JIM RUFF
Jim Ruff lives in the UK. Our paths crossed when we both started bidding on the same stuff on ebay.
Sometimes I also bought mini bottles from him. We developed a "friendship in the distance".
Jim is married to the lovely Karen and they have three children: twin boys James and Tony, and daughter Jenny.
above: click to see the "Clan Ruff"
Below you can read about Jim's collection, from his own words:
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How long have you been collecting miniature liqueur bottles?
Jim: About 7 years, but since 2003, when I discovered ebay, my collecting has really taken off.
I think I know ebay (ahem)... How did you start?
Jim: It was my sister who got me hooked on Drioli's.
Her boyfriend used to collect and I always admired them when we visited, then one Christmas as present from them
I received 6 Drioli miniature bottles and that was it. I managed to collect several more from boot sales,
fairs and antique centres but as I've said when I searched for Drioli for the firs time on ebay I was smitten....
Hmm... dangerous. Many collectors can relate to that. So, what type of bottles do you focus on?
Jim: I collect Drioli, Luxardo and Boccaccio and my main collection, but also Valenti, Vlahov, Alpa, Borghini,
Duca d'Asti, Cucchi and Certosa ceramics. I did start to collect anything Italian but Carlos "carlopeto" in his
wisdom put me right on space and size and I now specialise in only these few makes.
I have around 400 bottles in my collection, all ceramic and mostly minis.
above: click on each panel to see Jim's Italian miniatures
That is a nice amount, considering that you only focus on 10 brands of Italian ceramic bottles.
Pity you have to compete with carlopeto! I assume the Drioli collection is your largest.
How many Drioli's do you currently have?
Jim: -------
above: Jim also collects large Italian bottles
Knowing that space availability is always an issue, where do you keep or display your bottles?
Jim: I have recently completed a display unit in the lounge/diner.
There are already 2 full cabinets of minis in the living room.
Haha..... I know the feeling! I believe your wife enjoys the minis too, am I right?
Jim: Indeed, my wife Karen luckily enough likes the ceramic bottles and has almost got
all but 2 of the Bols houses!
I also sell on ebay as "176jim" to supplement my addiction (sorry... meant collection).
That's all folks! Beware of Jim Ruff when bidding on a Drioli or Luxardo he does not have...
Better be "sweet" to him and buy some miniatures from "176jim".
