Discussion - Member to Member Sales - Research Center
Discussion - Member to Member Sales - Research Center
1. Pointed end - have a tapered and sharp point to efficiently pick up individual stamps from a pile, and position stamps on the stamp mounts. The pointed stamp tongs should be used with extra care because it can puncture a delicate postage stamp.
2. Spoon end - also known as the shovel tip stamp tongs. They have a broad spatula-shaped ends that are sometimes bent at an angle.
3. Spade tip - have a flat and blunt end for a firmer grip on the stamp without damaging its surface and its perforation mark. The spade stamp tongs are perfect for holding a small stack of stamps.
A good pair of stamp tweezers is practical to avoid unwanted folds, accidental tears, and fingerprints on your postage stamps. My tweezer by choice is the spoon end with the tip bent at an angle, it allows a better grip when removing a stamp from an album.
Although there are various types of watermark detectors on the market, some worth a few hundred dollars, none are worth the money, the best way of seeing a watermark is by looking at the stamp front or back against natural light, or a well-lit room.
A very good magnifying glass will also be effective recognising thin areas of a stamp.
For identifying helicon stamps, some are helicon coated on both sides and other only on the front; I use the portable L81 Switchable Dual UV lamp which has both long and short wave ultraviolet lights; there is a very powerful single led that emits a long wave ultraviolet light; it is also excellent on foreign stamps, especially British Chalon stamps .
The Lighthouse (Leuchtturm) L81 Switchable Dual UV lamp - single light at front, UV380 nm (left side of image), and the bottom is a fluorescent lamp, UV254 nm.
My choice of perforation gauge is the Stanley Gibbons “Instanta” perforation gauge, it is very accurate.
The stamp and perforation gauge background is the inside cover of my album.
Examples of the L81 UV lamp.
Pardon the images, the stamps are actually brighter, I used my iPhone to take the photo causing my shadow to dull the iamge but it still shows the Helecon coating. The 2/- is coated only on the front and the 5d is coated on both sides.
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Thank you for posting this. I have been dithering about a UV light for several years. How long have you had yours, how much do you use it, and have you ever had to replace the bulbs? Would you recommend the one you use? Are there any features you do not like?
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Sally, there's no point in replacing the bulbs as they cost about as much as a new unit.
I use the same dual UV lamp. I'm not as happy with it as I was with individual lamps.
If you want to save money, the long-wave light is merely what we call a black light. Buy a black light bulb (any hardware store) and put it into a lamp. Ready to go.
The short wave lamp is different, and it is dangerous to look directly into it. I have had three of these, and find that the lamp doesn't last that long. I'm considering looking for a better quality UV lamp, maybe one not meant for stamp collecting.
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Here are the wavelengths for the ultra-violet lights:
long wave = 380 nm (you can get these as a small flashlight): example Long-wave UV flashlight
short wave = 254 nm (make sure you get one with a cover filter to protect your eyes from the harmful light): example Short Wave UV Lamp
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Thanks Michael,
I still have and use the long wave light i got from you several years ago but am really wanting a short wave light for USA tagging, etc.... thanks for the info
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I went ahead and bought both of the ones that I linked to. I think the price was more than reasonable. The short wave lamp is the same design that Lighthouse uses, without the brand name on it.
I'd offer to send you my dual lamp, but it doesn't work right.
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"Thank you for posting this. I have been dithering about a UV light for several years. How long have you had yours, how much do you use it, and have you ever had to replace the bulbs? Would you recommend the one you use? Are there any features you do not like?"
Hi smaier
I have only had the UV lamp for a week, and find it very useful on stamps; I have tested all my stamps and found the performance of the lamp excellent. I intend using it for all new items I obtain.
The fluorescent bulb has a 50,000 hour usage and led light emitting a long wave ultraviolet light on the front; it runs on 4 AA batteries.
I have been collecting stamps for 40 years and have tried many UV lights, not only is the Lighthouse L81 very good, for something I normally do not do (advertise), I fully recommend this lamp to anyone who wants to use a decent light (being a UV light it works best in a darkened room)
As the long wave UV is a LED, the mileage would be some years of usage, the same goes with a fluorescent bulb, dropping it from a distance obviously may damage it).
The replacement fluorescent bulb from Lighthouse is around $12-$20 (you would need to get in touch with Lighthouse or any retailer who sells UV lights).
Are there any features I do not like about it? No there isn't.
Rob
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"Sally, there's no point in replacing the bulbs as they cost about as much as a new unit.
Hi michael78651
I use the same dual UV lamp. I'm not as happy with it as I was with individual lamps.
If you want to save money, the long-wave light is merely what we call a black light. Buy a black light bulb (any hardware store) and put it into a lamp. Ready to go.
The short wave lamp is different, and it is dangerous to look directly into it. I have had three of these, and find that the lamp doesn't last that long. I'm considering looking for a better quality UV lamp, maybe one not meant for stamp collecting."
1. Where did you get the information that the bulbs of the L81 costs as much as the unit?
2. UV lamps are a tool of choice, but to use a black light bulb from a hardware store it can easily damage the stamps if the lamp is brought too close to the stamp as the bulb (like all large bulbs) will get very hot - It is also dangerous if the user had full eye contact with it.
3. To look directly into any UV light for a short time will injure the eye, but hand-held UV lamps are quite harmless if used the correct way, and I'm sure smaier knows how to use a UV lamp.
I fully advise smaier to use the lamp I recommended if needing a good UV light, it is very safe and easy to use. Bulbs not used for stamps is not advisable, as I mentioned, A hardware bought UV bulb can easily damage stamps.
