Try again. They're available.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: sprouts1115 on September 01, 2014, 08:39:51 PM
Wow! $5 a deck.  It has green metallic inks on the cards. Black and Green foil on tuck box. The tuck itself is Embossed on both sides.   Seems like this deck has bells and whistles for a cheap price. 

@Don - What do you think that other "J" is?   
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: BenMorrisRains on September 01, 2014, 09:59:20 PM
I picked up a couple bricks. Super stoked. And it clearly says printed by the US playing card company on the website, which has been pointed out now numerous times... Either way, Blaine's decks are some of the best i've ever handled so I think the quality should stay the same here.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Anthony on September 01, 2014, 11:11:54 PM
So it took David Blaine for me to break down and pick up a brick of something, hard to argue the price no matter what...no brainer.

...I think the real "Mystery" is going to be tomorrows pricing  :-\
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Fess on September 02, 2014, 01:40:39 AM
So it took David Blaine for me to break down and pick up a brick of something, hard to argue the price no matter what...no brainer.

...I think the real "Mystery" is going to be tomorrows pricing  :-\

I agree it will be very interesting to see what the price will be per deck. I hope it's not too much of a bump should I need to pick up another brick or two down the road.  :)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: crazyfandecks on September 02, 2014, 02:44:44 AM
can anyone (especially Don) tell me what is No.127 on the AoS stand for?! i cant remember any decks from USPCC have it (http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0031/8592/products/Andreas_Poupoutsis_David_Blaine_gator_decks_1_of_3_1024x1024.jpg?v=1409525693)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: ruicorreia on September 02, 2014, 10:16:46 AM
Finally!!
But the problem is really the shipping: $52 bucks (plus custom taxes) it's too much.

So, for all of you that live in the US, that are considering to buy 1 brick but are having doubts, here's my proposal: 6 decks for you and 6 decks for me. I pay immediately the price for the 6 decks plus the shipping to Portugal (real shipping price only). For those interested, please PM me.
I was going to make an offer to do that, but..............SOLD OUT!

Thank you anyway! Well, for those of you that can offer a nice price for shipping, I'm up for 6 decks.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on September 02, 2014, 11:02:18 AM
Is it to early to jack up the price a bit?? lets say... 25 dollars per deck?  ;D :t11:
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Anthony on September 02, 2014, 12:17:14 PM
Well the site saying they are SOLD OUT is going to casuse some price gouging, I wouldn't be surprised to see these pop up on ebay as a "Pre-Sale" from sellers  ::)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: crazyfandecks on September 02, 2014, 12:25:46 PM
calm down guys, still have at least 1 more color  ;D and i think DB set sold out just for update the prices. btw anyone can explaine for me the No.127 stand for  :-\
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on September 02, 2014, 01:19:12 PM
calm down guys, still have at least 1 more color  ;D and i think DB set sold out just for update the prices. btw anyone can explaine for me the No.127 stand for  :-\

Could have something to do with Brooklyn, NY. It's not the first or last 3 digits of a zip code. Maybe it's P.S. 127 in Brooklyn. Just a guess.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on September 02, 2014, 06:08:56 PM
i think the cards are really sold out...  ???

I was expecting him to put some more "individual" decks but it seems the green ones are goners...

Damn. :-[

Well... thats a great way to decimate your competition and sell out everything you have at the same time.

Now this decks are going to be valuable... (i hope they don't reprint them  :karrit:)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on September 02, 2014, 09:46:44 PM
i think the cards are really sold out...  ???

I was expecting him to put some more "individual" decks but it seems the green ones are goners...

Damn. :-[

Well... thats a great way to decimate your competition and sell out everything you have at the same time.

Now this decks are going to be valuable... (i hope they don't reprint them  :karrit:)

DB has sold decks long enough to know to keep a few gross for defects and box sets. I'm sure there are more, just not available for public sale at this time.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on September 02, 2014, 10:54:53 PM

From the product page:

"This is the first time that the US Playing Card Company has printed a deck with metallic green ink backs and metallic faces to match."

Good observation - I stand corrected.
can anyone (especially Don) tell me what is No.127 on the AoS stand for?! i cant remember any decks from USPCC have it

Beats me.  I do know that it translates to "1111111" in binary.  Beyond that, I couldn't say.

There is indeed a PS 127 in Brooklyn.  I know Blaine lives in Brooklyn, and it's not beyond possibility that his daughter, Dessa, goes there, but I'd doubt that he'd advertise such a detail of his personal life like that.  It could simply be that he's a supporter of the school, but even that seems a bit unlikely.

Hecrob - the special discounted brick offer is over, but that doesn't mean all the decks are sold out.  Be patient.  I'm inclined to doubt he'd sell only by the brick.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on September 03, 2014, 08:00:25 AM
Quote
There is indeed a PS 127 in Brooklyn.  I know Blaine lives in Brooklyn, and it's not beyond possibility that his daughter, Dessa, goes there, but I'd doubt that he'd advertise such a detail of his personal life like that.  It could simply be that he's a supporter of the school, but even that seems a bit unlikely.

I agree with you. I did think of that after posting. It's not likely. Children of celebrities usually go to private schools anyway.

Could be a date, Jan 27th or Dec 7th 
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on September 03, 2014, 12:35:09 PM
Quote
There is indeed a PS 127 in Brooklyn.  I know Blaine lives in Brooklyn, and it's not beyond possibility that his daughter, Dessa, goes there, but I'd doubt that he'd advertise such a detail of his personal life like that.  It could simply be that he's a supporter of the school, but even that seems a bit unlikely.

I agree with you. I did think of that after posting. It's not likely. Children of celebrities usually go to private schools anyway.

Could be a date, Jan 27th or Dec 7th

Or even July 12th!

And they don't always go to private school.  Dessa might be using her mother's last name instead of her father's and going incognito to a public school.  There's actually some very good ones in New York - you just have to know where to look.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on September 03, 2014, 01:13:22 PM
Quote
There is indeed a PS 127 in Brooklyn.  I know Blaine lives in Brooklyn, and it's not beyond possibility that his daughter, Dessa, goes there, but I'd doubt that he'd advertise such a detail of his personal life like that.  It could simply be that he's a supporter of the school, but even that seems a bit unlikely.

I agree with you. I did think of that after posting. It's not likely. Children of celebrities usually go to private schools anyway.

Could be a date, Jan 27th or Dec 7th

Or even July 12th!

And they don't always go to private school.  Dessa might be using her mother's last name instead of her father's and going incognito to a public school.  There's actually some very good ones in New York - you just have to know where to look.

Dessa's birthday is January 27th, 2011 (1/27) = No. 127

Source: http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Blaine
Quote
Blaine and his fiancée, Alizee Guinochet, have one daughter, Dessa, born on January 27, 2011.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: PrincessTrouble on September 03, 2014, 01:49:08 PM
From David Blaine's instagram 3 days ago:

"Metallic green gatorbacks tomorrow at noon. Selling my most expensive deck for 5$ first 24 hours only. Davidblaine.com min 12 pack tho"

Which I interpret as they will be for sale as singles sometime in the future, but priced more than $5/deck.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on September 03, 2014, 02:39:41 PM
Quote
There is indeed a PS 127 in Brooklyn.  I know Blaine lives in Brooklyn, and it's not beyond possibility that his daughter, Dessa, goes there, but I'd doubt that he'd advertise such a detail of his personal life like that.  It could simply be that he's a supporter of the school, but even that seems a bit unlikely.

I agree with you. I did think of that after posting. It's not likely. Children of celebrities usually go to private schools anyway.

Could be a date, Jan 27th or Dec 7th

Or even July 12th!

And they don't always go to private school.  Dessa might be using her mother's last name instead of her father's and going incognito to a public school.  There's actually some very good ones in New York - you just have to know where to look.

Dessa's birthday is January 27th, 2011 (1/27) = No. 127

Source: http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Blaine
Quote
Blaine and his fiancée, Alizee Guinochet, have one daughter, Dessa, born on January 27, 2011.

Just a wee bit too young for school just yet...  :))

Thanks for the info!
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on September 04, 2014, 07:52:30 AM
Legends PCC posted this: "a rare collection"

Could it be David used a different printer for each color? Per attached image, was the black printed by Legends? Is the tuck face down purposely so we can't see the foil gator color?

Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on September 04, 2014, 10:04:45 AM
 ???

Is that the "microsoft event" deck!?!?

Are they teasing us AGAIN!? we haven't even finished with the gatorbacks...  :mindf-ck:
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Nurul on September 04, 2014, 04:15:03 PM
Black gatorbacks coming soon
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: HolyJJ on September 04, 2014, 08:05:28 PM
The stamp style seal on the tuckbox of the black Gatorbacks looks very much like the type that you find on Legends decks!

If it is indeed printed by Legends, then I'm going to try and find a buyer for one of my kidneys so that I can raise the required funds to buy a brick or two! :D
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: bhong on September 04, 2014, 08:40:03 PM
The stamp style seal on the tuckbox of the black Gatorbacks looks very much like the type that you find on Legends decks!

If it is indeed printed by Legends, then I'm going to try and find a buyer for one of my kidneys so that I can raise the required funds to buy a brick or two! :D

It's similar, but not the same. The die they've used for seals for the Legends and Hive have 14 points for the perforation compared to Gatorback's which has 12. I'm not saying it isn't possible for the Black Gatorbacks to be printed with LPCC or EPCC, but that seal isn't a sure guarantee.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: HolyJJ on September 04, 2014, 09:05:09 PM
Wow... well spotted man!

It was always a longshot for the deck to be printed by anyone other than USPCC, seeing as the green one was printed by them... but hey, like many others, that was just wishful thinking on my part. Lol.

It really would had Blaine gone for the superior quality of EPCC or LPCC for the Gatorbacks.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: DarkDerp on September 04, 2014, 11:35:54 PM
Not so fast. Same seal from the DB xbox one cards done by Legends. Crazy thing about stickers is you can stick them on things   ;)(http://i975.photobucket.com/albums/ae240/1rideout/10468197_10152137353106249_491111728624885339_n_zpse712842b.jpg)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on September 05, 2014, 12:06:25 AM
The stamp style seal on the tuckbox of the black Gatorbacks looks very much like the type that you find on Legends decks!

If it is indeed printed by Legends, then I'm going to try and find a buyer for one of my kidneys so that I can raise the required funds to buy a brick or two! :D

It's similar, but not the same. The die they've used for seals for the Legends and Hive have 14 points for the perforation compared to Gatorback's which has 12. I'm not saying it isn't possible for the Black Gatorbacks to be printed with LPCC or EPCC, but that seal isn't a sure guarantee.

I agree. I was looking for images of the green seal. I guess we will have to wait till we get our decks. Remember, the decks product description says the green has a seal. They could both be USPCC or not. I'm sure both printers are capable of creating that stamp seal.

It's rare for legends to post a picture of any deck that they have not producing though. I can't recall ever seeing a photo that was not one of their own. Having not looked through their social media pages tonight, maybe someone else can verify that for me. The word "rare" said to me small print run. So my thinking was a limited black deck by legends.

Now I think the legends post was more about Mark Stutzman then Legends produced decks. Blaine saying the black are "coming soon" says to me the black is as big as the green print run. Amazing how much information one can get through the psychology of words and the behavior for which people use them normally (coming soon). :))
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on September 05, 2014, 12:44:17 AM
The stamp style seal on the tuckbox of the black Gatorbacks looks very much like the type that you find on Legends decks!

If it is indeed printed by Legends, then I'm going to try and find a buyer for one of my kidneys so that I can raise the required funds to buy a brick or two! :D

It's similar, but not the same. The die they've used for seals for the Legends and Hive have 14 points for the perforation compared to Gatorback's which has 12. I'm not saying it isn't possible for the Black Gatorbacks to be printed with LPCC or EPCC, but that seal isn't a sure guarantee.

I agree. I was looking for images of the green seal. I guess we will have to wait till we get our decks. Remember, the decks product description says the green has a seal. They could both be USPCC or not. I'm sure both printers are capable of creating that stamp seal.

It's rare for legends to post a picture of any deck that they have not producing though. I can't recall ever seeing a photo that was not one of their own. Having not looked through their social media pages tonight, maybe someone else can verify that for me. The word "rare" said to me small print run. So my thinking was a limited black deck by legends.

Now I think the legends post was more about Mark Stutzman then Legends produced decks. Blaine saying the black are "coming soon" says to me the black is as big as the green print run. Amazing how much information one can get through the psychology of words and the behavior for which people use them normally (coming soon). :))

Just out of curiosity, gang, has anyone raised any of these questions on the Legends PCC official topic or asked the LPCC Discourse Agent?  I'm just sayin', you want the straight answers, you go to the source, am I right?  :))
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on September 05, 2014, 03:22:04 PM
@ Don

I have asked questions on the official thread but someone named Don Boyer keeps answering me. lmfao hahaha :))

I'm still waiting for the Sharps to be released. My hair will be gray before that happens.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: aldazar on September 05, 2014, 08:25:08 PM
What am I missing?

The project page clearly says:
"This is the first time that the US Playing Card Company has printed a deck with metallic green ink backs and metallic faces to match."

So doesn't that make it pretty clear that it's a USPCC deck?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on September 05, 2014, 09:02:06 PM
What am I missing?

The project page clearly says:
"This is the first time that the US Playing Card Company has printed a deck with metallic green ink backs and metallic faces to match."

So doesn't that make it pretty clear that it's a USPCC deck?

YES, we know the GREEN is USPCC. We are saying the BLACK might have been printed by Legends. One color from each.

My Gator's came in today. Still have not opened the package. Hopefully tomorrow!
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: BenMorrisRains on September 06, 2014, 04:25:59 PM
I received mine today and I love them! I honestly am not into super busy back designs usually, but Blaine's cards just always handle so well. I am more on the magician/cardistry side of things if that helps at all.

The tuck is probably one of the best i've seen. I love matte black and matte finishes in general and nothing disappoints. Well worth the skrilla.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Anthony on September 06, 2014, 05:41:04 PM
Beautifully done my Mr. Blaine and Company

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xap1/v/t1.0-9/1907802_710801038987487_6478089144828943237_n.jpg?oh=fe55459bbafd1a74ebcd4c1dcdb98b06&oe=54A44E43&__gda__=1415235082_90e6c885f24f17ad01c94315c7530934)

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xap1/v/t1.0-9/10675732_710801035654154_7290392933256819344_n.jpg?oh=63dbb15a4691a92f6ef6c255bdccf26a&oe=54878B76&__gda__=1420257450_1287a6c3cda4444ea4f05bf23716d4fb)

(https://scontent-b-ord.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/10632804_710801042320820_1797153900758595540_n.jpg?oh=89faa16293fe472e78c7c92bae4a798c&oe=549F4FDA)

,,,,,,,,,and a bonus pic, I actually got a Re-Tweet from David Blaine  :)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on September 07, 2014, 08:13:57 AM
@ Anthony

I did see that on Blaine's twitter. I just started realizing your Kardify. I've always known you as Sparks and always will. Much better. David's photo's of the deck did not do the Gatorbacks justice. I guess David believes it does not matter what pictures they use for stock photo's, they were going to sell anyway. The inside of the tuck looks awesome.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Anthony on September 07, 2014, 09:01:46 AM
Thanks Card Player, ya, there has always been a bit of confusion between Sparkz, Kardify and Anthony......so much so that even some of the people I've interviewed didn't know.. Hence the name change with the Avatar staying as is, lol

Thanks again for the kind words, the Blaine re-tweet was pretty cool, I was told by a friend and thought they were pulling my leg, lol
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on September 07, 2014, 11:21:16 AM
Thanks Card Player, ya, there has always been a bit of confusion between Sparkz, Kardify and Anthony......so much so that even some of the people I've interviewed didn't know.. Hence the name change with the Avatar staying as is, lol

Thanks again for the kind words, the Blaine re-tweet was pretty cool, I was told by a friend and thought they were pulling my leg, lol

Plus your producing decks now? Aquila Playing Cards? You've been busy! :))

All the best.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on September 07, 2014, 04:38:48 PM
And now for the 25 million dollar question. As attached and as shown on the inside tuck flap of the gatorbacks, what is it and what does it do?

The quotation “illusion is the first of all pleasures” is from Voltaire (1694-1778) the French Enlightenment writer, historian and philosopher. In the original French the expression reads:

L'illusion est le premier plaisir.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Nurul on September 07, 2014, 05:40:52 PM
Maybe something to do with some calendar?

Numbers on the outside go up to 31 to maybe represent the date. Then on the inside, you have numbers from 1-12 repeating twice, maybe it represents the month?

The quote is about an observation about love, probably why it's pointing to heart.

Stab in the dark ....

Reminds me a little of the Mayan calendar
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on September 07, 2014, 05:47:13 PM
Maybe something to do with some calendar?

Numbers on the outside go up to 31 to maybe represent the date. Then on the inside, you have numbers from 1-12 repeating twice, maybe it represents the month?

Stab in the dark ....

I think it's calendar related also. The roman numeral represents time (24 hours). The heart at 6AM means something?

It could be a clever magic reveal (6 of hearts)? I think there is something more to it. I don't want to dismiss it. It's on the brick box for a reason. It can't be a reveal because it's so hard to see on the inside of tuck, it would be almost useless. He forced us to buy a brick.

Anyone else notice the KoD? lol
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Nurul on September 07, 2014, 06:21:07 PM
First deciphering the legends mysteries, now this - you got to love it :D

I've not received my brick yet as I'm international, any chance you can post some images of the cards? :)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on September 07, 2014, 09:11:01 PM
It's called an "Astronomical clock".

http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astronomical_clock

[attached image]

Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: crazyfandecks on September 08, 2014, 12:00:26 AM
reveal the secret of Aligator la  :-[
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders - Coming soon from David Blaine
Post by: Fess on September 08, 2014, 09:41:18 PM
Mine have arrived. I just got a few minutes with them. They're so much better in person than in photos. Really wonderful decks, the green is beautiful. I hope we get some time between these and the black gator backs, I might explode haha. :)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on September 09, 2014, 03:56:59 AM
I still have to check my mail for my order.

I've updated the topic title, since these are no longer "coming soon".
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Magasaki on September 09, 2014, 04:04:17 AM
If anyone in the UK has a couple going spare when they arrive I would gladly buy them.  :o
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on September 09, 2014, 06:33:58 AM
If anyone in the UK has a couple going spare when they arrive I would gladly buy them.  :o

...which is something you need to post in the STISO, not here...   :-[
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Magasaki on September 09, 2014, 06:41:09 AM
Done, and done!
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: HandSkillz on September 10, 2014, 10:55:10 AM
Anyone seen any hints or notes on individual release for these?  I know we've speculated about Black Friday - just seeing if anyone in the know knows anything :)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Anthony on September 10, 2014, 02:50:43 PM
This is purely my opinion, but I don't think you'll see the Green Backs released again. The next release will be the Black version, probably as a more main stream release where you can purchase just one deck. Again, just my opinion.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: PrincessTrouble on September 10, 2014, 03:46:53 PM
JP Playing Cards has them available as singles right now:

http://jpplayingcards.co.uk/gatorbacks-metallic-green-playing-cards

Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Msp062 on September 11, 2014, 10:29:53 AM
I picked up two bricks of the green and have been watching daily for news of the black version.  Like Sparks, I don't expect the greens to be released again.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on September 11, 2014, 10:34:03 AM
mmm so JP is Taking a stab at the price range, nice.  8)

I wonder if the decks are going to end up in the $40 + price mark.... i guess only time will tell.

In the meantime... lets wait for the black version and the rumoured albino version?  ;)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on September 11, 2014, 01:17:46 PM
Nine pounds sterling isn't so bad for an American deck imported to Britain.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on September 11, 2014, 06:13:27 PM
Quote
In the meantime... lets wait for the black version and the rumoured albino version? 

Attached Image... Are you referring to this?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Anthony on September 11, 2014, 10:44:00 PM
Black Gatorbacks or Albino?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on September 12, 2014, 10:50:06 AM
 ;)
Albino Version sounds more "special"
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on September 12, 2014, 11:31:47 AM
Black Gatorbacks or Albino?

Those are black. I believe the image I posted are the albino? It's not my image, it was retweeted by DB. I assume it's color is accurate. I take no responsibly for any editing that might have been done.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on September 12, 2014, 12:06:35 PM
Guys! Don't freak out...

I said "Albino Version" Because of the white gator that appears on the Black Gatorback deck.

There is no third version of the gatorbacks (although... i wish there was this Albino version  ;D)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on September 12, 2014, 01:46:18 PM
Black Gatorbacks or Albino?

Those are black. I believe the image I posted are the albino? It's not my image, it was retweeted by DB. I assume it's color is accurate. I take no responsibly for any editing that might have been done.

Take the green deck in release now (or the upcoming black deck), show the side without foil, over-illuminate it so the matte black paper looks gray (because dull, black vellum doesn't reflect light very well), and take photo.  Done.  NOT Albino.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: PurpleIce on September 12, 2014, 01:49:07 PM
Nine pounds sterling isn't so bad for an American deck imported to Britain.

I actually think its quite cheap. Though i do not expect it to hit the $50 mark. I'm pretty sure as long as DB does not release it anymore, prices are sure to jump probably $20-30 and maybe even $40 mark.

Do remember that each person has to buy at least a brick, which means e.g for a 10,000 deck print where people get an average 2-3 decks, it works out to about 3-5000 people having these decks. Now which each getting a brick or 2...it probably works out to less than 800. And that is if DB actually prints and sells 10,000 decks.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on September 12, 2014, 01:57:33 PM
Nine pounds sterling isn't so bad for an American deck imported to Britain.

I actually think its quite cheap. Though i do not expect it to hit the $50 mark. I'm pretty sure as long as DB does not release it anymore, prices are sure to jump probably $20-30 and maybe even $40 mark.

Do remember that each person has to buy at least a brick, which means e.g for a 10,000 deck print where people get an average 2-3 decks, it works out to about 3-5000 people having these decks. Now which each getting a brick or 2...it probably works out to less than 800. And that is if DB actually prints and sells 10,000 decks.

None of those numbers can be accurate for the simple reason that Blaine never releases the size of his print runs.  It's also a big assumption that he's never going to release the green Gator Backs - the profit potential is higher for making them available individually.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on September 12, 2014, 03:40:46 PM
Nine pounds sterling isn't so bad for an American deck imported to Britain.

I actually think its quite cheap. Though i do not expect it to hit the $50 mark. I'm pretty sure as long as DB does not release it anymore, prices are sure to jump probably $20-30 and maybe even $40 mark.

Do remember that each person has to buy at least a brick, which means e.g for a 10,000 deck print where people get an average 2-3 decks, it works out to about 3-5000 people having these decks. Now which each getting a brick or 2...it probably works out to less than 800. And that is if DB actually prints and sells 10,000 decks.

You also have to remember, these were selling by the brick. We are not the only ones trying to unload a few online. You can ask $20 but in the end it will be the person who sells them cheapest that will get the business. Somebody always drops their price. If these were rare, asking $20 might not be unreasonable. With older decks of Blaine's out there getting $16-24, I don't see these going higher.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Magic_Orthodoxy on September 12, 2014, 03:49:48 PM
well... my greens were damaged in shipping and Blaine already sent me replacements and let's just say I wasn't given green decks to replace green decks. If they had an extra lying around the shop, they didn't send me one. >:(
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on September 12, 2014, 04:01:56 PM
well... my greens were damaged in shipping and Blaine already sent me replacements and let's just say I wasn't given green decks to replace green decks. If they had an extra lying around the shop, they didn't send me one. >:(

All of my decks came in excellent condition. Usually when I do buy a brick of anything, I get the one or two decks on the side with a few dings. Not this time.

That would prove they are indeed Sold Out.

What did you end up receiving as replacements?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Magic_Orthodoxy on September 12, 2014, 04:42:46 PM
Sparks already posted a picture of it......
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on September 12, 2014, 04:44:25 PM
I hope he got some white lions  :t11: it would be unfair for all of us if he got some "Albino" Decks  ;)


I once had that occur to me but with T11... It was when the Madison Players came out, the decks were damaged and they send me some white monarchs as replacement, they told me they didn't have anymore so i had to accept the white monarchs.

Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on September 12, 2014, 06:18:40 PM
Sparks already posted a picture of it......

OK cool. You got a Black before it was released. I recall the DB shop doing this before when we first found out the black label lions existed. That was nice of them.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on September 12, 2014, 06:29:12 PM
WHOA!

He needs to answer some questions....

Are the cards exactly the same? (green and black ones?)
Are we getting different set up for the decks? (like the split spades and the order they came in)
Any difference on the stock?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Magic_Orthodoxy on September 12, 2014, 06:31:03 PM
nice yes... but not what I wanted. The greens are premium cards, with metallic inks on front and back and have recolored courts... the blacks are .... not that
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on September 12, 2014, 06:43:43 PM

· The greens are premium cards, with metallic inks on front and back and have recolored courts... the blacks are .... not that

· with metallic inks on front and back and have recolored courts... the blacks are .... not that

· have recolored courts... the blacks are .... not that

· the blacks are .... not that

· NOT THAT



 :mindf-ck:
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on September 12, 2014, 07:13:53 PM
nice yes... but not what I wanted. The greens are premium cards, with metallic inks on front and back and have recolored courts... the blacks are .... not that

Does that mean the black were printed by someone other then USPCC? wink wink :))
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Magic_Orthodoxy on September 12, 2014, 08:24:42 PM
no, but it seems like the difference between silver split spades and a retail bike deck from the grocery store
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Fess on September 12, 2014, 08:53:40 PM
well... my greens were damaged in shipping and Blaine already sent me replacements and let's just say I wasn't given green decks to replace green decks. If they had an extra lying around the shop, they didn't send me one. >:(

Ouch, that's rough. I feel for you. I hate getting damaged product in the post and the company producing them being unable to replace. :( makes for an unhappy weekend.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on September 12, 2014, 11:13:07 PM
no, but it seems like the difference between silver split spades and a retail bike deck from the grocery store

Thanks for the info MO, that's probably what the black are for then (retail).
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on September 13, 2014, 01:16:16 AM
It seems strange that they'd sell off all the decks in that color all at once like that.  They've never done this before.  Sure, there's a first time for everything, but it just seems atypical of Blaine's company.

Could it also be possible that the blacks being sent as replacements for damaged greens are meant to spark hyperbole from people just like us?  Meaning that they actually do have greens in stock but are still holding off on selling them?  And the remaining greens might be specifically being held for a retail release at a higher price point than the per-deck price of the recently sold-out bricks?

See, that's the problem - too many things are possible, so there's no way of telling with any accuracy which will turn out to be the truth of the matter.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: PurpleIce on September 13, 2014, 02:58:40 AM
It seems strange that they'd sell off all the decks in that color all at once like that.  They've never done this before.  Sure, there's a first time for everything, but it just seems atypical of Blaine's company.

