Dear fellow collectors!
Let me please- introduce and promote the brand new SA-dagger reference book written by Ralf Siegert, the owner of the already well known site
www.dienstdolch.de.
Several pages out of this book can also be looked at on this site. Although this book is written in German language, due to itīs high pictorial content and itīs clear and disposition it is informative and easily understandable also for the non German speaking collector.
Obviously due to relative high shipping costs the current (actual changing rate) price (including shipping to USA or Canada or comparable range) is 127,00 USD or 95 EUR.
In my opinion (and I have ordered and read this book already) itīs worth every penny.
The author can be reached (also for ordering) per mail: ralfzx7r@web.de
Paypal is fine (please add 4%), paypal account is also ralfzx7r@web.de
Or by bank money transaction to bank: Volksbank Wiesloch/Germany, account number: 23227908 ,
routing number: 67292200.
If you order it I wish you much pleasure with this imo really fine reference book.
Regards,
Look nice will see about ordering one, thanks
Hey "Vintagetimenow" aka John M. look like another Herder bag huh!!!!!!!!! Bret Van Sant
Thanks for the info, I'm getting it, whatever the cost.
Been waiting for Wittmann's SA book for 5 years now and there doesn't seem that it is going to be ready in a near future.
The book is of interes,but i see the web side is in german.I do not speek or read german,so i guess this book will not be bought.
if it is in english i will be happy to know it
Hello gus.
I have mailed a littlebith with Ralf,If u are interested in the new book in English he needa atleast 200 orders.
hope we can make that happend.
That should be very easy to do, I'm certain that we will even get more than 200.
How do we proceed ?
I'd be interested in one in English . . . ~ Ian
Already bought one and I will get it in a couple of days. From what I have seen on Ralph site it looks really good...
one more think.... it is only 500 for sale (limited edition) - do not waste Your chance to have one :-)
I'd go for one in English.
Dave
I'm in for 1 in english paul
quote:
Originally posted by Gottlieb:
one more think.... it is only 500 for sale (limited edition) - do not waste Your chance to have one :-)
Your're right Gottlieb.
This book is very nice and well researched.
Don't miss it guy's
Gerd
I would take one in English too.
John
quote:
Originally posted by JohnZ:
I would take one in English too.
John
One English for me too when its available LH
I would buy one in english!
This starts good
I got a new mail and he says that he needs atleast 200,and pay up front(for printing)
I am willing to do so,i dont think he is up for any scams
I asked him in the new mail naw if we should send him a mail,so when he gots 200 or more mails he send us a pay info mail.
Does this sounds good or are i loooooooooooooost now
Pushed wrong icon
I'd be in for an English copy
I'd buy one in ENglish also.
Hello collecting tank, thanks for your interest. The production of the book costs more than 10,000 . I need more than 200 orders. Pay before printing. To manage is very difficult.
regards Ralf
Another possibility would be to find an American publisher who buys the rights at this book and drives it out then?
Regards Ralf
I would buy an English version.
From Ralfs reply above I doubt there will be an English version regardless of apparent demand.Its a pity some market research wasnt done before committing to print but thats water under the bridge now.With only 500 German language copies they wont last long.Look at the quality of the pages shown throughout Ralf's site.As a coffee table book its 300 odd pages of pure eye candy let alone the info which even I with my 40 year old highschool Deutsch can understand to some extent.I eagerly await the arrival of my copy
Add me for an English version if they become available.
I've just ordered the book and can't wait to see it, especially if I've noticed that few of my toys are there as well
BTW. Any news on Wittmann's vol.V? (rhetorical question
)
I decided that pictures are worth thousands of words in English, too.
So, I ordered a book as well. If an English version ever surfaces, I will get that too.
In anticipation,
John
I got the book last week. It is very well done, many wonderfull pictures (all in color) and good texts too. Great overall contribution to the hobby!
One negative point though: I have noticed that some of my pictures (of rare SA makersmarks), that I had posted on GDC over the years, are published in the book... Never got contacted to ask if I would permit this... so copywrite-wise this is not ok.
I also noticed that Mike's MCSARR and Fisher's production figures per maker of SA's are integrated in this new book, I hope that the author has consulted them about this before publishing...
Best greetings,
Herman
The good news Herman, is that you'll NOW be able to sell your SA dagger at a premium price, since it is now pictured in a reference book.
Hello Herrmann,
I got one of the trademarks here skillfully by members from the forum. But I thanked you also in the book. I have the forum: Germandaggers.com in my book mentions. I did not want to injure Copyrigth. The rarity regulations of the trademarks, originate not from Fisher or from Mike Mc Alvanah, but from my friend SAM Edstrom ( NAKIDATRADING )from Sweden. It has also a list. It has me permits its list to use.
Greeting Ralf
Received today....
VERY NICE AND INTERESTING BOOK !!!!
I pre-ordered mine and recieved it a few weeks back. I could not put it down for the first few days. One in English would be great. thanks for the book, Ralf
As predicted they are going fast my copy ordered when this thread started arrived yesterday and I was surprised to see its copy 144/500,Very good value/quality book with some useful titbits like the leather "holster"for attaching the dagger to the front forks of a motorcycle
I got mine today
Someone said Johnson's reference is like "Ferrari" in automobile world. I must say Ralf's book is a ROLLS ROYCE.
Do all the pictures have the little yellow dots covering the swaz?
Hello Bob,
no, into the book you can see al the swastikas.
Ralf
I got mine today. First look through says very impressive. Took about 9 days to get here from Germany.
Mine is #301, so if you want one, get your order in.
Dave
Hello Ralf! Is a new edition already in view.? The book is truthfully an eye width, and from there the language rather secondary. Best greetings N.S. Search always Suhler of Dolche
Just got mine - weitze also is selling it
Fantastic book - the lack of english is not that big of a deal either
A lot of good things written of the boock here,so i ordered it.
Hopefull it soon is in my room,so i can start reading
Carlos:
You will really like it.. I know that I do.
John
I got it todaylooks great.
Now i need to get it transelated to norwegian,or English.
