Would you buy this Showa?

[l113892]

Erns-

I like the showa because I know in my pond that the black would shrink and the koi would grow so as to be less overwhelming with time. I agree with Mike, I would want a good look at the beni before making a decision. Some of the black may be hiding some poor quality hi. As for your growing chart, that chart looks reasonable as far as "average" koi sizes. However, I would want to be tipping the top end of that chart at every age- 2, 3, 4, 5....

[MikeM]

Dick likes the one in the bottom left corner... the "stubby" look of a possible female, may be Kohaku/Sanke-type Hi, has a Sanke-like atmosphere to it... more refined, perhaps? And the Shiro is clean. But, is there any sign of motoguro? Kind of makes the maleness of the subject Showa more apparent. ERNS: Dick has learned how not to pay too much attention to pattern. Lots of food for thought.

[Erns]

Thanks for all the tips and ideas...some harsh comments as well...just glad koi can't hear it all! I'll go see what they look like in May and perhaps if worthwhile I'll post a update. Think we can always learn.

Ok, another challenge, would you buy this kindai showa? A warning though, this pic was two years ago. I now have an option the buy the 4 year old version. It's Torazo and nissai at 40cm in the pic.

[PapaBear]

Quote: Originally Posted by Erns ...would you buy this kindai showa? A warning though, this pic was two years ago. I now have an option the buy the 4 year old version. It's Torazo and nissai at 40cm in the pic.

This one looks interesting, and it makes me want to see the "now" pictures.
The body conformation and skin quality look good, beni appears thick and deep red in color against a nice white shiroji with excellent pattern placement. Once again I find myself caught in the Sumi guessing game. The facial Sumi looks to have a lot of potential in this pic, but the back 1/2 of the body I can't tell a thing... If there is good sumi hiding in the midsection and tail tube I'd be sorely tempted.