Rob
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I've seen the links to the torch and lamp, why have two separate items? I originally bought the torch, and it's too bright and I didn't like the bulkiness. The second is no different to the L81, with the exception that the L81 is nicely designed, easily handled and is excellent for the collector.
In my business, I have been a technician for 32 years, and I do know that no-brand electronic items are made with inferior parts (mainly from China), no matter how good they look or seem to work; the L81 is precision made in Germany.
And the L81 is reasonably priced.
It's up to smaier to make a choice, but I recommend the L81.
Rob
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"1. Where did you get the information that the bulbs of the L81 costs as much as the unit?"
Subway catalog, "Replacement bulb cost is almost the same as the complete lamps."
Ebay pricing for the 4 watt short wave bulb is $41. Can you get it cheaper? Probably. The L81 net price at Subway is $58.
"I originally bought the torch, and it's too bright and I didn't like the bulkiness."
I am buying it strictly as a test to see how well it works. It cost less than $4 and shipping was free, so what the heck. If it is too bulky, I have plenty of clamps and can easily make a stand for it. If too bright, I have material I can use to shade it. If it doesn't work out as I planned, I can use the UV LED on the L81 I still have.
"The second is no different to the L81"
I think you're right on that. I didn't notice before that it has a UV torch. I probably won't need the other light, but it will put out a broader beam than the small LED on the L81.
I have had 2 L81 over the past few years. I have simply not had much luck with the workmanship. On the first one, the battery clips in the battery compartment broke. On the one I have now, the latch to the battery compartment has to be left open about 5mm, or else the lights won't work. Also, the shortwave bulb doesn't light correctly. I suspect more problems with the battery clips.
Maybe I got the bad luck of the draw twice. Rather than paying another $60 to replace my second L81 with a third, I decided to go the China route. I'll see how that works and how long it lasts. At one-third the cost I'm willing to take the chance.
My opinion is based on the experiences I have had with the L81. I have used them for several years. You've had yours for a week. Mine worked good at that time too. I hope you have better luck over a longer time than I did.
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I have two Lighthouse lamps (LW and SW) and a Raytech Versalume. The Versalume is more powerful plus a couple old Raytech. I used for photo work.
Should this thread be moved under another topic?
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Hi michael78651
I never buy from eBay, it’s a very risky business and there are no guarantees to what you get. I viewed the subway catalogue (nice catalogue, though one must know what to buy or money can be wasted), the tubes are still very cheap compared to the lamp, the lamp is being sold in the catalogue at a discount, and even at a discount the tube is cheaper, and considering the tube has a 50,000 hour usage, I see no reason to be concerned.
50,000 hours - 50,000 hours would imply 5.7 years if the light is operated for 24 hours in a day, 7.6 years if the lights are on 18 hours per day and 11.4 years for 12 hours a day. And if bought and a receipt kept and the light not dropped and broken, any malfunction will imply replacement as it will be under warranty.
The torch is not needed; the L81 is more than adequate. Many collectors who use lamps prefer light and easy; I know I do, but then again it is by choice.
You say you simply have not had much luck with the workmanship of this particular light. I have other UV lights and I also did not have much luck either, and I was not impressed. I am very confident the light I recommended will work quite well.
You are correct, I did say I have had the L81 for a week, and how can I recommend an item I had only owned for week; quite easy, this particular UV light was recommended to me by an internationally renowned stamp specialist of 35 years whose company sells only high-quality pre-decimal Commonwealth stamps (all my stamps are bought from him). He has used that particular light for quite a few years (it is a very necessary tool of the trade for him) and he must have been very happy with it to recommend it to me.
All small items that require batteries will have a battery clip, and such clips are prone to be broken, but if treated with care the clip should not break, and if by chance one does break then it should be no problem under warranty. And as I said, the specialist has had his for a number of years and nothing has happened to it, he hasn’t had a need to fix or change anything on the UV light.
It’s a personal choice to buy from China or Germany, those on a tight budget will opt for something cheaper, and those who are willing to pay just a little more for German made.
My tools of trade as a technician is both Chinese and German equipment; but I’m slowly going all German made; they are far more reliable – but again it comes down to personal choice; and when I am asked what I recommend, I chose to recommend the German made Lighthouse L81 UV light because of its reliability.
Rob
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"I have two Lighthouse lamps (LW and SW) and a Raytech Versalume. The Versalume is more powerful plus a couple old Raytech. I used for photo work."
Hi angore
The L81 has both types of UV lights which can be toggled. What weight is the Raytech Versalume you are speaking of? As far as I know, that particular brand is not sold in Australia so I cannot give any feedback to it.
I would need to know the weight and could you upload an image of the item.
Rob
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Hi Rob!
As an engineer, I am sure that I am to once again about to ‘give too much information’.
Be careful with ‘bulb life’ metrics, they are skewed by marketing people into misleading information. (Typically based upon MTBF numbers.) Just because a bulb fires up does not mean that it is working properly. Unlike a normal light bulb, a UV bulb is tasked with delivering more than just visible light; it has to generate enough energy to deliver the proper UV wavelengths. In most UV bulbs, the energy emitted by the bulb is strong and constant for the first few hundred hours of use (up to around 300 hours). After that, the bulb deteriorates, loses power, and becomes much less efficient.
In all other applications of UV bulbs (sterilization, curing, bug lights, etc.) they recommend that UV bulbs be replace every year. But of course simply using it to view stamps is much less demanding and critical than these type uses.