I do not understand German,the ONLY german i know is "porn"german
That i remember from old dsays,on the boats
I have had mine a few weeks now and it is a good reference even though in German, unless of course you can read German. In which case it is an excellent publication......
A picture paints a thousand words!!
ADDED mine is number 205
Hello together,
it makes happy me that the book pleases you. Momentarily no second edition is planned. At the moment i work on a book concerning the SS dagger.For this new book I look for still pictures of SS Dagger in wear. Please do not forget to give me yor permission to illustrate the pictures in my new book. I would not like that there are therefore problems
Greeting Ralf
as Ralf sayīs he is investing his time now in a new Reference about SS-Daggers
So there is no time for him to translate the book and print in english.
Also it would be better to print an english version directly in the states. So the shipping will be much cheaper as from germany.
The only way for an english version at time would be, if Ralf takes an US-partner who translate and print the book in the States.
He should also take over the order-handling and shipping.
Maybe there is one in states who can be an reliable partner for Ralf.
regards
Medes
(Sven Georgi)
What is the average number of shipping days for the book to arrive ? Monday will be the 16th day from PayPal having been sent.
Same - from Weitze - 9 days
Hello " the russian ",
i send your book at 20.April 2009. If it does not arrive in the next days, I must lodge a complaint that.
regards Ralf
Recived mine after 8 days
Received my book today and it is simply magnificient. The quality of the pictures and the depth of information is all you could ask for. A++++++
Hello collector friends,
the book is sold off, please dont send money on my paypal.
Now i search for an american partner who translate and print the book in the States.
regards Ralf
Received my copy today. Thanks so much.
Out of print in under two months congrats its a fine book
Ralf:
Congratulations. It is a fine, fine book with many wonderful pictures.
I am not surprised that it has sold out so quickly.
John
Thats because of the "limited edition"
of this book the book was scarce when it came out of printing office.
But no problem! Find someone who will translate and print this great reference-book in US an Ralf will make an contract.
best
Medes
So what about the english copy? 200 pieces should sell easily.
Got a german version in the meantime:>
to late...the book is sold out.
Medes
NOT TO WORRY!
Got mine already. No. 276/500
Even lower than Dave's
Really nice book. English will be beneficial but still worth the cost! WELL DONE!
BTW. Did you notice that some logos at the listing near the end of the book are repeated - guess by accident.
Like ASSO - page 295 and 308 or LOUPER Flame 304 and 306. They are exactly the same variant and same photos but still appear twice
But you bought not directly from the author, Mike (correct me if I'm wrong).
It means the book was originaly purchased some time ago.
quote:
Originally posted by 777:
But you bought not directly from the author, Mike (correct me if I'm wrong).
It means the book was originaly purchased some time ago.
Ralf doesn't have them anymore.
->777
I bought some of the last remaining books direct from Ralf and got serial-numbers around 190.
So I guess Ralf did not sell them sequentially.
Great book by the way, I can't wait for the SS-book to come
Cheers,
quote:
Originally posted by M|ke_PL:
English will be beneficial but still worth the cost! WELL DONE!
again:
If anyone find an US-Partner who will do the translation and printing in the states for Ralf...
please contact me or Ralf.
The higher Numbers were selled to people who had take 10 or more books...
The midrange are the last books who were selled...
Indeed - second hand now only.
Hello,
I sold the book rights for an English expenditure. The book is to appear in December 2009. I still announce details.
Greeting Ralf
Great Christmas gift idea!
Super, looking forward to it.
I'm certain that it will be a very good seller.
Great,that is a MUST buy.
It is good to have the "original"german too
Just registered - thanx 777
Here too !
I hope the english translation is perfect.
Then you can be shure to get the best SA-dagger reference avaiable.
Medes
Hello all, can someone show me how to pre order the Sa book. I dont know what to put in the space at the bottom of the advertisement. Best regards larry
still put your e-mail adress in the field....
Even though I have the German version, I registered as well...
John
Thankyou Medes, sometimes things that are so simple are so hard. Thanx for your help
yepp looks forward to this English SA book.
LH
I have just payed my english copy
quote:
Originally posted by carlos1:
I have just payed my english copy
You're no.1, carlos
All interested, please check the brand new webpage
www.sadaggers.com to find more information about the english edition.
It is good to be #1,it would be nice,if that was written in the book
i also have it,in german.But dont understand german
Maybe i have to sell that one.
Fabulous!!! My wife just asked me what I wanted for Christmas and guess what I said? Hehe Im getting my copy for Christmas. Man I feel like a kid waiting for Santa
Cheers, Raul
Those color pics of the blades being made make you wonder. If they are TR period and were colorized then thats fine but if they are modern pics then these guys making them can probably do it like during the TR. Things that make you go hmmmm. cheers, Raul
I have the original book and i was looking at buying the English one but with the present exchange rates this book would cost me nearly Ģ100.
I bought one. You never can have too many books. Wonder if this is also a limited printing.
Bought mine today and looking forward to get it.
Same here. Pricey but appears to be one beautiful volume!
What do you do ? a lot of money, but what a wonderfull reference !!!!!
If one already has the German edition, then this is almost redundant... if I can try to make out the translations to my researched SS officer and his documents, then I can figure out what the German version of this great book has to say about SAs.
However, if you do not have this book, it is a must have for any SA or TR dagger collector.
Maybe my opinion will change once Tom Wittmann's SA book comes out, but this is a great reference book on its own.
John
quote:
Originally posted by JohnZ:
If one already has the German edition, then this is almost redundant... if I can try to make out the translations to my researched SS officer and his documents, then I can figure out what the German version of this great book has to say about SAs.
However, if you do not have this book, it is a must have for any SA or TR dagger collector.
Maybe my opinion will change once Tom Wittmann's SA book comes out, but this is a great reference book on its own.
John
Good luck with your translation, John. I can guarantee endless days of struggle with the German text and lot of problems with specialist terms
However, after doing this, your German will improve significantly.
