Jigsaw Puzzle Collector Bob Armstrong

Bob Armstrong collects and restores old wood jigsaw puzzles . He is also an organizer, educator, and author of articles focused on puzzles. And, if that weren't enough, he is the owner of major website on puzzles--all as his "second career" in retirement. So, with that resume in mind, the following interview contains Bob's thoughts on about puzzles.

ephemera: I've been meaning to feature jigsaw puzzles for a long time, Bob. I'm glad I discovered your excellent website. How did you become interested in jigsaw puzzles ?

Armstrong: Back in the 1930/40s I grew up with two dozen wonderful wood puzzles, which our family worked. I was able to salvage these puzzles after my marriage in 1962--and along with puzzles we ordered from two New England cutters in the 1970s-- they became the source of much pleasure for our family. Finally, around 1990, when I realized I would be retiring within 5-10 years, I intensified my hobby--first, trying to cut new puzzles, then collecting and restoring old puzzles. And becoming part of--and major "player" in--the American jigsaw puzzle world.

ephemera: That's good, because we only talk to major players here, Bob. Tell me about the challenges or obstacles you encounter in the world of jigsaw puzzles?

Armstrong: Time constraints, always time. My life goes on with all its many demands, even though I may want to spend more time on my puzzle interest. Much of this is the result of others not placing as much importance on jigsaw puzzles as I do; hence, expect me to do all the other things I have always done.

ephemera: That's a major complaint of a lot of dedicated collectors. I've heard others express the same sentiment. What are your favorite items in your collection?

Armstrong: A couple of puzzles-- "The Arrival" and "Checkers"--I grew up with...nothing can replace those treasured memories from childhood. My greatest restoration challenge, "Gloria", which took me about 100 hours over one Christmas to restore, and with which, I developed a unique love/hate relationship. And recently, "Full of the Dickens"--one of the world's greatest puzzles--made and presented to me by my colleagues to honor my contributions to the jigsaw puzzle world. These, and 700 other quality puzzles, can be viewed at my website.

ephemera: Childhood memories are the driving-force behind so many collections. It's amazing the power it has on collectors. Someone ought to do study or write a book on that aspect of collecting. Anyway, what’s your advice for achieving success as a collector?

Armstrong: Become involved in every facet of the area of your collection; meet other collectors; join any organizations involved in your area; develop an extensive website about your collection; talk about and display your collection at every opportunity.

ephemera: What resources do you recommend for would-be puzzle collectors?

Armstrong: eBay is a huge new resource far exceeding the old collectible shows, local auctions, flea markets, etc. For tools, I focus on restoration, displays, writing articles, organizing meetings, and building my website.

ephemera: Sounds like the makings of a happy retirement, Bob. Thanks for sharing your jigsaw puzzles and your expertise on the subject.