The question here is how many hours of use before the bulb begins to lose enough power to become less effective in helping a hobbyist see the tagging they are looking for. My gut feeling is that it would be around 5 years of normal use but the bulb is still likely to light up for a much longer period. But a 5 year old used bulb will be working at around 50-60% effectiveness compared to a new bulb. It would probably still be able to reveal some stamp tagging but not be as vibrant or work as well as a new bulb.
I concur with your comments regarding the quality of the bulb. Like most things in life, quality comes at additional cost. For example, mishandling the bulb after manufacturing can greatly shorten it’s life; so having high quality packaging and dunnage is very important when shipping and handling these delicate items. Try to eliminate as many ‘middle people’ as you can between the bulb manufacturer and the consumer to get maximum bulb life.
Don
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This is a stock photo. It is an all plastic design (somewhat flimsy to me) so very lightweight. The advantages are battery or AC adapter powered, dual wavelength, and built in stand. The handle rotates so it can be between the legs or use for handheld.
Mine is over 10 years old but do not look like it has changed much.
As for bulb life, I would think the power on/off cycles may be more of an effect on bulb life rather than pure hours.
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Hi Don
There is never “too much information” when it comes to people of the trade.
It’s true that the bulb life depends on the reliability of the product, and I know that a bulb life can weaken after a certain amount of time. And it is as you say a less demanding task for the UV light when it is used for viewing stamps.
Even replacing the UV light once a year is cheap, but going by the usage of the UV lamp by specialist dealers where the UV light has not been replaced for many years and still giving good service is a good example of the reliability of certain UV lights.
And like all fluorescent tubes and bulbs, there can be duds which, with the sales invoice should be replaced under consumer law (that’s the law in Australia, have no idea what the consumer laws in the US apply to consumer protection, I assume very much the same).
Once the light shows a weakening that causes ineffectiveness then it would be time to exchange the tube or bulb but in the majority of cases with stamp tagging, exchanging the bulb would be in the very distant future.
It’s not often I would use the light, once the stamp is identified and recorded either by photograph or entry into a database (or both); the UV light is put away until it is used again, and that won't be until I obtain another stamp(s) that are known to have helecon and non-helecon issues or foreign stamps that have some sort of phosphor fluorescent coating.
It works well with bank notes, especially with our polymer notes.
I obtain all my accessories (not stamps) from Renniks who buy directly from Lighthouse, it’s much cheaper that way, I have seen these lamps sold at stamp shops in Australia that buy from Renniks, it’s much cheaper at Rennicks, and seeing that they are only 14km (8 miles from Banksmeadow (Renniks) to Bondi Beach)) , it is practically in my neighbourhood.
"Like most things in life, quality comes at additional cost. For example, mishandling the bulb after manufacturing can greatly shorten its life; so having high-quality packaging and dunnage is very important when shipping and handling these delicate items."
True.
Rob
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"This is a stock photo. It is an all plastic design (somewhat flimsy to me) so very lightweight. The advantages are battery or AC adapter powered, dual wavelength, and built in stand. The handle rotates so it can be between the legs or use for handheld.
Mine is over 10 years old but do not look like it has changed much.
As for bulb life, I would think the power on/off cycles may be more of an effect on bulb life rather than pure hours."
Hi Angore
I thought it was that particular item you were referring to, I have never seen one sold in Australia.
What I read about this particular item is that it also can be bought long wave only, short wave only and there is a Philatelic model which includes a view box.
Pity I cannot see one up front. I read that if the model has both wave lengths that both short and long wave is turned on simultaneously, wouldn't that be a waste of power and lamp usage (just my opinion).
It has a stand, good for photographing stamps under the UV light.
I also read it weighs 2lbs (nearly 1kg), and that is light?
Rob
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The Versalume is available in dual wave.
PP-FLS Longwave/Shortwave (115V/60 Hz) 10-020 USD$110.86
PP-FLS Longwave/Shortwave (230V/50 Hz) 10-012 USD$115.04
I decided to weight a couple of my lamps.
My Lighthouse short wave is 6.1 ounces (173g) and the Versalum weighs 11.2 ounces (318g). I am guessing the 2lb is the boxed unit including the power adapter.
A better pic.
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Hi angore
It looks very good, pity it's not sold over here, it is also very reasonably priced, it'll probably sell for close to AU$300 if it were to be bought here. You guys have a better choice of accessories for both the philatelist and numismatist.
I would have found it quite interesting to test that UV lamp.
Rob
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I didn't know about the Versalume lamp. I'll remember it should I need to buy another one in the future.
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I will note that I cover up the LW window when I am viewing stamps to be sure not to get a mixed response.
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Hi Michael & Al
Unfortunately, I'll have to view the Versalum from afar, until I can test one I'll stick to the L81, as it will do the job quite well, I have just tested British stamps and also stamps from Hong Kong, works like a charm.
I'll upload these stamps soon.
Rob
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From the Versalume web site:
"Featured here is the Longwave (LW) only version of the Versalume. The other configurations are sold out. Despite many successful years of producing the Versalume, Raytech is discontinuing their line of UV lamps altogether, but will still be there for service and parts replacement."
Long wave is still available for $79 US.
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Well, so much for that idea...
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I've been appreciating this discussion, since I think I'm going to have to get something stronger than the small portable handheld Lighthouse sw and lw lamps I have.
What is the "view box" that comes/came with the philatelic models? I can't quite picture what that is or does.
