Collector guide

How to Photograph a Pachinko Machine

Create useful documentation for identification, sale, insurance and restoration.

Pachinko machines combine cabinet art, ball handling, mechanical linkages and, on later machines, model-specific electronics. A responsible purchase begins by deciding whether the goal is static display, reliable home play, historical preservation or hands-on restoration.

1. Full front

Full front should be evaluated in the context of the exact maker, model, cabinet generation, included equipment and intended use. Document the machine before cleaning or modification, separate verified operation from seller assumptions, and price missing pieces before committing to shipping.

2. Rear and interior

Rear and interior should be evaluated in the context of the exact maker, model, cabinet generation, included equipment and intended use. Document the machine before cleaning or modification, separate verified operation from seller assumptions, and price missing pieces before committing to shipping.

3. Labels

Labels should be evaluated in the context of the exact maker, model, cabinet generation, included equipment and intended use. Document the machine before cleaning or modification, separate verified operation from seller assumptions, and price missing pieces before committing to shipping.

4. Power equipment

Power equipment should be evaluated in the context of the exact maker, model, cabinet generation, included equipment and intended use. Document the machine before cleaning or modification, separate verified operation from seller assumptions, and price missing pieces before committing to shipping.

5. Damage

Damage should be evaluated in the context of the exact maker, model, cabinet generation, included equipment and intended use. Document the machine before cleaning or modification, separate verified operation from seller assumptions, and price missing pieces before committing to shipping.

6. Included parts

Included parts should be evaluated in the context of the exact maker, model, cabinet generation, included equipment and intended use. Document the machine before cleaning or modification, separate verified operation from seller assumptions, and price missing pieces before committing to shipping.

Safety boundary: Unplug machines before inspection. Do not improvise power conversion, bypass safety devices or work on damaged wiring without qualified assistance.

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