If Wittmann's SA book comes out, it will not change much for passionate collectors. Most often we have more than one book covering the same subject. I have both English and German version of Ralf's book and I'm going to buy new Wittmann as soon as it turns out and I will buy any other good reference book on SA daggers that will be written in a future. To tell you more, I'm not crazy about dress bayonets, but I have 2 books about them, I have only 1 NPEA, but both Ron Weinand's books are on my shelf (and no, I'm not collecting books, just daggers). What I'm trying to say: 1 SA daggers book is good thing, 2 books are very good thing but 2 books plus GDC are GREAT thing
Just to clarify.
If you do not have this book in your collection then buy it. It is worth it and is very well produced.
If I did not already have the German version I would not have hesitated. As 777 intimates; you can never have enough reference data, it can save you a lot of grief and money and each publication/author approaches the subject from a different view point.
quote:
Originally posted by spock:
Just to clarify.
If you do not have this book in your collection then buy it. It is worth it and is very well produced.
If I did not already have the German version I would not have hesitated. As 777 intimates; you can never have enough reference data, it can save you a lot of grief and money and each publication/author approaches the subject from a different view point.
Oh yes this book is already ordered
quote:
Originally posted by the russian:
What do you do ? a lot of money, but what a wonderfull reference !!!!!
Yes it appears to be that. I am a medically retired peace officer! Fixed income. Selling lots of my books on Amazon.
Ordered it yesterday and it's on it's way can't wait paul
Because Ralf`s english is more worse then my school-english is, I will post here for him.
We are happy to hear that you enjoy our book, now finally in english translation.
Ralf likes to thank you all about your kind words regarding the book.
We hope that this reference will help some collectors in our mutual hobby.
Regards
Sven Georgi
I need some help because I am trying to purchase it via paypal but the link opens up in polish. What is the paypal email to purchase this? Thanks guys.
info@sadaggersbook.com
You can also contact the seller at the adress above.
It is very strange since it opens in english on my computer
Thanks for the info. My turn to get one. cheers, Raul
Yes! I bought it right now. This is definitely the book to own. This time the paypal link opened up in English. Thanks 777 for your help. Cheers and all the best, Raul
Ok I just checked my paypal account and it appears that the person I sent the money to is Adam Jaroszewicz. Who is this? Can anyone give me some info? Thanks.
It's the editor (myself).
Oh. cool. All this time I thought your name was 777
Sorry for all the questions Adam. I just wanted to make sure everything was ok. Cheers and all the best, Raul. Merry Christmas
P.S. How long will the shipping take and by what means?
The books are shipped with international priority parcel. Usually it takes 4-5 days within Europe and up to 2 weeks to US(sometimes faster), but considering CHRISTMAS time it's hard to guess how long it will take right now.
Anyway, I can guarantee that books are being sent on next (working) day after payment notification.
Looking forward to it--and a special Thanks! for the English version.
Thanks for this version I just can't wait for it to arrive. I feel like my kids in the days right before Christmas.
As it could be expected post has let us down - me and some of you, guys. I believed that at least europeans would be able to enjoy the book during holidays and did my best sending first books immediately.
At least Ralf received his copy today and he was very satisfied
. Nevertheless, MERRY CHRISTMAS to all.
:Adam:
quote:
Originally posted by 777:
As it could be expected post has let us down - me and some of you, guys. I believed that at least europeans would be able to enjoy the book during holidays and did my best sending first books immediately.
At least Ralf received his copy today and he was very satisfied
. Nevertheless, MERRY CHRISTMAS to all.
:Adam:
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU ADAM AND ALL!
(Mine not here yet!)
Ordered my copy on Dec.14 and it arrived on my doorstep on Christmas Eve. A very nice surprise that I have enjoyed as a present to myself. Merry Christmas!
Ross Kelbaugh
www.ssdaggers.comwww.HistoricGraphics.com
Wow!!! Great news
Dear Ross,
I`m interesting in your opinion about the book.
Regards
Sven Georgi
Did you correct the errors I had pointed out? Mike
According to contract no changes were possible unless approved by the author himself. So, some errors are corrected in english edition, but only those allowed by the author.
Mike:
i am very interested in the errors,possible to post here,or can you send me a mail?
Ralf had schown some maker marks, without the notice that those maker did not make SA`s, because he wanted to list all makers.
Regarding to Mike that was corrected in the english translation
regards
Sven Georgi
Thanks
Talking about correcting the errors: there is correct maker (7/66 Eickhorn) of chained Marine SA dagger now (p.245)
Guys - this is a must have. The best dagger book I came across.
Mike
Just got mine-expensive as has been said before but how do you put a price on excellence?-Congrats and thanks to all concerned!
Paul
Finally the book arriwed today
Well packed in. Many thanks.
The reading time has begin
We are always interested in to hear feedback.
Maybe we can use something in the next Volume about ss-daggers.
Sven Georgi
still waiting for mine , hey paul your not to far from me can i borrow yours ?
Book just came in the mail today can't wait to start reading tonight Paul
I got mine ordered today , cant wait to check it out.
Got mine a couple of days ago. A nice book with some new information. Noted a few mistakes in the content but many mistakes in the English language. Also, many of the photos are not up to the latest standards of clarity especially considering the high price of this book. Recommend review of future books by someone who's native language is English.JMO
Thanks Houston,
the german author had no influence in the english translation job.
But an good hint for our next volume.
regards
Sven Georgi
quote:
many of the photos are not up to the latest standards of clarity
Hmmm, the latest standards must be really high...
No other reference on 3rd Reich daggers shows more and better photos in full color from first to last page...
But regarding to Houstons annotation: we have published many pictures from mutual collectors all over the world who had shown there treasures first time in a book.
Thats why pictures differ sometimes in quality and layout.
But as I wrote...There are MANY and really good pictures and all in full color...
Regards
sven Georgi
quote:
Originally posted by Houston Coates:
Got mine a couple of days ago. A nice book with some new information. Noted a few mistakes in the content but many mistakes in the English language. Also, many of the photos are not up to the latest standards of clarity especially considering the high price of this book. Recommend review of future books by someone who's native language is English.JMO
TOTAL agreement regarding the translation which, for the price of the book, $157.85, is really terrible. If I were to write a review of the book, I would suggest that buyers be 100% aware of the fact that this book, while nice, needs a more professional translation.
