Just about all of us have a few classic Apple devices we just can’t bear to get rid of. But Hap Plain takes it to the next level. And beyond. He collects and sells Apple prototypes for top dollar.
He has about 258. And his collection is a more than just a history of the company. It’s a testament all the effort needed to create the great Apple desktops, PDAs, and phones of the past.
The prototypes usually have clear cases, making it easier for engineers to tinker with them. And they look great, especially after they’ve been refurbished.
Photo: CNBC
Apple prototypes for sale
Plain doesn’t just archive these computers. He sells Apple prototypes on eBay under the handle alittlebytedifferent. And these go for premium prices.
In the past few months, he sold a prototype Apple Macintosh SE for $22,600. A prototype Apple Macintosh Portable went for $16,225.
Photo: CNBC
Plain told CNBC that he recently tried to sell a developer’s Apple Lisa, and the price was “just under $100,000” when the sale was blocked by Apple’s lawyers. “They are not very keen on having individuals sell prototypes on e-commerce websites,” said the collector.
He also does repairs. Anyone with a Twentieth Anniversary Mac can have the CD drive fixed for $550.
Photo: CNBC
