Collectors Spotlight - February 2013 - barberp
barberp: Philip Barber
How long have you been a collector of Oakley items?
Since 2000.
How did you get into collecting Oakley?
Sadly it was off the fake oakleys being sold in DC on the streets. I was duped into the 5 dollar ones that quickly broke... and i decided to get a real one so it wouldnt happen again... it didnt.
What is the first Oakley item you remember having?
First pair was the New Straight Jacket Polished Aluminum Fire. The ones without the Flames.
What is your biggest Oakley regret? (if any)
The biggest regret was happening upon 2 Jordan Mars Leathers for 75 bucks a piece, and promptly turning them down. This was in 2006.
What is your next Oakley purchase likely to be?
The Oakley Juliet Ichiro X-metal WBC Championship pair.
What do you consider the "jewel" of your collection?
I consider every pair of juliets i own to be the jewel as most are serialized under 1000. My goal is to have one of every juliet frame lens combo made AND have the serial under 1000. Very difficult but almost there. If I had to pick a favorite it would be my X-metal Ruby Juliet serial X000499 or The 24k Juliet serial 13.
How do you store/display your Oakley collection?
In a new Oakley top and bottom lit black case.
Do you have a favorite Oakley retailer?
Not particularly. I live in Vermont and there is no O-store here. The best store for me is the website or SGH.
Do you customize?
No. Im all about original as i collect the serials and like them to look new. I do like some of the frame work that some of the guys on facebook do. I wouldnt be opposed to getting a copper Juliet…
What other Oakley products do you collect?
Belts Backpacks Lanyards and Posters.
What other hobbies/collections/passions do you have?
No other serious collections really. I paint and enjoy Nascar. I collect Oakleys mainly.
What advice do you have for new Oakley collectors?
Dont try to get all the Juliets unless you have a better job than myself. Its an addicting side job and can ruin relationships lol.
What do others think about your Oakley collection?
My best friend thinks its the coolest thing ever and he even started a collection because he was so inspired... But most people dont get it. I get alot of strange looks when i wear my G30's and the more out there ones. But its me, its what I like so…
What's your fondest/most astounding Oakley memory?
I reciently went to the Oakley in Times Square and was talking shades with a guy who turned out to be a manager and he offered me a job on the spot. That was kind of awesome and I appreciated his enthusiasm probly more than he appreciated mine. Its nice when you can share your passion with fellow oakley enthusiests and not get strange looks.
Any final words?
I need to thank Dann for giving me the info and know how to deliver my story. Thanks to the O-review for the serious information overload, and to X-men, Bobby Labonte, and Black Hawk Down for sparking my interest in Juliets. Id like to visit the Factory at some point. Thats on the list of stuff to do. Thanks again and happy collecting!
View Philip's CollectionView Philip's GalleryView Philip's Profile