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I received the long wave UV flashlight today. Bought it on Friday, and it arrived just three days later. Not bad.
Anyway, it is brighter than the single LED on the L81. I find that I like the flashlight better as I don't have to hold the light within inches of the stamp. Also, I don't have to work in darkness. If I need less light on a stamp, I just raise the flashlight away from the stamp about a foot. It's small, round shape makes it easy to handle. It is metal, and weighs about the same as the plastic L81.
Tagging on German stamps, and the so-called "lite-brite" paper used by some countries, show up clearly.
For me, this is a keeper. Now I'm waiting to get the short wave lamp replacement for the L81. I'll report back when I get that unit and have tried it out.
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So the Versalume UV lamp is discontinued, so much for that one.
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There seems to be some on ebay.
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Can eBay be trusted?
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For the collector who is interested in tagging a stamp, and does not want to hulk around large lamps, the smaller hand held ones are quite adequate, so recommending the L81 would be the appropriate choice.
"Anyway, it is brighter than the single LED on the L81. I find that I like the flashlight better as I don't have to hold the light within inches of the stamp. Also, I don't have to work in darkness. If I need less light on a stamp, I just raise the flashlight away from the stamp about a foot. It's small, round shape makes it easy to handle. It is metal, and weighs about the same as the plastic L81."
I agree Michael, I too have the same type of flashlight, but with a darkened room the illumination of the stamp is better (not so great for cats though, when you have three cats skulking nearby and one gets stepped on).
Rob
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I have ordered 2 older (metal housing) RayTech lamps and use them.
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"Although there are various types of watermark detectors on the market, some worth a few hundred dollars, none are worth the money, the best way of seeing a watermark is by looking at the stamp front or back against natural light, or a well-lit room."
Couple of comments, firstly, I have rarely been able to observe a watermark by holding to a light and even with fluid in a watermark case the stamps on coloured paper are almost impossible to see. Some of the Hong Kong stamps including those from later years are a nightmare.
I have considered buying one of the much more expensive watermark detectors but would like to try one out on various stamps before committing a large sum of money. Does anyone have/use one?
Secondly I have an L81 but really do have to have a dark room and often expose stamps for a minute or more to observe the tags. It is a couple of years old but the 254nm bulb seems to have trouble starting sometimes. (could be the switch) New batteries make no difference.
Most of the tags/phosphor bands can be seen against daylight if held at an angle. Just occasionally am I unable to see them, usually on soaked stamps.
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If your bulb is having trouble starting, remember that is a fluorescent tube. The tubes have an activator on each end that charges the gas in the tube. It could be that one activators has failed, and the other is in the process of doing so. The best way to test it is to try another tube. If you have a long wave tube, put it in and see.
I agree that the British Watermark of the 1970s is horrible to detect. However, I have found that the stamps printed with that watermark (Scott Watermark #373) has a greenish (some may say bluish) colored gum where the stamps printed with the other watermark (#314) have a clear (some may say yellowish) gum.
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I prefer to use seperate lw and sw lights as inevitably I am only looking for 1 effect at a time.
As far as weak reaction is concerned unless the lamp is very old the weak reaction is caused by the stamp. As a used Machin collector using the s/w stamp all the time,I have observed it is usually soaked stamps that caused the problem. Limited exposure to water has little effect, but stamps that have been oversoaked do cause problems.
You have to work in a completely dark room with your eyes shut and operate the lamp for at least 15 seconds ( in extreme cases even longer ) and only open your eyes as you shut off the lamp. I have NEVER failed to to detect an afterglow ( albeit very weak - which is why you have to work in complete darkness). Detecting short or notched bands ( or the different lengths of afterglow on Wilding stamps) is problematical with overwashed stamps.
As for detecting bands by eye in daylight this is only possible on stamps issued before the introduction of the modified phosphor commonly known as "A-phosphor", on some stamps it is even difficult to see in the dark with the lamp on, you have to rely on the afterglow.
I have never succeeded in seeing watermarks with a u.v lamps. I understand that the best method is using your scanner with a filtering programme but I have never quite worked out how!.
While the dangers to the eye of s.w. lamps is well documented I would add that there should be no metal objects ( tongs etc) close enough to reflect the light to your eyes.
Also even when not a direct danger, using uv for an extended period in one session does lead to excessive tiredness.
Malcolm
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Member ACCC (Australian Commonwealth Collectors Club of NSW)
10 Aug 2017
11:36:57pm
The important tools in stamps collecting are stamp tweezers (tongs); there are various types to choose, such as:
1. Pointed end - have a tapered and sharp point to efficiently pick up individual stamps from a pile, and position stamps on the stamp mounts. The pointed stamp tongs should be used with extra care because it can puncture a delicate postage stamp.
2. Spoon end - also known as the shovel tip stamp tongs. They have a broad spatula-shaped ends that are sometimes bent at an angle.
3. Spade tip - have a flat and blunt end for a firmer grip on the stamp without damaging its surface and its perforation mark. The spade stamp tongs are perfect for holding a small stack of stamps.
A good pair of stamp tweezers is practical to avoid unwanted folds, accidental tears, and fingerprints on your postage stamps. My tweezer by choice is the spoon end with the tip bent at an angle, it allows a better grip when removing a stamp from an album.
Although there are various types of watermark detectors on the market, some worth a few hundred dollars, none are worth the money, the best way of seeing a watermark is by looking at the stamp front or back against natural light, or a well-lit room.
A very good magnifying glass will also be effective recognising thin areas of a stamp.
