In the play The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde, a character declares that “One must be serious about something if one wants to have any amusement in life.” Truly, what would life be without amusement? Without joviality and delight?
Having a hobby is a serious way to provide enjoyment, joy, and laughter in one’s life. Hobbies are pleasurable diversions from the realities of the world. Of the plethora of hobbies that one can choose from, building a collection of items has been a pastime for hobbyists for generations. While a variety of eccentric items are exceptionally valuable, others are just plain fun. Let’s take a closer look at a few unexpected things to collect as a hobby.
Rocks and Crystals
If you gathered whosits and whatsits galore in your youth, keep in mind that rock collecting is not solely for the kiddos anymore. You’re don’t have to be a professional geologist either. While many enjoy traveling to rock hunting destinations, you don’t have to travel far to find small-scale mystic rocks in your own backyard, neighborhood, or local park.
Crystals are a current sensation as well. Their striking beauty and methodic appearance have made them true objects of desire since ancient times. You can find a variety of healing crystals in shops, stores, local markets, and online. Rocks and crystals alike make excellent decoration pieces that enhance the beauty and energy of a room.
Obsolete Technology
Perhaps nostalgia is the driving force behind this collection, but retro gadgets are one of the most unexpected things to collect as a hobby. In our digital age of streamlined solutions and advanced technology, the underlying desire for old-school tech and innovation remains immensely genuine. Many hipsters have found a love of vinyl, but retro TVs, computers, typewriters, Sony Walkmans, classic iPods, Nintendo 64s, and Gameboys are all worthy memorabilia for aspiring collectors.
Vintage Fashion
The world of fashion is ever-evolving. For individuals with an eye for design, vintage fashion is a unique collector’s item that varies depending on your own tastes. While certain designer styles or decades have a more notable collector community, any individual can pick up the remnants of a vanished time period and begin their own hoard of stylistic keepsakes.
A majority of thrift or vintage clothing stores will contain clothing of the past for you to treasure. If accessories or jewelry are more your style, you’re sure to find reliable antique stores in your area or online.
Antique Decorative Objects
If you loathe the idea of a precious collection sitting boxed up in an attic or storage room, consider collecting smaller antique decorative items, such as unique bells, boxes, pottery, or glassware that are functional for use or décor.
For beginner antique collectors, keep in mind these tips when you’re new to the game. Distinctions in the age, rarity, and condition of an item tend to determine its value. Either way, your options of collectibles are limitless, depending on your aesthetic or interior design style.