I think whoever was responsible for the translation should have made darn sure it was done correctly, the FIRST time!
The book is oki . Great stuff we collectors need for upgrade the knowledge.
"Tumbs Up for the book team ""
157.85 US is nothing compared for all daggers we buy year by year
And......there is not so many books about the SA daggers on the marked either !Im happy with the book and all the work Ralf & the team have done for making it ready for collector world IMO.
GREAT WORK.
Regards LH
quote:
157.85 US is nothing compared for all daggers we buy year by year
LH 600, not that you are incorrect regarding the lack of available SA reference material, but the fact remains there are translation errors that just should NOT be in a book at this price. As far as the price being "nothing", you are correct except for the fact that to some of us,$157.85 IS "something" indeed. Try being a medically retired Deputy Sheriff on a fixed income on for size and then you will see that price is high. My dagger buying days are long gone. I have what I have and that's it!
Take pg 83, Crossguards for example. There are many internal makers marks listed but nothing as to who the makers were. I could comment on the actual construction of the book also but won't.
When such a noted author as Mr Johnson praises a book, I would expect it to be darn near perfect!
Maybe some collectors might wish to wait for Mr Wittmanns book? I feel I should have!
Lloyd.
I understand your position very well.
We cant all be 100% all the time ? There is some points i have noted myself in the book, - but what a heck...some "small wrong error" dont really disturb me so much.
I have all Wittmans book and several of the Th Johnsons. They are good stuff all of them...BUT there is some points there too.. missing out if you understand what i mean ?
Time goes fast and New info are "popping" up at forums and magazines very often. I can live with some "errors" but im sure Johnsons and other authors can`t make a book 100% Perfekt
Have a nice day
Regards LH
quote:
Originally posted by LH 600:
Lloyd.
I understand your position very well.
We cant all be 100% all the time ? There is some points i have noted myself in the book, - but what a heck...some "small wrong error" dont really disturb me so much.
I have all Wittmans book and several of the Th Johnsons. They are good stuff all of them...BUT there is some points there too.. missing out if you understand what i mean ?
Time goes fast and New info are "popping" up at forums and magazines very often. I can live with some "errors" but im sure Johnsons and other authors can`t make a book 100% Perfekt
Have a nice day
Regards LH
You as well LH!
I have all of Wittmann's books, gifts as it were and a few of Johnson's as well. I began collecting in 1955, was medically retired from the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Dept in 1993 and have only bought one dagger since then and this is the first book on SA's that I have seen.
Regards!
quote:
Originally posted by lloyd:
quote:
Originally posted by LH 600:
Time goes fast and New info are "popping" up at forums and magazines very often. I can live with some "errors" but im sure Johnsons and other authors can`t make a book 100% Perfekt
Have a nice day
Regards LH
You as well LH!
I began collecting in 1955, was medically retired from the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Dept in 1993 and have only bought one dagger since then and this is the first book on SA's that I have seen.
Regards!
Take care my friend
We have to be happy for all books of daggers came out
Like you say...it`s few of them
ok my two cents.We are destroying someones hard work here .I got the book the packing was wondeful.The book itself was very good.I did a quick skim of it I did not read every page yet but i will but If it is not perfect I really don't care.I think from what i saw it is a very good book and i say to those responsable job well done.To those that don't like it sell it on ebay and move on to something else.
This discussion ist not really fair to Ralf Siegerts work. Because it`s based on the "high" price of the book. And maybe the translation is not PERFECT which also was not done and controlled by Ralf Siegert.The book itself is an really nice job! This reference is the best in SA-daggers avaiable and is a must for an 3rd Reich dagger collector.
And as noted in this thread -Yes Tom Johnson knows 100% for what kind of book his Name is good for! FOR THIS ONE -IT IS!
So many people all over the world asked
for an english volume. Now an collector had investet a lot of money and time in getting the rights and do the translation for the collector community. Expensive or not, it`s an offer for those who can`t read the German original.
In my opinion it is one of the best References regarding to 3rd Reich daggers ever written. Thats what is important.
Regards
Sven Georgi.
I got mine today Adam (777), I like it so far and I second Reichstall's comments above ..thanks
I Have seen Ralfs SA book, but I will wait to see TWs SA book then I will compare, but on what one book lacks the other will make up for,, so the 2 should work well together, as an overall reference on the subject. I do like TWs writing though. Best Larry
quote:
Originally posted by Siegfried B:
I Have seen Ralfs SA book, but I will wait to see TWs SA book then I will compare, but on what one book lacks the other will make up for,, so the 2 should work well together, as an overall reference on the subject. I do like TWs writing though. Best Larry
Larry, all in all, looking at the construction of the book itself, I mean the "nuts and bolts" with creaking hinges, etc and the poor quality of the text material, TW's book should be spectacular in comparison. Packing? Hey, it was fine BUT packing in and of itself does NOT justify the cost for a book with many pics of blades without text. German text on many pages and some of that, apparently from the German edition, in RED, MUST have meant something important but NOT "decoded" in this volume.
Again, IF you have been fortunate enough to NOT buy this book, DON'T! Save your green for Tom's book!
Lloyd, I am a "Window shopper first", I do comparisons, I am not one to be the first on my block to have the latest fashion. Fads are for line standers. TW showed me his copy of Ralfs book, and I have seen everything in it, So for me I will wait!!, others have different opinions. This is a great hobby but not all of us out here (including me) are fortunate enough to get the "top shelf" stuff,, so I am content with what I have now. If something is within my reach then I will buy it. Some of my reference books have been 2nd hand buys but still has the first hand info. Best regards Larry
I find you can never have enough (good) reference books etc... I have bought books for even one picture in them or a paragraph... Notice I say (GOOD)reference.. I have never been (tight) when buying reference as it can save a huge amount of money and after many years of collecting I forget things. Regards: James
I for one think its a great book , yeah its not perfect but it answered a few questions for me . An yes i will be buying TW book as well .has any one got any idear of its release date ?
quote:
Originally posted by Siegfried B:
Lloyd, I am a "Window shopper first", I do comparisons, I am not one to be the first on my block to have the latest fashion. Fads are for line standers. TW showed me his copy of Ralfs book, and I have seen everything in it, So for me I will wait!!, others have different opinions. This is a great hobby but not all of us out here (including me) are fortunate enough to get the "top shelf" stuff,, so I am content with what I have now. If something is within my reach then I will buy it. Some of my reference books have been 2nd hand buys but still has the first hand info. Best regards Larry
Larry, I too am not as fortunate cashwise to be able to afford "top shelf" stuff either but I love this stuff.