Could it also be possible that the blacks being sent as replacements for damaged greens are meant to spark hyperbole from people just like us?  Meaning that they actually do have greens in stock but are still holding off on selling them?  And the remaining greens might be specifically being held for a retail release at a higher price point than the per-deck price of the recently sold-out bricks?

See, that's the problem - too many things are possible, so there's no way of telling with any accuracy which will turn out to be the truth of the matter.

Well, if it is like what we are assuming, where the black Gators will be more of a public retailing deck, then i highly doubt DB would send a different replacement deck to receive a highly probable backlash in the future. I believe it will be 1) unlike what we are assuming, the black Gators will be as rare and sold in the same way as the Greens, or even rarer. Or 2) He really is totally out of Greens.

If not if i was the one receiving the replacement blacks instead of greens...i'll definitely make my case again back at DB.

Or 3) It was simply packed wrongly...  :P
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on September 13, 2014, 06:32:36 AM
It seems strange that they'd sell off all the decks in that color all at once like that.  They've never done this before.  Sure, there's a first time for everything, but it just seems atypical of Blaine's company.

Could it also be possible that the blacks being sent as replacements for damaged greens are meant to spark hyperbole from people just like us?  Meaning that they actually do have greens in stock but are still holding off on selling them?  And the remaining greens might be specifically being held for a retail release at a higher price point than the per-deck price of the recently sold-out bricks?

See, that's the problem - too many things are possible, so there's no way of telling with any accuracy which will turn out to be the truth of the matter.

Anything is possible I suppose.

Yes, I find it strange DB (store) would sell all of the GREEN, knowing people who buy decks get pissy when they have the slightest damage. This is not DB's first rodeo. I find it stranger yet, that DB (store) would replace an item with something else other then what the customer ordered when they still have that item. Think about the outrage from customers that received a replacement black, only to see more green available on the store months/weeks later. Of course I reserve the 2nd printing (green) option and David's own private stash from my hypothesis.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Magic_Orthodoxy on September 13, 2014, 08:01:50 AM
Right if you ordered a damaged pair of Nikes and the company shipped you different shoes to replace them? Just to spark hyperbole? It's bad business. They didn't even ask me if that was ok. The decks are not even close in quality so it's not just a deck of a different color. I ordered an apple and they mailed me an orange.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on September 13, 2014, 09:19:54 AM
Right if you ordered a damaged pair of Nikes and the company shipped you different shoes to replace them? Just to spark hyperbole? It's bad business. They didn't even ask me if that was ok. The decks are not even close in quality so it's not just a deck of a different color. I ordered an apple and they mailed me an orange.

I assume you bought the brick (12 decks) and that the damage is only on a few of those decks? I totally understand wanting what you paid for. As an eBay seller, I also understand the frustration of knowing I took every procaution making sure an item is received by someone in the same condition I sent it. Only to have it damaged, by the shipping service. Where does the blame begin and how do we correct it. Does DB eat the cost for the shipping service or defective items from the manufacture? I feel your agony, but I think DB (store) did what they could. At least you don't have to spend money to buy the black deck, now that you know what they are. Your down a few decks but you save by not having to buy black. You get to review it.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on September 13, 2014, 12:49:31 PM
So now we know that...

· The green ones are the premium decks (sold out)
· The black ones are for retail (lesser quality)
· Theres a red version
· The red version seems to be for retail (lesser quality)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: ozfan30 on September 13, 2014, 01:11:56 PM
How many of your decks were damaged MagicOrthodoxy?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on September 13, 2014, 01:34:25 PM
So now we know that...

· The green ones are the premium decks (sold out)
· The black ones are for retail (lesser quality)
· Theres a red version
· The red version seems to be for retail (lesser quality)

I think your starting rumors... First an albino version, now a red version. If there is a red version great! I would love to own them and an albino version for that matter.

Please provide a source.

I would not go as far as saying a lesser quality. No embossed tuck and no metallic inks are not low quality by any stretch. In MO's case, I understand the disappointment of paying for something and getting it replaced with something else. I'd be happy to own them. Even sweeter if after buying them from the DB store, I can go to wallmart and pick up more at a later date.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Paul.Middleton on September 13, 2014, 02:51:25 PM
I assume you bought the brick (12 decks) and that the damage is only on a few of those decks? I totally understand wanting what you paid for. As an eBay seller, I also understand the frustration of knowing I took every procaution making sure an item is received by someone in the same condition I sent it. Only to have it damaged, by the shipping service. Where does the blame begin and how do we correct it. Does DB eat the cost for the shipping service or defective items from the manufacture? I feel your agony, but I think DB (store) did what they could. At least you don't have to spend money to buy the black deck, now that you know what they are. Your down a few decks but you save by not having to buy black. You get to review it.

I disagree. It would be easy for any store to have that view, but I take the opposite. If any part of your order reaches you damaged then who you purchased it from 95% of the time are to fault. If it was mishandled by the postal service, damage can still be prevented by quality packaging. It's impossible to prevent absolutely every little bit of damage, but they should have either kept stock aside to fulfil damaged decks or simply refunded him. That's what we would do.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on September 13, 2014, 03:04:52 PM
I assume you bought the brick (12 decks) and that the damage is only on a few of those decks? I totally understand wanting what you paid for. As an eBay seller, I also understand the frustration of knowing I took every procaution making sure an item is received by someone in the same condition I sent it. Only to have it damaged, by the shipping service. Where does the blame begin and how do we correct it. Does DB eat the cost for the shipping service or defective items from the manufacture? I feel your agony, but I think DB (store) did what they could. At least you don't have to spend money to buy the black deck, now that you know what they are. Your down a few decks but you save by not having to buy black. You get to review it.

I disagree. It would be easy for any store to have that view, but I take the opposite. If any part of your order reaches you damaged then who you purchased it from 95% of the time are to fault. If it was mishandled by the postal service, damage can still be prevented by quality packaging. It's impossible to prevent absolutely every little bit of damage, but they should have either kept stock aside to fulfil damaged decks or simply refunded him. That's what we would do.

True, It is the responsibility of the seller, fault or no fault. I would have also refunded money. However, he selling sealed brick boxes. We are talking about partial refunds. So, either return the whole brick and get refund or get replacement decks. Should they have held on to extra, yes. I made that point before. "Not DB's first rodeo". Since they did not keep extra, how do you fix the problem? I don't see partial refunds as an exceptible option. The deal was you buy the brick or nothing. Either he returns the whole brick and gets a refund, having now no green decks, or he accepts the replacement decks and still gets to keep the green he has. I'm not saying the Blaine store did not mess up a bit but given the circumstances did try to fix the problem.

In addition, did MO even return the decks? Are the cards still usable? He got to keep usable decks and got black replacements. Sounds fine to me.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Amon_GR on September 13, 2014, 03:18:23 PM
As far as I am concerned, the main issue is the fact that - for one reason or another - the customer did not receive his exact order (without being at fault). At the same time, the seller from his end should have been prepared for such setbacks. In any case, I believe that the seller cannot assume that the customer will be satisfied by any, different kind of replacement product.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: bhong on September 13, 2014, 04:03:07 PM
http://instagram.com/p/rf5UfYjPSj/?modal=true (http://instagram.com/p/rf5UfYjPSj/?modal=true)

This video from awhile back on DB's instagram page shows the Black, Red and Green Gatorbacks. Whether the reds will go on sale remains to be seen as Green went on sale and are sold out and Black is mentioned on the instagram feed as "coming soon".
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Magic_Orthodoxy on September 13, 2014, 04:08:06 PM
Well technically... THAT red deck is a split spade

I got to keep my "damaged deck" yes. Both the brick box was smashed, and I had 1 deck on the inside that had a dented corner. But I know some people who have had 8 gatorbacks damaged in shipping. DB  fulfillment wrapped everything in brown paper - which was not sufficient.

Oh and if anyone is guilty of the red gatorback rumor, it's Mark Stutzman who posted this image on his website

(http://i957.photobucket.com/albums/ae51/mojo_turbo/10628574_699713556773662_2082988173153326066_n_zps09d08549.jpg)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on September 13, 2014, 05:28:59 PM
Well technically... THAT red deck is a split spade

I got to keep my "damaged deck" yes. Both the brick box was smashed, and I had 1 deck on the inside that had a dented corner. But I know some people who have had 8 gatorbacks damaged in shipping. DB  fulfillment wrapped everything in brown paper - which was not sufficient.

Oh and if anyone is guilty of the red gatorback rumor, it's Mark Stutzman who posted this image on his website

(http://i957.photobucket.com/albums/ae51/mojo_turbo/10628574_699713556773662_2082988173153326066_n_zps09d08549.jpg)

MO bringing the evidence! +1 Yea, I'd say that's a go! :))
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Magic_Orthodoxy on September 13, 2014, 06:09:13 PM
the two stocks may be identical- green on left and black on right

(http://i957.photobucket.com/albums/ae51/mojo_turbo/20140913_170407_zps98aekpip.jpg)

the green deck has a high chemical smell - which "MAY" be magic finish due to the metallic inks? (I dunnah - someone wake Don and ask him)
the black deck doesn't have that smell at all
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on September 14, 2014, 02:29:17 AM
Well, Don IS awake, now - and eating lunch!

All brand new playing cards straight from the box have a slight chemical odor to them because of the chemicals used in the finish - Magic Finish has a sharper, more "chemical-y" smell than a standard pack of Bikes from the drug store.  The off-the-shelf Bikes might have an odor faint enough that you can't detect it, depending on your olfactory sensitivity.

Who remembers the release of the White Lions?  It was, in order:
Series A Blue (common)
Series A "Red" Rainbow (rare, not sold individually)
Series A "Purple" Rainbow (rare, not sold individually)
Series A "Blue UV" Rainbow (rare, not sold individually)

Then came the easy-to-get versions...
Series B Blue and Red (simultaneous, common)
"Black Label" (common)
"Stealth Cards" (extremely rare)

Who wants to bet that there will be a "version two" where the green deck is reprinted and made available to all either individually or in pairs?  Nearly all of Blaine's deck releases came in three colors, not counting the crazy-rare variants.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on September 14, 2014, 06:59:02 AM
Quote
Who wants to bet that there will be a "version two" where the green deck is reprinted and made available to all either individually or in pairs?  Nearly all of Blaine's deck releases came in three colors, not counting the crazy-rare variants.

I never have dreams that involve playing cards. No joke, last night I had a dream I was holding BLUE gatorbacks.

@Don, If there is anything I've learned about using past history to predict DB's product line, Blaine is unpredictable. I remember before silver split spades were released there were doubts about the use of metallic inks because he had not used it before. Now we have two metallic ink decks from DB.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Fess on September 14, 2014, 07:23:19 AM
Quote
Who wants to bet that there will be a "version two" where the green deck is reprinted and made available to all either individually or in pairs?  Nearly all of Blaine's deck releases came in three colors, not counting the crazy-rare variants.

I never have dreams that involve playing cards. No joke, last night I had a dream I was holding BLUE gatorbacks.


Green, black, and blue. It could happen. I quite like the thought of blue gators actually.

Years ago, I guess around fifteen now, I had a nightmare about tuck boxes that changed my life. Pristine hardly touched tuck boxes. They were animated little creature tucks, coughing up filthy playing cards from poker games. After they finished spilling the cards, they turned on me. Started to bite me with little tuck mouths. I ran and ran, but they were surprisingly fast and incredibly hungry. I woke up all panting looking around like an idiot haha. Started using only fresh decks after that.

Hope those Blue Gatorbacks weren't trying to eat you. :)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on September 14, 2014, 07:48:48 AM
Quote
Who wants to bet that there will be a "version two" where the green deck is reprinted and made available to all either individually or in pairs?  Nearly all of Blaine's deck releases came in three colors, not counting the crazy-rare variants.

I never have dreams that involve playing cards. No joke, last night I had a dream I was holding BLUE gatorbacks.


Green, black, and blue. It could happen. I quite like the thought of blue gators actually.

Years ago, I guess around fifteen now, I had a nightmare about tuck boxes that changed my life. Pristine hardly touched tuck boxes. They were animated little creature tucks, coughing up filthy playing cards from poker games. After they finished spilling the cards, they turned on me. Started to bite me with little tuck mouths. I ran and ran, but they were surprisingly fast and incredibly hungry. I woke up all panting looking around like an idiot haha. Started using only fresh decks after that.

Hope those Blue Gatorbacks weren't trying to eat you. :)

I guess my point was, we should not use history to predict DB's product line. We already know there will be a RED, If there is a BLUE it could be 4 colors. Not 3.

That's one awesome dream you had. lol I see *most of my dreams as warnings. Over time (My 20's) I learned to rely on dreams (and other senses) because they have been "for the most part accurate" for me months/years later. Forcing me to change my own behavior patterns or future events that I have an impact on. Maybe your dream was a warning to use new decks when playing poker. You could have been cheated or maybe someone was on to you cheating.

No gators were eating me. lol Just a BLUE gatorback printed tuck.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: aldazar on September 14, 2014, 08:06:57 AM
Well technically... THAT red deck is a split spade

I got to keep my "damaged deck" yes. Both the brick box was smashed, and I had 1 deck on the inside that had a dented corner. But I know some people who have had 8 gatorbacks damaged in shipping. DB  fulfillment wrapped everything in brown paper - which was not sufficient.


The exact same thing happened to me! Brick box got smashed, and the deck in that corner of the box got it's corner mangled...

Edit to add: Otherwise though, really like the deck! The black embossed tuck feels great in the hand and looks awesome - understated, but elegant, with the green gator a nice contrast. The cards themselves are beautiful - I love how the metallic green ink on the cardbacks catches the light in a subtle but still cool-looking effect...
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: runIt on September 14, 2014, 09:02:40 AM
Well, Don IS awake, now - and eating lunch!

All brand new playing cards straight from the box have a slight chemical odor to them because of the chemicals used in the finish - Magic Finish has a sharper, more "chemical-y" smell than a standard pack of Bikes from the drug store.  The off-the-shelf Bikes might have an odor faint enough that you can't detect it, depending on your olfactory sensitivity.

Who remembers the release of the White Lions?  It was, in order:
Series A Blue (common)
Series A "Red" Rainbow (rare, not sold individually)
Series A "Purple" Rainbow (rare, not sold individually)
Series A "Blue UV" Rainbow (rare, not sold individually)

Then came the easy-to-get versions...
Series B Blue and Red (simultaneous, common)
"Black Label" (common)
"Stealth Cards" (extremely rare)

Who wants to bet that there will be a "version two" where the green deck is reprinted and made available to all either individually or in pairs?  Nearly all of Blaine's deck releases came in three colors, not counting the crazy-rare variants.

Don, could you remind me what are Stealth Cards? Seems like this is the first time to see this. A picture maybe?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Msp062 on September 14, 2014, 10:24:03 AM
The stealth deck is the deck of 37 or so gaff cards for the white lions. It was sold as a set with a card clip. The box is black on top, red on bottom, with a blue oval over the lion symbol.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: runIt on September 14, 2014, 07:41:54 PM
The stealth deck is the deck of 37 or so gaff cards for the white lions. It was sold as a set with a card clip. The box is black on top, red on bottom, with a blue oval over the lion symbol.

Now I know. Never knew they were called stealth deck. Thanks bud!
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Nurul on September 15, 2014, 07:26:58 AM
So, has anyone tried to figure out some of the secrets in this deck?
I found some numbers on the back of the gators. Don't know if they mean anything though.
The numbers are 10 20 and 10 50

Don't know why it's showing up landscape :/ if you click on the photo it'll open up a new page as portrait.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Msp062 on September 15, 2014, 11:34:29 AM
I noticed the numbers too.  I think every card has the same numbers.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on September 16, 2014, 12:20:42 AM
I don't know if I'd call them numbers.  But I would call them a one-way mark in the design, unless it's repeated in the inverse.  The "50" is the "20" upside down, but the "20" has a tiny gap in the first symbol, making it look more like a "2", while that's missing from the "5" in "50".

Perhaps a detailed shot of the entire back would be in order?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Rob Wright on September 16, 2014, 12:46:56 AM
I assume you bought the brick (12 decks) and that the damage is only on a few of those decks? I totally understand wanting what you paid for. As an eBay seller, I also understand the frustration of knowing I took every procaution making sure an item is received by someone in the same condition I sent it. Only to have it damaged, by the shipping service. Where does the blame begin and how do we correct it. Does DB eat the cost for the shipping service or defective items from the manufacture? I feel your agony, but I think DB (store) did what they could. At least you don't have to spend money to buy the black deck, now that you know what they are. Your down a few decks but you save by not having to buy black. You get to review it.

I disagree. It would be easy for any store to have that view, but I take the opposite. If any part of your order reaches you damaged then who you purchased it from 95% of the time are to fault. If it was mishandled by the postal service, damage can still be prevented by quality packaging. It's impossible to prevent absolutely every little bit of damage, but they should have either kept stock aside to fulfil damaged decks or simply refunded him. That's what we would do.

I agree with Paul on this. I get that it's cool to get the black deck before anybody else, but I would be pissed if someone sent me a lesser quality product as a replacement. If it is properly packed, it would not come damaged. I received a package from KWP. The outside box was almost destroyed. I took pictures of the box before opening. I just knew everything would be a mess. I was wrong. Everything in the package was perfect. I guess that is the difference between a company run by a card enthusiast/lover, and someone that ships through Joe the fulfillment company. I've bought a lot of cards, and very few have been damaged. Every time  was due to subpar packaging.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: crazyfandecks on October 16, 2014, 12:24:30 AM
bump up  :D , so Black Gator will come out at this weekend, not black friday, damn, with T11 bring back the WM, this weekend will not end well with my wallet
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfa1/t31.0-8/10012252_10204246349934906_6056972410209074097_o.jpg)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Msp062 on October 16, 2014, 11:18:29 PM
The blacks look good, word is that the stock isn''t as good though. I am gonna buy a brick and find out.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on October 16, 2014, 11:42:22 PM
The blacks look good, word is that the stock isn''t as good though. I am gonna buy a brick and find out.

Oddly, The BLACK will cost slightly more then the green did. 2 decks for $16 & brick (12) for $80. I won't complain.  Blaine has always been fair to us!
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: PurpleIce on October 17, 2014, 12:22:59 AM

Black Gatorbacks for sale now:

http://shop.davidblaine.com/collections/cards
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: runIt on October 17, 2014, 01:03:16 AM
The blacks look good, word is that the stock isn''t as good though. I am gonna buy a brick and find out.

Oddly, The BLACK will cost slightly more then the green did. 2 decks for $16 & brick (12) for $80. I won't complain.  Blaine has always been fair to us!

Could be because of the stock. Saw DB's comment in Instagram that this is Bee stock.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on October 17, 2014, 02:31:09 AM
The blacks look good, word is that the stock isn''t as good though. I am gonna buy a brick and find out.

Oddly, The BLACK will cost slightly more then the green did. 2 decks for $16 & brick (12) for $80. I won't complain.  Blaine has always been fair to us!

Could be because of the stock. Saw DB's comment in Instagram that this is Bee stock.

I'm inclined to agree - the green ones didn't use "casino stock"; they're much softer than Bees.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: aldazar on October 17, 2014, 08:26:50 AM
I actually really like how the greens feel!

So hey, I have a (dumb) question: How many different versions of gatorbacks are there? I know of the green and black... Any others? Red, for example?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on October 17, 2014, 11:06:30 AM
I actually really like how the greens feel!

So hey, I have a (dumb) question: How many different versions of gatorbacks are there? I know of the green and black... Any others? Red, for example?

Nothing official from Blaine other then GREEN & BLACK. Mark Stutzman posted a RED gatorback image but to the best of my knowledge, nothing has been mentioned about actual RED decks.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Anthony on October 17, 2014, 01:55:57 PM
I think the Black version and possibly in time, the Red version will be the "Readily" available decks, much like the Blue, Red and Black Label Lions. They seem to be following the same purchase model pricing wise as the others did.

The Greenback's look to be the "Rare" version, although who knows what the numbers are, they were just distributed in an unconventional manner, but as of the release of the Black deck, they are no longer listed on the DB site.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on October 23, 2014, 08:36:51 PM
My brick of Black Gatorback's arrived in the mail today. Be on the lookout! :))
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: BiggerDee on October 24, 2014, 01:29:18 PM
Mine is scheduled to arrive tomorrow! Very cool! I'd love to see some Stutzman card back designs as screen printed posters, like Jackson did with Federal 52.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on October 24, 2014, 03:24:21 PM
Mine is scheduled to arrive tomorrow! Very cool! I'd love to see some Stutzman card back designs as screen printed posters, like Jackson did with Federal 52.

That would be awesome. I own one of Jackson's prints. I'm going to hang it one day next to the Steven Kaufman and Shepard Fairey I own. I'd love to have a Stutzman back design print signed and numbered. Not much Stutzman signature stuff out there.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: aldazar on October 30, 2014, 09:00:31 PM
Anyone had a chance to do a side-by-side comparison between the greens and the blacks yet?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on October 31, 2014, 08:21:17 AM
Anyone had a chance to do a side-by-side comparison between the greens and the blacks yet?

It's pretty simple, really.  The decks both have David's courts and standard faces and are pretty much identical except for the back color (naturally) and that the black deck has standard, non-metallic inks.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: aldazar on November 02, 2014, 10:09:15 PM
Interesting... So stock, finish, etc is identical?

The fact that the blacks were a fair bit more expensive than the greens in spite of the lack of metallic inks is merely a function of the market/David Blaine's perception of the market? Or am I missing something here?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on November 03, 2014, 03:22:21 AM
Interesting... So stock, finish, etc is identical?

The fact that the blacks were a fair bit more expensive than the greens in spite of the lack of metallic inks is merely a function of the market/David Blaine's perception of the market? Or am I missing something here?

It's a function of "That's what he chose to charge."  Greens were only sold in bulk - I have little idea as to why, just guesses - while blacks were sold individually.  Many companies offer a discount for purchasing in larger amounts - Theory11 and Ellusionist have been doing it for some time now.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: aldazar on November 03, 2014, 08:48:45 AM
The blacks look good, word is that the stock isn''t as good though. I am gonna buy a brick and find out.

Oddly, The BLACK will cost slightly more then the green did. 2 decks for $16 & brick (12) for $80. I won't complain.  Blaine has always been fair to us!

Could be because of the stock. Saw DB's comment in Instagram that this is Bee stock.

I'm inclined to agree - the green ones didn't use "casino stock"; they're much softer than Bees.

So the above turned out not to be the case then?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on November 03, 2014, 10:27:08 PM
Interesting... So stock, finish, etc is identical?

The fact that the blacks were a fair bit more expensive than the greens in spite of the lack of metallic inks is merely a function of the market/David Blaine's perception of the market? Or am I missing something here?

It's a function of "That's what he chose to charge."  Greens were only sold in bulk - I have little idea as to why, just guesses - while blacks were sold individually.  Many companies offer a discount for purchasing in larger amounts - Theory11 and Ellusionist have been doing it for some time now.

It is what it is... I agree. It's simply what Blaine wants to sell them for. I look at it like this, the price for the green gatorbacks were an early bird reward for all of us. You want the rest of the colors, now you pay the real price. :)) The real price is fair enough.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: aldazar on November 03, 2014, 10:32:16 PM
To be clear - I'm not complaining about the pricing or even the differential - I'm not one of those whiners - I conpletely respect the perogative of the owners to sell at a price of their choice and the power of the free market to determine if that price is "fair" and/or the success of the sale.

I'm just curious if there are any differences between the two decks other than color, that's all. The price difference indicated to me that there could be a difference, but it turns out I was wrong - oddly, the "superior" deck (ie metallic inked greens) were cheaper than the "inferior" deck (supposedly identical but for color and the lack of metallic ink). I'm not objecting to or complaining about it - Just curious!
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on November 03, 2014, 10:49:13 PM
To be clear - I'm not complaining about the pricing or even the differential - I'm not one of those whiners - I conpletely respect the perogative of the owners to sell at a price of their choice and the power of the free market to determine if that price is "fair" and/or the success of the sale.

I'm just curious if there are any differences between the two decks other than color, that's all. The price difference indicated to me that there could be a difference, but it turns out I was wrong - oddly, the "superior" deck (ie metallic inked greens) were cheaper than the "inferior" deck (supposedly identical but for color and the lack of metallic ink). I'm not objecting to or complaining about it - Just curious!

Exactly, I understood where you were coming from. We were all curious. Especially since the decks were only a few weeks apart from each other.

Now that I think about it. The price could have to do with the fact DB used the black to replace damaged green. Some people who got black replacements did not feel they received an equal value. Now that the black sells for more then the green, it does help slightly in that regard. Intentionally done with that in mind, only DB and his team know.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: DJT on November 04, 2014, 01:51:08 AM
I believe the black gatorbacks are bee stock(?), and the green are not. The description in the black mention high quality casino stock, the green does not.

Green: http://shop.davidblaine.com/products/metallic-green-gatorbacks (http://shop.davidblaine.com/products/metallic-green-gatorbacks)

Black: http://shop.davidblaine.com/products/black-gatorbacks (http://shop.davidblaine.com/products/black-gatorbacks)

Other not sure is there are other differences.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on November 04, 2014, 03:25:16 AM
I believe the black gatorbacks are bee stock(?), and the green are not. The description in the black mention high quality casino stock, the green does not.

Green: http://shop.davidblaine.com/products/metallic-green-gatorbacks (http://shop.davidblaine.com/products/metallic-green-gatorbacks)

Black: http://shop.davidblaine.com/products/black-gatorbacks (http://shop.davidblaine.com/products/black-gatorbacks)

Other not sure is there are other differences.

I'm agreed.  So, there are four differences between them.

- Green has metallic inks while black doesn't.
- Green has a lighter stock while black is more like Bee Casino.
- Black could be purchased individually while green could only be bought by the brick.
- The per-deck cost of green was cheaper than black.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on November 10, 2014, 02:05:00 PM
David posted this on his Instagram: "Red"

These will be my favorite of the Gatorbacks.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on November 10, 2014, 02:48:23 PM
Theres an extra card on the table... the one with a man "sitting" and a hoodie.... Any ideas if its a gaff card? promo card? :-[
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on November 10, 2014, 03:30:14 PM
Theres an extra card on the table... the one with a man "sitting" and a hoodie.... Any ideas if its a gaff card? promo card? :-[

I have an answer for you per attached photo.