For identifying helicon stamps, some are helicon coated on both sides and other only on the front; I use the portable L81 Switchable Dual UV lamp which has both long and short wave ultraviolet lights; there is a very powerful single led that emits a long wave ultraviolet light; it is also excellent on foreign stamps, especially British Chalon stamps .
The Lighthouse (Leuchtturm) L81 Switchable Dual UV lamp - single light at front, UV380 nm (left side of image), and the bottom is a fluorescent lamp, UV254 nm.
My choice of perforation gauge is the Stanley Gibbons “Instanta” perforation gauge, it is very accurate.
The stamp and perforation gauge background is the inside cover of my album.
Examples of the L81 UV lamp.
Pardon the images, the stamps are actually brighter, I used my iPhone to take the photo causing my shadow to dull the iamge but it still shows the Helecon coating. The 2/- is coated only on the front and the 5d is coated on both sides.
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re: Tools of a stamp collector
Thank you for posting this. I have been dithering about a UV light for several years. How long have you had yours, how much do you use it, and have you ever had to replace the bulbs? Would you recommend the one you use? Are there any features you do not like?
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re: Tools of a stamp collector
Sally, there's no point in replacing the bulbs as they cost about as much as a new unit.
I use the same dual UV lamp. I'm not as happy with it as I was with individual lamps.
If you want to save money, the long-wave light is merely what we call a black light. Buy a black light bulb (any hardware store) and put it into a lamp. Ready to go.
The short wave lamp is different, and it is dangerous to look directly into it. I have had three of these, and find that the lamp doesn't last that long. I'm considering looking for a better quality UV lamp, maybe one not meant for stamp collecting.
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re: Tools of a stamp collector
Here are the wavelengths for the ultra-violet lights:
long wave = 380 nm (you can get these as a small flashlight): example Long-wave UV flashlight
short wave = 254 nm (make sure you get one with a cover filter to protect your eyes from the harmful light): example Short Wave UV Lamp
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re: Tools of a stamp collector
Thanks Michael,
I still have and use the long wave light i got from you several years ago but am really wanting a short wave light for USA tagging, etc.... thanks for the info
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re: Tools of a stamp collector
I went ahead and bought both of the ones that I linked to. I think the price was more than reasonable. The short wave lamp is the same design that Lighthouse uses, without the brand name on it.
I'd offer to send you my dual lamp, but it doesn't work right.
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11 Aug 2017
10:07:40pm
re: Tools of a stamp collector
"Thank you for posting this. I have been dithering about a UV light for several years. How long have you had yours, how much do you use it, and have you ever had to replace the bulbs? Would you recommend the one you use? Are there any features you do not like?"
Hi smaier
I have only had the UV lamp for a week, and find it very useful on stamps; I have tested all my stamps and found the performance of the lamp excellent. I intend using it for all new items I obtain.
The fluorescent bulb has a 50,000 hour usage and led light emitting a long wave ultraviolet light on the front; it runs on 4 AA batteries.
I have been collecting stamps for 40 years and have tried many UV lights, not only is the Lighthouse L81 very good, for something I normally do not do (advertise), I fully recommend this lamp to anyone who wants to use a decent light (being a UV light it works best in a darkened room)
As the long wave UV is a LED, the mileage would be some years of usage, the same goes with a fluorescent bulb, dropping it from a distance obviously may damage it).
The replacement fluorescent bulb from Lighthouse is around $12-$20 (you would need to get in touch with Lighthouse or any retailer who sells UV lights).
Are there any features I do not like about it? No there isn't.
Rob
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Member ACCC (Australian Commonwealth Collectors Club of NSW)
11 Aug 2017
10:25:30pm
re: Tools of a stamp collector
"Sally, there's no point in replacing the bulbs as they cost about as much as a new unit.
Hi michael78651
I use the same dual UV lamp. I'm not as happy with it as I was with individual lamps.
If you want to save money, the long-wave light is merely what we call a black light. Buy a black light bulb (any hardware store) and put it into a lamp. Ready to go.
The short wave lamp is different, and it is dangerous to look directly into it. I have had three of these, and find that the lamp doesn't last that long. I'm considering looking for a better quality UV lamp, maybe one not meant for stamp collecting."
1. Where did you get the information that the bulbs of the L81 costs as much as the unit?
2. UV lamps are a tool of choice, but to use a black light bulb from a hardware store it can easily damage the stamps if the lamp is brought too close to the stamp as the bulb (like all large bulbs) will get very hot - It is also dangerous if the user had full eye contact with it.
3. To look directly into any UV light for a short time will injure the eye, but hand-held UV lamps are quite harmless if used the correct way, and I'm sure smaier knows how to use a UV lamp.
I fully advise smaier to use the lamp I recommended if needing a good UV light, it is very safe and easy to use. Bulbs not used for stamps is not advisable, as I mentioned, A hardware bought UV bulb can easily damage stamps.
Rob
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Member ACCC (Australian Commonwealth Collectors Club of NSW)
11 Aug 2017
10:47:42pm
re: Tools of a stamp collector
I've seen the links to the torch and lamp, why have two separate items? I originally bought the torch, and it's too bright and I didn't like the bulkiness. The second is no different to the L81, with the exception that the L81 is nicely designed, easily handled and is excellent for the collector.
In my business, I have been a technician for 32 years, and I do know that no-brand electronic items are made with inferior parts (mainly from China), no matter how good they look or seem to work; the L81 is precision made in Germany.
And the L81 is reasonably priced.
It's up to smaier to make a choice, but I recommend the L81.