My very first purchase of a dagger was an SA. It had no paint on the scabbard so I spray painted it gold....until I found out it had to be brown! I repainted it and baked it in the oven. Came out fine too! Back in those days, there were no defintive books on daggers. Then Atwood came out and that book was gold to me. I still have that volume and of course many more accumulated over the eons.
I thought this book would be the ONE on SA's but I must say that very little material is top notch. I DO like the tang markings section and have taken my few SA's apart and now have the info on those markings on my file cards.
James, I forget all the time and you are 100% correct that money can indeed be saved with the correct book...NOT Atwood as it turned out on my wonderful "Naval Assault Forces" that I was able to pick up for a reasonable price.
I look forward to Tom's SA book. Anyone have an idea as to when it will come out?
Heres my two cents. The book has very good information. Thats all. The pictures were cheap matte type. Nice photography but the quality of the book is absolutely second grade. My book arrived after a month in a nasty dirty semi torn box. It aslo appeared to have been wet at some point. When I opened the box and saw the book I was instantly ****ed. It looked like it was bent on purpose. from the side it was shaped like a banana. I had bo bend it the other way in order to try to staighten it out. The binding looks so flimsy that it gives the impression that it will break apart easily. The cover was just plain printed cardboard. The list goes on and on.
Personally I like the content of the book. I do not like the german photocopies with no translation. If it were not for the fact that it takes soooo long to arrive I would exchange it for a better quality example.
With all the hooplah that was said about this book I expected something along the lines of perfection. This book is clearly not even close. If anyone wants to know what I expected just go to any big bookstore and pic up and atlas of human anatomy or anything. you will automatically see the diference in paper, binding, weight, and overall quality.
Raul
quote:
Originally posted by rgaraymd:
Heres my two cents. The book has very good information. Thats all. The pictures were cheap matte type. Nice photography but the quality of the book is absolutely second grade. My book arrived after a month in a nasty dirty semi torn box. It aslo appeared to have been wet at some point. When I opened the box and saw the book I was instantly ****ed. It looked like it was bent on purpose. from the side it was shaped like a banana. I had bo bend it the other way in order to try to staighten it out. The binding looks so flimsy that it gives the impression that it will break apart easily. The cover was just plain printed cardboard. The list goes on and on.
Personally I like the content of the book. I do not like the german photocopies with no translation. If it were not for the fact that it takes soooo long to arrive I would exchange it for a better quality example.
With all the hooplah that was said about this book I expected something along the lines of perfection. This book is clearly not even close. If anyone wants to know what I expected just go to any big bookstore and pic up and atlas of human anatomy or anything. you will automatically see the diference in paper, binding, weight, and overall quality.
Raul
Raul, your "two cents" is indeed very valuable! The quality is POOR to say the least. I won't be opening my copy often as the "crack" sound on opeing tells me this binding is bull ca-ca and just won't last!
I sincerely hope that those who have been fortunate enough to NOT buy this book continue to wait. THIS is NOT the book!
quote:
Originally posted by rgaraymd:
My book arrived after a month in a nasty dirty semi torn box. It aslo appeared to have been wet at some point. When I opened the box and saw the book I was instantly ****ed. It looked like it was bent on purpose. from the side it was shaped like a banana.
Raul, each book is packed SOLID and sent on next working day, so if your parcel came damaged and after a month, BLAME THE POST. If you were "instantly ****ed" (whatever it means) why didn't you contact the seller first reporting what's happened? Did you complain at the post for what THEY have done to your parcel? But, if you prefer to make it public, I can officialy offer you another free copy if you'll send your "banana shaped" book back to me.
For your information, dear Raul: the cover is finished with special expensive paper covered with matt laquer, not a "printed cardboard". If you like glossy things, you may not like it, de gustibus non est disputandum...
For general information: the landscape format of such heavy book will ALWAYS cause problems, no matter how good binding is. The pages are stitched on the short side and even if book stands on the shelf the weight of 300+ pages will work as lever against the upper part of binding. The binding of my german copy also doesn't look good after normal use (shall I whine about it on the forum?).
I'd like to thank the vast majority of guys here for good response, people like you help the things go forward. Ralf Siegert and Sven Georgi work on second book and they need your support.
To those who hate the book I'd like to say: it is your right to express your opinion, even if fellow members who truly enjoy the book do look like ignorants in your eyes. Criticism is easy and enjoyable to some, so enjoy.
To those who think about buying the book: use your own brain, don't let anybody tell you what to do ("don't buy this book, buy that book").
Sincerely,
:Adam:
I came home from my work at sea,there was my copy of the book.I am HAPPY with it.
This book is a must for SA dagger collectors!Great work.
It is very nice book. I don't know what else you need in SA/NSKK reference book. If you don't like it too much, maybe you can write your own better book and will publish it...
Lukas.
I cannot say anything about the english translated book, as I bought the german original language copy.
Also, I do not collect, and have not owned a SA dagger in the last 20 odd years, but this book is a must for all political dagger collectors.
The information along with the many many excellent pictures of practically all makers make it THE BEST reference-book currently available on SA/NSKK daggers.
What may or may not be released in the future, is of no concern to me right now as none other is available, and the contents will be anyones guess...
Here and now is what matters, to me atleast.
Ralf, great work, and I look forward to THE reference from Ralf on SS daggers.