I believe the Red were printed after (separate from) the Green and Black. The card you see is the Real or Magic tour logo. It could be a replaced extra card OR a gaff card David had made that's not part of the deck.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: aldazar on November 10, 2014, 06:13:32 PM
Got a chance to play with the black gators for a bit... The missing metallic inks really make a big difference to me! I'm not a big fan of green in general, but definitely prefer the greens in this series because to me, the metallic inks make a night and day difference. Also, the green gator on the tuck makes for a nice splash of color which is more visually interesting than silver on black (tho silver on black is still a classic and very nice looking).
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Justin O. on November 10, 2014, 07:31:56 PM
Fingers crossed for a red gator on the tuck. That would look pretty fantastic. Fed 52 reserve notes, HoTB sherlock decks, Whispering Imps, all of my favorite tucks are black with spot red coloring.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on November 10, 2014, 08:15:00 PM
Fingers crossed for a red gator on the tuck. That would look pretty fantastic. Fed 52 reserve notes, HoTB sherlock decks, Whispering Imps, all of my favorite tucks are black with spot red coloring.

I'd be very surprised if the gator on the tuck was not red.

Anyone notice the darkness of the red? These look metallic red to me. FYI: Not only did the double-backer get replaced but the joker font is now identical. All leading me to believe this is a separate print run from the original Green & Black.

First Print Run
-Metallic Green Limited
-Black Unlimited
Second Print Run
-Metallic Red Limited?
-Color (Blue) Unlimited?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on November 11, 2014, 01:27:54 AM
Fingers crossed for a red gator on the tuck. That would look pretty fantastic. Fed 52 reserve notes, HoTB sherlock decks, Whispering Imps, all of my favorite tucks are black with spot red coloring.

I'd be very surprised if the gator on the tuck was not red.

Anyone notice the darkness of the red? These look metallic red to me. FYI: Not only did the double-backer get replaced but the joker font is now identical. All leading me to believe this is a separate print run from the original Green & Black.

First Print Run
-Metallic Green Limited
-Black Unlimited
Second Print Run
-Metallic Red Limited?
-Color (Blue) Unlimited?

Technically, they're all separate print runs.  Any time you change a color, USPC charges for a second run.  You might finagle them to cut you a break if the second color uses the exact same faces, but that's about it.

Every single deck David Blaine does is a limited edition!  It's just that some are more limited than others.

We don't know for certain that the red backs are metallic - they do appear dark, but that can simply be because a darker shade was chosen.  Nor do we know how limited they are or whether they'll be "accompanied" by a fourth color.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on November 11, 2014, 03:03:37 AM
Fingers crossed for a red gator on the tuck. That would look pretty fantastic. Fed 52 reserve notes, HoTB sherlock decks, Whispering Imps, all of my favorite tucks are black with spot red coloring.

I'd be very surprised if the gator on the tuck was not red.

Anyone notice the darkness of the red? These look metallic red to me. FYI: Not only did the double-backer get replaced but the joker font is now identical. All leading me to believe this is a separate print run from the original Green & Black.

First Print Run
-Metallic Green Limited
-Black Unlimited
Second Print Run
-Metallic Red Limited?
-Color (Blue) Unlimited?

Technically, they're all separate print runs.  Any time you change a color, USPC charges for a second run.  You might finagle them to cut you a break if the second color uses the exact same faces, but that's about it.

Every single deck David Blaine does is a limited edition!  It's just that some are more limited than others.

We don't know for certain that the red backs are metallic - they do appear dark, but that can simply be because a darker shade was chosen.  Nor do we know how limited they are or whether they'll be "accompanied" by a fourth color.

Technically yes, they are all separate but they changed more then the color, they changed the art. The red most likely was added-on after the Green and Black either were set to be printed or had already been printed.

I'm going to go out on a limb and say there is a forth color. We don't know, sure. My post was more of a predication, rather a fact.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: aldazar on November 11, 2014, 08:53:34 AM

First Print Run
-Metallic Green Limited
-Black Unlimited
Second Print Run
-Metallic Red Limited?
-Color (Blue) Unlimited?

We don't know for certain that the red backs are metallic - they do appear dark, but that can simply be because a darker shade was chosen.  Nor do we know how limited they are or whether they'll be "accompanied" by a fourth color.

If only there was some way to express uncertainty with punctuation... Oh wait! I know! Let's use a question mark at the end of points we are uncertain about! =P
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on November 11, 2014, 09:21:35 AM

First Print Run
-Metallic Green Limited
-Black Unlimited
Second Print Run
-Metallic Red Limited?
-Color (Blue) Unlimited?

We don't know for certain that the red backs are metallic - they do appear dark, but that can simply be because a darker shade was chosen.  Nor do we know how limited they are or whether they'll be "accompanied" by a fourth color.

If only there was some way to express uncertainty with punctuation... Oh wait! I know! Let's use a question mark at the end of points we are uncertain about! =P

Yes, if only.

Don was partying like a rockstar at 1:27 AM when he posted that? <<< :))
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on November 12, 2014, 01:16:57 AM
Hardy har har.   :P

May we get back on topic?  I get that you're speculating.  I've only seen Blaine make one deck with four colors available in sizable quantities, and that was the Split Spades Lions.  First they came in blue, red and black (the sepia box, as we know, only holds blue cards - the color was considered but rejected, however they already had some boxes printed up and didn't want to waste them).  Then a few years later, Silver Split Spades were introduced - Blaine's first deck with metallic ink.

Technically you could say that the While Lions came in four colors - Series A & B Blue, Series A & B Red, Black Label and the "Rainbow series" purple deck.  But that purple deck was not only very rare, it was more of a side effect, the result of changing colors mid-run when printing the blues and reds.  I never saw a purple deck, but I did see a purple uncut sheet in his office - looks really nice.

My point is that he's not known for doing four colors.  Not saying it's impossible, just saying it's improbable.

Original Split Spades (Tally Ho) - 3 colors
Bee Split Spades - 2 colors
Split Spades Lions - initially 3 colors, 4th added a few years later
White Lions - 3 colors, with a few outliers like the purple and UV blue decks

I think I have them all, right?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Rose on November 12, 2014, 07:09:38 AM
Red Gatorbacks!
(https://unitedcardists.com/download/file.php?id=6887&t=1)
I think the black has much more impact for this design, but still cool.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on November 12, 2014, 07:03:54 PM
Hardy har har.   :P

May we get back on topic?  I get that you're speculating.  I've only seen Blaine make one deck with four colors available in sizable quantities, and that was the Split Spades Lions.  First they came in blue, red and black (the sepia box, as we know, only holds blue cards - the color was considered but rejected, however they already had some boxes printed up and didn't want to waste them).  Then a few years later, Silver Split Spades were introduced - Blaine's first deck with metallic ink.

Technically you could say that the While Lions came in four colors - Series A & B Blue, Series A & B Red, Black Label and the "Rainbow series" purple deck.  But that purple deck was not only very rare, it was more of a side effect, the result of changing colors mid-run when printing the blues and reds.  I never saw a purple deck, but I did see a purple uncut sheet in his office - looks really nice.

My point is that he's not known for doing four colors.  Not saying it's impossible, just saying it's improbable.

Original Split Spades (Tally Ho) - 3 colors
Bee Split Spades - 2 colors
Split Spades Lions - initially 3 colors, 4th added a few years later
White Lions - 3 colors, with a few outliers like the purple and UV blue decks

I think I have them all, right?

For some reason every time you and I debate about Blaine, you always try comparing Blaine's current releases with his past product line. Example: Blaine never used metallic inks before so its highly unlikely. Well now he uses metallic inks... Blaine never uses 4 colors... Well now he might? Blaine does not live in a box. Nothing Blaine does is predictable. Yet time and time again you make him seem like this robot person that does everything the same way. He's the complete opposite.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: aldazar on November 12, 2014, 08:03:46 PM
For some reason every time you and I debate about Blaine, you always try comparing Blaine's current releases with his past product line. Example: Blaine never used metallic inks before so its highly unlikely. Well now he uses metallic inks... Blaine never uses 4 colors... Well now he might? Blaine does not live in a box. Nothing Blaine does is predictable. Yet time and time again you make him seem like this robot person that does everything the same way. He's the complete opposite.

Have you considered the possibility that it actually has very little to do with Blaine but more to do with the fact that Don just enjoys telling people they're wrong? Or, to be more charitable, is a contrarian who likes to take the opposite position to everything? Most likely if you had suggested the possibility that the red deck would be the last one in the series, you'd have gotten a a paragraph telling you why you're wrong and we don't know for certain and here's a bunch of random facts implying that there might be another deck...

That's my guess from hanging around these forums for a while anyway... It's definitely interesting to view from a psychological perspective... =P
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on November 12, 2014, 09:25:45 PM
For some reason every time you and I debate about Blaine, you always try comparing Blaine's current releases with his past product line. Example: Blaine never used metallic inks before so its highly unlikely. Well now he uses metallic inks... Blaine never uses 4 colors... Well now he might? Blaine does not live in a box. Nothing Blaine does is predictable. Yet time and time again you make him seem like this robot person that does everything the same way. He's the complete opposite.

Have you considered the possibility that it actually has very little to do with Blaine but more to do with the fact that Don just enjoys telling people they're wrong? Or, to be more charitable, is a contrarian who likes to take the opposite position to everything? Most likely if you had suggested the possibility that the red deck would be the last one in the series, you'd have gotten a a paragraph telling you why you're wrong and we don't know for certain and here's a bunch of random facts implying that there might be another deck...

That's my guess from hanging around these forums for a while anyway... It's definitely interesting to view from a psychological perspective... =P

Yes, I've considered that many times but I'd be "wrong" to say so. :))
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on November 13, 2014, 01:09:16 AM
For some reason every time you and I debate about Blaine, you always try comparing Blaine's current releases with his past product line. Example: Blaine never used metallic inks before so its highly unlikely. Well now he uses metallic inks... Blaine never uses 4 colors... Well now he might? Blaine does not live in a box. Nothing Blaine does is predictable. Yet time and time again you make him seem like this robot person that does everything the same way. He's the complete opposite.

Have you considered the possibility that it actually has very little to do with Blaine but more to do with the fact that Don just enjoys telling people they're wrong? Or, to be more charitable, is a contrarian who likes to take the opposite position to everything? Most likely if you had suggested the possibility that the red deck would be the last one in the series, you'd have gotten a a paragraph telling you why you're wrong and we don't know for certain and here's a bunch of random facts implying that there might be another deck...

That's my guess from hanging around these forums for a while anyway... It's definitely interesting to view from a psychological perspective... =P

Yes, I've considered that many times but I'd be "wrong" to say so. :))

It's much simpler than you both make it out to be.  Card Player made a speculation, I made a speculation, done.  There's no wrong or right - we're both just guessing.

Please feel free to disagree with me at any time - I'm as human as the next member and I make mistakes.  I'd rather know the truth than be "right".  I beg of you - prove me wrong each and every time that I am wrong!  When it comes to learning the truth, my ego is NOT part of the equation.  Truth comes first, my personal opinions or sore feelings come a distant second, if at all.  If I've bruised other people's egos a bit, for that I'm very sorry.  I will never, ever censor anyone for disagreeing with me, especially if I'm only speculating.

Now, for something a little closer to the topic...

I was indeed surprised when Blaine started using metallic inks.  Were I to venture a guess, I'd say it's because he figured out how to do them right!  In most metallic-ink decks, the designer doesn't do anything with the black and it looks flat in comparison.  Blaine jazzed his up with some green metallic ink and they now have a subtle but noticeable effect which to me makes them blend in with the other metallic inks better.  But again, it's just my guess.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Will W. on November 13, 2014, 08:22:31 AM
For some reason every time you and I debate about Blaine, you always try comparing Blaine's current releases with his past product line. Example: Blaine never used metallic inks before so its highly unlikely. Well now he uses metallic inks... Blaine never uses 4 colors... Well now he might? Blaine does not live in a box. Nothing Blaine does is predictable. Yet time and time again you make him seem like this robot person that does everything the same way. He's the complete opposite.

Have you considered the possibility that it actually has very little to do with Blaine but more to do with the fact that Don just enjoys telling people they're wrong? Or, to be more charitable, is a contrarian who likes to take the opposite position to everything? Most likely if you had suggested the possibility that the red deck would be the last one in the series, you'd have gotten a a paragraph telling you why you're wrong and we don't know for certain and here's a bunch of random facts implying that there might be another deck...

That's my guess from hanging around these forums for a while anyway... It's definitely interesting to view from a psychological perspective... =P

Yes, I've considered that many times but I'd be "wrong" to say so. :))

It's much simpler than you both make it out to be.  Card Player made a speculation, I made a speculation, done.  There's no wrong or right - we're both just guessing.

Please feel free to disagree with me at any time - I'm as human as the next member and I make mistakes.  I'd rather know the truth than be "right".  I beg of you - prove me wrong each and every time that I am wrong!  When it comes to learning the truth, my ego is NOT part of the equation.  Truth comes first, my personal opinions or sore feelings come a distant second, if at all.  If I've bruised other people's egos a bit, for that I'm very sorry.  I will never, ever censor anyone for disagreeing with me, especially if I'm only speculating.

Now, for something a little closer to the topic...

I was indeed surprised when Blaine started using metallic inks.  Were I to venture a guess, I'd say it's because he figured out how to do them right!  In most metallic-ink decks, the designer doesn't do anything with the black and it looks flat in comparison.  Blaine jazzed his up with some green metallic ink and they now have a subtle but noticeable effect which to me makes them blend in with the other metallic inks better.  But again, it's just my guess.

I for one enjoy the speculation by all parties. I find it more interesting when facts and trends are brought in and I like it that someone steps up to be the devils advocate in these discussions.  So what if it just so happens to be Don who takes on that role more than most.   :t11:

I have learned an enormous amount about the playing card industry, its distant past and its more recent past both by reading discussions like this on this board and I find it invaluable information that I probably would not have gotten anywhere else.  So I thank you all for your input.
I may be talking out of turn here but I just wanted to throw in my 2 cents.  :)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: BiggerDee on November 13, 2014, 09:16:22 AM
DB is smart...as long as his cards sell like hotcakes, he'd be remiss not to at least consider multiple colors. I don't get all of the hate against re-colors. Not everyone likes all of their decks to be blue. Or red. Multiple colors give folks the opportunity to purchase potentially new an unique colors, one of which they may greatly prefer over the others. I really like these cards, and have a "quantity" of each. That said, I do like some colors more than others. I bought more of the greens than the blacks because I like the design a lot, but I have a lot of black cards, so it's almost more of the same. You have to think of colors like designs. USPCC cards are pretty much Bike or Bee stock. Your collection might be 90% Bike and 10% Bee. You keep buying because new and exciting designs come out for the cards, the cards that feel the same (for the most part) as the last 50 decks that you bought. It's the same for colors. They feel the same, it's just that some people really prefer one color over another. I think that's great, that buyers aren't limited to one color but rather are given the opportunity to buy other colors that may become available. I wouldn't mind seeing more colors of exotic designs. If you simply must have a "Full set", you're going to spend some coin. If you're buying for fun, you may select one or two colors, and pass on the rest. The key point is that there's a choice, just as you have more choices than a Rider Back to purchase from! DB can print all 16.7 million colors if he'd like, more power to him. In this day and age, especially with the recent innovations of foil on cards, raised inks, printing inside of tucks, die cutting tucks and cards, you name it, I welcome any and all decks, even re-colors, that are released for my consideration. It's an exciting time to be a fan of cards and collecting! Enjoy the ride!
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: see_squared on November 13, 2014, 12:15:49 PM
DB is smart...as long as his cards sell like hotcakes, he's be remiss not to at least consider multiple colors. I don't get all of the hate against re-colors. Not everyone likes all of their decks to be blue. Or red. Multiple colors give folks the opportunity to purchase potentially new an unique colors, one of which they may greatly prefer over the others. I really like these cards, and have a "quantity" of each. That said, I do like some colors more than others. I bought more of the greens than the blacks because I like the design a lot, but I have a lot of black cards, so it's almost more of the same. You have to think of colors like designs. USPCC cards are pretty much Bike or Bee stock. Your collection might be 90% Bike and 10% Bee. You keep buying because new and exciting designs come out for the cards, the cards that feel the same (for the most part) as the last 50 decks that you bought. It's the same for colors. They feel the same, it's just that some people really prefer one color over another. I think that's great, that buyers aren't limited to one color but rather are given the opportunity to buy other colors that may become available. I wouldn't mind seeing more colors of exotic designs. If you simply must have a "Full set", you're going to spend some coin. If you're buying for fun, you may select one or two colors, and pass on the rest. The key point is that there's a choice, just as you have more choices than a Rider Back to purchase from! DB can print all 16.7 million colors if he'd like, more power to him. In this day and age, especially with the recent innovations of foil on cards, raised inks, printing inside of tucks, die cutting tucks and cards, you name it, I welcome any and all decks, even re-colors, that are released for my consideration. It's an exciting time to be a fan of cards and collecting! Enjoy the ride!

I couldn't agree more BiggerDee!  Blaine has a wonderful way of designing cards with Stutzman that allow for wonderful color changes.  That being said, the GatorBacks look best in Green simply due to the nature of the subject (the same way the Imps look best in red due to the subject)....I do love the shade of red used for the GatorBacks in the photo above...not sure if it's metallic or not but it pops nicely.  I imagine the gator on the front of the tuck to be in a red foil. 
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Anthony on November 13, 2014, 12:28:03 PM
I think design has a lot to do with how a recolor is received. If the design itself is eyecatching it kind of rolls to phase two, which you mentioned Bigger Dee......what color you like most. I have to agree with Chris, certain desings lend themselves well to the "Concept" of th the deck, Imps with Red, Gators with Green as he mentioned. But look at other decks going through recolors and getting a bit of ribbing about it..........Daniel Madison, I loved the original Dealers and Players, I did pick up the White Rounders because of the tuck, but wasn't rushing to get the recolors.......why, because the design wasn't as intricate in my opinion. Now take the flip side, Artifice.........a slew of recolors, but I have them all.......why, I like the back design.

In the end, like you said Bigger Dee, if it sells, have at it. Options are always good for consumers and collectors........we just need to be "Grown Ups" and not blame the company for our weaknesses, lol

POKEMON.........Got a have em all!  ;)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on November 13, 2014, 05:03:30 PM
I think design has a lot to do with how a recolor is received. If the design itself is eyecatching it kind of rolls to phase two, which you mentioned Bigger Dee......what color you like most. I have to agree with Chris, certain desings lend themselves well to the "Concept" of th the deck, Imps with Red, Gators with Green as he mentioned. But look at other decks going through recolors and getting a bit of ribbing about it..........Daniel Madison, I loved the original Dealers and Players, I did pick up the White Rounders because of the tuck, but wasn't rushing to get the recolors.......why, because the design wasn't as intricate in my opinion. Now take the flip side, Artifice.........a slew of recolors, but I have them all.......why, I like the back design.

In the end, like you said Bigger Dee, if it sells, have at it. Options are always good for consumers and collectors........we just need to be "Grown Ups" and not blame the company for our weaknesses, lol

POKEMON.........Got a have em all!  ;)

It would be great to have 4 or 5 colors of this particular back design. As long as Blaine is making money and he knows what the correct quantity to print is based on the first two releases. I say, why the F#$% not? I actually think a White Ink on White Emboss tuck for a Blue back would be really sweet. That's basically what I envisioned when I first mentioned them here.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on November 14, 2014, 12:33:51 AM
I think the thing that irks some is they feel like it's a "cash grab", especially when the colors aren't released all at once but are dripped and drizzled out over several releases and months if not years.  It feels like a cash grab ONLY if you're one of those completists who feels compelled to have every variant - I knew of a guy who was actually trying to get one of every PRINT RUN, referring to them as being different "versions" of the deck, even though the differences, if any, were barely worth a footnote.

I like some recolorings just fine, personally.  A little variety is cool, especially if you don't just collect or perform but actually play with your cards.  Artifice I liked, but I personally felt they jumped the shark when they came out with the first printing of purple with those crazy same-but-reverse colored pips and when they release Artifice Ghost - er, I mean "Artifice Tundra"...  That last one felt more like they'd run out of original ideas and were just slapping two things together, chucking them at the wall and seeing if they'd stick.  Artifice was different enough without incorporating the Ghost aesthetic into it.

I'd love seeing green, black, red and blue - with two colors "plain" on heavy stock and two colors "metallic" on softer stock.  In other words, a deck to pair with green using the same paper and faces, and a deck to match with black using the same paper and faces.  Will it happen?  I haven't got a bleedin' clue.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Collector on November 14, 2014, 01:42:16 PM
...the GatorBacks look best in Green simply due to the nature of the subject (the same way the Imps look best in red due to the subject)....

+1

"Rainbows" are the problem for those collectors who want have all decks in their collection but with really different courts. They have their right to criticize the "rainbow" approach in modern playing card production. But I noticed more irony in this thread than anger, actually. Which is good as it shows that the forum's residents are mainly realists.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Rob Wright on November 15, 2014, 12:46:16 AM
I've never been a fan of multiple color changes. As Don mentioned, I'm in the camp of seems to be a money grab, but there are always exceptions. In this case, I have the green, but not the black. I do like the red though. I'm not sure how many green decks were sold, but at $5 a piece. That could not have been a huge money maker. He also could have sold double, triple what was sold. In this case doesn't seam to be a huge money grab. Unlike the Kings deck- sold out in 4 days, and mysteriously found a bunch more to sell the next week.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on November 15, 2014, 06:33:23 AM
I've never been a fan of multiple color changes. As Don mentioned, I'm in the camp of seems to be a money grab, but there are always exceptions. In this case, I have the green, but not the black. I do like the red though. I'm not sure how many green decks were sold, but at $5 a piece. That could not have been a huge money maker. He also could have sold double, triple what was sold. In this case doesn't seam to be a huge money grab. Unlike the Kings deck- sold out in 4 days, and mysteriously found a bunch more to sell the next week.

I think it's not so much "found" as "arrived, pre-ordered".
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on November 15, 2014, 07:10:30 AM
I've never been a fan of multiple color changes. As Don mentioned, I'm in the camp of seems to be a money grab, but there are always exceptions. In this case, I have the green, but not the black. I do like the red though. I'm not sure how many green decks were sold, but at $5 a piece. That could not have been a huge money maker. He also could have sold double, triple what was sold. In this case doesn't seam to be a huge money grab. Unlike the Kings deck- sold out in 4 days, and mysteriously found a bunch more to sell the next week.

I think it's not so much "found" as "arrived, pre-ordered".

Funny how they knew to order more Kings before the first decks were ever sold. Why would E pay more per deck by having 2 separate prints. Or was it that USPCC got them printed in a week after E sold out? Doubtful :))

If being sold out and then more arriving 1 week later is a sales ploy, then it was not planned out very well. I suspected something was not right when E announced they were sold out in days. You notice when companies sell out for real, nothing is mentioned. They just sell out.

Quote
"Rainbows" are the problem for those collectors who want have all decks in their collection but with really different courts. They have their right to criticize the "rainbow" approach in modern playing card production. But I noticed more irony in this thread than anger, actually. Which is good as it shows that the forum's residents are mainly realists.

They become problems when it's a color change for a deck that is not well regarded. It's all on how its being offered to people. The 4 P's (price, product, promotion, and place).

I don't think Blaine is going to do every color in the rainbow. 4 is a good number.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on November 15, 2014, 05:41:12 PM

Funny how they knew to order more Kings before the first decks were ever sold. Why would E pay more per deck by having 2 separate prints. Or was it that USPCC got them printed in a week after E sold out? Doubtful :))

If being sold out and then more arriving 1 week later is a sales ploy, then it was not planned out very well. I suspected something was not right when E announced they were sold out in days. You notice when companies sell out for real, nothing is mentioned. They just sell out.

You could be correct in that it was a "planned shortage" - or it could even be as simple as getting part of a shipment sent before the rest in order for USPC to meet their contracted deadline with E and E being willing to "play ball" rather than make a stink.

And there's umpteen other possible explanations.  We'll never really know unless someone who knows, tells.

I'm just eagerly awaiting the next release of the Gatorbacks - and damned curious about how Blaine plans to sell them this time around...
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on November 15, 2014, 05:53:47 PM

Funny how they knew to order more Kings before the first decks were ever sold. Why would E pay more per deck by having 2 separate prints. Or was it that USPCC got them printed in a week after E sold out? Doubtful :))

If being sold out and then more arriving 1 week later is a sales ploy, then it was not planned out very well. I suspected something was not right when E announced they were sold out in days. You notice when companies sell out for real, nothing is mentioned. They just sell out.

You could be correct in that it was a "planned shortage" - or it could even be as simple as getting part of a shipment sent before the rest in order for USPC to meet their contracted deadline with E and E being willing to "play ball" rather than make a stink.

And there's umpteen other possible explanations.  We'll never really know unless someone who knows, tells.

I'm just eagerly awaiting the next release of the Gatorbacks - and damned curious about how Blaine plans to sell them this time around...

Yes, the upcoming Blaine release(s) will be interesting. Might he have 2 decks on his next release (black lions)? I suppose getting Red Gatorbacks on its own Black Friday is a possibility.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: aldazar on November 17, 2014, 10:03:40 AM
...the GatorBacks look best in Green simply due to the nature of the subject (the same way the Imps look best in red due to the subject)....

+1

"Rainbows" are the problem for those collectors who want have all decks in their collection but with really different courts. They have their right to criticize the "rainbow" approach in modern playing card production. But I noticed more irony in this thread than anger, actually. Which is good as it shows that the forum's residents are mainly realists.

I personally feel that neither collectors (nor anyone else) have the "right" to criticise designers for releasing multiple colors - it's not a money grab unless they somehow coerce you into buying stuff you don't actually want, imo... If you have a problem/compulsion that drives you to collect every single color/variation released (I sort of do =P), then the only person you have a "right" to criticise is yourself!

I think it's nonsensical/silly to criticise designers for "forcing" you or grabbing your money against your will by releasing multiple colors... It's totally the collector's call as to whether to buy or not to buy each color! If it makes you mad, that's a bit weird, but just don't buy it then! No need to criticise... If the market will bear it (ie enough people buy them to cover costs and maybe make some profit), then generally speaking they made the right call...

My two cents... Sorry if they're not well written - I'm super sleepy right now...=P
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Collector on November 21, 2014, 05:13:37 PM
I don't think Blaine is going to do every color in the rainbow. 4 is a good number.

“Rainbow” and “rainbow approach” were exaggerated names :) I meant classic red-blue-green-black(-white-silver-gold) combinations.

...the GatorBacks look best in Green simply due to the nature of the subject (the same way the Imps look best in red due to the subject)....

+1

"Rainbows" are the problem for those collectors who want have all decks in their collection but with really different courts. They have their right to criticize the "rainbow" approach in modern playing card production. But I noticed more irony in this thread than anger, actually. Which is good as it shows that the forum's residents are mainly realists.

I personally feel that neither collectors (nor anyone else) have the "right" to criticise designers for releasing multiple colors - it's not a money grab unless they somehow coerce you into buying stuff you don't actually want, imo... If you have a problem/compulsion that drives you to collect every single color/variation released (I sort of do =P), then the only person you have a "right" to criticise is yourself!