Rob
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re: Tools of a stamp collector
"1. Where did you get the information that the bulbs of the L81 costs as much as the unit?"
Subway catalog, "Replacement bulb cost is almost the same as the complete lamps."
Ebay pricing for the 4 watt short wave bulb is $41. Can you get it cheaper? Probably. The L81 net price at Subway is $58.
"I originally bought the torch, and it's too bright and I didn't like the bulkiness."
I am buying it strictly as a test to see how well it works. It cost less than $4 and shipping was free, so what the heck. If it is too bulky, I have plenty of clamps and can easily make a stand for it. If too bright, I have material I can use to shade it. If it doesn't work out as I planned, I can use the UV LED on the L81 I still have.
"The second is no different to the L81"
I think you're right on that. I didn't notice before that it has a UV torch. I probably won't need the other light, but it will put out a broader beam than the small LED on the L81.
I have had 2 L81 over the past few years. I have simply not had much luck with the workmanship. On the first one, the battery clips in the battery compartment broke. On the one I have now, the latch to the battery compartment has to be left open about 5mm, or else the lights won't work. Also, the shortwave bulb doesn't light correctly. I suspect more problems with the battery clips.
Maybe I got the bad luck of the draw twice. Rather than paying another $60 to replace my second L81 with a third, I decided to go the China route. I'll see how that works and how long it lasts. At one-third the cost I'm willing to take the chance.
My opinion is based on the experiences I have had with the L81. I have used them for several years. You've had yours for a week. Mine worked good at that time too. I hope you have better luck over a longer time than I did.
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re: Tools of a stamp collector
I have two Lighthouse lamps (LW and SW) and a Raytech Versalume. The Versalume is more powerful plus a couple old Raytech. I used for photo work.
Should this thread be moved under another topic?
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Member ACCC (Australian Commonwealth Collectors Club of NSW)
13 Aug 2017
06:25:16am
re: Tools of a stamp collector
Hi michael78651
I never buy from eBay, it’s a very risky business and there are no guarantees to what you get. I viewed the subway catalogue (nice catalogue, though one must know what to buy or money can be wasted), the tubes are still very cheap compared to the lamp, the lamp is being sold in the catalogue at a discount, and even at a discount the tube is cheaper, and considering the tube has a 50,000 hour usage, I see no reason to be concerned.
50,000 hours - 50,000 hours would imply 5.7 years if the light is operated for 24 hours in a day, 7.6 years if the lights are on 18 hours per day and 11.4 years for 12 hours a day. And if bought and a receipt kept and the light not dropped and broken, any malfunction will imply replacement as it will be under warranty.
The torch is not needed; the L81 is more than adequate. Many collectors who use lamps prefer light and easy; I know I do, but then again it is by choice.
You say you simply have not had much luck with the workmanship of this particular light. I have other UV lights and I also did not have much luck either, and I was not impressed. I am very confident the light I recommended will work quite well.
You are correct, I did say I have had the L81 for a week, and how can I recommend an item I had only owned for week; quite easy, this particular UV light was recommended to me by an internationally renowned stamp specialist of 35 years whose company sells only high-quality pre-decimal Commonwealth stamps (all my stamps are bought from him). He has used that particular light for quite a few years (it is a very necessary tool of the trade for him) and he must have been very happy with it to recommend it to me.
All small items that require batteries will have a battery clip, and such clips are prone to be broken, but if treated with care the clip should not break, and if by chance one does break then it should be no problem under warranty. And as I said, the specialist has had his for a number of years and nothing has happened to it, he hasn’t had a need to fix or change anything on the UV light.
It’s a personal choice to buy from China or Germany, those on a tight budget will opt for something cheaper, and those who are willing to pay just a little more for German made.
My tools of trade as a technician is both Chinese and German equipment; but I’m slowly going all German made; they are far more reliable – but again it comes down to personal choice; and when I am asked what I recommend, I chose to recommend the German made Lighthouse L81 UV light because of its reliability.
Rob
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Member ACCC (Australian Commonwealth Collectors Club of NSW)
13 Aug 2017
06:38:42am
re: Tools of a stamp collector
"I have two Lighthouse lamps (LW and SW) and a Raytech Versalume. The Versalume is more powerful plus a couple old Raytech. I used for photo work."
Hi angore
The L81 has both types of UV lights which can be toggled. What weight is the Raytech Versalume you are speaking of? As far as I know, that particular brand is not sold in Australia so I cannot give any feedback to it.
I would need to know the weight and could you upload an image of the item.
Rob
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re: Tools of a stamp collector
Hi Rob!
As an engineer, I am sure that I am to once again about to ‘give too much information’.
Be careful with ‘bulb life’ metrics, they are skewed by marketing people into misleading information. (Typically based upon MTBF numbers.) Just because a bulb fires up does not mean that it is working properly. Unlike a normal light bulb, a UV bulb is tasked with delivering more than just visible light; it has to generate enough energy to deliver the proper UV wavelengths. In most UV bulbs, the energy emitted by the bulb is strong and constant for the first few hundred hours of use (up to around 300 hours). After that, the bulb deteriorates, loses power, and becomes much less efficient.
In all other applications of UV bulbs (sterilization, curing, bug lights, etc.) they recommend that UV bulbs be replace every year. But of course simply using it to view stamps is much less demanding and critical than these type uses.
