ASLP Investments Unearths a Piece of Tennis History: Restoring Vintage Rackets for Modern Play & Collectors

Seattle, WA – November 8, 2023 – ASLP Investments LLC, a Seattle-based company quietly making waves in the collectibles and sporting goods space, is bringing a unique slice of tennis history back to life. They're specializing in the meticulous restoration and sale of vintage tennis rackets – not just as display pieces, but as playable, high-quality instruments for tennis enthusiasts and collectors alike. Founded by Inge Andreassen, ASLP Investments isn’t your typical sporting goods retailer. While the address – 2025 1st Ave Ste 900, Seattle, WA 98121-3123 – might suggest a corporate office, it’s a hub for a surprisingly hands-on operation. “We noticed a real gap in the market,” explains Andreassen. “Lots of people are fascinated by the history of tennis, and the craftsmanship of older rackets. But finding ones in good enough shape to actually play with, or even proudly display, is tough. Most are just falling apart.” That's where ASLP Investments steps in. The company sources vintage rackets – everything from wooden beauties from the 1920s to classic steel and graphite models from the 70s and 80s – and then subjects them to a thorough restoration process. It’s not just a quick clean and restring. ASLP Investments dives deep. “We’re talking about carefully assessing the wood for cracks and weaknesses, repairing or replacing splinters, meticulously cleaning decades of grime, and then re-gripping with modern materials while preserving the vintage aesthetic,” says Andreassen. “It’s a really detailed process. We want these rackets to look beautiful, feel great, and most importantly, be playable.” More Than Just a Pretty Face: Why Vintage Rackets Are Making a Comeback You might be thinking, “Why bother with an old racket when you can buy a brand new one for under $200?” It’s a fair question, and ASLP Investments has a few answers. Firstly, there’s the collectibility. Certain brands and models – particularly those associated with famous players or significant tournaments – are becoming highly sought after by collectors. ASLP Investments often handles rackets from iconic brands like Wilson, Head, Slazenger, and Spalding. They've even seen a surge in demand for rackets from lesser-known but equally well-made manufacturers. But the appeal goes beyond just investment value. Many players are discovering that vintage rackets offer a unique playing experience. “Modern rackets are designed for power and spin,” explains Andreassen. “Vintage rackets encourage a different style of play. They demand more finesse, better technique, and a focus on placement. It’s a more deliberate, tactical game.” The smaller head sizes on older rackets also promote better control and accuracy. While you might not be hitting serves at 130 mph, you’ll likely find yourself hitting more consistent shots and developing a more all-around game. “We’ve had players tell us that switching to a vintage racket actually improved their technique,” says Andreassen. “It forces you to really connect with the ball.” The Restoration Process: From Dustbin to Display Case (or Tennis Court) ASLP Investments isn't just buying and reselling. They're actively preserving a piece of sporting history. The restoration process is surprisingly involved. Here’s a glimpse of what it entails: Sourcing: Finding rackets in decent condition is the first challenge. ASLP Investments sources from estate sales, auctions, online marketplaces, and even directly from individuals. Assessment: Each racket undergoes a thorough inspection. The team assesses the condition of the frame, the grip, the strings (if any), and any other components. Cleaning: Decades of dirt, grime, and sweat are carefully removed using gentle cleaning agents and techniques. Repair: Any cracks, splinters, or damage to the frame are repaired using specialized adhesives and techniques. Re-Gripping: The original grip is removed, and a new, high-quality grip is applied. ASLP Investments offers a range of grip options, from classic leather to modern synthetic materials. Stringing: If the racket originally came with strings, they are replaced with new strings. ASLP Investments offers a variety of string types and tensions to suit different playing styles. Polishing & Finishing: The frame is polished and finished to restore its original luster. Quality Control: Each restored racket undergoes a final inspection to ensure it meets ASLP Investments’ high standards. “We’re not trying to make these rackets look brand new,” clarifies Andreassen. “We want to preserve their character and history. We embrace the imperfections and signs of wear that tell a story. But we also want them to be safe and enjoyable to play with.” Reaching a Wider Audience: ASLP Investments’ Online Presence While based in Seattle, ASLP Investments is reaching a global audience through its online presence. You can find their restored vintage tennis rackets on various online marketplaces and through direct contact (626-836-6209). “We’ve shipped rackets to collectors and players all over the world,” says Andreassen. “It’s really rewarding to know that we’re helping to keep this piece of tennis history alive.” ASLP Investments isn't just selling rackets; they're selling a connection to the past, a unique playing experience, and a beautiful piece of sporting art. Whether you're a serious collector, a nostalgic player, or simply someone who appreciates craftsmanship, ASLP Investments LLC has something to offer. They are proving that vintage isn’t just a style—it’s a quality that endures.