I think it's nonsensical/silly to criticise designers for "forcing" you or grabbing your money against your will by releasing multiple colors... It's totally the collector's call as to whether to buy or not to buy each color! If it makes you mad, that's a bit weird, but just don't buy it then! No need to criticise... If the market will bear it (ie enough people buy them to cover costs and maybe make some profit), then generally speaking they made the right call...

My two cents... Sorry if they're not well written - I'm super sleepy right now...=P

Actually it's well written. And in some way your are right. But I can't agree with you completely.

First of all, everyone can/should  criticise everyone... but in respectful manner and without such approach as "I say, you do".

Second, let me be a little bit more general - all modern producers of almost all goods say that they don't force people to buy their production. But it isn't true. Otherwise, who invented neuromarketing and why (any marketing, actually). "Satisfy people's needs" was the main slogan of marketing some years ago. It isn't interesting these days. The modern one is "Create needs for people and convince them in such needs". Playing card producers aren't sharks in this approach but they apply some elements from it. So, they are "forcing" ;) The main thing here is the correct estimation of possibilities of customers. Otherwise, you can overdo it and get some opposite result.

I think Blaine is far from overdoing it. Many people will really like four basic colours of backs (red-blue-green-black). Also he doesn't do anything new. All his previous decks had the same colours, I think.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Nurul on November 22, 2014, 07:25:39 AM
Has anyone found out anymore secrets about this deck then?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on November 22, 2014, 08:00:11 AM
Has anyone found out anymore secrets about this deck then?

Here is what I have found. Feel free to add to it and lets keep this list going.

Secrets Of The Gatorbacks List:
1. No. 127 represents the DoB of David's daughter (January 27th) 1/27.

2. The object on the inside tuck and brick box is called an "astronomical clock".

3. The phrase "L'illusion est le premier plaisir" on the clock is French for “illusion is the first of all pleasures” from Voltaire (1694-1778) the French Enlightenment writer, historian and philosopher.

A Theory: It was suggested by me that the heart where the roman numeral VI (6) should be, is a reveal. However, as small and as dark as the clock is on the inside of the tuck, it would be very difficult for a spectator to see. I'm thinking there could be more to the clock and more to the fact, David made us buy a brick first time around. Maybe so that we would recognize the significance of the clock on the brick box?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Nurul on November 22, 2014, 08:37:06 AM
Thanks card player.
I knew of the first 3. Never thought that it could be a reveal. As you pointed out, it's pretty hard to see.
Is it true there's a making system then or was that just speculation?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on November 22, 2014, 11:18:51 AM
Thanks card player.
I knew of the first 3. Never thought that it could be a reveal. As you pointed out, it's pretty hard to see.
Is it true there's a making system then or was that just speculation?

I'm assuming you meant "marking system."  I don't have the green deck at hand, but I picked up my black deck and went to the movies.  It passes the riffle test - if it's marked, it's exceptionally subtle.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: DarkDerp on November 22, 2014, 05:39:32 PM
I don't have the green deck at hand, but I picked up my black deck and went to the movies.  It passes the riffle test - if it's marked, it's exceptionally subtle.

You went to the movies with the black deck?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: PurpleIce on November 22, 2014, 09:22:53 PM
I don't have the green deck at hand, but I picked up my black deck and went to the movies.  It passes the riffle test - if it's marked, it's exceptionally subtle.

You went to the movies with the black deck?

David Blaine wasn't free that day, so he got the next closest thing to accompany him.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on November 23, 2014, 12:29:39 AM

You went to the movies with the black deck?

"Going to the movies" is a slang term referring to giving a deck the riffle test to spot markings.  A normal deck when riffled looks normal, no changes from card to card, because the backs are all identical.  A marked deck using plain-light visible markings (the most common form of marking) will be different from card to card and this results in a flickering action taking place when riffled, like a flipbook movie.

When the first Legends decks came out, someone commented here about seeing the flames move in a corner of the card when riffling them.  I did the same test, spotted the markings and had them decoded for suit and value pretty quickly - it used a simple binary code.

If the markings are fine enough and the card back design is busy enough, one could miss the marks.  But it would likely be the case as well that the marks are too hard to read and won't do any potential cheaters any good.  For example, I can read the new Series 1800 marked decks at arm's length, but only with practice.  Because of how well hidden the marks are and the overall faux-ancient look, you'd have a snowball's chance in hell of spotting them in a riffle test.  But if I dealt the cards out at a poker game, I couldn't read them in the other hands to save my life.

An Ultimate Marked Deck or a pack of GT Speedreaders, on the other hand, I could read from across the table - as long as I'm wearing my glasses!  GT Speedreaders, however, are terrible for card cheats - to make the markings harder to spot, they're placed in the wrong corners to be read when a hand is spread and held in front of a player.  You'd be able to identify the rear-most card only.  They're meant more for magicians - you present a right-to-left spread for the spectator, he'll look at he top left corners for the markings, but they'll be in the bottom left relative to him and inverted, making them very challenging to detect but easy-peasy for the magician.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on November 23, 2014, 11:03:34 AM
Quote
"Going to the movies" is a slang term referring to giving a deck the riffle test to spot markings.  A normal deck when riffled looks normal, no changes from card to card, because the backs are all identical.  A marked deck using plain-light visible markings (the most common form of marking) will be different from card to card and this results in a flickering action taking place when riffled, like a flipbook movie.

That's interesting. A slang for a slang. A longer and more obscure slang at that.
Do people cringe when you say "hey everyone, lets go to the movies"? :))


I was wondering if Mark Stuzman had anything to do with Sharps?
If that is the case, then an exceptionally subtle marking for gatorbacks could be feasible.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: HolyJJ on November 23, 2014, 11:28:06 AM
Card Player, due to the similarity in design style between the sharps and the White Lions, I wouldn't be surprised if Stutzman did do the artwork for the Sharps.

However, the Sharps marking system was possible due to use of special ink from LPCC... and seeing as these are USPCC decks, it may not even be possible for them to achieve that same result.

Saying that though, a marking system using offsets (like the White Lions) is possible. Until the sharps came along, I regarded the white lions marking system as the best. Although an exceptionally keen eye would see the White Lions fail the riffle test, the fail would be nowhere near as huge as it would for decks with blatantly obvious markings such as the Madison Players, Madison Dealers, or the (horribly named!) Ultimate Marked Deck.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on November 23, 2014, 12:14:33 PM
Card Player, due to the similarity in design style between the sharps and the White Lions, I wouldn't be surprised if Stutzman did do the artwork for the Sharps.

However, the Sharps marking system was possible due to use of special ink from LPCC... and seeing as these are USPCC decks, it may not even be possible for them to achieve that same result.

Saying that though, a marking system using offsets (like the White Lions) is possible. Until the sharps came along, I regarded the white lions marking system as the best. Although an exceptionally keen eye would see the White Lions fail the riffle test, the fail would be nowhere near as huge as it would for decks with blatantly obvious markings such as the Madison Players, Madison Dealers, or the (horribly named!) Ultimate Marked Deck.

I love Legends cards... But, When did LPCC surpass USPCC in printing techniques and capabilities? I'm sure if someone wanted to create a deck with a marking system the likes of Sharps at USPCC it would be possible. I believe it has more to do with the innovations of Lawrence Sullivan and William Kalush, wanting to push the boundaries of whats possible.

It does beg the question, If USPCC does have the capabilities to create similar innovations why haven't they yet? An 808 Club Deck release showing USPCC's full custom deck capabilities would answer the call.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: HolyJJ on November 23, 2014, 02:18:06 PM
I love Legends cards... But, When did LPCC surpass USPCC in printing techniques and capabilities? I'm sure if someone wanted to create a deck with a marking system the likes of Sharps at USPCC it would be possible. I believe it has more to do with the innovations of Lawrence Sullivan and William Kalush, wanting to push the boundaries of whats possible.

It does beg the question, If USPCC does have the capabilities to create similar innovations why haven't they yet? An 808 Club Deck release showing USPCC's full custom deck capabilities would answer the call.

Like everyone else, I'm aware that USPCC have been in the business for donkeys years, and they've enjoyed a long run as the standard setters for the industry... however, I don't buy into any implied suggestion that USPCC are still the gold standard in printing and creating decks, or that they are capable of being the best.

If they had the ability to still be the gold standard, then like yourself bro, I'm totally at sea why they aren't offering the same (or better) quality of cards as EPCC or LPCC. Surely, there HAS to be some companies or independent designers that would want to make use of the best that USPCC can offer.

For starters, the durability of USPCC cards (in comparison to say, the EPCC Exquisites) is not even close. My private reserve Madison Rounders cards (which had the new card stock) were pretty much ready for the dustbin after a week of heavy use. EPCC's Exquisites last 3-4 weeks for me.

The USPCC cutting is horrible -- not as bad as MPC, but still, quite terrible. Edges are still kind of furry.

Registration on USPCC cards... It's so well known how bad it usually is, that I don't think that even needs to be talked about.

So far EPCC and LPCC have been able to offer pretty much everything that USPCC could offer, and that too notably better.

These are just some of the factors why -- despite the wonderful history and success of the company -- I *personally* have very little reason to believe that USPCC are capable of matching their newer competitors.

With HOPC pretty much having switched to EPCC, and more and more talented independent designers choosing to printing with EPCC and LPCC, now really would be a good time for USPCC to step up and show what they can do... assuming that they have anything which can genuinely be great.

David Blaine's cards are always good, and the Gatorbacks are no exception -- largely due to clever design by him and Stutzman. Whoever Blaine prints decks with, it's pretty much a given that they will sell very well. Will he continue to stick with USPCC from now on? Only time will tell... after all, Blaine was said to have had a hand in bringing out the Legends V1, and Blaine's deck for the Microsoft event was printed by EPCC.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Wilko on November 23, 2014, 06:02:39 PM
Holy JJ: I agree with everything you just said.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on November 23, 2014, 10:00:57 PM
Ditto from me, brother.  USPC is functioning at the level they are because they lost their pride in their products.  They became a division of a megacorp that cares about the bottom line and little else.  They barely invest at all in R&D - in the past three years, Magic Finish/Performance Coating is the only real innovation I've seen.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Collector on November 24, 2014, 02:28:34 PM
Ditto from me, brother.  USPC is functioning at the level they are because they lost their pride in their products.  They became a division of a megacorp that cares about the bottom line and little else...

I have to think the same.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: John B. on November 25, 2014, 11:50:30 PM
I always enjoy having multiple colors, I use them for color changes in magic.

And yea I feel USPCC is on the downhill.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Fess on November 26, 2014, 12:42:13 AM
Couldn't agree more. I love color changes too. Variety is the spice of life and keeps things interesting. Without it we'd all be using standard rider backs probably in blue. No one wants that, not that there is anything with a blue deck, just if all it was was blue. We'd all be feeling pretty blue.

USPCC I don't think is going down hill though, the quality of their product can be very nice. It can also be pretty ugly, depends on their Perspective haha.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: aldazar on November 26, 2014, 01:43:56 AM
Agreed - I like having multiple colors, though not just for color changes - if I really like a design, it's cool to have multiple versions of it - as Fes pointed out, variety is the spice of life!

From what I can see, USPCC is still doing fine now, but I suspect we may be at the tipping point where things will start to go downhill for them as LPCC, EPCC, and maybe some other upstart new entrants really begin to cut into their market share...

I've mixed feelings about this actually... If they fail to adapt and improve, I'll be sad to see a giant fall, but it's definitely good for the market to have competition and the resultant innovation... Kinda reminds of Blackberry/RIM... They were once the king of the smartphone market and really the only option for most serious users, but now they're pretty much out of business because they got complacent and lazy... Sad story because I really loved my many blackberries! Now I'm typing this on an iPhone and the only blackberry I own is issued to me by my employer (and it sucks =P)... Oh well, such is life...
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on November 26, 2014, 04:24:39 AM
Couldn't agree more. I love color changes too. Variety is the spice of life and keeps things interesting. Without it we'd all be using standard rider backs probably in blue. No one wants that, not that there is anything with a blue deck, just if all it was was blue. We'd all be feeling pretty blue.

USPCC I don't think is going down hill though, the quality of their product can be very nice. It can also be pretty ugly, depends on their Perspective haha.

Man, that was a clunker!  :))

We'd actually probably be using red Rider Backs.  There are more magic tricks and gaff cards designed for the red Rider Back than any other color/design combination out there - granted, it's anecdotal evidence, but you look through any magic store's inventory and I think you'll be forced to agree.

As far as USPC is concerned, they're never be driven completely out of business, at least not in my lifetime.  They do banging business with casinos all over this continent, though they're probably lagging in other parts of the world, plus their staple brands could run for another century or more as long as they don't completely destroy their quality standards to that of ninety-nine-cent store decks.  Their parent company wouldn't have it any other way, as far as those areas of market share are concerned.

However, their share of the custom market is falling, without a doubt - if this isn't on their radar or doesn't act as a wake-up call, they might as well fold Club 808 now and shutter the Custom Division.  They're attempting to stay relevant but it's an uphill battle for them.  They're too used to "lather, rinse, repeat" in everything they do.  It seems like a lack of pride and little to no motivation to be innovators.  Hard to blame them.  They seem to have been practically sleepwalking before the current wave of custom decks arrived.  The Custom Department was a quiet place, making the occasional corporate promotional deck (the kind of thing that's so facile it could be designed in one's sleep) and it didn't make anywhere near a huge enough amount to rate too much attention at all.  Now, the demand is high, they're struggling to wake up and catch up and the market is beginning to run away from them.  They were so complacent for so long, it seems, that they still haven't wiped all the sleep from their eyes.

I was recently told they're trying to pull off 75 deck designs per month.  With month's having between 20 and 23 weekdays, and factoring in for holidays, that's more than three decks a day, probably even closer to four!  I'm betting that the Legal Dept. has more time to draft the contracts then the Print Dept. has to churn out the decks!  Combine that with the Winter and Summer Shutdowns, where the entire company takes two weeks off at each break, and it's not hard to see how backlogs are created.

OK, enough Ranty McRantypants...  Can we get this steered back to the subject of the Gatorbacks?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Fess on November 26, 2014, 04:43:43 AM
I was recently told they're trying to pull off 75 deck designs per month.

That actually explains a lot. The errors we see happening are very likely due to this. I'd say they're doing one hell of a good job.

By the way I agree, they would probably be all red. Red didn't fit the point I was trying to make though, needed Blue haha.

I haven't seen any shots of the Red Gatorbacks tuck yet. Has anyone else? If no, what are the odds he shocks the world and it's Red instead of Black? I don't mean the little gator, I mean the tuck itself.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: shadowkat on November 26, 2014, 05:32:55 AM
Here is a photo from Chris Chelko's Instagram.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on November 26, 2014, 05:35:18 AM
Here is a photo from Chris Chelko's Instagram.

Well, there's the red tuck box - they ARE the droids we're looking for!
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Fess on November 26, 2014, 05:41:34 AM
That's a whole lot of sexy. ;D
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on November 26, 2014, 05:54:39 AM
Here is a photo from Chris Chelko's Instagram.

Well, there's the red tuck box - they ARE the droids we're looking for!

Good morning! You guys are up early.

It's going to be a lite Black Friday for me this year. :))
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on November 26, 2014, 06:37:42 AM
Here is a photo from Chris Chelko's Instagram.

Well, there's the red tuck box - they ARE the droids we're looking for!

Good morning! You guys are up early.

It's going to be a lite Black Friday for me this year. :))

For me, it's getting late.  I got up around 8:45 last night and I'm still at work for another 24 minutes.  At least I have a three-day middle-of-the-week weekend when I'm out of here!

So, why Lite?  You prefer Miller over Bud Light?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on November 26, 2014, 11:13:07 AM
Here is a photo from Chris Chelko's Instagram.

Well, there's the red tuck box - they ARE the droids we're looking for!

Good morning! You guys are up early.

It's going to be a lite Black Friday for me this year. :))

For me, it's getting late.  I got up around 8:45 last night and I'm still at work for another 24 minutes.  At least I have a three-day middle-of-the-week weekend when I'm out of here!

So, why Lite?  You prefer Miller over Bud Light?

Black Friday-Lite. I'm on a playing card diet this year. Most of what I buy will be the Red Gatorbacks (The Turkey). Then I might pick up some Zen and Rarebit (Potatoes & Stuffing). From what I hear, D&D might be bringing the Lasagne & Dessert this year with about 12 releases. Waiting on D&D to see how good I'm going to be.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: PrincessTrouble on November 26, 2014, 03:43:24 PM
Only 1000 reds.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Fess on November 26, 2014, 04:48:53 PM
Only 1000 reds.

With 250 of them signed. I seriously doubt these will last more than an hour.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Will W. on November 26, 2014, 06:20:32 PM
Only 1000 reds.

With 250 of them signed. I seriously doubt these will last more than an hour.
And when are these going to be available? ;D
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Fess on November 26, 2014, 07:28:28 PM
Only 1000 reds.

With 250 of them signed. I seriously doubt these will last more than an hour.
And when are these going to be available? ;D

Time and Price weren't listed on the instagram. So far all I know is Black Friday. I suspect we'll know more tonight or tomorrow morning. haha, I hope it's not a flash mob moment.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: crazyfandecks on November 26, 2014, 09:41:13 PM
where do you guys got that news??? i searching his Instagram but dont see any update abt that. but the shop site now in currently update  :mindf-ck:
and about the secrets of Gator, here some:
Two of Clubs
(http://drivewrx.smugmug.com/Playing-Cards/i-nbZPzQW/0/XL/Gatorback%20reveal-XL.jpg)
Five of Hearts
(http://drivewrx.smugmug.com/Playing-Cards/i-QfVgDQ9/0/X2/5ofHearts-X2.jpg)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Fess on November 27, 2014, 12:42:36 AM
where do you guys got that news??? i searching his Instagram but dont see any update abt that. but the shop site now in currently update  :mindf-ck:

Was posted on instragram and twitter earlier today. Just checked again now, and they're no longer there.  :mindf-ck: is right.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on November 27, 2014, 01:47:47 AM
where do you guys got that news??? i searching his Instagram but dont see any update abt that. but the shop site now in currently update  :mindf-ck:

Was posted on instragram and twitter earlier today. Just checked again now, and they're no longer there.  :mindf-ck: is right.

I seem to recall that something like this happened at least once before - the shop goes down while they await the release of some new deck.  They bring it back online when the release starts - and they have on occasion started releases EARLY...or am I mistaken?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Fess on November 28, 2014, 02:27:21 AM
where do you guys got that news??? i searching his Instagram but dont see any update abt that. but the shop site now in currently update  :mindf-ck:

Was posted on instragram and twitter earlier today. Just checked again now, and they're no longer there.  :mindf-ck: is right.

I seem to recall that something like this happened at least once before - the shop goes down while they await the release of some new deck.  They bring it back online when the release starts - and they have on occasion started releases EARLY...or am I mistaken?

You are not mistaken. I'm wondering if anyone else is popping up every hour or so and checking the store or if I'm the only one haha.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: doubledouble on November 28, 2014, 02:46:02 AM
i'm checking like every 15 mins lol. but will be going to bed soon so i'm going to be real angry at myself if it sells out while i'm asleep.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on November 28, 2014, 10:18:12 AM
i'm checking like every 15 mins lol. but will be going to bed soon so i'm going to be real angry at myself if it sells out while i'm asleep.

Blaine sees you when you're sleeping
Blaine knows when you're awake
Blaine knows if you've been bad or good
So be good for goodness sake! :))
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on November 28, 2014, 11:08:15 AM
Still nothing...

All the other Black Friday players already played their hands...

Blaine is still missing...

Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on November 28, 2014, 01:44:09 PM
Does anybody have any idea what happened with Blaine this year?

Are we still having a Black Friday sale from DB?

He took out from his instagram all the recent Red Gatorback photos, even from his facebook...

What is happening?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on November 28, 2014, 02:07:00 PM
As of yet, no one knows.  It's a mystery.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Anthony on November 28, 2014, 03:39:55 PM
In all honesty, I would be shocked if the site came back up WITH Red Gators for sale without an announcement of some sort. Bring the store back up, make a release date and time announcement and move on.

As it stands, his site being down this long on Black Friday is crazy.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on November 28, 2014, 04:21:04 PM
In all honesty, I would be shocked if the site came back up WITH Red Gators for sale without an announcement of some sort. Bring the store back up, make a release date and time announcement and move on.

As it stands, his site being down this long on Black Friday is crazy.

I think it's hilarious.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on November 29, 2014, 12:49:20 AM
Black Friday's done and over - nothing out of http://shop.davidblaine.com

He must have had some tech issues, leaving the store shut down like this, but we really are reaching the point where Black Friday is becoming irrelevant - the sales started pretty much on November 1st this year and haven't let up since.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: John B. on November 29, 2014, 01:04:23 AM
Maybe he will do something with cyber monday.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on November 29, 2014, 01:19:35 AM
Im very disappointed....

All those other offers were really good, but waiting for Blaine to do his move, and not buying other good stuff... Its kinda hard.

Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Fess on November 29, 2014, 02:44:21 AM
For selfish reasons, I am relieved it didn't become available yesterday. I hope it doesn't become available today either. Another day of Poker haha. If it's half as fun as today was, it'll be another great day. Not one Black Friday mob, not one ounce of black friday stress. Good things. I hope the red gatorbacks wait for monday or something.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on November 29, 2014, 04:09:29 AM
If he still wants to "save face" he would have to make his move on Cyber Monday.

Otherwise a flash mob event would destroy the fans that are questioning him in twitter and instagram.

Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on November 29, 2014, 10:09:32 AM
If he still wants to "save face" he would have to make his move on Cyber Monday.

Otherwise a flash mob event would destroy the fans that are questioning him in twitter and instagram.

I first noticed David had removed all twitter and instagram messages associated with black Friday on Thursday. His store was also empty at that time but the tweet "reds" with Instagram link of David holding the Red Gatorbacks was still up. I assumed as early as Thursday that the Red Gatorbacks / Black Friday Sale was postponed. Now the instagram photo of the Red Gatorbacks has also been taken down as of yesterday.

First, David does not have to do anything to "save face". Second, David does not have to do anything for the Christmas shopping season. He did nothing last year. Maybe all the greed and f@#ked up messages he was getting, pissed him off and he will not sell any Red Gatorbacks. While his message was not clear that Black Friday was canceled, he might have had a personal issue to take care of.

People need to RELAX!
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: GBrown on November 29, 2014, 12:07:09 PM
I completely agree with the absolute perspective of personal life and things unknown taking over. Pretty sure PR dept could have taken care of that though; there are absolute expectations amongst supporters; rightly or wrongly.
Personally (and I am International  - time difference), the thought of people like me sitting around with their (unsocial) time petering away watching (sad I know), when life time is as precious as it is, to no avail without so much as an explanation is, to use the Queens Good English 'Utter Crap'. I apologise to all of you whom I offend with my pissed off honesty. Fizzing.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on November 29, 2014, 01:17:08 PM
Did David Blaine ever actually promise ANYTHING for Black Friday?  Seriously, people...

He could be prepping for Cyber Monday, Christmas Eve, Saint Swithen's Day, the Anniversary of the Repair of his Ingrown Toenail...  WHATEVER.  But he hasn't promised a single blasted thing, as far as I know.  Chill out and be patient.

His "PR Department" is a couple of people who work in his offices downtown.  People close to him.  If he was having some personal issue, they would be by proxy, making it unlikely they're focusing on all these people clamoring for his cards as if he broke a promise or something.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on November 29, 2014, 02:10:02 PM
If he still wants to "save face" he would have to make his move on Cyber Monday.

Otherwise a flash mob event would destroy the fans that are questioning him in twitter and instagram.

I first noticed David had removed all twitter and instagram messages associated with black Friday on Thursday. His store was also empty at that time but the tweet "reds" with Instagram link of David holding the Red Gatorbacks was still up. I assumed as early as Thursday that the Red Gatorbacks / Black Friday Sale was postponed. Now the instagram photo of the Red Gatorbacks has also been taken down as of yesterday.

First, David does not have to do anything to "save face". Second, David does not have to do anything for the Christmas shopping season.

So he can post something about a sale, get everyone ready and hyped up for it and then just cancel it without any explanation??, Erasing every piece of evidence that we had about the sale ?

If he doesn't want to explain anything then people are going to be really mad at him.

Also he tweeted about the store before Black Friday, on Thursday, apologising  and assuring everyone that the store would be up "soon"

But we know what "soon" means for Mr Blaine...  :mindf-ck:


Im a huge fan of his, but this is annoying... Im sure something "big" happened, for him to have to back out of something like this...

So don't try to minimise what's happening right now...
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: DJT on November 29, 2014, 02:25:26 PM
In the past sales he has done similar things, very unpredictable and unorthodox compared to traditional retailers. (But be isn't a retailer first, he is a magician first)

I can understand the frustrations, but based on past years nothing out of the norm for DB.

Nothing  was said when this would take place, anyone remember the crazy sale last year for the silver split spades?

If you do then I image a similar scenario this year.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Anthony on November 29, 2014, 06:07:16 PM
Did David Blaine ever actually promise ANYTHING for Black Friday?  Seriously, people...

He could be prepping for Cyber Monday, Christmas Eve, Saint Swithen's Day, the Anniversary of the Repair of his Ingrown Toenail...  WHATEVER.  But he hasn't promised a single blasted thing, as far as I know.  Chill out and be patient.

His "PR Department" is a couple of people who work in his offices downtown.  People close to him.  If he was having some personal issue, they would be by proxy, making it unlikely they're focusing on all these people clamoring for his cards as if he broke a promise or something.

I understand personal things coming up and ya, we can just relax, it is a deck of cards after all, but with all due respect Don, he did say they were going to be released on Black Friday and not posting something to update those who camped their PC to try and get such a limited item isn't right..........no matter who you are.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on November 29, 2014, 06:31:15 PM
Did David Blaine ever actually promise ANYTHING for Black Friday?  Seriously, people...

He could be prepping for Cyber Monday, Christmas Eve, Saint Swithen's Day, the Anniversary of the Repair of his Ingrown Toenail...  WHATEVER.  But he hasn't promised a single blasted thing, as far as I know.  Chill out and be patient.

His "PR Department" is a couple of people who work in his offices downtown.  People close to him.  If he was having some personal issue, they would be by proxy, making it unlikely they're focusing on all these people clamoring for his cards as if he broke a promise or something.

I understand personal things coming up and ya, we can just relax, it is a deck of cards after all, but with all due respect Don, he did say they were going to be released on Black Friday and not posting something to update those who camped their PC to try and get such a limited item isn't right..........no matter who you are.

David Blaine is among other things, an endurance artist. He tested your endurance and you cracked. :)) You were camped in front of your computer, nice and warm, in your luxury leather computer chair. Not in a block of ice, not 6 feet under ground, not 100 plus feet in the air, not submerged in water. I'm sorry people, I can't be the only one that finds this damn funny.