The question here is how many hours of use before the bulb begins to lose enough power to become less effective in helping a hobbyist see the tagging they are looking for. My gut feeling is that it would be around 5 years of normal use but the bulb is still likely to light up for a much longer period. But a 5 year old used bulb will be working at around 50-60% effectiveness compared to a new bulb. It would probably still be able to reveal some stamp tagging but not be as vibrant or work as well as a new bulb.
I concur with your comments regarding the quality of the bulb. Like most things in life, quality comes at additional cost. For example, mishandling the bulb after manufacturing can greatly shorten it’s life; so having high quality packaging and dunnage is very important when shipping and handling these delicate items. Try to eliminate as many ‘middle people’ as you can between the bulb manufacturer and the consumer to get maximum bulb life.
Don
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re: Tools of a stamp collector
This is a stock photo. It is an all plastic design (somewhat flimsy to me) so very lightweight. The advantages are battery or AC adapter powered, dual wavelength, and built in stand. The handle rotates so it can be between the legs or use for handheld.
Mine is over 10 years old but do not look like it has changed much.
As for bulb life, I would think the power on/off cycles may be more of an effect on bulb life rather than pure hours.
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Member ACCC (Australian Commonwealth Collectors Club of NSW)
13 Aug 2017
07:11:06pm
re: Tools of a stamp collector
Hi Don
There is never “too much information” when it comes to people of the trade.
It’s true that the bulb life depends on the reliability of the product, and I know that a bulb life can weaken after a certain amount of time. And it is as you say a less demanding task for the UV light when it is used for viewing stamps.
Even replacing the UV light once a year is cheap, but going by the usage of the UV lamp by specialist dealers where the UV light has not been replaced for many years and still giving good service is a good example of the reliability of certain UV lights.
And like all fluorescent tubes and bulbs, there can be duds which, with the sales invoice should be replaced under consumer law (that’s the law in Australia, have no idea what the consumer laws in the US apply to consumer protection, I assume very much the same).
Once the light shows a weakening that causes ineffectiveness then it would be time to exchange the tube or bulb but in the majority of cases with stamp tagging, exchanging the bulb would be in the very distant future.
It’s not often I would use the light, once the stamp is identified and recorded either by photograph or entry into a database (or both); the UV light is put away until it is used again, and that won't be until I obtain another stamp(s) that are known to have helecon and non-helecon issues or foreign stamps that have some sort of phosphor fluorescent coating.
It works well with bank notes, especially with our polymer notes.
I obtain all my accessories (not stamps) from Renniks who buy directly from Lighthouse, it’s much cheaper that way, I have seen these lamps sold at stamp shops in Australia that buy from Renniks, it’s much cheaper at Rennicks, and seeing that they are only 14km (8 miles from Banksmeadow (Renniks) to Bondi Beach)) , it is practically in my neighbourhood.
"Like most things in life, quality comes at additional cost. For example, mishandling the bulb after manufacturing can greatly shorten its life; so having high-quality packaging and dunnage is very important when shipping and handling these delicate items."
True.
Rob
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Member ACCC (Australian Commonwealth Collectors Club of NSW)
13 Aug 2017
08:21:08pm
re: Tools of a stamp collector
"This is a stock photo. It is an all plastic design (somewhat flimsy to me) so very lightweight. The advantages are battery or AC adapter powered, dual wavelength, and built in stand. The handle rotates so it can be between the legs or use for handheld.
Mine is over 10 years old but do not look like it has changed much.
As for bulb life, I would think the power on/off cycles may be more of an effect on bulb life rather than pure hours."
Hi Angore
I thought it was that particular item you were referring to, I have never seen one sold in Australia.
What I read about this particular item is that it also can be bought long wave only, short wave only and there is a Philatelic model which includes a view box.
Pity I cannot see one up front. I read that if the model has both wave lengths that both short and long wave is turned on simultaneously, wouldn't that be a waste of power and lamp usage (just my opinion).
It has a stand, good for photographing stamps under the UV light.
I also read it weighs 2lbs (nearly 1kg), and that is light?
Rob
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re: Tools of a stamp collector
The Versalume is available in dual wave.
PP-FLS Longwave/Shortwave (115V/60 Hz) 10-020 USD$110.86
PP-FLS Longwave/Shortwave (230V/50 Hz) 10-012 USD$115.04
I decided to weight a couple of my lamps.
My Lighthouse short wave is 6.1 ounces (173g) and the Versalum weighs 11.2 ounces (318g). I am guessing the 2lb is the boxed unit including the power adapter.
A better pic.
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Member ACCC (Australian Commonwealth Collectors Club of NSW)
13 Aug 2017
11:34:21pm
re: Tools of a stamp collector
Hi angore
It looks very good, pity it's not sold over here, it is also very reasonably priced, it'll probably sell for close to AU$300 if it were to be bought here. You guys have a better choice of accessories for both the philatelist and numismatist.
I would have found it quite interesting to test that UV lamp.
Rob
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re: Tools of a stamp collector
I didn't know about the Versalume lamp. I'll remember it should I need to buy another one in the future.
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re: Tools of a stamp collector
I will note that I cover up the LW window when I am viewing stamps to be sure not to get a mixed response.
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Member ACCC (Australian Commonwealth Collectors Club of NSW)
14 Aug 2017
08:39:01am
re: Tools of a stamp collector
Hi Michael & Al
Unfortunately, I'll have to view the Versalum from afar, until I can test one I'll stick to the L81, as it will do the job quite well, I have just tested British stamps and also stamps from Hong Kong, works like a charm.
I'll upload these stamps soon.
