BajaNomad

Selling an Almanac or older AAA map?

mgray - 12-15-2007 at 04:21 PM

Its going to be my first time down there and I guess I found Baja a little too late since I'm a couple years too late for the Almanac....I quickly ordered an AAA map before they became difficult, but I've heard the newer ones are lacking what the old ones had.

So I'm wondering if someone wants to sell their Almanac, or even an old AAA map, but I would prefer an Almanac.....I would even take great care and give it back when I'm done.

But I'm not going to pay $600 for a $24 map!!!

Thanks

David K - 12-15-2007 at 04:57 PM

The AAA map is pretty unchanged the past dozen years... You have to go back to the early 70's to find the highly detailed Baja Norte AAA map.

You will be fine... and Baja Almanacs are available if you search hard enough... I talked to someone a week ago who has lots still...

mgray - 12-15-2007 at 05:16 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by David K
The AAA map is pretty unchanged the past dozen years... You have to go back to the early 70's to find the highly detailed Baja Norte AAA map.

You will be fine... and Baja Almanacs are available if you search hard enough... I talked to someone a week ago who has lots still...


Really? Could you please help me out with a link or contact? I've googled and called anyone who had anything that said Almanac and everyone is out. The only ones I could find were a few on Amazon for $600.

Thanks

DENNIS - 12-15-2007 at 05:31 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by mgray

But I'm not going to pay $600 for a $24 map!!!

Thanks

How much will you pay for one that is very little used ? I have one.

Map for MGRAY

John M - 12-15-2007 at 06:43 PM

MGRay - check your u2u.

Post again here if you aren't sure how.

John

805gregg - 12-15-2007 at 09:36 PM

I've got the old 2 book and the new 1 book for all, but until this guy get's off his ass, I'm not selling. Check the used book stores in your area, I got an original AAA map at a local book store for like $2. I also have an 1973 addition of " The SEA of CORTEZ" by Ray Cannon signed at the Hotel Cabo San Lucas, anyone want to bid on that?

David K - 12-16-2007 at 06:50 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by mgray
Quote:
Originally posted by David K
The AAA map is pretty unchanged the past dozen years... You have to go back to the early 70's to find the highly detailed Baja Norte AAA map.

You will be fine... and Baja Almanacs are available if you search hard enough... I talked to someone a week ago who has lots still...


Really? Could you please help me out with a link or contact? I've googled and called anyone who had anything that said Almanac and everyone is out. The only ones I could find were a few on Amazon for $600.

Thanks


Sure, but other Nomads (like John M) may come to your rescue, too... I will forward your question to the person with the Almanacs, and let you know when he resonds...

IF time is running out before you obtain one... what part of Baja did you need the detailed topo map for?

Hook - 12-16-2007 at 08:05 AM

I dont think the roads on the AAA map started to "disappear" until the early 90s.

I have an original Almanac (the large one). But, unless you are a serious hiker or very serious off-roader, even the current AAA maps are fine. And they are probably more accurate, when it comes to roads.

Especially for a first trip, the AAA map is more than adequate.

Sorry, Dennis, but that's my opinion. :lol:

mgray - 12-17-2007 at 12:40 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by 805gregg
I've got the old 2 book and the new 1 book for all, but until this guy get's off his burro, I'm not selling. Check the used book stores in your area, I got an original AAA map at a local book store for like $2. I also have an 1973 addition of " The SEA of CORTEZ" by Ray Cannon signed at the Hotel Cabo San Lucas, anyone want to bid on that?


Sorry but what do you mean by old 2 and new 1 book?

That publisher must be pretty rich, or pretty happy to ignore such a high demand for even a reprint

[Edited on 12-17-2007 by mgray]

DENNIS - 12-17-2007 at 07:09 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Hook

Especially for a first trip, the AAA map is more than adequate.

Sorry, Dennis, but that's my opinion. :lol:


I couldn't agree more.

Barry A. - 12-17-2007 at 08:38 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by mgray
Quote:
Originally posted by 805gregg
I've got the old 2 book and the new 1 book for all, but until this guy get's off his burro, I'm not selling. Check the used book stores in your area, I got an original AAA map at a local book store for like $2. I also have an 1973 addition of " The SEA of CORTEZ" by Ray Cannon signed at the Hotel Cabo San Lucas, anyone want to bid on that?


Sorry but what do you mean by old 2 and new 1 book?

That publisher must be pretty rich, or pretty happy to ignore such a high demand for even a reprint

[Edited on 12-17-2007 by mgray]


When the original "ATLAS" came out it was a very big spiral bound single book, that was very accurate but hard to deal with while driving because it was so big. Then a smaller addition came out, and utilized 2 separate books, one for Baja Norte and one for Baja Sur. That was a great addition.

Then this final addition came out with the entire penninsula in one book, and it was also very good.

Now they are out of print.

barry

mgray - 12-17-2007 at 09:05 AM

Quote:
When the original "ATLAS" came out it was a very big spiral bound single book, that was very accurate but hard to deal with while driving because it was so big. Then a smaller addition came out, and utilized 2 separate books, one for Baja Norte and one for Baja Sur. That was a great addition.