Is it the end of the world if you don't get a Red Gatorback?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Anthony on November 29, 2014, 07:34:53 PM
Did David Blaine ever actually promise ANYTHING for Black Friday?  Seriously, people...

He could be prepping for Cyber Monday, Christmas Eve, Saint Swithen's Day, the Anniversary of the Repair of his Ingrown Toenail...  WHATEVER.  But he hasn't promised a single blasted thing, as far as I know.  Chill out and be patient.

His "PR Department" is a couple of people who work in his offices downtown.  People close to him.  If he was having some personal issue, they would be by proxy, making it unlikely they're focusing on all these people clamoring for his cards as if he broke a promise or something.

I understand personal things coming up and ya, we can just relax, it is a deck of cards after all, but with all due respect Don, he did say they were going to be released on Black Friday and not posting something to update those who camped their PC to try and get such a limited item isn't right..........no matter who you are.

David Blaine is among other things, an endurance artist. He tested your endurance and you cracked. :)) You were camped in front of your computer, nice and warm, in your luxury leather computer chair. Not in a block of ice, not 6 feet under ground, not 100 plus feet in the air, not submerged in water. I'm sorry people, I can't be the only one that finds this damn funny.

Is it the end of the world if you don't get a Red Gatorback?

Just to clarify Card Player, I wasn't camped at my PC and it was meant as a general statement  :)
"...............posting something to update those who camped their PC"
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Fess on November 29, 2014, 08:04:30 PM
I'm glad they haven't been offered for sale yet. Again for selfish reasons, I was unavailable to make purchases whilst playing poker for the past two days. I did a little camping (wee hours of the morning on friday) until I felt the flash mob possibility was over after the last post. Otherwise it was what it was. I do feel for people who spent many hours checking in and chose not to enjoy the various festivities that were available to them on their friday night and saturday.

I've missed out on several offerings from others due to my choices, of being engaged in activity whatever it may be. I personally don't regret those choices or missed opportunities. My thoughts are, most other people don't either. Then again I have never stood outside a retail store, movie house, club, or sporting venue for more than half an hour either. (I absolutely hate flying because they make me wait in long ass stupid... rant tangent avoided.) So I'm probably in the minority on this subject haha.

In the case of Red Gatorbacks, I think we have an interesting mix. 1000 decks + easy 2000 people wanting at least 2 each = Stuff like camp the comp for a couple days. It's definitely understandable that it could and has happened. Sometimes the OCD gets the absolute best of us, it's happened to us all at some point. It's never healthy, but it is entirely human. We are passionate creatures haha.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: GBrown on November 29, 2014, 11:05:28 PM
I did apologise in advance for causing annoyance.

In terms of card collecting, I thoroughly enjoy the 'thrill of the chase' in attempt to secure decks for my collection. I am happy to set my alarm for ridiculous o'clock if needs be (I am outside most of you guys in the USA). Sad, I know, but like you all, my love of this collecting hobby takes over at times (and my first hobby love is actually sleight of hand card magic).

Don - as I mentioned, people have expectations, particularly of someone at DB's level; clear communication is great thing, and I do believe that people (i.e. 'we') should have been notified one way or another over and beyond the tweet posted telling all the site would be up and running soon.  Axiomatically there is some issue, but a simple explanation to people who are prepared to pay hard earned money for the products expected would have been nice.  As I said, this could have been issued by PR; for an internationally recognised star, I ignorantly assumed more than "a couple of people" would be involved.

As for all the 'seriously people' type remarks, as I said above, my love for this hobby takes over at times.  But not so much as my love for my Wife and Son who are the real primary love in my life. So,
 
Don - I am certainly not clamouring for his cards (the term which I find rather offensive), but I did expect a 'promise' to be upheld.

CardPlayer - No, it is not remotely close to the end of the world if I do not buy a deck of playing cards, nor was I 'camped' in front of my PC, but I did float in and out rather too frequently and in some unorthodox hours to keep checking. If I recollect aren't you the guy that risks paying rent and food on the table at times to purchase 'end of the word playing cards'? Your hypocrisy seems to know no bounds.



Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on November 30, 2014, 12:08:16 AM
Quote
If I recollect aren't you the guy that risks paying rent and food on the table at times to purchase 'end of the word playing cards'? Your hypocrisy seems to know no bounds.

Nope, that's not me. Yes, I've bought things that cost as much as rent. Without getting into great detail about my own financial status, I will simply say my bills are always paid first. I'm certainly not deprived of food. :))

I don't think I'm being hypocritical. I've ripped a friend of DB because I expect better of that person but their not DB. I'm someone who respects David Blaine and that won't change because of a Black Friday cancelation. Those who are actually getting angry are just card collectors. They like DB but they like his cards more.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on November 30, 2014, 12:16:37 AM
I did apologise in advance for causing annoyance.

In terms of card collecting, I thoroughly enjoy the 'thrill of the chase' in attempt to secure decks for my collection. I am happy to set my alarm for ridiculous o'clock if needs be (I am outside most of you guys in the USA). Sad, I know, but like you all, my love of this collecting hobby takes over at times (and my first hobby love is actually sleight of hand card magic).

Don - as I mentioned, people have expectations, particularly of someone at DB's level; clear communication is great thing, and I do believe that people (i.e. 'we') should have been notified one way or another over and beyond the tweet posted telling all the site would be up and running soon.  Axiomatically there is some issue, but a simple explanation to people who are prepared to pay hard earned money for the products expected would have been nice.  As I said, this could have been issued by PR; for an internationally recognised star, I ignorantly assumed more than "a couple of people" would be involved.

As for all the 'seriously people' type remarks, as I said above, my love for this hobby takes over at times.  But not so much as my love for my Wife and Son who are the real primary love in my life. So,
 
Don - I am certainly not clamouring for his cards (the term which I find rather offensive), but I did expect a 'promise' to be upheld.

CardPlayer - No, it is not remotely close to the end of the world if I do not buy a deck of playing cards, nor was I 'camped' in front of my PC, but I did float in and out rather too frequently and in some unorthodox hours to keep checking. If I recollect aren't you the guy that risks paying rent and food on the table at times to purchase 'end of the word playing cards'? Your hypocrisy seems to know no bounds.

No need for apologies - no annoyance was caused.

I was indeed incorrect in the "promise" department - he advertised on Instagram that he'd release the cards on Black Friday and clearly something went terribly wrong.

I've met David before, at his offices in downtown Manhattan.  You can read about it here if you like. (http://www.playingcardforum.com/index.php?topic=1307.0)  You'll never meet a nicer, more down-to-earth guy.  His operation isn't teeming masses of employees - it's roughly a dozen or so people at any given time.  Believe it or not, that makes his company about the same size in terms of employees as Ellusionist and Theory11, and he probably has double the employees of the Blue Crown/HOPC.  He's probably the same size as Dan and Dave though I can't say for sure, and he's perhaps slightly larger than the New York office of the Expert Playing Card Company and the Conjuring Arts Research Center.

In simple terms, we're not talking about huge corporations here.  If a business issue or a personal crisis struck any of these companies, the impact would likely be felt by everyone and it would not be unheard of for such an event to derail normal operations for a while.

Collecting cards is a lovely thing.  But they aren't the end of the world.  Whatever it is, something is obviously on his plate that's taking priority for the immediate future.  They will come out eventually, and I'd be shocked if some kind of explanation wasn't forthcoming.  Yes, these are very rare cards and all that, but in the end, they are just cards.  Life appears to be taking priority at DB Productions, but I'm sure things will get back to normal soon enough, and that the release will have advance notice of some kind.

Quote
If I recollect aren't you the guy that risks paying rent and food on the table at times to purchase 'end of the word playing cards'? Your hypocrisy seems to know no bounds.

Nope, that's not me. Yes, I've bought things that cost as much as rent. Without getting into great detail about my own financial status, I will simply say my bills are always paid first. I'm certainly not deprived of food. :))

I don't think I'm being hypocritical. I've ripped a friend of DB because I expect better of that person but their not DB. I'm someone who respects David Blaine and that won't change because of a Black Friday cancelation. Those who are actually getting angry are just card collectors. They like DB but they like his cards more.

Now WHICH DB are you talking about now...?  :))
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Fess on November 30, 2014, 12:21:31 AM
The term "camp the computer" to me means checking on various sites every hour or so, when not actually needing to use it for any other reason than to see if said item, store, or sale is available. I'm beginning to wonder if I'm using the term correctly, and starting to think I'm probably not.

I usually peak in on here, UC, and my mail when I pop online. In this case to check NHL Scores. Not even checking the db store until monday morning. Feels like this drum's getting worn out haha.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on November 30, 2014, 12:24:24 AM
Quote
Now WHICH DB are you talking about now...? 

I wrote David Blaine at least once in that paragraph. Lol That is a strange coincidence Don Boyer (DB). Did I rip a friend of yours? I suppose that's how I started on discourse. :))

The term "camp the computer" to me means checking on various sites every hour or so, when not actually needing to use it for any other reason than to see if said item, store, or sale is available. I'm beginning to wonder if I'm using the term correctly, and starting to think I'm probably not.

I usually peak in on here, UC, and my mail when I pop online. In this case to check NHL Scores. Not even checking the db store until monday morning. Feels like this drum's getting worn out haha.

I've gone camping for many summers of my childhood. You basically sit around the campfire at night because the fire is one of your few sources of light. You just sit and watch the flames for hours. Unless your an adult with your significant other, not much else to do.

When you say "camp the computer", I'm thinking your sitting at your computer for hours on end.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Fess on November 30, 2014, 12:39:31 AM
When you say "camp the computer", I'm thinking your sitting at your computer for hours on end.

Then yea, I am definitely using it wrong haha. I don't know anyone who does that. That'd take some serious dedication wouldn't it?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: John B. on November 30, 2014, 10:04:48 AM
I camp at my computer, but not for sales. I just like to be lazy sometimes.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on November 30, 2014, 11:17:06 AM
I camp at my computer, but not for sales. I just like to be lazy sometimes.

I'm guilty of it also. I don't think its something to be embarrassed about. There are worse places to be. It's something I don't complain about. I'm in my comfort zone and its my choice. Before the internet, people used to wait outdoors on lines hours for concert tickets. Travel to dozens of stores to find highly sought OR sold out Christmas toys. Good times. I was but a child then. I still hear the stories.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: kdklown on November 30, 2014, 11:23:45 AM
I camp at my computer, but not for sales. I just like to be lazy sometimes.

I'm guilty of it also. I don't think its something to be embarrassed about. There are worse places to be. It's something I don't complain about. I'm in my comfort zone and its my choice.

Before the internet, people used to wait on lines hours for concert tickets. Travel to dozens of stores to find a highly-saute after OR sold out Christmas toys.

Warning: Grammar Police

People used to travel to dozens of stores for things that were highly... pan fried?   :)

Just busting your chops.  Thought I would get it over with before Don chimes in!

Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on November 30, 2014, 11:50:55 AM
I camp at my computer, but not for sales. I just like to be lazy sometimes.

I'm guilty of it also. I don't think its something to be embarrassed about. There are worse places to be. It's something I don't complain about. I'm in my comfort zone and its my choice.

Before the internet, people used to wait on lines hours for concert tickets. Travel to dozens of stores to find a highly-saute after OR sold out Christmas toys.

Warning: Grammar Police

People used to travel to dozens of stores for things that were highly... pan fried?   :)

Just busting your chops.  Thought I would get it over with before Don chimes in!

It would be helpful if you quoted me correctly before pointing out a grammar mistake. :))

"People used to wait on lines." is correct.

"Travel to dozens of stores to find a toy." is correct.

Check it for yourself. http://www.gingersoftware.com/grammarcheck

Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: John B. on November 30, 2014, 12:15:44 PM
I camp at my computer, but not for sales. I just like to be lazy sometimes.

I'm guilty of it also. I don't think its something to be embarrassed about. There are worse places to be. It's something I don't complain about. I'm in my comfort zone and its my choice.

Before the internet, people used to wait on lines hours for concert tickets. Travel to dozens of stores to find a highly-saute after OR sold out Christmas toys.

Warning: Grammar Police

People used to travel to dozens of stores for things that were highly... pan fried?   :)

Just busting your chops.  Thought I would get it over with before Don chimes in!

It would be helpful if you quoted me correctly before pointing out a grammar mistake. :))

"People used to wait on lines." is correct.

"Travel to dozens of stores to find a toy." is correct.

Check it for yourself. http://www.gingersoftware.com/grammarcheck

I think he is meaning when you said "highly-saute after" which is why he said the pan fried part. As we believe you meant highly sought after
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on November 30, 2014, 12:18:18 PM
I camp at my computer, but not for sales. I just like to be lazy sometimes.

I'm guilty of it also. I don't think its something to be embarrassed about. There are worse places to be. It's something I don't complain about. I'm in my comfort zone and its my choice.

Before the internet, people used to wait on lines hours for concert tickets. Travel to dozens of stores to find a highly-saute after OR sold out Christmas toys.

Warning: Grammar Police

People used to travel to dozens of stores for things that were highly... pan fried?   :)

Just busting your chops.  Thought I would get it over with before Don chimes in!

It would be helpful if you quoted me correctly before pointing out a grammar mistake. :))

"People used to wait on lines." is correct.

"Travel to dozens of stores to find a toy." is correct.

Check it for yourself. http://www.gingersoftware.com/grammarcheck

I think he is meaning when you said "highly-saute after" which is why he said the pan fried part. As we believe you meant highly sought after

Lol ok. I did not see that. I'm on a cell phone. The iPhone auto-spell changes the word if I hit a wrong letter. Thanks
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: GBrown on November 30, 2014, 12:43:10 PM
Do you know what you guys - you are a great bunch of guys. I am sure there is a correct place to post this as I deviate, but as December begins, I thank you all for keeping me going by reading your interesting thoughts. What a great night it would be if we could meet in person and share a beer or two. As advent begins, I wish you all (and your families) a Magical Christmas. Angela, Gary and Matthew (the next David Blaine...........)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: GBrown on November 30, 2014, 12:50:15 PM
Oh, and CardPlayer, sorry if I called you wrong Bud.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on November 30, 2014, 01:13:24 PM
Oh, and CardPlayer, sorry if I called you wrong Bud.

I take nothing personally. I know I can irritate people with my left and right wing stance here. I'm sure I make people laugh also. Its all good.

Do you know what you guys - you are a great bunch of guys. I am sure there is a correct place to post this as I deviate, but as December begins, I thank you all for keeping me going by reading your interesting thoughts. What a great night it would be if we could meet in person and share a beer or two. As advent begins, I wish you all (and your families) a Magical Christmas. Angela, Gary and Matthew (the next David Blaine...........)

I'm more civil and less opinionated in person.

I have an emotional detachment with what I write. It becomes much different when we know or meet each other. There is always the 52 Plus Joker convention. I should be joining some time next year.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: GBrown on November 30, 2014, 01:14:17 PM
Hey Don - I followed the link you provided. Awesome mate. And, as my little boy looked on when I said the self same word, he also said bursting into song 'Everything is Awesome...........'
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on November 30, 2014, 05:15:44 PM
So once everything has been clarified...

http://shop.davidblaine.com/collections/specials

I don't remember this page

Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on November 30, 2014, 08:40:37 PM
Hey Don - I followed the link you provided. Awesome mate. And, as my little boy looked on when I said the self same word, he also said bursting into song 'Everything is Awesome...........'

I've met a few interesting people through similar such serendipitous circumstances, not the least of which being my co-administrators here, Lee Asher and Tom Dawson!
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on November 30, 2014, 09:28:19 PM
So once everything has been clarified...

http://shop.davidblaine.com/collections/specials

I don't remember this page

I'm almost positive that link was there already. David's website always has a few backdoor URLs. This is not one of them.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: aldazar on November 30, 2014, 09:35:07 PM
So once everything has been clarified...

http://shop.davidblaine.com/collections/specials

I don't remember this page

I'm almost positive that link was there already. David's website always has a few backdoor URLs. This is not one of them.

Care to share? =P
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on November 30, 2014, 10:02:52 PM
So once everything has been clarified...

http://shop.davidblaine.com/collections/specials

I don't remember this page

I'm almost positive that link was there already. David's website always has a few backdoor URLs. This is not one of them.

Care to share? =P

Basically they are URL's that cant be accessed ordinarily by clicking a link on his website. Most are URL categories that were never deleted from his Shopify store. They just created new category URLs and left the old one's published. Every-time they would add a new release it would get added to the old category URL also. It worked almost like a store history. If White Lions Red were released and one year later a new White Lions Red URL with a price increase was created, the old category page would show both the New and Old White Lions Red listings. One for the old price, one for the new price. Some who knew about it might have been able to buy products at its original low price.

I did manage to buy 5 uncut sheets for Free + Shipping. They canceled that order. Unfortunately I have a conscious and most times email or call the companies I find website errors on, in hopes they will let me keep my order. Of the three companies I found errors on, only TBC let me keep my order.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on December 01, 2014, 12:12:44 AM

I did manage to buy 5 uncut sheets for Free + Shipping. They canceled that order. Unfortunately I have a conscious and most times email or call the companies I find website errors on, in hopes they will let me keep my order. Of the three companies I found errors on, only TBC let me keep my order.

...and so many people bitch about TBC...  :))

Yeah, it's not that complicated.  If I buy the URL zzz123456.com, create a site there and make a page called zzz123456.com/secretzzz.htm, all I need to do is not provide any links to that page on my site or any other to in essence render it invisible to the world, or at least that overwhelming portion of it that's not exceptionally savvy and curious.

Blaine's "Specials" link was always there because his store has a section called "Specials" that you can find a link to at shop.davidblaine.com - a link that's even labeled "Specials".  World's worst-kept secret.

He's used other, secret links before and he's not alone - who remember the Sultan Republic Treasury Edition?  I honestly don't believe that he's hiding his entire Thanksgiving/Black Friday/Cyber Monday special in a hidden link that maybe a handful of people will ever find.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on December 01, 2014, 08:51:35 AM
Quote
...and so many people bitch about TBC...  :))

To be fair, I don't remember anyone "bitching" about the TBC customer service. Of the three companies for whom I found website errors, TBC was also the only one that wouldn't have incurred a lose of profit or lose of unintended product. I got Gold Crown decks a few days earlier then I would have. I was happy to have helped. My story is not the be-all end-all answer to your admission of "so many people".
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on December 01, 2014, 12:32:33 PM
Quote
...and so many people bitch about TBC...  :))

To be fair, I don't remember anyone "bitching" about the TBC customer service. Of the three companies for whom I found website errors, TBC was also the only one that wouldn't have incurred a lose of profit or lose of unintended product. I got Gold Crown decks a few days earlier then I would have. I was happy to have helped. My story is not the be-all end-all answer to your admission of "so many people".

I never said you were ONE OF THEM!  Please, relax.  I just know they have a rep for getting a lot more heat than some other card companies do for the silliest of reasons, though an unhealthy amount of it comes from just a handful of people.

I liken it to the Hell's Angels classic business card.  On the front, it said, "When we do good, no one remembers."  On the back, it said, "When we do bad, no one forgets."  It's been pretty quiet lately at TBC but for a while there it was like they couldn't do one nice thing without people complaining about it.  But again, it was mostly the same handful of people - I think of them as the "squeakiest wheels."

But, back to topic.  Still bupkiss over at the David Blaine store. (http://shop.davidblaine.com)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Fess on December 01, 2014, 12:37:43 PM
But, back to topic.  Still bupkiss over at the David Blaine store.
 (http://shop.davidblaine.com)

Saves me having to load the page. I was just about to check.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on December 01, 2014, 12:44:16 PM
But, back to topic.  Still bupkiss over at the David Blaine store.
 (http://shop.davidblaine.com)

Saves me having to load the page. I was just about to check.

I checked the "home page" - davidblaine.com - and all is normal there, but the store looks like one o' them thar ghost town stores, all vacant an' dustified...  :))
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on December 01, 2014, 01:06:43 PM
Quote
...and so many people bitch about TBC...  :))

To be fair, I don't remember anyone "bitching" about the TBC customer service. Of the three companies for whom I found website errors, TBC was also the only one that wouldn't have incurred a lose of profit or lose of unintended product. I got Gold Crown decks a few days earlier then I would have. I was happy to have helped. My story is not the be-all end-all answer to your admission of "so many people".

I liken it to the Hell's Angels classic business card.  On the front, it said, "When we do good, no one remembers."  On the back, it said, "When we do bad, no one forgets."

That should be my motto here on playingcardforum.com. "When I write good, no one remembers." "When I write bad, no one forgets."  lol :))

Your telling me to relax? Your stealing my lines now? lol :)) No need to comment. I'm busting your chops!
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: DarkDerp on December 02, 2014, 02:56:09 AM
If you would like to know when a site updates without having to run to your computer here is a suggestion

This plug in for chrome is pretty nice https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/page-monitor/pemhgklkefakciniebenbfclihhmmfcd?hl=en (https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/page-monitor/pemhgklkefakciniebenbfclihhmmfcd?hl=en) You can set it to monitor for a change in a site globally, several pages, an individual page  or specific text on a page . It ignores ads and flash plugins that tend to signify a change with  similar apps. It will notify you of a change with an alarm sound.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: ruicorreia on December 02, 2014, 07:52:05 AM
That's a quite useful app! Thank you.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on December 02, 2014, 10:08:06 AM
If you would like to know when a site updates without having to run to your computer here is a suggestion

This plug in for chrome is pretty nice https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/page-monitor/pemhgklkefakciniebenbfclihhmmfcd?hl=en (https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/page-monitor/pemhgklkefakciniebenbfclihhmmfcd?hl=en) You can set it to monitor for a change in a site globally, several pages, an individual page  or specific text on a page . It ignores ads and flash plugins that tend to signify a change with  similar apps. It will notify you of a change with an alarm sound.

It only monitors a specific page, not the entire domain. I want a domain monitor to see when a URL has been added (before google picks it up). :))
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Collector on December 03, 2014, 05:21:08 PM
So, did David save his life from genuine fans? :)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: DarkDerp on December 03, 2014, 07:48:45 PM
If you would like to know when a site updates without having to run to your computer here is a suggestion

This plug in for chrome is pretty nice https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/page-monitor/pemhgklkefakciniebenbfclihhmmfcd?hl=en (https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/page-monitor/pemhgklkefakciniebenbfclihhmmfcd?hl=en) You can set it to monitor for a change in a site globally, several pages, an individual page  or specific text on a page . It ignores ads and flash plugins that tend to signify a change with  similar apps. It will notify you of a change with an alarm sound.

It only monitors a specific page, not the entire domain. I want a domain monitor to see when a URL has been added (before google picks it up). :))

It will actually monitor the entire site and even show you all the updates that have been made since you last visited even updates that have been since deleted. By default it will follow the page you are on or text, links, pictures and videos you have highlighted on the page when clicked from the toolbar. To globally have it monitor a url go to the options page of the app and set the Desired url to watch. 
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on December 04, 2014, 12:25:02 AM
So after the red gatorbacks fiasco...

We can only hope to wait, until Mr.Blaine gives us some kind of signal about what is going to happen to the red gatorbacks...

My guess... Somebody approached him and bought all the cards from him....  ???


I don't know... i guess we will just have to wait until he decides when is "soon"
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on December 04, 2014, 07:56:59 AM
So after the red gatorbacks fiasco...

We can only hope to wait, until Mr.Blaine gives us some kind of signal about what is going to happen to the red gatorbacks...

My guess... Somebody approached him and bought all the cards from him....  ???


I don't know... i guess we will just have to wait until he decides when is "soon"

It's one thing to remove or delete the Black Friday sale from Twitter and Instagram. Per the evidence of David removing all photos of the Red Gatorbacks existence, I doubt we will ever see them for sale on their own. David most likely came up with a better idea.

David has about 800K followers on Twitter in comparison to about 17K of theory11. What do you think would have happened to David's website had he released only 1000 Red?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: ruicorreia on December 04, 2014, 09:22:21 AM
...or the decks were defectuous; or he's a prankster and he's laughing his head off!
One thing I'm sure: DB is an enterpreneur, he seeks profit of course, so I guess sooner or later there will be news.
All we can do is wait!
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on December 04, 2014, 11:24:30 AM
...or the decks were defectuous; or he's a prankster and he's laughing his head off!
One thing I'm sure: DB is an enterpreneur, he seeks profit of course, so I guess sooner or later there will be news.
All we can do is wait!

Per Google, Blaine's Net Worth is about 12 million. Copperfield's Net Worth is about 800 Million.  Entrepreneur or Not, DB is not getting rich selling playing cards.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on December 05, 2014, 12:12:00 PM
So after the red gatorbacks fiasco...

Fiasco?  I think that's a bit premature.

And the odds of someone else buying all of his red Gatorbacks are not very good.  I'd hope he knows that such an act would alienate many of his fans, or at least the fans who collect his playing cards.


David has about 800K followers on Twitter in comparison to about 17K of theory11. What do you think would have happened to David's website had he released only 1000 Red?

I think that the fraction of that number who actually collect cards would be trying to scoop them up, no different than any other previous Blaine Productions release.  Did the world end when they released Variety Boxes in quantities of only 250?

...or the decks were defectuous; or he's a prankster and he's laughing his head off!
One thing I'm sure: DB is an enterpreneur, he seeks profit of course, so I guess sooner or later there will be news.
All we can do is wait!

The word you're looking for is "defective", and yes, it's not beyond believability that a defect was found and they're trying to fix it.

Entrepreneur, perhaps - but he's a performer first and foremost.  Nearly all of his deck designs were originally created for his own personal use before he decided to make public releases of them.  The White Lions Black Label decks were among the last released of that series because it was David's color - none of the publicly-released gaff cards came in black, just red and blue.  I was fortunate enough to purchase a set of cards that was mailed to Hecrob from Blaine and it contains some of those unreleased black gaffs, and many others - cards that I theorize were printed with the Stealth Cards "short deck" but pulled for David's personal use.  Remember, the released version of that deck contained only 35 out of a possible 56 cards.


Per Google, Blaine's Net Worth is about 12 million. Copperfield's Net Worth is about 800 Million.  Entrepreneur or Not, DB is not getting rich selling playing cards.

I'd have to agree.  It's income, but for him, it's not "break the bank" income.  It's a nod to his fans more than anything else, I believe.  Copperfield's got more money than he and his family (does he have a family?) could spend in a lifetime unless he became incredibly foolish with his money management.  David's got a cushion that, with proper investment, will keep him and possibly his children well-off into his golden years, but it's not what some refer to as "fuck you" money - the kind of money that let's you tell pretty much anyone trying to thwart your dreams or run your life, "fuck you" and you do what you want, within the bounds of law and decency.  Copperfield's stash is more like "fuck you" money.  Of course, this all assumes that the numbers are fully accurate in the first place, and whether or not it accounts for certain non-liquid assets, like perhaps investments, property owned or collections of magic memorabilia, fine art, etc.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on December 05, 2014, 01:15:19 PM
Quote
I think that the fraction of that number who actually collect cards would be trying to scoop them up, no different than any other previous Blaine Productions release.  Did the world end when they released Variety Boxes in quantities of only 250?