Best,
quote:
Originally posted by 777:
quote:
Originally posted by rgaraymd:
My book arrived after a month in a nasty dirty semi torn box. It aslo appeared to have been wet at some point. When I opened the box and saw the book I was instantly ****ed. It looked like it was bent on purpose. from the side it was shaped like a banana.
Raul, each book is packed SOLID and sent on next working day, so if your parcel came damaged and after a month, BLAME THE POST. If you were "instantly ****ed" (whatever it means) why didn't you contact the seller first reporting what's happened? Did you complain at the post for what THEY have done to your parcel? But, if you prefer to make it public, I can officialy offer you another free copy if you'll send your "banana shaped" book back to me.
For your information, dear Raul: the cover is finished with special expensive paper covered with matt laquer, not a "printed cardboard". If you like glossy things, you may not like it, de gustibus non est disputandum...
For general information: the landscape format of such heavy book will ALWAYS cause problems, no matter how good binding is. The pages are stitched on the short side and even if book stands on the shelf the weight of 300+ pages will work as lever against the upper part of binding. The binding of my german copy also doesn't look good after normal use (shall I whine about it on the forum?).
I'd like to thank the vast majority of guys here for good response, people like you help the things go forward. Ralf Siegert and Sven Georgi work on second book and they need your support.
To those who hate the book I'd like to say: it is your right to express your opinion, even if fellow members who truly enjoy the book do look like ignorants in your eyes. Criticism is easy and enjoyable to some, so enjoy.
To those who think about buying the book: use your own brain, don't let anybody tell you what to do ("don't buy this book, buy that book").
Sincerely,
:Adam:
Adam, it is a fact that when one has a vested interest in something such as this book for instance, the view as to completeness, etc is skewed toward saying the book is all fine, which of course, it is NOT!
"Critcisim" in this case is indeed valid when a person sees the poor quality of both construction and contents. I could easily note such deficiences on say the Feldherrenhalle dagger. Two pages of brief text and two pages of pics of the dagger and two pages with the dagger in wear. One pictorial page appears to be a sellers description!
The old adage, "it takes money to make money" should have been taken into account when the German edition was translated into English. A knowledgeable translator should have been employed and a proof reader's services obtained which is apparently not the case here.
I would suggest that if a new book is being produced for the English speaking market, my recommendations should be followed.
To those who have just gotten their copy, take your time deciding IF this is truly "the" SA/NSKK book you really want to have. I think that after you put some time into reading this volume you will note that there is much more that could have been done to make the book worthwhile!
its also a fact that you cant please everyone all the time . to collectors i say .this book is a must for everyone who has sa/ nskk s in there collections 1
OK I will say this again. The content and information that is found within the pages of this book is very good. I am pleased with the collection of important information inside the book. Having said that I will then be blunt. You need to have all types of criticism in order to achieve better things in life. Everyone loves to hear good things said about their work but not everybody welcomes negative (constructive) criticism. The truth is that the quality of the book is not good. You said in a sarcastic written tone that I like glossy things and that I am whining. Well, glossy book covers are traditionally equivalent to quality. Matte is less expensive to have made. This is a known fact. Also the simple fact that you call my observations "whinning" on a public forum is your attempt to ridicule my opinion which is my God given right. In this manner what you are achieving is silence through intimidation and ridicule so you will get only positive feedback. I am attaching some pictures of what I expected in quality. Cheers, Raul
PS I am not fighting or insulting anyone here so relax.
more
Glossy page of the atlas
the sturdy binding of the atlas
My "banana" book after much bending.
My book arrived this way exactly. The tear was not made by me.
Oh, and by the way the atlas that I just showed is considered the best anatomy atlas available and costs only $50.
Please, a few things you must understand..How many atlases do they print at a time?? were are they printed (country china)???? I know what printing costs are here in the states for a (short run) hardbound book.You can get quotes on line with book manufactures , and I'm sure you will be surprised. Sounds like $50.00 is a heck of a deal on your book knowing what my son and Daughter,in collage pay for there new and used books,not to mention my wife is finishing another Doctorate degree.(she teaches nursing at a private collage) The book seems like it was packed well. For sure a shipping problem... No insults here, it seems you are unhappy with the price of the book . Regards: James
Hi James. The money is not an issue. If it were an issue I would not have paid for the book in the first place. The issue for me is just the construction of the book. Its the same as if you go to Frank's stake house in New York and they serve you a big mac.
Apologists not withstanding, the fact is the book is constructed in a cheap manner....compared to other books that I have!
This book is not the only "landscape" format book that I have and I note that ONLY this book has a cover/covers that are skewed in a "banana" profile. Though my copy is not as severe as that pictured, it is nonetheless NOT RIGHT!
I have a Reader's Digest book on how to repair stuff around the house which is at least 20 yrs old and it exibits no such cover buckling. I have "Titanic, an Illustrated History" with thin boards and it too is not buckled either.
The simple fact is this book is constructed cheaply and I advise, once again, that if you have been lucky enough to have not bought this book yet...well DON'T!
I will NOT buy any subsequent books produced by this seller!
quote:
Originally posted by lloyd:
Apologists not withstanding, the fact is the book is constructed in a cheap manner....compared to other books that I have!
This book is not the only "landscape" format book that I have and I note that ONLY this book has a cover/covers that are skewed in a "banana" profile. Though my copy is not as severe as that pictured, it is nonetheless NOT RIGHT!
I have a Reader's Digest book on how to repair stuff around the house which is at least 20 yrs old and it exibits no such cover buckling. I have "Titanic, an Illustrated History" with thin boards and it too is not buckled either.
The simple fact is this book is constructed cheaply and I advise, once again, that if you have been lucky enough to have not bought this book yet...well DON'T!
I will NOT buy any subsequent books produced by this seller!
Sell it on E bay then..and you are finished with the case for ever
Sell it on ebay,then u are realy done with it
How would YOU like to buy it Carlos? BTW, I don't sell on eBay...only Amazon.com!
Let me know, it's available!
LLoyd.I HAVE the German and English version
The english is a little bendt up,but i don`t COMPLAIN,do i?????????
