Are these games reliable?
Yes they are! Over the 21 years we have been in business and the 15 years additional experience as collectors, we have learned how to recondition and restore these games. We also know which ones to sell and which ones not to. Understand that the game you have is only as reliable as the work done to it prior to your purchase. Online auctions and purchases from private individuals leave you at a great risk! Each machine we sell or restore goes through a thorough reconditioning process. Separate checklists are covered for Pinballs, Videos and Jukeboxes. Unfortunately, due to the high level of games being sold at auctions, through part-time dealers and private individuals at a lower cost, there are many inferior games out there. S & B might not be the cheapest but the games play! We back each game with a thorough warranty, service after the sale and an aggressive trade-in policy. Remember, you get what you pay for!
What happens when we get bored with our game?
S & B Amusements has a very aggressive trade-in policy. It is this simple. You will get 75% of what you paid for the game on trade towards a new one from us, for however long you own it. The only way that trade amount is lowered is if permanent damage is done to the game. If you are out of town or out of state, we will still offer the same trade-in. However, you will need to get it to us.
Do you locate specific games?
Generally, that is not the best way to buy a game. Videos are still available in fairly good numbers but Pinballs are not. What we have found is that purchasing a game just because of the title does not result in the cleanest games at the best possible prices. A Pac-Man is easier to find than an electro-mechanical pinball. It really is a case by case situation so just call or e-mail us. However, we are committed to giving you the cleanest game at the best price.
What about Parts?
Parts for most games are still readily available. There are certain era's of games where it is becoming harder. That is why you come to us. We know which games can be fun, reliable and easy to maintain in the long run.
Will S & B Amusements restore a game we buy elsewhere?
Yes, we will. Our restorations are among the finest in the country. These games are reconditioned with the same amount of care and expertise we put into games we sell. However, we sell a large number of games per year and need to fit these in when the time is available. We must advise though that this is not the best way to buy a game. Turnkey games are always cheaper and more reliable in the long run.
How do I know I am paying a fair price?
This is one of the toughest things in the business. The price of these games is subjective and volatile. A game might jump 30% in value over a six month period. Also, a game is worth no more than the condition it is in. This is why a pinball might sell from a private source for one price but might be three times as high at the dealer level. In fact, many of those same games would not even be taken on by a dealer for resale just because of the hard life they have lived. There are some broad range prices you can check. However, only you know what you want to buy. A game that barely plays will sell for one price range while one that has had a 30 hour restoration will sell in another range.
Can I buy these games and have them shipped?
Yes. We charge a packing fee and then arrange shipping through appropriate carriers who the customers pays directly. It is always better to be able to walk up to a game, play it and look the seller in the eyes. This is a very specialized business though and in many parts of the country that is impossible.
Are there games we need to stay away from?
Yes there are. That is why you come to S & B Amusements. We have the experience to know which games we can and cannot sell and maintain the reliability we expect. There are more of them than you might realize. This really holds true with pinballs. If we sell it, it is not one of those that are unreliable