Club International is a famous British adult magazine that was published from 1968 to 2016. It featured glamorous models posing nude or semi-nude in a variety of locations, including exotic locales like beaches, forests, and luxury apartments. Its founder and publisher, Roy Stuart, wanted it to be more than just an erotica magazine but also a highbrow publication featuring interviews, fashion spreads, art, literature reviews, and travel articles. Over time, Club International became known for its unique photography style and sophisticated aesthetic appeal. The magazine's popularity led to the creation of spin-off publications such as Club UK, Club USA, and Club International International.
The collectors' market for old issues of Club International has grown steadily over the years, driven by both nostalgia and appreciation for its historical significance. Many fans of vintage erotica view the magazines as cultural artifacts, preserving a lost era of sexual expression and social attitudes towards sex. Some issues are especially rare and valuable due to their limited print runs or iconic covers, making them highly sought-after items among collectors. For example, the first issue of Club International sold at auction for £5,375 in 2014, while later issues can fetch thousands of pounds on online platforms like eBay.
One reason for the value of old issues of Club International is their historical importance. They capture changing fashions, photography styles, and social attitudes toward eroticism over the decades, providing a unique window into British culture during this period. They also show how ideas about beauty, femininity, masculinity, and sexuality have evolved since the 1960s. By examining these changes through the lens of adult magazines, we can gain insights into broader shifts in society and gender roles.
Another factor driving the value of old issues of Club International is their artistic merit. The magazine was known for its high production values, with lavish sets, exotic locations, and talented photographers like Helmut Newton and Mario Testino. Its glamorous models were often seen as trendsetters, influencing fashion and beauty trends in mainstream media. This makes old copies of Club International prized possessions for collectors of art and design as well as erotica enthusiasts.
Finally, some fans appreciate Club International's role as an artifact of popular culture. It helped to normalize nudity and open discussions around sexuality, challenging societal norms that had long condemned such behavior. As such, it played a significant part in the sexual revolution of the late twentieth century, helping to shape public perceptions of sex and intimacy. Collectors view these magazines as relics from a time when people were more daring and open-minded about their sexuality, making them valuable historical documents.
In conclusion, old issues of Club International have become collector's items due to their vintage glamour photography, nostalgic appeal, cultural significance, artistic merit, and role in shaping social attitudes towards sex. Their rarity and value make them highly sought after by both erotica fans and collectors of pop culture and art. Whether you are a fan of adult magazines or just curious about the past, old issues of Club International offer a fascinating window into a bygone era of British society and sexual expression.