Gent is an American men's lifestyle magazine that was originally published from 1968 to 2003, featuring glamorous models and articles about sports cars, high-end dining, and other elements of the good life. It began as a Playboy imitation but quickly developed its own identity, becoming one of the most popular magazines for men during the golden age of print erotica in the late 1960s and early 1970s. While Gent ceased publication in 2003 due to financial difficulties, it remains actively traded among collectors worldwide. International Collectors Still Trade Issues Even after its print run ended, Gent remains actively traded among collectors worldwide, who seek both nostalgia and the magazine's distinct visual style. Many fans of vintage busty modeling view Gent as a classic example of this genre of print media. Online forums, private sales, and collector conventions occasionally feature Gent issues alongside rarer titles from the golden age of print erotica. For instance, in July 2021, a rare issue of Gent from December 1972 sold for $150 at a private sale in San Francisco. The buyer praised the magazine's "timeless" quality, stating, "The models are beautiful and the layout is clean and elegant." Another collector praised the magazine's emphasis on class and sophistication, saying, "It's not just about the nudity – it's about the way they present the women." Some collectors even consider Gent to be undervalued compared to other titles from the era, such as Hustler or Penthouse. One collector said, "Gent is more refined than those raunchier magazines; I think that's why people still want it."
Collectors seek both nostalgia and the magazine's distinct visual style, especially fans of vintage busty modeling.
For some collectors, Gent represents an idealized version of masculinity that has faded over time. As one collector put it, "I grew up reading Gent, and now I look back at those pages with nostalgia. It reminds me of a simpler time when men were gentlemen and dating was more traditional." Others appreciate the magazine's celebration of beauty and glamour, which they feel is lacking in modern media. One collector noted, "Modern pornography doesn't capture the same level of artistry or elegance as Gent does." Collectors also cite the magazine's focus on exotic locations and high-end lifestyles, saying that it reflects a "jet set mentality" that is no longer common today.
In addition to its cultural significance, Gent remains popular among collectors because of its unique visual style. The magazine's layout, photography, and typography are all highly sought after by collectors who value design as much as content. Many of the magazine's images have become iconic in their own right, including covers featuring models like Cheryl Tiegs and Christie Brinkley. One collector said, "The art direction on these pages is incredible – you can see how much thought went into every detail." Another added, "It's not just about the nudity – it's about the way they present the women. They're not just sex objects; they're real people."
Gent is still actively traded among collectors worldwide. Fans seek both nostalgia and the magazine's distinct visual style, especially fans of vintage busty modeling.