Then this final addition came out with the entire penninsula in one book, and it was also very good.

Now they are out of print.


Ok, just to confirm so I know what I'm after.....there were 3 seperate editions, and we're still waiting for the 4th?

1st) All of Baja on one big book
2nd)All of Baja split into North/South books
3rd)All of Baja back to just one book

Would you say they got better with each edition, or was one better than the other?

I ask because I came across some of the North/South editions online and they seem to initially be going for alot more than the ones just labled "Baja California".

Also with the people claiming to be selling "New" condition Almanacs, what are the chances they are selling the first editions?

Barry A. - 12-17-2007 at 09:41 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by mgray
Quote:
When the original "ATLAS" came out it was a very big spiral bound single book, that was very accurate but hard to deal with while driving because it was so big. Then a smaller addition came out, and utilized 2 separate books, one for Baja Norte and one for Baja Sur. That was a great addition.

Then this final addition came out with the entire penninsula in one book, and it was also very good.

Now they are out of print.


Ok, just to confirm so I know what I'm after.....there were 3 seperate editions, and we're still waiting for the 4th?

1st) All of Baja on one big book
2nd)All of Baja split into North/South books
3rd)All of Baja back to just one book

Would you say they got better with each edition, or was one better than the other?

I ask because I came across some of the North/South editions online and they seem to initially be going for alot more than the ones just labled "Baja California".

Also with the people claiming to be selling "New" condition Almanacs, what are the chances they are selling the first editions?


Yes, on your understanding-----that is correct there were 3 editions as you say.

They 1st big edition was put out by "Topography International, Inc." and was called BAJA TOPOGRAPHIC ATLAS DIRECTORY, and it measured 17 inches x 12 inches, and was about 1/2 inch think. It is very accurate, but difficult to work with while in your vehicle because of it's size, and it is kinda fragile.

Next came the "BAJA CALIFORNIA ALMANAC", put out by, "Baja Almanac Publishers, Inc" and at first consisted of 2 books. Later they put out an edition that was all in one book. All these books measured 8-1/2" x 10-3/4 inches, and about 1/3 " thick.

All of these books are about the same in usefulness of information, and accuracy, (I believe) but obviously the smaller editions are the most user-friendly, because of their size, and they used better paper.

For your purposes I suggest that you acquire any of the smaller size books, and I believe that they will do you just fine. But as has been mentioned, you will probably also do just fine with the AAA Club map. I use both when in Baja.

Hope this answers your questions adaquately.

I believe that the problem with publishing these booklets is the volume-----even tho they are highly prized by we Baja nuts, there are not that many folks out there that are interested, so it is tough to make money for the publisher.

barry

David K - 12-17-2007 at 10:02 AM

The first version 'Baja Atlas' was much greater detail, topography, etc. than the newer Baja Almanacs... The third version added color... and all in one book, once again.

All three versions were produced by the same person, Landon S. Crumpton.

The Atlas

John M - 12-17-2007 at 10:28 AM

Barry and David K are both correct, but there is yet another version of the Atlas.

They mentioned the "1986 Baja Topographic Atlas Directory" published by Topography International, Inc and I didn't see Landon S. Crumpton's name anywhere in it. It has city maps, city directories, and 2 full paged of English/Spanish translations & dictionary.

Also is a 1991 version "Baja Explorer Topographic Atlas Directory" by Alta Publishing with a short intro by Crumpton. It lacks the city maps in the back, but has a huge listing of what is a travelers directory - accomodations - services, etc.

Both versions have a number of full page photographs of interesting Baja stuff. The actual maps inside both appear to be virtually the same, with maybe just a few adjustments on the later edition.

And for David....interestingly they don't show the route into Yubay, just the road north from El Desengano.

John M

Neal Johns - 12-17-2007 at 11:08 AM

John M, my slightly retarded stepfather, is correct about the Big One(s). They are quite old now so the latest smaller versions have more corrections. That said, David K and others have pointed out many errors in these maps.

Nevertheless, any of these maps are great maps to have if you are exploring Baja by 4WD. For a first timer, the AAA map should be fine.

I have them all (protected by H & K 9mm). Hee Hee Hee No Map Snatchers!

I hope Mr. Crumpton is alive and well, and will republish someday.

[Edited on 12-17-2007 by Neal Johns]

Hook - 12-17-2007 at 11:13 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Neal Johns
John M, my slightly retarded stepfather, is correct about the Big One(s). They are quite old now so the latest smaller versions have more corrections. That said, David K and others have pointed out many errors in these maps.

Nevertheless, any of these maps are great maps to have if you are exploring Baja by 4WD. For a first timer, the AAA map should be fine.

I have them all (protected by H & K 9mm). Hee Hee Hee No Map Snatchers!

I hope Mr. Crump is alive and well, and will republish someday.


Is he taking deposits on the next edition?

