I do not consider myself a collector of lights, per se, though I currently own 51 of them. Some are certainly just for fun, a few are because I was curious to see whether this is a specific need I have, but most are for a specific purpose. And for some reason I don't have 2 of the exact same light for 2 different specific purposes - they are all different lights, though I cannot really explain why that is so. However, in time and as technology progresses, I get a new and improved light as a direct replacement for something. More output, longer runtime, better beam colour, farther throw, better flood, all of the above.
For example, I have a small light on both of my keychains. At first, that meant I had 2 lights. I have since upgraded both lights 4 times, so now I have 8 lights. Does that make me a collector? Not really. It's more defined as an evolution, I would say. Especially when considering the older keylights that won't be used anymore, and eventually will turn into a pile of rust and dust. Upgrading a light doesn't make anyone a collector, that is just the natural cycle of things.
If we are being philosophical about this, what defines a "collector"? What differentiates a collector of wall paintings and someone who just has some paintings on their wall? Personally, i would argue the collector has whatever he or she collects behind glass, just looking at them. And with paintings, that's pretty much all there is to do about it. But with flashlights, they got an actual use. Unlike paintings - personal opinion applies - flashlights are actually useful. Using a painting for illumination would be a rather...short-lived and limited experience, while a flashlight can provide a useful utility over and over and over again.
If someone were to tell me they had 250 flashlights spread around their house and car, I would think "great - this one is prepared!".
If that same person were to show me his 250 flashlights, all neatly placed in glass cabinets, I would think "ugh, what a waste...", while attempting to smile politely.
Needless to say, that second example is the collector. The first one isn't. Ask yourself, which of the two are you?
If it's the latter, eh, you probably got enough lights. But if it's the former...look for those still open nooks and crannies, and put another ligth in them.
Sincerely,
AristotleNO