That's a good point. Although I don't remember the original variety box, I missed it. I did get a 1/100 Split Spade Collectors Box. As I recall that took about 6 hours. It also depends on the price point. $100 or $150 each variety box, filters out your low dollar collectors. The fraction you're referring to, is still out of  potentially 800K. That could be 17K or 100K. I used the theory11 example (with 17k followers) because of the first and second White Monarch crash. If a crash can happen to Theory11, it can happen to Blaine. I don't believe you necessarily have to be a "card collector" to want a David Blaine item such as his playing cards.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: aldazar on December 05, 2014, 09:18:53 PM
Hey Don, good points, but I think you forgot to address the "or he's a prankster" possibility...=P

Just kidding...=)

So after the red gatorbacks fiasco...

Fiasco?  I think that's a bit premature.

And the odds of someone else buying all of his red Gatorbacks are not very good.  I'd hope he knows that such an act would alienate many of his fans, or at least the fans who collect his playing cards.


David has about 800K followers on Twitter in comparison to about 17K of theory11. What do you think would have happened to David's website had he released only 1000 Red?

I think that the fraction of that number who actually collect cards would be trying to scoop them up, no different than any other previous Blaine Productions release.  Did the world end when they released Variety Boxes in quantities of only 250?

...or the decks were defectuous; or he's a prankster and he's laughing his head off!
One thing I'm sure: DB is an enterpreneur, he seeks profit of course, so I guess sooner or later there will be news.
All we can do is wait!

The word you're looking for is "defective", and yes, it's not beyond believability that a defect was found and they're trying to fix it.

Entrepreneur, perhaps - but he's a performer first and foremost.  Nearly all of his deck designs were originally created for his own personal use before he decided to make public releases of them.  The White Lions Black Label decks were among the last released of that series because it was David's color - none of the publicly-released gaff cards came in black, just red and blue.  I was fortunate enough to purchase a set of cards that was mailed to Hecrob from Blaine and it contains some of those unreleased black gaffs, and many others - cards that I theorize were printed with the Stealth Cards "short deck" but pulled for David's personal use.  Remember, the released version of that deck contained only 35 out of a possible 56 cards.


Per Google, Blaine's Net Worth is about 12 million. Copperfield's Net Worth is about 800 Million.  Entrepreneur or Not, DB is not getting rich selling playing cards.

I'd have to agree.  It's income, but for him, it's not "break the bank" income.  It's a nod to his fans more than anything else, I believe.  Copperfield's got more money than he and his family (does he have a family?) could spend in a lifetime unless he became incredibly foolish with his money management.  David's got a cushion that, with proper investment, will keep him and possibly his children well-off into his golden years, but it's not what some refer to as "fuck you" money - the kind of money that let's you tell pretty much anyone trying to thwart your dreams or run your life, "fuck you" and you do what you want, within the bounds of law and decency.  Copperfield's stash is more like "fuck you" money.  Of course, this all assumes that the numbers are fully accurate in the first place, and whether or not it accounts for certain non-liquid assets, like perhaps investments, property owned or collections of magic memorabilia, fine art, etc.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on December 06, 2014, 05:00:55 AM

That's a good point. Although I don't remember the original variety box, I missed it. I did get a 1/100 Split Spade Collectors Box. As I recall that took about 6 hours. It also depends on the price point. $100 or $150 each variety box, filters out your low dollar collectors. The fraction you're referring to, is still out of  potentially 800K. That could be 17K or 100K. I used the theory11 example (with 17k followers) because of the first and second White Monarch crash. If a crash can happen to Theory11, it can happen to Blaine. I don't believe you necessarily have to be a "card collector" to want a David Blaine item such as his playing cards.

I'm inclined to believe that the percentage of his Twitter followers that are card collectors will be a much smaller fraction of that 800,000 you mentioned.  "Could be 17K or 100K."  Could also be 1,000.  We have no way to know without devoting a lot more effort than the question is worth.

His cards sell well, they always have, and it's practically a guarantee that not everyone buying them are deck collectors.  A number will be just plain fans, and some may even be fellow magicians.  I can't see this changing how quickly the cards sell out one way or another - and that's if they ever make it to being on sale!
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: mirciusx on December 08, 2014, 06:06:00 AM
Still nothing on David's shop :(
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on December 08, 2014, 08:00:51 AM
Still nothing on David's shop :(

Nope :(

The strange thing is NOT the Red Gatorbacks. It's that some people wait for the Christmas season to buy gifts. If there is a young David Blaine fan your buying for, now would have been a great time to buy that gift. His real or magic special just came out this year and I'm sure it's inspired a new generation of David Blaine fans. I don't think his shop being empty was done intentionally. I can see not selling Red Gatorbacks but emptying the whole store is unconventional. The only thing I can think of would be staff issues or something personal. Nothing in the news other then his interview with a 56 year old, topless Madonna.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: DarkDerp on December 08, 2014, 04:11:27 PM
My guess would be issues with Shopify. Perhaps regarding his contract or services. Shopify uses Blaine's name a lot   in their marketing campaigns.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on December 09, 2014, 05:38:32 AM

Nothing in the news other then his interview with a 56 year old, topless Madonna.

To be fair, she wasn't exactly topless.  She was simply jammed into that top like an overstuffed sausage!  This resulted in a bit of nipple-free overflow, but no toplessness - unless there's a better photo in the magazine than the one on the cover!
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on December 09, 2014, 06:48:30 AM

Nothing in the news other then his interview with a 56 year old, topless Madonna.

To be fair, she wasn't exactly topless.  She was simply jammed into that top like an overstuffed sausage!  This resulted in a bit of nipple-free overflow, but no toplessness - unless there's a better photo in the magazine than the one on the cover!

I would not use the word "better" but yes there is another photo. You can find articles about the interview with Madonna using "Google news" search of David's name. When you get some private time to yourself you can go check that out. :)) lol
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Rob Wright on December 12, 2014, 11:20:13 PM
There may be progress!
(http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0031/8592/files/RedGatorBanner_1024x1024.jpg?2582)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: aldazar on December 12, 2014, 11:25:35 PM
Yeah the website has been revamped slightly! Still no products available, but it looks slightly different (better)...
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on December 13, 2014, 03:55:41 AM
Yeah the website has been revamped slightly! Still no products available, but it looks slightly different (better)...

I would even go so far as to say prettier.  Empty, but prettier - kinda like Paris Hilton!  :))
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on December 13, 2014, 08:34:53 AM
Yeah the website has been revamped slightly! Still no products available, but it looks slightly different (better)...

There were products on the Website last night around 9 PM EST.

David added a new Magicians Brick of White Lions. 6 Red & 6 Blue Series B White Lions, plus a wallet with "23 never before seen gaff cards" for $150.00. The picture showed the Ace of Hearts fingerprint gaff in the wallet. I believe that gaff was originally created for Split Spades. I've seen the trick on one of Davids specials. Now he has it for the White Lions?

@ Don: ("never before seen") or was "this" White Lions Ace of Hearts fingerprint gaff actually in David's White Lions Gaff Deck first?

My guess would be issues with Shopify. Perhaps regarding his contract or services. Shopify uses Blaine's name a lot   in their marketing campaigns.

Looks like you were correct. David is no longer using Shopify.


A must watch: EMC; David Blaine & Friends
http://youtu.be/NQLMtbYEkWI
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: runIt on December 13, 2014, 10:25:04 AM
Some more progress:

http://shop.davidblaine.com/pages/metallic-red-gatorbacks
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on December 13, 2014, 12:59:11 PM
 :mindf-ck:


Again.... He did it AGAIN....

Card player....

Ok then... so that one Magicians brick you are talking about is a great deal.... Last time we got the cards, the clip and the wallet for $150.00 (probably a little more).

And yes that one card is part of the gaffs he produced last time... I bet he is realising  all the remaining gaffs he has (in favor of new gatorback gaffs?  ???)


So i hope this is not a flashmob sale....

If he has new products, i will be very tempted to buy those...

Damn... im going to go nuts on this...  >:(
 
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on December 14, 2014, 12:49:02 AM

@ Don: ("never before seen") or was "this" White Lions Ace of Hearts fingerprint gaff actually in David's White Lions Gaff Deck first?

I recall there were a few gaffs of that type - but remember, the "Stealth Cards" gaff box contained only 35 of a possible 56 cards.  In addition to that, I bought from Hecrob some more gaffs from White Lions that he received from Blaine.  The released gaffs were only red and blue, while the extra cards came in black as well as the other two colors.  If I took the time to go through them and add them up, the total variety of gaff cards will probably amount to 56.

Technically, those extra cards he got, not originally in the "Stealth Cards" pack, would not be considered as released - he got them as a gift, not a purchase.  I'm thinking that Blaine is shifting away from the White Lions to the Gatorbacks and will have a whole new set of gaffs in that card back design, allowing him to release the remainder or some portion thereof of the White Lions decks and gaffs from his personal stash.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on December 16, 2014, 03:33:09 AM
The page is up...

It has everything he had + some "new" items..

So the White Lions Magicians Special is real and The red gator backs are approaching...

But when?  :bosswalk:
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on December 16, 2014, 03:53:50 AM
The page is up...

It has everything he had + some "new" items..

So the White Lions Magicians Special is real and The red gator backs are approaching...

But when?  :bosswalk:

Good Morning

Of course it's real. You thought I made that up? lol
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: mirciusx on December 16, 2014, 09:35:43 AM
Is there by any chance to bring back the Gators 1st edition or is sold out forever?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on December 16, 2014, 11:12:02 AM
Is there by any chance to bring back the Gators 1st edition or is sold out forever?

Aside from a small reserve kept to replace decks damaged in transit, I'd say Blaine is sold out.  You could try the secondary market...
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on December 16, 2014, 11:39:16 AM
So Mr Blaine did it again... He played with our hearts...  :t11:

The sale is TODAY at 4:00pm EST

Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on December 16, 2014, 11:47:39 AM
I'm gonna be sleeping!  Anyone willing, I'll swap three reds either for cash or greens.  Let me know.  (First person to post an acceptance here!)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on December 16, 2014, 12:10:33 PM
I'm gonna be sleeping!  Anyone willing, I'll swap three reds either for cash or greens.  Let me know.  (First person to post an acceptance here!)

I had a really late night last night. I might be sleeping too.

So Mr Blaine did it again... He played with our hearts...  :t11:

The sale is TODAY at 4:00pm EST

I'm glad someone is still excited. I'm going to pass. I can't have everything.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: PrincessTrouble on December 16, 2014, 04:13:14 PM
Sold out already.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: doubledouble on December 16, 2014, 04:20:16 PM
I tried to check out a brick at 1:05 PM and it said there were only 2 decks left in the store...so I tried to check out the 2 decks and it said they were all sold out :/
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: mirciusx on December 16, 2014, 04:21:25 PM
After 3-5 minutes was sold out. I've missed because I was stupid. I added other things in cart, Split Spades cap and DVD, and at checkout was only 4 decks on stock. One second after, at checkout, was only one deck in stock.

I guess Red's will not be soon on stock again.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: agera94 on December 16, 2014, 04:25:46 PM
Those things sold out in no time. I was on the wrong red gatorback page and found the actual store item but by that time they had sold out. Picked up the signed black and red set though  :)

Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: mirciusx on December 16, 2014, 04:27:02 PM
I didn't see that one pack, red+black, until now even I've tried to select a few different decks in this order. Too bad this pack isn't red+green, signed.
http://shop.davidblaine.com/collections/cards/products/autographed-metallic-red-and-black-gatorbacks-collectors-set

Because I live in Europe, I can make only one order, shipping is expensive. I will wait for another Red call, if will be another one.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: BiggerDee on December 16, 2014, 04:28:18 PM
Sold out at 3:03PM. Smells fishy.


Mirci, don't feel bad. I put a quantity in my cart and went straight to the checkout at 3:02.  When directed back to the website to complete the order, they were already sold out.

I'll just have to find someone who needs greens and wants to trade, I guess.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on December 16, 2014, 04:28:36 PM
That was a David Blaine epic fail. How do you not put a quantity limit per order on this? Who is David trying to make happy, the fans or the re-sellers?

Congratulations to those that got some. I mean that sincerely.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: PrincessTrouble on December 16, 2014, 04:30:16 PM
The Autographed Metallic Red and Black Gatorbacks Collector's Set (@ $100) still looks like it's in stock.  But ouch!
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on December 16, 2014, 04:41:11 PM
My credit card company fucked me up...

They blocked my card because i tried to buy too many cards...

So no red gators for me or for a big chunk of México....
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: BiggerDee on December 16, 2014, 04:41:42 PM
Card Player, I was also thinking earlier that someone may have bought a VERY large quantity for resale. I almost never miss out on cards because I'm right there the second that they are released. I truly wonder if he just sold all 1,000, or if he's toying with several releases that will total the claimed 1,000 to sell on the website?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: agera94 on December 16, 2014, 04:45:32 PM
Card Player, I was also thinking earlier that someone may have bought a VERY large quantity for resale. I almost never miss out on cards because I'm right there the second that they are released. I truly wonder if he just sold all 1,000, or if he's toying with several releases that will total the claimed 1,000 to sell on the website?

1000 sold out in around 3-5 minutes does seem a bit odd, especially at the asking price. Will be very interested to see the resale price on eBay soon  :karrit:
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on December 16, 2014, 04:56:06 PM
Im so mad right now....

Just to clarify something for some of you...

He initially said that the release was going to be at 4:00pm

He later tweeted that the release "would be in 30 minutes". (right at 3:45pm EST moving the release by roughly 15 minutes)

The cards were available from 4:00pm but you couldn't buy them, the checkout process would tell you that they were sold out.

At 4:15pm The cards were made available for purchase, and everybody got to buy those.


And yes some of us got shafted and couldn't buy em....

1000 is a pretty small number of cards... i alone was going to buy 15 bricks. The price was really high...

A night before we had free shipping with any order of $75 or more.... Today no free shipping....
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on December 16, 2014, 04:59:01 PM
Card Player, I was also thinking earlier that someone may have bought a VERY large quantity for resale. I almost never miss out on cards because I'm right there the second that they are released. I truly wonder if he just sold all 1,000, or if he's toying with several releases that will total the claimed 1,000 to sell on the website?

Yup, same here. I can't even say "almost never", I "NEVER" miss when I want something. To hear that from you and others makes me feel better.

I don't know what David Blaine Productions was thinking by not limiting the decks to 2 OR 3 per order. Pure Ridiculousness! The whole thing from the start was Epic Fail. Who decides to update their website on or days after the Black Friday Christmas season. David had all year long to make changes to the website.

Im so mad right now....

Just to clarify something for some of you...

He initially said that the release was going to be at 4:00pm

He later tweeted that the release "would be in 30 minutes". (right at 3:45pm EST moving the release by roughly 15 minutes)

The cards were available from 4:00pm but you couldn't buy them, the checkout process would tell you that they were sold out.

At 4:15pm The cards were made available for purchase, and everybody got to buy those.


And yes some of us got shafted and couldn't buy em....

1000 is a pretty small number of cards... i alone was going to buy 15 bricks. The price was really high...

A night before we had free shipping with any order of $75 or more.... Today no free shipping....

15 Bricks... Honestly... I'm sure someone did buy 15 Bricks. SMH
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on December 16, 2014, 05:13:49 PM
Yeah

I do have a store thats why i was going to buy so many and these were the most sought out cards of the Year, I am 1 of the few retailers that actually carry rare cards, Blaine cards are always wanted...

And then something like this happens....

Blaine sure knows how to update his whole store...

Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: BiggerDee on December 16, 2014, 05:23:10 PM
Hecrob, good info. I hadn't heard that about the time (I don't use Twitter). That means that I was late to the game. That makes more sense.

Strange thing is though, at 2:59CST, I was still seeing "coming soon" on the site. I saw that change to live at 3:01.

Thanks for nothing, David Blaine.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: mirciusx on December 16, 2014, 05:25:07 PM
I've missed Green's. I don't know how. Like agera94 said, I was thinking at this price will not be so much people interested to buy it. Now Red's too :( 1000 decks, that's almost 84 bricks. Not to much. I wanted one brick, not for reselling, just because of the nice box (a few for my friends). I am a little collector (just 500), I like DB too much and I would love to have all DB Gators too.

Look, in UK, on website JP for Green Gatorbacks, they choose to sell one deck per customer because maybe it was a limited number of decks. Nice! Even so, one deck is too limited, shipping costs, one deck open, one for collection, one for practice. Was nice to see that on DB store with Red Gatorbacks too, with one brick.
"Due to the limited nature of our remaining stock, a maximum of one deck per customer can now be purchased. We think this is the fairest way to meet the demand for the very limited stock we have left. "

I love green and that pack signed has red and black, nice combination too, but I would love to see red + green or green + red :D Complementary colors, btw.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: mirciusx on December 16, 2014, 05:29:22 PM
Hecrob, good info. I hadn't heard that about the time (I don't use Twitter). That means that I was late to the game. That makes more sense.

Strange thing is though, at 2:59CST, I was still seeing "coming soon" on the site. I saw that change to live at 3:01.

Thanks for nothing, David Blaine.

Selling started at 4:01 PM, not at 4:15 minutes.

Card Player, good call. Nice to be limited for one-two bricks for one order. All the decks will be sold anyway, not in 5 minutes, maybe in one hour.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on December 16, 2014, 05:47:50 PM
Hecrob, good info. I hadn't heard that about the time (I don't use Twitter). That means that I was late to the game. That makes more sense.

Strange thing is though, at 2:59CST, I was still seeing "coming soon" on the site. I saw that change to live at 3:01.

Thanks for nothing, David Blaine.

Selling started at 4:01 PM, not at 4:15 minutes.

Card Player, good call. Nice to be limited for one-two bricks for one order. All the decks will be sold anyway, not in 5 minutes, maybe in one hour.

Not bricks... 2 to 3 decks per order. Whatever... I don't give a F#$% anymore. lol

David can always refund a portion of the ridiculously large orders and limit it. Sorry for the mistake people. We can only honor 1 brick due to a website error. Resell the rest again limit 2 decks per order.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on December 16, 2014, 05:53:42 PM
That is his tweet, he made it 15 minutes before 4:00pm

Yes the red gators were available at 4:01pm but you couldnt buy them... They were still fixing some stuff... I tried that several times before i could actually get to the other part of the checkout process.

The red gators were only available for 15 minutes... After that they sold out.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: PrincessTrouble on December 16, 2014, 06:02:22 PM
My order went through about 4:02p or 4:03p.  I got the order confirmation email at 4:04p.  So they definitely were available before 4:15p.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: aldazar on December 16, 2014, 06:08:42 PM
My order went through about 4:02p or 4:03p.  I got the order confirmation email at 4:04p.  So they definitely were available before 4:15p.

How many did you manage to get? Any interest to trade for greens? Or any other decks, or cash? PM me if so please...Would love to make a trade! Same applies to any other lucky person who got some reds! =)

I'm pretty disappointed with how this worked out too! Obviously Blaine can do what he wants with his cards and his store, but I'm still pretty disappointed by the way he chose to run this... I've been checking his site a coupla times a day since Black Friday in the hopes of getting some reds, and just like that, at apparently 5am in the morning where I am, they're sold out! I would've woken up for them if I'd known, but apparently it wouldn't have done any good! Darn...
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: flyers3003 on December 16, 2014, 06:09:11 PM
My confirmation email has a time stamp of 4:01PM EST.  They were being sold before 4:15.  If you were looking at the "CARDS" tab at 4:01, the cards weren't there.  But the "metallic-red-gatorbacks" link was working right around 4:00pm.  You could get to that link from the banner on the 1st page of the store.  The banner didn't have the working link until around 4:00pm.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on December 16, 2014, 07:07:56 PM
David has another 1500 - 4000 more Red Gatorbacks. Whats he going to do with them?

If you all are smart, let the resellers sit on their Red Gatorbacks. Don't pay their inflated prices. We will wait. Make sure something like this never happens again.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on December 16, 2014, 07:35:34 PM
I don't want to get angry again but...

It seems that there were 2 different ways to get the red gator.

1.- The link in the picture at the main page
2.- The link in the "cards" section


I did notice that when i entered to the "all products" section, the red gators were not there, so i was having issues trying to checkout when i added stuff from the "cards" section...

It was a huge mess... David didn't limit how many decks you can add...  for example, in the picture that i added, i tried to buy 1000 signed sets... only to be told by the cart that there are only 61 left....

first they were sold out @ 4:02pm Which is hard to believe...

@ 4:10 I was able to pass the check out barrier into the "please pay" barrier which i failed to pass...

@ 4:15 there were only 3 decks left (according to the shopping cart)


So so angry.....
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on December 16, 2014, 07:48:44 PM
I don't want to get angry again...

It seems that there were 2 different ways to get the red gator.

1.- The link in the picture at the main page
2.- The link in the "cards" section


I did notice that when i entered to the "all products" section, the red gators were not there, so i was having issues trying to checkout when i added stuff from the "cards" section...

It was a huge mess... David didn't limit how many decks you can add...  for example, in the picture that i added, i tried to buy 1000 signed sets... only to be told by the cart that there are only 61 left....

first they were sold out @ 4:02pm Which is hard to believe...

@ 4:10 I was able to pass the check out barrier into the "please pay" barrier which i failed to pass...

@ 4:15 there were only 3 decks left (according to the shopping cart)


So so angry.....

Yes there was more then one way. 750 were in cellophane, 250 were signed. That was the original plan. I assume the set has the 250 that were originally described as signed. The problem is I and many others have David's autograph already. I'm not paying $100 for it, with 2 partially opened decks to show for it.. Most people want the new unopened decks. What I liked about his Davids variety collectors boxes is that David's autograph is on the box and certificate, not the decks. Decks come brand new. David could have sold the Red Gatorbacks for $50 each, limit of 2 per order and they still would have sold out. New unopened Red Gatorbacks is what most customers wanted today.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on December 16, 2014, 08:00:04 PM
Well.. I will have to wait for somebody to pity me and sell me some red gators or go to the hell that is EBAY and get cancer out of the prices that we will see....

So mad...  :-[
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on December 16, 2014, 08:05:25 PM
Well.. I will have to wait for somebody to pity me and sell me some red gators or go to the hell that is EBAY and get cancer out of the prices that we will see....

So mad...  :-[

That was my point a few posts prior. Don't pay reseller prices. Make them sit on the Red Gatorback. I know there are more Red Gatorbacks. Possibly as many as 1,500 to 4,000 more. We will see them again in one form or another. I would advise you wait.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: mirciusx on December 16, 2014, 09:26:06 PM
My order went through about 4:02p or 4:03p.  I got the order confirmation email at 4:04p.  So they definitely were available before 4:15p.

Like I said :) I use my phone alarm to be online with a few minutes before 4:00 pm. Here was 11pm, Europe GMT+2.

Andrea, you have a nice collection! :D I will make my self a folder on pinterest too :)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: BiggerDee on December 16, 2014, 09:31:17 PM
I am genuinely shocked that no one is pre-selling them on eBay yet.

Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Msp062 on December 16, 2014, 09:55:23 PM
I am wanting to buy a few decks if anyone is interested in selling.  Please Pm.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: mirciusx on December 16, 2014, 09:59:52 PM
390$ starting point. People are crazy =)))))

http://www.ebay.com/itm/David-Blaine-Red-Gator-Backs-Limited-Edition-Only-1000-Ever-Made-/221637860902?pt=UK_Toys_Games_Games&hash=item339aa55e26
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Fess on December 16, 2014, 10:21:51 PM
My interest in the Red Gatorbacks seriously waned about fifteen minutes before they became available on the website. Simply put, I fell asleep at the desk and quit caring about anything other sawing logs haha. My only regret, having to fall asleep in the desk chair and not going for a proper rest. Anything else is unreasonable really.

Usually I would be all upset, how could I have missed out? What the hell was I thinking? Why couldn't I keep my eyes open for 20 more minutes? Naa, not this time. I'm chalking it up to personal growth and being able to let go. (The green gators are my favorite and I have some.) Maybe I'll be able to trade for a deck at some point, maybe not. It is what it is. I'm okay with that.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: PrincessTrouble on December 16, 2014, 10:36:28 PM
Andrea, you have a nice collection! :D I will make my self a folder on pinterest too :)

Thanks. Looking forward to following you on Pinterest. :)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: agera94 on December 16, 2014, 10:43:37 PM
390$ starting point. People are crazy =)))))

http://www.ebay.com/itm/David-Blaine-Red-Gator-Backs-Limited-Edition-Only-1000-Ever-Made-/221637860902?pt=UK_Toys_Games_Games&hash=item339aa55e26

I feel like because he doesn't specify it's a pre-order, you could screw him over and teach the seller a lesson about trying to create inflated prices.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: bamabenz on December 16, 2014, 10:48:04 PM
I too missed out since i was working, but you can still purchase a signed pair for $100, which is less than 250 sterling.

/bama
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: PurpleIce on December 17, 2014, 01:25:30 AM
Well.. I will have to wait for somebody to pity me and sell me some red gators or go to the hell that is EBAY and get cancer out of the prices that we will see....

So mad...  :-[

That was my point a few posts prior. Don't pay reseller prices. Make them sit on the Red Gatorback. I know there are more Red Gatorbacks. Possibly as many as 1,500 to 4,000 more. We will see them again in one form or another. I would advise you wait.

I must be missing it somewhere, but where u get the info that there are more red gatorbacks sitting around somewhere in the Blaine's warehouse?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: aldazar on December 17, 2014, 01:28:12 AM
Well.. I will have to wait for somebody to pity me and sell me some red gators or go to the hell that is EBAY and get cancer out of the prices that we will see....

So mad...  :-[

That was my point a few posts prior. Don't pay reseller prices. Make them sit on the Red Gatorback. I know there are more Red Gatorbacks. Possibly as many as 1,500 to 4,000 more. We will see them again in one form or another. I would advise you wait.

I must be missing it somewhere, but where u get the info that there are more red gatorbacks sitting around somewhere in the Blaine's warehouse?

My guess is he is going off the assumption that USPCC won't print runs shorter than 5,000?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on December 17, 2014, 02:57:28 AM

I guess Red's will not be soon on stock again.

Not from David's shop, anyway, other than the expensive two-deck set.  His sold-out decks don't generally come back, at least not as an individual product.  You might see a collector's set or a Variety Box with some down the road, but they'll be more rare than the cards and a lot more costly.

BTW: what on Earth was the original retail on these?  I never saw it and it's not on the DB site.

Well.. I will have to wait for somebody to pity me and sell me some red gators or go to the hell that is EBAY and get cancer out of the prices that we will see....

