American Pickers TV Show

I've watched American Pickers several times on TV. While I enjoy most shows related to antiques and collecting, such as Antiques Roadshow or Pawn Stars, I just can’t seem to get into this one. While the duo occasionally finds interesting items that are enjoyable to learn about, what bothers me is the impression that they’re often taking advantage of an older, unsuspecting seller who doesn’t seem to know the true value of their items.

The show highlights what I dislike most about collecting—the dynamics you sometimes encounter at swap meets, though usually in a less extreme form. I understand that they run a legitimate business and need to turn a profit to keep things going, but the way they negotiate feels overly opportunistic and, frankly, a bit slimy. Of course, this is just my personal impression, and others might see it differently.

The tall, skinny host, in particular, strikes me as someone who might even haggle with his own grandmother to get a better deal. This approach really puts me off the show. I’m curious to know what others think about American Pickers and its hosts. Do you enjoy their style, or do you share some of my concerns?

Actually it is real, and if you google them they are real dealers with stores and families. I will respectfully disagree that they talk people down in an abnormal way other than the usual bartering, and if you watch the show enough many times Mike will tell someone their price is too low and he offers more money for the item.

designbyleigh

10 years 3 months ago

I watch all the shows mentioned and American Pickers is by far one of the most entertaining. Maybe because they make me laugh at how far they are willing to go to find "the rusty" junk...as they say. I live in on the East Coast in Virginia and they were recently here in the Fredericksburg area. It simply amazed me the prices that they were willing to pay for some of the items purchased. Ironically most of the items that came from the downtown Fredericksburg area went to auction, and if not sold they were given away to those attending. Those that sold to Mike and Frank made a hefty profit. Boy oh boy, I would love for them to come and pick through our storage and sheds that are currently overflowing from four generations of collecting. I've sold at auctions, antique stores, shows, and personal collectors-have never received anything close to the amout they "seem" to pay. But then again, I'm a soft hearted individual who loves a fellow collector with a passion for the history of the item. I give away more than I care to admit. :)