Rob
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re: Tools of a stamp collector
From the Versalume web site:
"Featured here is the Longwave (LW) only version of the Versalume. The other configurations are sold out. Despite many successful years of producing the Versalume, Raytech is discontinuing their line of UV lamps altogether, but will still be there for service and parts replacement."
Long wave is still available for $79 US.
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re: Tools of a stamp collector
Well, so much for that idea...
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re: Tools of a stamp collector
I've been appreciating this discussion, since I think I'm going to have to get something stronger than the small portable handheld Lighthouse sw and lw lamps I have.
What is the "view box" that comes/came with the philatelic models? I can't quite picture what that is or does.
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re: Tools of a stamp collector
I received the long wave UV flashlight today. Bought it on Friday, and it arrived just three days later. Not bad.
Anyway, it is brighter than the single LED on the L81. I find that I like the flashlight better as I don't have to hold the light within inches of the stamp. Also, I don't have to work in darkness. If I need less light on a stamp, I just raise the flashlight away from the stamp about a foot. It's small, round shape makes it easy to handle. It is metal, and weighs about the same as the plastic L81.
Tagging on German stamps, and the so-called "lite-brite" paper used by some countries, show up clearly.
For me, this is a keeper. Now I'm waiting to get the short wave lamp replacement for the L81. I'll report back when I get that unit and have tried it out.
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Member ACCC (Australian Commonwealth Collectors Club of NSW)
15 Aug 2017
05:28:53am
re: Tools of a stamp collector
So the Versalume UV lamp is discontinued, so much for that one.
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re: Tools of a stamp collector
There seems to be some on ebay.
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Member ACCC (Australian Commonwealth Collectors Club of NSW)
15 Aug 2017
10:38:27am
re: Tools of a stamp collector
Can eBay be trusted?
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Member ACCC (Australian Commonwealth Collectors Club of NSW)
15 Aug 2017
10:47:55am
re: Tools of a stamp collector
For the collector who is interested in tagging a stamp, and does not want to hulk around large lamps, the smaller hand held ones are quite adequate, so recommending the L81 would be the appropriate choice.
"Anyway, it is brighter than the single LED on the L81. I find that I like the flashlight better as I don't have to hold the light within inches of the stamp. Also, I don't have to work in darkness. If I need less light on a stamp, I just raise the flashlight away from the stamp about a foot. It's small, round shape makes it easy to handle. It is metal, and weighs about the same as the plastic L81."
I agree Michael, I too have the same type of flashlight, but with a darkened room the illumination of the stamp is better (not so great for cats though, when you have three cats skulking nearby and one gets stepped on).
Rob
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re: Tools of a stamp collector
I have ordered 2 older (metal housing) RayTech lamps and use them.
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re: Tools of a stamp collector
"Although there are various types of watermark detectors on the market, some worth a few hundred dollars, none are worth the money, the best way of seeing a watermark is by looking at the stamp front or back against natural light, or a well-lit room."
Couple of comments, firstly, I have rarely been able to observe a watermark by holding to a light and even with fluid in a watermark case the stamps on coloured paper are almost impossible to see. Some of the Hong Kong stamps including those from later years are a nightmare.
I have considered buying one of the much more expensive watermark detectors but would like to try one out on various stamps before committing a large sum of money. Does anyone have/use one?
Secondly I have an L81 but really do have to have a dark room and often expose stamps for a minute or more to observe the tags. It is a couple of years old but the 254nm bulb seems to have trouble starting sometimes. (could be the switch) New batteries make no difference.
Most of the tags/phosphor bands can be seen against daylight if held at an angle. Just occasionally am I unable to see them, usually on soaked stamps.
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re: Tools of a stamp collector
If your bulb is having trouble starting, remember that is a fluorescent tube. The tubes have an activator on each end that charges the gas in the tube. It could be that one activators has failed, and the other is in the process of doing so. The best way to test it is to try another tube. If you have a long wave tube, put it in and see.
I agree that the British Watermark of the 1970s is horrible to detect. However, I have found that the stamps printed with that watermark (Scott Watermark #373) has a greenish (some may say bluish) colored gum where the stamps printed with the other watermark (#314) have a clear (some may say yellowish) gum.
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08:30:30am
re: Tools of a stamp collector
I prefer to use seperate lw and sw lights as inevitably I am only looking for 1 effect at a time.
As far as weak reaction is concerned unless the lamp is very old the weak reaction is caused by the stamp. As a used Machin collector using the s/w stamp all the time,I have observed it is usually soaked stamps that caused the problem. Limited exposure to water has little effect, but stamps that have been oversoaked do cause problems.
You have to work in a completely dark room with your eyes shut and operate the lamp for at least 15 seconds ( in extreme cases even longer ) and only open your eyes as you shut off the lamp. I have NEVER failed to to detect an afterglow ( albeit very weak - which is why you have to work in complete darkness). Detecting short or notched bands ( or the different lengths of afterglow on Wilding stamps) is problematical with overwashed stamps.
As for detecting bands by eye in daylight this is only possible on stamps issued before the introduction of the modified phosphor commonly known as "A-phosphor", on some stamps it is even difficult to see in the dark with the lamp on, you have to rely on the afterglow.
I have never succeeded in seeing watermarks with a u.v lamps. I understand that the best method is using your scanner with a filtering programme but I have never quite worked out how!.
While the dangers to the eye of s.w. lamps is well documented I would add that there should be no metal objects ( tongs etc) close enough to reflect the light to your eyes.
Also even when not a direct danger, using uv for an extended period in one session does lead to excessive tiredness.
Malcolm
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