So mad...  :-[

That was my point a few posts prior. Don't pay reseller prices. Make them sit on the Red Gatorback. I know there are more Red Gatorbacks. Possibly as many as 1,500 to 4,000 more. We will see them again in one form or another. I would advise you wait.

I must be missing it somewhere, but where u get the info that there are more red gatorbacks sitting around somewhere in the Blaine's warehouse?

My guess is he is going off the assumption that USPCC won't print runs shorter than 5,000?

Actually, the current minimum is 2,500.  They experimented with a 1,000-deck minimum run but it opened a huge can of worms for them and they've since restored the 2,500-deck minimum.  Odds are, David bought the reds primarily for his own use and only let a certain amount go at retail.  Pretty much EVERY design he's released was once a design he used exclusively, and there's often one color he favors over the others.  I think for the White Lions, his preference was black - the Series A decks were never available in black and the gaff cards he released for sale in this design were all red- or blue-backed, sometimes both, but never black.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on December 17, 2014, 06:18:19 AM
Quote
Not from David's shop, anyway, other than the expensive two-deck set.  His sold-out decks don't generally come back, at least not as an individual product.  You might see a collector's set or a Variety Box with some down the road, but they'll be more rare than the cards and a lot more costly.

If there was ever a time for David to do a 400 limit collectors box and sell them for $300 each It's now. I would not be surprised if a few AIP bottles were being made as we speak (type).

When I think about the lost opportunity for the David Blaine store of making a nice profit, it's baffling. Look at all the decks David has. Imagine a Black Friday Brick sale. Buy any brick of the same deck, silver split spades, black label lions, black gatorbacks, etc and get 1 red gatorback. Limit 2 bricks per order, 24 hours or until supplies last. $100 a brick x 1000 red gatorbacks = $100,000.00 and many happy customers.

Or how they did it. 1000 red gatorbacks x $15 no limit per order = $15,000.00 and many disappointed customers.

Production cost of each example taken into consideration, example 1 might not be the best profit %. However, it is a profit. It allows more revenue coming in then normal for older product and allows David to free up valuable warehouse space for new products.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on December 17, 2014, 08:41:57 AM

If there was ever a time for David to do a 400 limit collectors box and sell them for $300 each It's now. I would not be surprised if a few AIP bottles were being made as we speak (type).

When I think about the lost opportunity for the David Blaine store of making a nice profit, it's baffling. Look at all the decks David has. Imagine a Black Friday Brick sale. Buy any brick of the same deck, silver split spades, black label lions, black gatorbacks, etc and get 1 red gatorback. Limit 2 bricks per order, 24 hours or until supplies last. $100 a brick x 1000 red gatorbacks = $100,000.00 and many happy customers.

Or how they did it. 1000 red gatorbacks x $15 no limit per order = $15,000.00 and many disappointed customers.

Production cost of each example taken into consideration, example 1 might not be the best profit %. However, it is a profit. It allows more revenue coming in then normal for older product and allows David to free up valuable warehouse space for new products.

Valuable warehouse space?  He has so few products out right now!  He moved the warehouse to Connecticut as well, in all likelihood making the rent cheaper.

This entire experience isn't exactly giving his "almost-customers" who got shut out a warm and fuzzy feeling.  I'll grant you it's never possible to own EVERYTHING one would like to, but to have such a limited product sold without a quantity-per-customer limit is simply ridiculous.  When companies run roughshod like this over their fans, they don't stay fans and they go from "almost-customers" to utterly disinterested and indifferent.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: CBJ on December 17, 2014, 09:21:26 AM
I was able to put an order in at around 4:20pm, but for only 1 deck.


(http://i975.photobucket.com/albums/ae240/1rideout/Untitled_zps5f5315e0.jpg)


CBJ


Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on December 17, 2014, 09:50:58 AM

If there was ever a time for David to do a 400 limit collectors box and sell them for $300 each It's now. I would not be surprised if a few AIP bottles were being made as we speak (type).

When I think about the lost opportunity for the David Blaine store of making a nice profit, it's baffling. Look at all the decks David has. Imagine a Black Friday Brick sale. Buy any brick of the same deck, silver split spades, black label lions, black gatorbacks, etc and get 1 red gatorback. Limit 2 bricks per order, 24 hours or until supplies last. $100 a brick x 1000 red gatorbacks = $100,000.00 and many happy customers.

Or how they did it. 1000 red gatorbacks x $15 no limit per order = $15,000.00 and many disappointed customers.

Production cost of each example taken into consideration, example 1 might not be the best profit %. However, it is a profit. It allows more revenue coming in then normal for older product and allows David to free up valuable warehouse space for new products.

Valuable warehouse space?  He has so few products out right now!  He moved the warehouse to Connecticut as well, in all likelihood making the rent cheaper.

This entire experience isn't exactly giving his "almost-customers" who got shut out a warm and fuzzy feeling.  I'll grant you it's never possible to own EVERYTHING one would like to, but to have such a limited product sold without a quantity-per-customer limit is simply ridiculous.  When companies run roughshod like this over their fans, they don't stay fans and they go from "almost-customers" to utterly disinterested and indifferent.

Well yes, Connecticut rent is cheaper then New York, but that does not mean his warehouse is substantial size. I've never been to his warehouse, have you? We can google it and see what its square footage is by satellite image. There is value in storage space? Especially if older excess product is sitting around and not moving very fast out the door.

Off topic: There was a time (about 2 year ago) when I was heavily playing poker at Foxwoods CT on my way home and I was driving along side a man on his motorcycle that looked exactly like David Blaine. I could not help but notice how safely he was driving. We were in traffic and most people I know would be cutting in and out of traffic with that type of motorcycle. This guy patiently waited in line with everyone else in traffic.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: BiggerDee on December 17, 2014, 11:25:53 AM
I thought about the signed set, but I already have a bunch of his signatures (on posters and individual original Split Spades cards from back in the day). problem is, the green and red would be signed. The silver (it was silver, wasn't it?) that would complete the set wouldn't be signed, so it would be kind of a mismatch. I'd rather put the $100 towards a plain deck (or decks (I can dream)) so that I would have a complete, albeit unsigned, set.

I just don't believe that the addition of the autographs is going to carry the value of the collector's set. The green decks are sold out, but fairly common so the only true value in that 2 deck set is the red deck. I know that some collectors would love it to be signed, but I would buy an unsigned deck over a signed one.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on December 17, 2014, 11:50:58 AM
I thought about the signed set, but I already have a bunch of his signatures (on posters and individual original Split Spades cards from back in the day). problem is, the green and red would be signed. The silver (it was silver, wasn't it?) that would complete the set wouldn't be signed, so it would be kind of a mismatch. I'd rather put the $100 towards a plain deck (or decks (I can dream)) so that I would have a complete, albeit unsigned, set.

I just don't believe that the addition of the autographs is going to carry the value of the collector's set. The green decks are sold out, but fairly common so the only true value in that 2 deck set is the red deck. I know that some collectors would love it to be signed, but I would buy an unsigned deck over a signed one.

The set you speak of does not have the GREEN deck in it. The set consists of the RED & BLACK decks.

The signed deck set are as good as used decks to me. I wish the industry would all get on the same page with customer and collector demand (as in supply & demand). Signatures are nice but many signatures devalue or deface items. Unless we are talking about a dead person, art or sports equipment (balls, helmets, jerseys), that's usually the case. In the case of David's variety brick sets, the signed certificate and box are all good. Location location location!
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: BiggerDee on December 17, 2014, 12:30:26 PM
Black, not green. That's correct. Thanks for the correction/clarification.

I agree with you 100% about the signatures, that's exactly my point on the reds. While I don't buy to resell, I definitely want to have the highest value retained in an item and with decks, I believe that unsigned appeals to a far greater audience.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: mirciusx on December 17, 2014, 02:06:23 PM
Thanks Goodness that David Blaine is not dead. I don't care about decks value. I love this guy and that's all. And I love to have some decks at home and I have it, but no Gators. They are not home made, not wore by and not a personal thing from his bookshell.If will be, will be. If not, I would love to see a decks in my hands. I am not very happy because I didn't get Red or Green decks, but I can live without them, even I am a little collector.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on December 17, 2014, 02:44:49 PM
Personally, I could give a rat's tuchass about signatures - I just want the bloody cards!  But I learned with the purple White Lions that I would not own every deck David Blaine ever made - at least not while I'm livin' la vida de la clase media!


Well yes, Connecticut rent is cheaper then New York, but that does not mean his warehouse is substantial size. I've never been to his warehouse, have you? We can google it and see what its square footage is by satellite image. There is value in storage space? Especially if older excess product is sitting around and not moving very fast out the door.

Off topic: There was a time (about 2 year ago) when I was heavily playing poker at Foxwoods CT on my way home and I was driving along side a man on his motorcycle that looked exactly like David Blaine. I could not help but notice how safely he was driving. We were in traffic and most people I know would be cutting in and out of traffic with that type of motorcycle. This guy patiently waited in line with everyone else in traffic.

Actually, I have - the old one, which was the bottom floor of his office space.  Who said anything about "substantial size?"  X square feet in New York City will generally cost more than X amount of square feet in much of Connecticut - though not all.

I have about 1,800 decks of cards, plus the donated decks I'm holding for the kids in the hospital.  I know that a thousand decks doesn't take up a huge amount of space.  In my apartment, stacked just short of chest high, my whole collection takes up less square footage than a twin bed.  I would imagine that David's entire inventory would fit into a 10-by-10-feet storage locker if you packed it in there tight.  A one-bedroom apartment would provide ample storage space and work space to suffice as a "warehouse" with benefits - and the neighbors would love how quiet you are at night!

It's not likely, but it's also not impossible that the biker you saw that day was Blaine.  I guess it might depend on proximity between Foxwoods and his warehouse.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on December 17, 2014, 03:33:45 PM
Personally, I could give a rat's tuchass about signatures - I just want the bloody cards!  But I learned with the purple White Lions that I would not own every deck David Blaine ever made - at least not while I'm livin' la vida de la clase media!


Well yes, Connecticut rent is cheaper then New York, but that does not mean his warehouse is substantial size. I've never been to his warehouse, have you? We can google it and see what its square footage is by satellite image. There is value in storage space? Especially if older excess product is sitting around and not moving very fast out the door.

Off topic: There was a time (about 2 year ago) when I was heavily playing poker at Foxwoods CT on my way home and I was driving along side a man on his motorcycle that looked exactly like David Blaine. I could not help but notice how safely he was driving. We were in traffic and most people I know would be cutting in and out of traffic with that type of motorcycle. This guy patiently waited in line with everyone else in traffic.

Actually, I have - the old one, which was the bottom floor of his office space.  Who said anything about "substantial size?"  X square feet in New York City will generally cost more than X amount of square feet in much of Connecticut - though not all.

I have about 1,800 decks of cards, plus the donated decks I'm holding for the kids in the hospital.  I know that a thousand decks doesn't take up a huge amount of space.  In my apartment, stacked just short of chest high, my whole collection takes up less square footage than a twin bed.  I would imagine that David's entire inventory would fit into a 10-by-10-feet storage locker if you packed it in there tight.  A one-bedroom apartment would provide ample storage space and work space to suffice as a "warehouse" with benefits - and the neighbors would love how quiet you are at night!

It's not likely, but it's also not impossible that the biker you saw that day was Blaine.  I guess it might depend on proximity between Foxwoods and his warehouse.

Your most likely right. The I-95 from Connecticut to New York is common though. I remember knowing his warehouse was in Connecticut at the time. I could not help but think maybe. I'm not one to shout out or disturb people unless I know them personally. No matter who they are. No real way of knowing.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: PurpleIce on December 18, 2014, 04:13:52 AM
Black, not green. That's correct. Thanks for the correction/clarification.

I agree with you 100% about the signatures, that's exactly my point on the reds. While I don't buy to resell, I definitely want to have the highest value retained in an item and with decks, I believe that unsigned appeals to a far greater audience.

I actually think it depends on who is signing the decks. DB's signature might add value to his decks considering who he is (Though still not to $100 in my opinion.) It definitely beats all new designers who without any reputation, prominence or influence of any sort who wants to charge extra for a signed deck. I'm sure they might turn out to be someone great, but you can charge extra for you autograph...later.

Another point to note is how hard it is to obtain that signature. If DB, as the magician he is, walks along the street, or is performing his magic somewhere, and you bring a deck (never before released as a signed deck) up to him to sign, sure, that definitely worth some sh*t. But if he is going to sign on 150 sets and just sell it off, i'm guessing it will not end up anywhere nearly as valuable. In fact, by doing this, if i went to a performance by DB and asked him sign the ticket stub or a DB T-shirt or something, it might end up worthing more than signing on a Red Gatorback, simply because, he has already done it 150 times before.

Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on December 18, 2014, 06:51:41 AM
Black, not green. That's correct. Thanks for the correction/clarification.

I agree with you 100% about the signatures, that's exactly my point on the reds. While I don't buy to resell, I definitely want to have the highest value retained in an item and with decks, I believe that unsigned appeals to a far greater audience.

I actually think it depends on who is signing the decks. DB's signature might add value to his decks considering who he is (Though still not to $100 in my opinion.) It definitely beats all new designers who without any reputation, prominence or influence of any sort who wants to charge extra for a signed deck. I'm sure they might turn out to be someone great, but you can charge extra for you autograph...later.

Another point to note is how hard it is to obtain that signature. If DB, as the magician he is, walks along the street, or is performing his magic somewhere, and you bring a deck (never before released as a signed deck) up to him to sign, sure, that definitely worth some sh*t. But if he is going to sign on 150 sets and just sell it off, i'm guessing it will not end up anywhere nearly as valuable. In fact, by doing this, if i went to a performance by DB and asked him sign the ticket stub or a DB T-shirt or something, it might end up worthing more than signing on a Red Gatorback, simply because, he has already done it 150 times before.

It has to do with location, quality and condition of the item being signed. It's no longer a new item once that cellophane is taken off. Deck producers can say its new, but we are the ones buying the item and we set the true value of the item by what we are willing to pay for it. 150 times before is not very much. People would pay $100 for it had it been done correctly. If David simply signed the box and a certificate w/ 2 brand new unopened red decks, they would be sold out for $100 already. There is no debate, its fact. It's a collectors market. We know what we want when it comes to signature items. It's not a matter of opinion. The proof is in the sales. Still available. I'll take a free David Blaine autograph all day. If David wants us to pay for his signature, do it right.

The only reason the White Lions Collectors Brick never sold out, was because at that point the White Lions Series_B were not in high demand. Most of us bought them individually when first released.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: BiggerDee on December 18, 2014, 09:57:02 AM
CP, I agree, you're spot on. Maybe his angle was to appeal to card collectors by selling the red decks normally, and appealing to DB general fans by offering the signed decks. I also would have bought the set had the box been signed and the cards left alone. A custom seal on the box and decks with matching numbers would have been fine too so that it couldn't be said that it was just a random signed box with two decks thrown in to create a "Limited edition" set.


A few years back, I bought a set of his posters, all autographed. They were $10 more each than the un-autographed ones. When I bought the original black Split Spades, back when he was at his peak of performances (During the Frozen in Time era), and you could get an autographed playing card added to your order for an extra $10. Although I don't perform, I do a lot of research into magic and like knowing how to do all of the street magic type of tricks just for fun. There's not a lot that I can't easily figure out. That said, DB is my favorite performer because of his showmanship, audience control, and how he performs the tricks. That's where his talent is, and I appreciate him for that. I have his performance posters hanging in my office, as well as at home, as well as autographed items. His fame is still great, but he has passed the peak of the greatest hype for his career to this point. If his autograph was worth an extra $10 way back when, I can't see it being worth more now, especially with that many more autographed items available for purchase.

I also note that he stated that only 1,000 decks would be SOLD (my emphasis) on the site. Sure, he could use some for personal performances, but he most likely still has many past decks that could be used as well. Maybe there will eventually be items on the website where a red deck will be included "free" with purchase of something else.

I don't see it making a lot of business sense to (Let's assume the numbers are as such) produce 2,500 decks, keep 1,500, and sell the other 1,000 when you could have easily produced 5,000 and sold 3,500. That's a lot of extra income even if you only factor in $5/deck profit (It's most likely a lot more). Who doesn't want to make more money? At the very least, donate the extra earnings to charity.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: DarkDerp on December 18, 2014, 10:32:02 AM
Black, not green. That's correct. Thanks for the correction/clarification.

I agree with you 100% about the signatures, that's exactly my point on the reds. While I don't buy to resell, I definitely want to have the highest value retained in an item and with decks, I believe that unsigned appeals to a far greater audience.

I actually think it depends on who is signing the decks. DB's signature might add value to his decks considering who he is (Though still not to $100 in my opinion.) It definitely beats all new designers who without any reputation, prominence or influence of any sort who wants to charge extra for a signed deck. I'm sure they might turn out to be someone great, but you can charge extra for you autograph...later.

Another point to note is how hard it is to obtain that signature. If DB, as the magician he is, walks along the street, or is performing his magic somewhere, and you bring a deck (never before released as a signed deck) up to him to sign, sure, that definitely worth some sh*t. But if he is going to sign on 150 sets and just sell it off, i'm guessing it will not end up anywhere nearly as valuable. In fact, by doing this, if i went to a performance by DB and asked him sign the ticket stub or a DB T-shirt or something, it might end up worthing more than signing on a Red Gatorback, simply because, he has already done it 150 times before.

It has to do with location, quality and condition of the item being signed. It's no longer a new item once that cellophane is taken off. Deck producers can say its new, but we are the ones buying the item and we set the true value of the item by what we are willing to pay for it. 150 times before is not very much. People would pay $100 for it had it been done correctly. If David simply signed the box and a certificate w/ 2 brand new unopened red decks, they would be sold out for $100 already. There is no debate, its fact. It's a collectors market. We know what we want when it comes to signature items. It's not a matter of opinion. The proof is in the sales. Still available. I'll take a free David Blaine autograph all day. If David wants us to pay for his signature, do it right.

The only reason the White Lions Collectors Brick never sold out, was because at that point the White Lions Series_B were not in high demand. Most of us bought them individually when first released.

Wow. Really good insight into the collectors mind. Never thought about how the manner in which a deck was signed would alter its worth/desirability.  Cool stuff.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Marcus on December 19, 2014, 09:16:10 AM
CP, I agree, you're spot on. Maybe his angle was to appeal to card collectors by selling the red decks normally, and appealing to DB general fans by offering the signed decks. I also would have bought the set had the box been signed and the cards left alone. A custom seal on the box and decks with matching numbers would have been fine too so that it couldn't be said that it was just a random signed box with two decks thrown in to create a "Limited edition" set.


A few years back, I bought a set of his posters, all autographed. They were $10 more each than the un-autographed ones. When I bought the original black Split Spades, back when he was at his peak of performances (During the Frozen in Time era), and you could get an autographed playing card added to your order for an extra $10. Although I don't perform, I do a lot of research into magic and like knowing how to do all of the street magic type of tricks just for fun. There's not a lot that I can't easily figure out. That said, DB is my favorite performer because of his showmanship, audience control, and how he performs the tricks. That's where his talent is, and I appreciate him for that. I have his performance posters hanging in my office, as well as at home, as well as autographed items. His fame is still great, but he has passed the peak of the greatest hype for his career to this point. If his autograph was worth an extra $10 way back when, I can't see it being worth more now, especially with that many more autographed items available for purchase.

I also note that he stated that only 1,000 decks would be SOLD (my emphasis) on the site. Sure, he could use some for personal performances, but he most likely still has many past decks that could be used as well. Maybe there will eventually be items on the website where a red deck will be included "free" with purchase of something else.

I don't see it making a lot of business sense to (Let's assume the numbers are as such) produce 2,500 decks, keep 1,500, and sell the other 1,000 when you could have easily produced 5,000 and sold 3,500. That's a lot of extra income even if you only factor in $5/deck profit (It's most likely a lot more). Who doesn't want to make more money? At the very least, donate the extra earnings to charity.

My guess is that it's closer to a 5k run. 1k sold, 4k for himself and people close to him. I know he's gone through a 4k run on his own before, so I wouldn't be surprised to see that be the case here as well. Besides, imagine he uses at least one deck per show, gives away a bunch to clients, friends and family, his consultants get a bunch (a few bricks) etc. Add to that the fact that Blaine is a sleight of hand aficionado and most likely goes through a lot of decks every month, 4k isn't that many to begin with.

I highly doubt we'll see any more red gatorbacks released by him except for perhaps a handful in some kind of variety box.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on December 19, 2014, 09:42:50 AM
I personally think the jury is still out in regard to autographs.  I can understand it decreases the value of certain things, especially when not in the more favorable location on the object being signed, but certain things are increased in value with the addition of the right signature.  Magic props and the like are often sold at a premium with the artist's signature attached.

And I agree with Marcus - while I can't presume to know the size of the print run, a guy like David will go through a lot of decks in the course of doing business.  If I had to guess, he probably uses - and gives away - maybe three or four bricks a week.  When I visited his office, there were decks all over the place in an assortment of brands, including his own, of course.  The print run could be 2.5k or it could be 10k or more.

Believe it or not, I'd even theorize that by now, he's already blown through most of his personal stash for work, holding a small reserve, and that he's already moved to a NEW Stutzman design!  In time, he'll make those available, but only after he's moved on to another design, and so on...  :))
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: DarkDerp on December 19, 2014, 10:13:28 AM
I would think a John Hancock slapped on a bunch of the same doodads would do about nada in the long run. Without coming  from a legendary show or another interesting  "origin story" it really doesn't feel so collectable.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on December 19, 2014, 11:45:27 AM
I personally think the jury is still out in regard to autographs.  I can understand it decreases the value of certain things, especially when not in the more favorable location on the object being signed, but certain things are increased in value with the addition of the right signature.  Magic props and the like are often sold at a premium with the artist's signature attached.

And I agree with Marcus - while I can't presume to know the size of the print run, a guy like David will go through a lot of decks in the course of doing business.  If I had to guess, he probably uses - and gives away - maybe three or four bricks a week.  When I visited his office, there were decks all over the place in an assortment of brands, including his own, of course.  The print run could be 2.5k or it could be 10k or more.

Believe it or not, I'd even theorize that by now, he's already blown through most of his personal stash for work, holding a small reserve, and that he's already moved to a NEW Stutzman design!  In time, he'll make those available, but only after he's moved on to another design, and so on...  :))

It depends on the magic prop. A deck used by David in his real or magic show(s) signed would have increased value. A new deck that simply had the cellophane taken off and then signed would decrease the value. The cage helmet from electrified on its own has high value. If David was to sign the visor of the electrified cage helmet, that would deface the object and decrease the value. I agree 100% the origin story plays a role in value of an item but some items are worth more on their own without the signature. It's hard to explain in words, as a collector you just know. There should be books or documentation online that can better explain it.

The problem is, autographs are difficult to authenticate. When it comes to big ticket items many are not willing to take a chance with an item that is simply signed. Difficulty selling that item brings value down. A signed deck years from now is hard to prove. The new deck on its own is easier to sell and that adds more value.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: DJT on December 19, 2014, 01:27:13 PM
Santa came early   ;)

Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on December 19, 2014, 02:09:25 PM
Santa came early   ;)

Magic Santa is Dead. Prove me wrong.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: bamabenz on December 19, 2014, 02:31:03 PM
Congrats!
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: DJT on December 19, 2014, 05:04:59 PM
There are a couple of ways to answer your question.

1st: Google tracks him https://santatracker.google.com/?hl=en#village (https://santatracker.google.com/?hl=en#village) you can even talk to him via some sort of IM https://santatracker.google.com/?hl=en#callfromsanta (https://santatracker.google.com/?hl=en#callfromsanta)

2nd: NORAD tracks Santa (great use of tax dollars if you ask me) http://www.noradsanta.org/ (http://www.noradsanta.org/)

or maybe he is dead, could he survive the trip?  http://www.positiveatheism.org/writ/santa.htm (http://www.positiveatheism.org/writ/santa.htm)

Either way I got my Red Gatorbacks  8)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on December 19, 2014, 06:11:44 PM
There are a couple of ways to answer your question.

1st: Google tracks him https://santatracker.google.com/?hl=en#village (https://santatracker.google.com/?hl=en#village) you can even talk to him via some sort of IM https://santatracker.google.com/?hl=en#callfromsanta (https://santatracker.google.com/?hl=en#callfromsanta)

2nd: NORAD tracks Santa (great use of tax dollars if you ask me) http://www.noradsanta.org/ (http://www.noradsanta.org/)

or maybe he is dead, could he survive the trip?  http://www.positiveatheism.org/writ/santa.htm (http://www.positiveatheism.org/writ/santa.htm)

Either way I got my Red Gatorbacks  8)

Lol Are you a Daniel Madison fan ("The King of Diamonds" on your new Red Gatorbacks)? "Magic is Dead - Prove me wrong" is one of his lines. I'm sincerely happy for you. I was just being humorous. I'm almost sure you knew that already! :))
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on December 19, 2014, 08:41:01 PM
Santa came early   ;)


Sooooooo

Are you selling some of those decks??
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on December 20, 2014, 07:58:10 PM
I personally think the jury is still out in regard to autographs.  I can understand it decreases the value of certain things, especially when not in the more favorable location on the object being signed, but certain things are increased in value with the addition of the right signature.  Magic props and the like are often sold at a premium with the artist's signature attached.

And I agree with Marcus - while I can't presume to know the size of the print run, a guy like David will go through a lot of decks in the course of doing business.  If I had to guess, he probably uses - and gives away - maybe three or four bricks a week.  When I visited his office, there were decks all over the place in an assortment of brands, including his own, of course.  The print run could be 2.5k or it could be 10k or more.

Believe it or not, I'd even theorize that by now, he's already blown through most of his personal stash for work, holding a small reserve, and that he's already moved to a NEW Stutzman design!  In time, he'll make those available, but only after he's moved on to another design, and so on...  :))

It depends on the magic prop. A deck used by David in his real or magic show(s) signed would have increased value. A new deck that simply had the cellophane taken off and then signed would decrease the value. The cage helmet from electrified on its own has high value. If David was to sign the visor of the electrified cage helmet, that would deface the object and decrease the value. I agree 100% the origin story plays a roll in value of an item but some items are worth more on their own without the signature. It's hard to explain in words, as a collector you just know. There should be books or documentation online that can better explain it.

The problem is, autographs are difficult to authenticate. When it comes to big ticket items many are not willing to take a chance with an item that is simply signed. Difficulty selling that item brings value down. A signed deck years from now is hard to prove. The new deck on its own is easier to sell and that adds more value.

We'll have to agree to disagree on that.  Personally, I'd think Blaine's autograph on a tool of the trade would be a more valuable item than one left unsigned.  Blaine's signature would be easy enough to verify because there's so many samples of it, complete with certificates of authenticity.

