What started as an idea in a moment of clarity in rehab has now become the brain-child of a local comics and comic busts collector.
“I realised that no one was importing comics and graphic novels. This is while I had just finished reading DC Comics 52. So I started in 2009, only selling comic books while subletting five square meters in a video store in Langenhoven Park. We then moved to the Waterfront, then to College Square and 13 years later we have finally found our home at our current premises in Bayswater,” said the proud owner of RedClaw Comix, Karl-Franz Johnson.
The red and yellow theme creates a multiverse that any comic collector would love to get lost in. From rare collections that go as far as the 60’s that retail between R1200 to R5500 per comic book, to bobbleheads, action figures, and clothing, to graphic novels that are sure to keep enthusiasts captivated.
“When a customer buys a limited edition item, it is a big thing for the customer as it is not cheap, it is also an investment. The item could usually be sold at a later stage at the right time for a lot more.”
Johnson said that although collecting digital collectibles is easier and more convenient, original copies still have far more value than digital copies, especially if the merchandise is signed by the artist/writer. Original comic books or variant covers have far more value than a digital copy.
“As Stan Lee said: boobs are better in your hands,” he said.
Turning a hobby and passion for comics into a lucrative business is not the only vision Johnson has for the store, but seeing the joy that comes with happy customers makes it all worth it.
For him, this is the reward that he looks forward to, therefore adding an in-store café that welcomes patrons with the aromatic smell of coffee to add to the experience, makes it even more exciting.
“We thought it would be great for customers to purchase reading material in our store and be able to sit in the store and read it while enjoying one of our beverages or something to eat,” Johnson explained.
They specialise in DC, Marvel, and all other independent publications and merchandise for collectors nationwide.
Whether you are looking to invest in a limited edition collectible comic book, action figure, or comic bust or would just want to enjoy a cup of coffee while browsing around looking at some of the vintage and latest collections, pay RedClaw Comix a visit at 59 Milner Road in Bloemfontein or visit their site at www.redclawcomix.co.za
Gypseenia Lion
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