Neal Johns - 12-17-2007 at 11:38 AM

Hook, I don't think so, he is a very reclusive man. His resellers have been waiting for a couple of years. Hope he is ok and publishes again.

H & K

John M - 12-17-2007 at 01:06 PM

Protected by H & K 9mm?????

Not to worry - I've seen him shoot, just hope that he aims in your direction, then you'll be safe.

John M

Barry A. - 12-17-2007 at 05:45 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Neal Johns
John M, my slightly retarded stepfather, is correct about the Big One(s). They are quite old now so the latest smaller versions have more corrections. That said, David K and others have pointed out many errors in these maps.

Nevertheless, any of these maps are great maps to have if you are exploring Baja by 4WD. For a first timer, the AAA map should be fine.

I have them all (protected by H & K 9mm). Hee Hee Hee No Map Snatchers!

I hope Mr. Crumpton is alive and well, and will republish someday.

[Edited on 12-17-2007 by Neal Johns]


Well, Neal, I TOO have them all, and I have several copies of each!!!! (except that "other one" mentioned by John M., I think?)

-----and MINE are protected with a Smith .357 Magnum plus a 12 guage ------so there!!! :P

barry

David K - 12-17-2007 at 09:18 PM

Yes, the older BIG Baja Atlas had at least two editions... and I have them both: c1986 and c1991 (different covers and the second one had 'Explorer' in the title)...

Landon did the fantastic 'Baja Traveler' and later became 'Baja Explorer' magazines... He failed to secure a good advertisement client (s) to keep them going... Those with paid subscriptions beyond the final edition were given sincere apology letters and new subsriptions to the only other Baja publication (Baja Times, I think) at the time...

Landon has a golden opportunety here, but $$$ problems seem to prevent the publication of a new edition... or even a reprint of the last one... SO SAD!

I did make contact with someone in the 'Baja publications' business today and there may be some Almanacs from that source available... A count will be made and then a decision... IF there is going to be a release of the Almanacs, I will let you guys know!

Skeet/Loreto - 12-18-2007 at 09:01 AM

Mgray:
I have a 1963 Copy of the AAA Map> I used it along with Senteriff's Air Guide while flying in Baja.

If you want I can take it to Kinko's and have a copy made. You pay costs and shipping.

Send me a u2u and I will send my telephone and we can talk direct.

Skeet/Loreto

David K

capitolkat - 12-18-2007 at 09:40 AM

I'm certainly interested in any supply of Almanacs that become available- I only need one -- so keep me on the list -Thanks-- Norm

David K - 12-18-2007 at 10:48 AM

You bet Norm...!

Skeet, I have some mid sixties era AAA maps that may be the same... But, I would like a copy of yours for my collection... U2U me the cost, please!

mgray - 12-20-2007 at 11:35 PM

Hey is the latest edition of the Almanac 2003? Thats almost 5 years old.

I think so

John M - 12-21-2007 at 05:15 AM

I don't see a date on mine but that sounds about right. John M.

Did you get your new AAA map yet?

John M

David K - 12-21-2007 at 10:09 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by mgray
Hey is the latest edition of the Almanac 2003? Thats almost 5 years old.


Perhaps you missed this (posted with you in mind): http://forums.bajanomad.com/viewthread.php?tid=28798

The last edition of the Baja Almanac arrived in the Spring of 2003.

In one of the photos of my Feb., 2003 Viva Baja #4 party http://vivabaja.com/vivabaja4 you can see Timothy Walker's (TimsBaja.com) wife looking at a flyer announcing the new Almanac, from Discover Baja Travel Club.





[Edited on 12-22-2007 by David K]

mgray - 12-21-2007 at 04:59 PM

Found that other thread thanks......been spending most of my time in the Q&A forum.

Don't know if its a big deal but the person selling "Brand New" Almanacs said they are from 2003 ISBN 0965866327 asking $129.99.

I'm kinda sceptical, but the seller is on some reputable sites so they must be legit.

Ideas?

Barry A. - 12-21-2007 at 05:31 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by David K
You bet Norm...!

Skeet, I have some mid sixties era AAA maps that may be the same... But, I would like a copy of yours for my collection... U2U me the cost, please!


David------

I have several copies of the AAA maps from the '50's, and one I believe is from the late '40's. But these earlier maps are not dated, as near as I can see, so not sure of the '40's. I do know that some are from the '50's tho as they are with stuff I inherited from my Aunt, Becky McSheehy (an early Baja nut), and she was deffinitely into Baja in the early '50's. In fact she helped Gulick and Gerhard in their mapping efforts for their "Baja California Guidebook".

Have any idea how to actually "date" these earlier AAA Baja maps?

barry

David K - 12-21-2007 at 06:48 PM

Just an edit note... the last Almanac was 2003, as John M & mgray said... I had my Viva party years mixed up!

Barry, I would like to talk with you some more about the old maps and Gulick's works...

The Lower California Guidebook maps (1962 Baja Maps by Howard Gulick) are all online, link on my web home page.

woody with a view - 12-21-2007 at 06:52 PM

Barry

if you wanna part with one of your 50's maps u2u me.