I will add the caveat that for many collectors of autographs (not necessarily card or magic collectors), a personalized autograph is considered less valuable, unless it's personalized to someone equally as famous in their own right.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on December 20, 2014, 09:10:02 PM
I personally think the jury is still out in regard to autographs.  I can understand it decreases the value of certain things, especially when not in the more favorable location on the object being signed, but certain things are increased in value with the addition of the right signature.  Magic props and the like are often sold at a premium with the artist's signature attached.

And I agree with Marcus - while I can't presume to know the size of the print run, a guy like David will go through a lot of decks in the course of doing business.  If I had to guess, he probably uses - and gives away - maybe three or four bricks a week.  When I visited his office, there were decks all over the place in an assortment of brands, including his own, of course.  The print run could be 2.5k or it could be 10k or more.

Believe it or not, I'd even theorize that by now, he's already blown through most of his personal stash for work, holding a small reserve, and that he's already moved to a NEW Stutzman design!  In time, he'll make those available, but only after he's moved on to another design, and so on...  :))

It depends on the magic prop. A deck used by David in his real or magic show(s) signed would have increased value. A new deck that simply had the cellophane taken off and then signed would decrease the value. The cage helmet from electrified on its own has high value. If David was to sign the visor of the electrified cage helmet, that would deface the object and decrease the value. I agree 100% the origin story plays a roll in value of an item but some items are worth more on their own without the signature. It's hard to explain in words, as a collector you just know. There should be books or documentation online that can better explain it.

The problem is, autographs are difficult to authenticate. When it comes to big ticket items many are not willing to take a chance with an item that is simply signed. Difficulty selling that item brings value down. A signed deck years from now is hard to prove. The new deck on its own is easier to sell and that adds more value.

We'll have to agree to disagree on that.  Personally, I'd think Blaine's autograph on a tool of the trade would be a more valuable item than one left unsigned.  Blaine's signature would be easy enough to verify because there's so many samples of it, complete with certificates of authenticity.

I will add the caveat that for many collectors of autographs (not necessarily card or magic collectors), a personalized autograph is considered less valuable, unless it's personalized to someone equally as famous in their own right.

OK. Fair enough.

Personally speaking, If the Electrified Cage Helmet was auctioned today (as is) with sign certificate, I would pay $12,000 - $18,000 for it. If David signed the helmet, I would not pay more then $8,000. I'm sure someone would be willing to pay more. If you want to maximize potential profit, there are just some things you don't autograph.

I agree with you about a personalized signature. That will lower value as opposed to a standard signature.

*You mentioned before about David going through potentially many decks for use. I was wondering, does David give "all" the decks away to spectators? I thought it would be a cool thing to see David sign his used decks from performances and sell those, instead of taking the cellophane off new decks and signing them. 80% of the proceeds from selling a signed used deck could go to a local charity. The other 20% would cover the cost of the deck.

Before you tell me I should email them. David Blaine Productions does not answer all emails. I've only initiated an email twice ever.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on December 20, 2014, 10:02:25 PM

Before you tell me I should email them. David Blaine Productions does not answer all emails. I've only initiated an email twice ever.

Hey, I emailed them.  It ended up with me meeting David at his office downtown!  The worst that could happen is they never reply - no harm, no foul.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on December 20, 2014, 10:54:53 PM

Before you tell me I should email them. David Blaine Productions does not answer all emails. I've only initiated an email twice ever.

Hey, I emailed them.  It ended up with me meeting David at his office downtown!  The worst that could happen is they never reply - no harm, no foul.

Very true. :)

You also know Bill though. That can't be a coincidence that you ended up meeting David?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on December 21, 2014, 02:03:15 AM

Before you tell me I should email them. David Blaine Productions does not answer all emails. I've only initiated an email twice ever.

Hey, I emailed them.  It ended up with me meeting David at his office downtown!  The worst that could happen is they never reply - no harm, no foul.

Very true. :)

You also know Bill though. That can't be a coincidence that you ended up meeting David?

I met Bill through Lee Asher, AFTER I'd met David!
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: hecrob on December 23, 2014, 03:08:01 AM
Just to end the story about the red gators...

The cards are completely gone in Davids Site.

The $100 signed deck sold out on Monday 22 /Tuesday 23.

Prices on ebay are going wild, so theres no hope right now if you didn't get 1.

Best course of action? resign. Or wait a couple of YEARS for the deck to stabilise... (Thats what i did with the white lions series A)

Anyway hope everybody got at least one...
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Fess on December 23, 2014, 08:36:31 AM
Just to end the story about the red gators...

The cards are completely gone in Davids Site.

The $100 signed deck sold out on Monday 22 /Tuesday 23.

Prices on ebay are going wild, so theres no hope right now if you didn't get 1.

Best course of action? resign. Or wait a couple of YEARS for the deck to stabilise... (Thats what i did with the white lions series A)

Anyway hope everybody got at least one...

I kind of resigned myself to knowing I wouldn't get my hands on these when I was unable to purchase from the DB store. Maybe in the future somehow, I'll get a deck in a trade or something but I won't be holding my breath. I have a feeling these will continue to command a price higher than I am willing to pay for some time to come. I'm thrilled for the fellas that were able to get a deck. A little jealous of them too haha. The fiasco that ensued in the aftermarket for the Green Gatorbacks though... Reds aren't going to be something I can see my wallet wanting to pursue with any vigor. I mean, I saw one of these decks sell on Ebay at damn near $400 US.
Quote
Ended:
Dec 21, 2014 , 2:44PM
Winning bid:
GBP 255.00
Approximately US $398.51
Some people call me crazy, but that's !%$^ing insane and I refuse to participate.

There's always something new. I'll go with whatever that is instead and be happy. :))
(Still can't believe I fell asleep at the desk fifteen minutes before these went on sale.)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on December 23, 2014, 11:29:37 AM
Just to end the story about the red gators...

The cards are completely gone in Davids Site.

The $100 signed deck sold out on Monday 22 /Tuesday 23.

Prices on ebay are going wild, so theres no hope right now if you didn't get 1.

Best course of action? resign. Or wait a couple of YEARS for the deck to stabilise... (Thats what i did with the white lions series A)

Anyway hope everybody got at least one...

I kind of resigned myself to knowing I wouldn't get my hands on these when I was unable to purchase from the DB store. Maybe in the future somehow, I'll get a deck in a trade or something but I won't be holding my breath. I have a feeling these will continue to command a price higher than I am willing to pay for some time to come. I'm thrilled for the fellas that were able to get a deck. A little jealous of them too haha. The fiasco that ensued in the aftermarket for the Green Gatorbacks though... Reds aren't going to be something I can see my wallet wanting to pursue with any vigor. I mean, I saw one of these decks sell on Ebay at damn near $400 US.
Quote
Ended:
Dec 21, 2014 , 2:44PM
Winning bid:
GBP 255.00
Approximately US $398.51
Some people call me crazy, but that's !%$^ing insane and I refuse to participate.

There's always something new. I'll go with whatever that is instead and be happy. :))
(Still can't believe I fell asleep at the desk fifteen minutes before these went on sale.)

I have not seen any of these go as high as $390.00. I will take your word for it. That is extremely high but then again so is the demand. I don't think we've seen anything like this before when you compare how many fans David Blaine has worldwide. Just look at how many follow him on social media. For those that think it's going to get better, you might be right. We are hitting the Christmas rush. However, White Centurions were released a few years ago and still get top dollar when offered on eBay.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Fess on December 23, 2014, 01:16:49 PM
Here's a picture of said !%$^ing insane lot that sold.

Link while it stays up is here (http://www.ebay.com/itm/David-Blaine-Red-Gator-Backs-Limited-Edition-Only-1000-Ever-Made-/221637860902?pt=UK_Toys_Games_Games&hash=item339aa55e26).
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on December 23, 2014, 01:59:12 PM
Here's a picture of said !%$^ing insane lot that sold.

Link while it stays up is here (http://www.ebay.com/itm/David-Blaine-Red-Gator-Backs-Limited-Edition-Only-1000-Ever-Made-/221637860902?pt=UK_Toys_Games_Games&hash=item339aa55e26).

It's not insane though. To some, $400.00 is like $20.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Will W. on December 23, 2014, 03:21:42 PM
Here's a picture of said !%$^ing insane lot that sold.

Link while it stays up is here (http://www.ebay.com/itm/David-Blaine-Red-Gator-Backs-Limited-Edition-Only-1000-Ever-Made-/221637860902?pt=UK_Toys_Games_Games&hash=item339aa55e26).

It's not insane though. To some, $400.00 is like $20.
Thats insane no matter how you slice it...  After all it is just a deck of cards... A new deck of cards at that. Only collectable by the assumption that it will someday be collectable.  Creating a market by limiting the market.  Its just a money grab. 
Would I like to have a deck? Sure... But I wont pay the price of a television for a deck of cards.  There are so many decks that are just as nice or nicer for reasonable prices.  I will never understand why someone would pay these prices no matter how much money you have to burn.   ???
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Card Player on December 23, 2014, 05:12:33 PM
Here's a picture of said !%$^ing insane lot that sold.

Link while it stays up is here (http://www.ebay.com/itm/David-Blaine-Red-Gator-Backs-Limited-Edition-Only-1000-Ever-Made-/221637860902?pt=UK_Toys_Games_Games&hash=item339aa55e26).

It's not insane though. To some, $400.00 is like $20.
Thats insane no matter how you slice it...  After all it is just a deck of cards... A new deck of cards at that. Only collectable by the assumption that it will someday be collectable.  Creating a market by limiting the market.  Its just a money grab. 
Would I like to have a deck? Sure... But I wont pay the price of a television for a deck of cards.  There are so many decks that are just as nice or nicer for reasonable prices.  I will never understand why someone would pay these prices no matter how much money you have to burn.   ???

How many ways can you slice it? That's a matter of perspective. You can't know what you don't know.  Millionaire's like collecting things also. They don't just stop being human and stop collecting something because they have more money. If that many people are willing to pay for it, are they all insane? Or maybe they've never been told no to something they really want. Why should those people have to wait for the price to go down. Money is not an issue.

Could DB have made/sold more? yes. Could DB have limited how many per order? yes. But whose money grab is it? DB made very little by selling under 1000 for $15 each. I agree, he should of done something to make sure his fans had the best opportunity to get one or two. He could have done a lot of things. I would have been perfectly fine buying a brick of cards I owned already to get 1 Red Gatorback. I'd still be getting value in that case.

It is what it is. Make the best of it. A reseller will always be willing to take a little less to make sure they're getting paid first instead of a competitor.  With these markups on eBay, I'm sure you will find one or two on the internet.

Anyway... I'm getting tired of reading myself. I just end up repeating what I wrote a few days ago. I apologize if I don't reply. Happy Holidays everyone. Read you all in 2015!
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Fess on December 23, 2014, 07:43:19 PM
It's not insane though. To some, $400.00 is like $20.

Haha, that's true. I'm not one of those "some" so to me, it's "!%$^ing insane" haha. If I was one of those "some" I wonder if I would shell out that much for a 1,000 to the public deck. Probably not. Either way, I can't speak for anyone but myself and I think it's great for the guy that made the sale. Happy Christmas to him, I hope he sells another for that much. It's well out of my range.

Happy Holidays to you as well. :)

Would I like to have a deck? Sure... But I wont pay the price of a television for a deck of cards.  There are so many decks that are just as nice or nicer for reasonable prices.  I will never understand why someone would pay these prices no matter how much money you have to burn.   ???

I won't pay that price for a modern deck of cards that have 1,000 released to the public for sure haha. My cap for one deck of cards tends to come in at $70. That's for something very special though, with a much lower availability than 1,000. Maybe I'm just not that much of a collector, I don't know. I feel like there's just so much coming out I don't need to pay more than that for a deck, even a special one. There's going to be something new and exciting literally tomorrow haha. The aftermarket is the aftermarket though, it's going to be pretty nuts when something is in high demand. Tis the season to give in to wants and I don't begrudge anyone their reasoning for shelling out for their hearts desire. Still, like you I have a very difficult time understanding why anyone would pay that kind of a price for a deck that's only just been released.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: DarkDerp on December 23, 2014, 08:24:57 PM
There is a marketing tactic on eBay where empty accounts will post, bid and complete a auction at a ridiculous price to drive the price and and attention to a product. It happened with the Dan and Dave private reserve cards. The absurd sale happens waaaay early and usually before most that actually ordered the product 1st party even received their shipment.  If you look at the accounts and history  of these guys it becomes even more obvious that this was fake.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Anthony on December 23, 2014, 09:24:07 PM
There is a marketing tactic on eBay where empty accounts will post, bid and complete a auction at a ridiculous price to drive the price and and attention to a product. It happened with the Dan and Dave private reserve cards. The absurd sale happens waaaay early and usually before most that actually ordered the product 1st party even received their shipment.  If you look at the accounts and history  of these guys it becomes even more obvious that this was fake.

You beat me to it, a seller with a 4 user rating, 2 bidders, the winning bidder with a 0 seller rating......anyone else want to chime in and call BullS**t   ;)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Fess on December 24, 2014, 12:50:10 AM
There is a marketing tactic on eBay where empty accounts will post, bid and complete a auction at a ridiculous price to drive the price and and attention to a product. It happened with the Dan and Dave private reserve cards. The absurd sale happens waaaay early and usually before most that actually ordered the product 1st party even received their shipment.  If you look at the accounts and history  of these guys it becomes even more obvious that this was fake.

You beat me to it, a seller with a 4 user rating, 2 bidders, the winning bidder with a 0 seller rating......anyone else want to chime in and call BullS**t   ;)

Haha, that's fun. I had no idea ebay did that kind of thing. I've been on a self imposed ban from ebay for years and have no plans on breaking said ban any time soon. This just adds another feather in the no thanks cap. I'm sure ebay is wonderful for some folks, don't get me wrong I'm not saying it's not. It's just not for me, I have an excitable and obsessive personality when it comes to some playing cards and certain impulse buys. Combine those lovely character defects with my competitive nature, it's a mix for being broke in a hurry when it comes to auctions haha. I found that by go ogling "ebay red gatorbacks" was the first one to come up. Scared the hell out of me enough to close the browser.

It's good to know these cats do that kinda thing. Next time my idle curiousity kicks up, I'll click the mental "don't give a damn." button and move on happily with my life haha.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Rob Wright on December 24, 2014, 12:58:24 AM
I've seen insane prices for these and other decks. I don't hold anything against these people. It's called supply and demand. If someone is stupid enough to pay an insane price for one of these. Then the seller deserves every dollar they get.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on December 24, 2014, 03:40:31 AM

I found that by go ogling "ebay red gatorbacks" was the first one to come up.

I like to go ogle, too, but usually it's not playing cards!!  :))  Is that a spellcheck error or are you just happy to see me?  I swear, spellcheckers, designed to make life easier by fixing our mistakes, only seem to make even more spectacular mistakes instead!

Yes, shill bidding is a plague on eBay.  Seller A puts up an item, Buyer B bids outrageously high for it and wins, but there's one small problem - A and B are the same person!  Now A can come back with a not-quite-as-high-but-high-enough "Buy It Now" price, using his own inflated example as "proof" of the item's value.

I know of one fellow who made literally dozens of different Bicycle decks who is suspected of trying the same tactic for a while, and I think he did rope in a few suckers with it.  It's only a matter of time before reality sets in.  Red Gatorbacks will never be a cheap deck again, not until the entire hobby collapses under its own weight and decks fetch pennies on the dollar (it's an "if or when" thing), but they certainly won't sell that high again - and one could argue that they never actually did in the first place!
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: bamabenz on December 25, 2014, 10:39:13 AM
I missed-out on the Red Gatorbacks, but did play some hold'em with family and friends last night with green and black decks. Nice cards to spread and deal. I won, but unfortunately we weren't playing for money, the prize was the decks themselves.

/bama
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: mirciusx on January 01, 2015, 11:57:56 AM
390$ starting point. People are crazy =)))))

http://www.ebay.com/itm/David-Blaine-Red-Gator-Backs-Limited-Edition-Only-1000-Ever-Made-/221637860902?pt=UK_Toys_Games_Games&hash=item339aa55e26

Here's a picture of said !%$^ing insane lot that sold.

Link while it stays up is here (http://www.ebay.com/itm/David-Blaine-Red-Gator-Backs-Limited-Edition-Only-1000-Ever-Made-/221637860902?pt=UK_Toys_Games_Games&hash=item339aa55e26).

It was the first one sold on ebay :)
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: bamabenz on January 07, 2015, 05:49:05 PM
Yeah, $390 IS crazy, and probably not real.
The going price seems to be around $60 for Red's.
That's not too far-off what some hard-to-find year-old Kickstarter decks go for on eBay.
 
I got interested in his previous decks and bought a mixed brick of the original Tally-Ho split spades from somebody in France for $250.
Just got them delivered and they are pretty cool, interesting to see how the back design has evolved over what -- 8 years?
Not metallic, but that's OK.

/bama
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on January 10, 2015, 12:04:28 AM
Yeah, $390 IS crazy, and probably not real.
The going price seems to be around $60 for Red's.
That's not too far-off what some hard-to-find year-old Kickstarter decks go for on eBay.
 
I got interested in his previous decks and bought a mixed brick of the original Tally-Ho split spades from somebody in France for $250.
Just got them delivered and they are pretty cool, interesting to see how the back design has evolved over what -- 8 years?
Not metallic, but that's OK.

/bama

The Tally Ho Blaine decks tend to get sticky over time.

If you look closely enough, there's a very subtle one-way mark on the Tally Ho and Bee Blaine decks.  When they altered the back to the "Split Spades Lion" design, they removed the hidden mark.  I suspect it might have been there accidentally, but regardless, it's there.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: DarkDerp on January 10, 2015, 04:17:53 AM
Quote
The Tally Ho Blaine decks tend to get sticky over time.

Is that code for something?
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on January 10, 2015, 06:14:02 AM
Quote
The Tally Ho Blaine decks tend to get sticky over time.

Is that code for something?

Yeah, it means "DarkDerp spend too much time with his mind in the gutter..."

They were made around the time USPC transitioned from Cincinnati to Erlanger.  Many decks of that period had issues.  Initially I though it was a shakedown period of the printing press, but I recently learned that it's something more.  The Federal Goverment passed regulations forcing playing card manufacturers to use all-recycled paper, vegetable-based inks and starch-based coatings.  OK, maybe not those combinations specifically, but they were forced to stop using 100% unrecycled stock, oil-based inks and plastic-based coatings and had to switch to something less toxic and more renewable.  They were forced to do some much-needed R&D work to find the right replacement supplies and still make a viable playing card.  I'm guessing that Magic Finish is one result of that R&D work.

So in general, custom decks from '09 and early '10 were the "lab rats" USPC used to try and make these supplies work while devising improvements.  Some noticed a loss in quality on Rider Backs - again, this is a possible culprit, and the fact that they were having trouble with the normal stock in use at the time (325 g/m2) on the new presses in Kentucky and stepped down to a slightly lighter stock (300 g/m2).  Sure there are differences, but I consider the current-issue Bicycles to be at least decent in quality - not godsawful, but not their finest work, either.

More to the point, the Blaine Tally-Ho decks were made, I think, during that changeover away from chemical inks and coatings.  Back then, you could get a pack to work well for you for a short while, but within a week or two of moderate use, the deck was shot because the cards had developed a much-higher friction co-efficient.  The starch coatings became tacky and glue-like, as starch does in foods when not cooked just right.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: bamabenz on January 10, 2015, 07:38:31 AM
They were made around the time USPC transitioned from Cincinnati to Erlanger.  Many decks of that period had issues.  Initially I though it was a shakedown period of the printing press, but I recently learned that it's something more.  The Federal Goverment passed regulations forcing playing card manufacturers to use all-recycled paper, vegetable-based inks and starch-based coatings.  OK, maybe not those combinations specifically, but they were forced to stop using 100% unrecycled stock, oil-based inks and plastic-based coatings and had to switch to something less toxic and more renewable.  They were forced to do some much-needed R&D work to find the right replacement supplies and still make a viable playing card.  I'm guessing that Magic Finish is one result of that R&D work.

So in general, custom decks from '09 and early '10 were the "lab rats" USPC used to try and make these supplies work while devising improvements.  Some noticed a loss in quality on Rider Backs - again, this is a possible culprit, and the fact that they were having trouble with the normal stock in use at the time (325 g/m2) on the new presses in Kentucky and stepped down to a slightly lighter stock (300 g/m2).  Sure there are differences, but I consider the current-issue Bicycles to be at least decent in quality - not godsawful, but not their finest work, either.

More to the point, the Blaine Tally-Ho decks were made, I think, during that changeover away from chemical inks and coatings.  Back then, you could get a pack to work well for you for a short while, but within a week or two of moderate use, the deck was shot because the cards had developed a much-higher friction co-efficient.  The starch coatings became tacky and glue-like, as starch does in foods when not cooked just right.
I think these predate that period of time, from http://playingcards.wikidot.com/split-spades:original (http://playingcards.wikidot.com/split-spades:original):

These are the original David Blaine playing cards, first commissioned by David Blaine and released to the market in 2005. The cards have Tally Ho’s classic linoid finish and are used by David Blaine and other sleight of hand artists.

I haven't played with them enough to check.

Here's a pic from the wiki:
(http://playingcards.wikidot.com/local--files/split-spades:original/SplitSpadesC.jpg)

/bama
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on January 10, 2015, 08:49:17 AM
They were made around the time USPC transitioned from Cincinnati to Erlanger.  Many decks of that period had issues.  Initially I though it was a shakedown period of the printing press, but I recently learned that it's something more.  The Federal Goverment passed regulations forcing playing card manufacturers to use all-recycled paper, vegetable-based inks and starch-based coatings.  OK, maybe not those combinations specifically, but they were forced to stop using 100% unrecycled stock, oil-based inks and plastic-based coatings and had to switch to something less toxic and more renewable.  They were forced to do some much-needed R&D work to find the right replacement supplies and still make a viable playing card.  I'm guessing that Magic Finish is one result of that R&D work.

So in general, custom decks from '09 and early '10 were the "lab rats" USPC used to try and make these supplies work while devising improvements.  Some noticed a loss in quality on Rider Backs - again, this is a possible culprit, and the fact that they were having trouble with the normal stock in use at the time (325 g/m2) on the new presses in Kentucky and stepped down to a slightly lighter stock (300 g/m2).  Sure there are differences, but I consider the current-issue Bicycles to be at least decent in quality - not godsawful, but not their finest work, either.

More to the point, the Blaine Tally-Ho decks were made, I think, during that changeover away from chemical inks and coatings.  Back then, you could get a pack to work well for you for a short while, but within a week or two of moderate use, the deck was shot because the cards had developed a much-higher friction co-efficient.  The starch coatings became tacky and glue-like, as starch does in foods when not cooked just right.
I think these predate that period of time, from http://playingcards.wikidot.com/split-spades:original (http://playingcards.wikidot.com/split-spades:original):

These are the original David Blaine playing cards, first commissioned by David Blaine and released to the market in 2005. The cards have Tally Ho’s classic linoid finish and are used by David Blaine and other sleight of hand artists.

I haven't played with them enough to check.

/bama

i believe you are correct.  In which case, perhaps the Tally Ho decks - or just mine and some others in particular - were a little off during the printing and paper coating.  Despite being part of the same print run, there can actually be differences from deck to deck within a run due to various mechanical and environmental factors.

FYI: the progenitor of this entire modern custom deck craze, the Bicycle Black Tiger, turns 11 this year.  It was initially created in a batch of 5,000 (we consider that common these days, but back then, it was rare - the smallest print run available), but those sold out in under four days.
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: crazyfandecks on June 04, 2015, 12:27:22 AM
sorry for bumped up this oldie, but i heard some rumors about Gatorback have been marked and "insane than White Lions B system", i dont know how to contact the official supporter of DB and i just bought them from retailer so i dont think he may reply me about the system code :P is there any VIP-customer of DB or professional marking system in our forum can help  :-\
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: HankMan on June 04, 2015, 12:51:49 AM
are you sure about this?
I don't think that the gatorbacks is marked and be better than white lions series B.

Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: HolyJJ on June 04, 2015, 04:45:34 AM
That's an interesting rumour... and honestly, I wouldn't rule out the possibility of there being truth to that rumour -- after all, it's a David Blaine and Mark Stutzman collaboration, and so anything is possible.

I'll take it for granted that if they are marked, the deck will be one of the ultra-rare few that legitimately pass the riffle test... because if they don't, then there'd be nothing remotely "insane" about the marking system.

I'll admit, now I'm very curious brother...
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: HankMan on June 04, 2015, 05:59:16 AM
hmm interesting, it is true though David Blaine and Mark Stutzman may create something that people never realised.

Crazyfandecks, by any chance do you know if this apply to all gatorbacks or just 1 or 2 particular colors?

Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: HolyJJ on June 04, 2015, 08:01:02 AM
Hank, an educated guess would say that it applies to all, and if not, then it will apply at least to the black edition (which thankfully is the not-sold-out edition) because that is the deck that DB performs with.

Even with the White Lions, the black label deck was the one DB performed with.

I might get a deck just to check for myself if they are indeed marked. If they are, then rest assured that I will spot it brother! :D
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: HankMan on June 04, 2015, 08:40:56 AM
Hank, an educated guess would say that it applies to all, and if not, then it will apply at least to the black edition (which thankfully is the not-sold-out edition) because that is the deck that DB performs with.

Even with the White Lions, the black label deck was the one DB performed with.

I might get a deck just to check for myself if they are indeed marked. If they are, then rest assured that I will spot it brother! :D

I have been staring at the black deck and searching on the web for any other clue... man my eyes are tired..
if there really is a marked system on the deck, I'm not sure I can find it haha
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: crazyfandecks on June 04, 2015, 11:38:18 AM
well, this guy said it does, but never show any hint  :mindf-ck: now i'm using dealers and legends for tricks, white lions B is so hard to read the whole value so i passed. i have gators but too lazy to open and use it (opened over 70 decks and they still in good condition to play so...). i wonder if DB use the same "God eye" illusion like White lions B or "Riffle to stoke the flames of fire & What language do computers understand?" system like Legends or not, hmm, open or not open gators to check, that's the question to me  :P just hope someone who really close to DB could ask him about this rumor
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: Don Boyer on June 04, 2015, 05:23:49 PM
I looked.  If these are marked, the markings are so subtle as to be practically unusable.

I seriously doubt they're marked.  Not only would the markings have been discovered long before this, but the system would have been revealed online, exactly like what happened with the White Lions.  And all colors would have been marked - the same exact printing plate would have been used for all the colors.  All of his decks have monochrome backs, so using the same plate for making the other colors is more cost-efficient.  Remember, the purple White Lions decks exist only because he switched from blue ink to red (or vice versa - I don't know which color was first) in the middle of the print run for the two decks!
Title: Re: Gatorback Riders from David Blaine
Post by: HankMan on June 05, 2015, 07:41:51 AM
I have a feeling he was messing around with people about the marked Gatorbacks