Step into the captivating world of collecting once again as we unveil the unique story of Alastair Dogget, a collector who has traversed continents and generations with his passion for Pokémon and Harry Potter cards. Hailing from the UK and now based in the US, Alastair's journey is a testament to the global allure of collectibles and the timeless joy they bring.
A Collecting Odyssey
Alastair’s collecting adventure began during his childhood, filled with nostalgia and discovery. It all started with Pokémon booster packs, a symbol of excitement and adventure, which he and his father would hunt for at thrift stores and car boot sales (the UK’s equivalent to yard sales). These early experiences not only sparked his passion for collecting but also fostered a bond between father and son that continues to influence his journey today.
The magical world of Harry Potter also played a significant role in his collecting story. From the captivating characters to the intricate details of the cards, Alastair found himself equally enthralled by the charm of both Pokémon and Harry Potter universes.
From Artwork to Nostalgia
Alastair’s collection is a blend of two beloved realms – Pokémon and Harry Potter – with a particular emphasis on the generational evolution of Pokémon cards. He holds a special place for Generation I to III cards and is especially drawn to the Japanese ADV PCG era, which is known for its unique artwork and craftsmanship.
Among his most treasured cards are those illustrated by Aya Kusube, a Pokémon illustrator known for her dark etching style. The combination of her artistic brilliance and the nostalgic value of these cards captures the essence of Alastair’s collection: a pursuit of both beauty and sentiment.
Nurturing the Collector's Spirit
One of Alastair’s most cherished collecting memories hails from his time in the UK, where he would join his father on early-morning expeditions to car boot sales. The thrill of discovery, trading cards, and completing sets without the convenience of online platforms was a formative experience, shaping his appreciation for the community aspect of collecting.
Today, Alastair continues to balance his love for collecting with the challenges of curating a high-level collection. His ambitious goal to acquire a sealed case of six WOTC Chamber of Secrets boxes is a testament to his dedication and vision as a serious collector.
Community Inspiration
Inspired by the account @psa_10_ftw, Alastair acknowledges the kindness and knowledge shared within the collecting community. Learning about grading processes and delving into the intricacies of the HPTCG has been a transformative experience for him.
A Display of Excellence
When it comes to showcasing his collection, Alastair relies on Phantom Display cases to keep his prized cards protected and beautifully displayed. Known for their top-tier quality, Phantom Display acrylic cases offer superior UV protection and a minimalist design that elevates the visual appeal of any collection.
In addition to Phantom Display’s solutions, Alastair adds a unique personal touch by repurposing store display setups from his past, merging modern display methods with a nostalgic flair.
Guiding New Collectors
For newcomers to the collecting scene, Alastair's advice is clear: join Instagram communities, engage in box breaks, and embrace the knowledge and camaraderie that come from connecting with fellow enthusiasts.
Alastair's collecting dreams include completing the five master HPTCG sets in both English and Japanese. His ambition also extends to assembling a collection of complete PSA 9+ foils and holos from all five sets.
A Collector's Philosophy
In his own words, Alastair's philosophy is a testament to embracing the wisdom of the collective: "Learn from everyone! Every success, mistake, and story."
With an open heart, Alastair invites fellow collectors to connect with him on Instagram at @_foo_bar_baz_boo. Explore his journey, immerse yourself in his world, and share in the boundless passion that collecting ignites. Explore Alastair's Collection and discover the allure of the Red/Green gift set photos that bring his story to life.