Latex Prop Longevity?

[PHArchivist]

Would you invest a large sum of money in a screen-used latex prop?

Imagine the top three to five most epensive props in your collection. Would you pay that much (or even a little more) for a high end screen-used prop, but one made of latex, that will likely get brittle and deteriorate over time?

Tom, if you catch this thread, I'd appreciate your esteemed opinion.

 

[xeno]

I have have a Bruce Hansing Alien3 head with latex skin for more then 10 years in my collection, the latex has hardened a bit bit is still in great condition.
the paint is not coming lose or chipping.

I think because it has a support structure of fiberglass resin underneath and doesn't get the chance to sag.

.

 

[allosaur176]

plus it depends on the thickness of the latex

 

[Apollo]

I have a screen-used gorilla appliance from Battle Of The Planet Of The Apes that still looks like the day I got it what, 30 years ago as well as a Odo from DS-9 appliance that was never used and it too looks like the day it walked out of the make-up trailer.

 

[Vegas Vader 2]

would there be a preferable place to display a latex piece?

 

[Apollo]

would there be a preferable place to display a latex piece?

cool dry place with little light.

 

[micdavis]

Sealed from the air helps as well.

 

[yodakiller1138]

Regular latex and silicone would be fine. Foam latex, however, breaks down over time, that is why you see very few foam pieces out there. Exposure to air is what causes it.