It is really funny reading this gossip (like a bunch old ladies or something)Not to offense anybody. I personally do not collect SA daggers but still interested in getting one copy for myself. The point i am trying to make is: from reading all the posts i can assume that this book is very informative and one of a kind as most collectors were looking for a good complete SA book. Now we coming to a point where such things as construction, paper quality and so forth brings the so informative book to the point of (No Buy). LOL
quote:
Originally posted by Aleksandr:
It is really funny reading this gossip (like a bunch old ladies or something)Not to offense anybody. I personally do not collect SA daggers but still interested in getting one copy for myself. The point i am trying to make is: from reading all the posts i can assume that this book is very informative and one of a kind as most collectors were looking for a good complete SA book. Now we coming to a point where such things as construction, paper quality and so forth brings the so informative book to the point of (No Buy). LOL
Im so agree with you
Aleksandr:You can buy the book,it is a great book
quote:
Originally posted by Aleksandr:
It is really funny reading this gossip (like a bunch old ladies or something)Not to offense anybody. I personally do not collect SA daggers but still interested in getting one copy for myself. The point i am trying to make is: from reading all the posts i can assume that this book is very informative and one of a kind as most collectors were looking for a good complete SA book. Now we coming to a point where such things as construction, paper quality and so forth brings the so informative book to the point of (No Buy). LOL
The main thing is the book is NOT "complete" by any means. IF it weren't copywritten, I would quote text here for you to see exactly what I mean. What SHOULD be "complete" is NOT. The hype in the ad for the book made it seem that the book was/is in fact "complete" but again, it is NOT! One would "assume" that text regarding parts, specific daggers such as Feldherrnhalle, etc would be all inclusive but NOT! One would "assume" that pictures showing chained NSKK would advise as to the FACT that the holes for the connecting rings are such in such shape to be ORIGINAL, but again, NOT!
This book is in NO way, shape or fashion "COMPLETE"! YES, there IS "new" information indeed but again, compared to a TW book or a TJ book, this book, forgetting the slip shod workmanship, is a disgrace!
I would personally appreciate any kind of work done regarding the hobby we are in. To me to write a book even like this (NOT COMPLETE) is like to go to the moon- almost.
quote:
Originally posted by Aleksandr:
I would personally appreciate any kind of work done regarding the hobby we are in. To me to write a book even like this (NOT COMPLETE) is like to go to the moon- almost.
Aleksandr, this we CAN agree on but I don't have the access to all those blades that some have, AND the research needed either.
Thanks for your understanding BTW! You know, perhaps I and some others are "spoiled" having read/owned/own books by TW, TJ, Angolia and yes, even Atwood! I have NO idea as to what books are available in Europe but I would guess the same as here though. I will be happy to have TW's SA book when it comes out, whenever that is? If you don't have any of Tom's books, I would recommend them very highly. I do NOT know TW or TJ but I love their books.
Hello together,
i`m a little astonished. I sold 500 books and got no complaint. No complaint on contents of the book and no complaint concerning the quality.
Greeting Ralf
Dont worry about negative comments Ralf. its a great book , when people Retire from the workplace, they always look for things to complain about!
Indeed, very nice book, I have both - German and English. I'm looking forward to next your book.
Lukas.
quote:
Originally posted by ROB B:
Dont worry about negative comments Ralf. its a great book , when people Retire from the workplace, they always look for things to complain about!
Sorry to disillusion you Rob but I have been retired from the workplace for over 16 yrs! During that time frame, I have received as gifts, all of TW's great books and found nothing "to compalin about" with them.
The book is not quality and I still say, if you haven't bought one, you might want to think long and hard about NOT buying it!
I will note, with NO attempt to belittle ANYONE, that most of the positive comments on the English edition seem to be made by persons that don't speak English as a first language and thus possibly aren't fully aware of the terrible translation. IF I spoke/read another language, it would be the same for me I am sure!
I have bought the printed German version of Ralfīs book for 59 Euro, which is approx. $85 (including shipping fees) and in my opinion the price performance ratio of this hardcover is excellent. Iīve spent in the past years several ten thousands dollars for SA daggers and related stuff and this book is a great source of information, which is very informative, helps to build up a collection and helps to avoid bad bargains. I have Tom Johnsonīs dagger books as well and Iīm not aware that - besides these 2 authors - more and/or better books on SA daggers do exist (or am I missing something?).
Alltogether, Ralf did a fantastic job and I congratulate him for doing this work and publishing the German version of his book! In my job Iīm dealing from time to time with authors and book publishing. I think I can assess how much work it is to write and publish such a book and how much effort is behind these pages, which are later on read so easy. I also know how much it costs to take professional high-resolution pictures and/or photos of the items. For an "non-professional book publisher" like Ralf it was simply impossible. He had to ask other SA dagger collectors to send him photos of their daggers, since most of the times he was not able to meet them personally and to make photos of the illustrated daggers by himself. Therefore he had to rely on receiving best possible digital files of the items. And I think all in all most of the photos in Ralfīs book have an acceptable quality. Therefore a big congrats to Ralf!
Now to the English version. According to my information Ralf sold the rights to publish his book in English to someone. Obviously Ralf closed the contract without taking care that he as the author should keep the final rights for review and approval of the English version. He just sold the rights and did not think of this quite important clause in the contract and/or the deal. And obviously the buyer of the rights did not do the best job regarding translation. Additionally IMO the buyer of the rights priced it quite high.
I must admit I didnīt buy the English version (since I have already the German one and the price is in my opinion too high). Thus I canīt rate the English version.
However, I think one should keep in mind that Ralf should not be blamed for the Englih version. According to my information he more or less trusted the buyer to do the same good job in publishing the English version like he did on the German version. Obviously that was not the case. So I think itīs not fair to bash Ralf and his book in general. The one and only who should be blamed is then the buyer of the rights, since he did the bad job.
And one final thing to those who still continue to bash Ralf and his book ... Iīm looking forward to seeing your book on SA daggers in the future. Bashing is easy, doing it better sometimes not
Lloyd no offence mate , my comment about retirement was tongue in cheek i assure you .The fact of the matter is that collectors have been waiting far too long for TW sa book .Ralfs book fills the void , An as i have said before , it has answered a lot of my questions . Cheers Rob !
quote:
Originally posted by ivbaust:
I have bought the printed German version of Ralfīs book for 59 Euro, which is approx. $85 (including shipping fees) and in my opinion the price performance ratio of this hardcover is excellent. Iīve spent in the past years several ten thousands dollars for SA daggers and related stuff and this book is a great source of information, which is very informative, helps to build up a collection and helps to avoid bad bargains. I have Tom Johnsonīs dagger books as well and Iīm not aware that - besides these 2 authors - more and/or better books on SA daggers do exist (or am I missing something?).
Alltogether, Ralf did a fantastic job and I congratulate him for doing this work and publishing the German version of his book! In my job Iīm dealing from time to time with authors and book publishing. I think I can assess how much work it is to write and publish such a book and how much effort is behind these pages, which are later on read so easy. I also know how much it costs to take professional high-resolution pictures and/or photos of the items. For an "non-professional book publisher" like Ralf it was simply impossible. He had to ask other SA dagger collectors to send him photos of their daggers, since most of the times he was not able to meet them personally and to make photos of the illustrated daggers by himself. Therefore he had to rely on receiving best possible digital files of the items. And I think all in all most of the photos in Ralfīs book have an acceptable quality. Therefore a big congrats to Ralf!
Now to the English version. According to my information Ralf sold the rights to publish his book in English to someone. Obviously Ralf closed the contract without taking care that he as the author should keep the final rights for review and approval of the English version. He just sold the rights and did not think of this quite important clause in the contract and/or the deal. And obviously the buyer of the rights did not do the best job regarding translation. Additionally IMO the buyer of the rights priced it quite high.
I must admit I didnīt buy the English version (since I have already the German one and the price is in my opinion too high). Thus I canīt rate the English version.
However, I think one should keep in mind that Ralf should not be blamed for the Englih version. According to my information he more or less trusted the buyer to do the same good job in publishing the English version like he did on the German version. Obviously that was not the case. So I think itīs not fair to bash Ralf and his book in general. The one and only who should be blamed is then the buyer of the rights, since he did the bad job.
And one final thing to those who still continue to bash Ralf and his book ... Iīm looking forward to seeing your book on SA daggers in the future. Bashing is easy, doing it better sometimes not
I just re-read each and every post in this thread and was unable to come up with a SINGLE instance of ANYONE "bashing" Ralf. Can you pls copy and paste the instances that you have been able to find? I noted the following from Ralf:
"Posted 14 May 2009 4:46 Hide Post
Hello collector friends,
the book is sold off, please dont send money on my paypal.
Now i search for an american partner who translate and print the book in the States.
regards Ralf
My homepage:
www.dienstdolch.de"
It is indeed unfortunate that Ralf did not find an American partner for this book as the translation probably would have been much better!
For Ralf and/or whoever is going to publish the SS book in English, my wife is proof reader and and could help with that book. Happy to accept email regarding same!
ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZzz
quote:
Lloyd no offence mate , my comment about retirement was tongue in cheek i assure you .The fact of the matter is that collectors have been waiting far too long for TW sa book.Ralfs book fills the void
I agree with Rob,it does fill in the void and (I will quote my own words), from Jan 15th when I said "So the 2 should work well together, as an overall reference on the subject". end quote What one lacks the other will pick up on. Not one of us out here has "Just one reference book" A diamond is multi faceted and shows many different views of light. So are more than one reference book. I am hopeful that Ralf does get an American printer I would like to have one of his SA books,, or even pick one up used somewhere.I would even take your book if you did not want it!! The info is the same no matter what the condition. Crap happens sometimes but it is unfortunate that it fell on you Lloyd. If it wasnt you then someone else. No one is immune to disappointments. I hope that you can get past this soon! I mean that in a positive sense with no disrespect intended. Dont let what had happened embitter you so that it takes your focus of of the hobby. No knowledge was gained in this hobby about the collecting field in these last few pages of this thread. I hope we can move on from this. Best Regards to all involved Larry
quote:
Originally posted by Siegfried B:
quote:
Lloyd no offence mate , my comment about retirement was tongue in cheek i assure you .The fact of the matter is that collectors have been waiting far too long for TW sa book.Ralfs book fills the void
I agree with Rob,it does fill in the void and (I will quote my own words), from Jan 15th when I said "So the 2 should work well together, as an overall reference on the subject". end quote What one lacks the other will pick up on. Not one of us out here has "Just one reference book" A diamond is multi faceted and shows many different views of light. So are more than one reference book. I am hopeful that Ralf does get an American printer I would like to have one of his SA books,, or even pick one up used somewhere.I would even take your book if you did not want it!! The info is the same no matter what the condition. Crap happens sometimes but it is unfortunate that it fell on you Lloyd. If it wasnt you then someone else. No one is immune to disappointments. I hope that you can get past this soon! I mean that in a positive sense with no disrespect intended. Dont let what had happened embitter you so that it takes your focus of of the hobby. No knowledge was gained in this hobby about the collecting field in these last few pages of this thread. I hope we can move on from this. Best Regards to all involved Larry
Email sent!
Hi Guys,
I have the german version of this book and think it is an excellent and interesting reference. Thanks Ralf.
Steve
Gentlemen , I too had just received Ralfs SA book.( English Version) I am very pleased with the content.
Thanks Ralf for your compilation of information and dissection of the SA/NSKK subject.
It brings understanding of information,, I myself have not yet seen.
Best Regards Larry
quote:
Originally posted by Siegfried B:
Gentlemen , I too had just received Ralfs SA book.( English Version) I am very pleased with the content.
Thanks Ralf for your compilation of information and dissection of the SA/NSKK subject.
It brings understanding of information,, I myself have not yet seen.
Best Regards Larry
Ah yes, a real dearth of information there indeed!
oh dear here we go again !
LOL
Just received my book this weekend!
Great book and many thanks to Mr. Siegret for his contribution to this wonderful hobby of dagger collecting!