Goodrich ? Over the last 11 years, Rick Branch of RJ’s TV, VCR & Stereo Repair has built his business servicing’not selling’electronics.
He’s making an exception for metal detectors.
‘I wanted to do it for a good many years and kept asking my wife for one,? said Branch.
‘She’d say, ‘You don’t need that, you’ll never use it, but I use it every Sunday faithfully.?
Branch currently sells Fisher M-Scope metal detectors, the same company that invented the device back in 1931, when it was known as a ‘metallascope?.
According to Fisher Lab.com, Dr. Gerhard Fisher’s invention–which Albert Einstein predicted would be used worldwide–was based on aircraft radio direction finders.
Pilots noticed metal objects altered their bearings, inspiring Fisher’s development of a portable ‘prospecting instrument? for detecting small buried objects and ore deposits (see http://www.fisherlab.com/fisherbeta/company_info/company_info.asp).
Small buried objects hold a fascination for Branch, who treasure-hunts anywhere he has permission.
He’s found old relics, coins like an 1883 ‘V? nickel, an Italian mosaic brooch, an antique spoon, small metal Tootsie Toy cars, and a black stone class ring engraved with three initials, buried in the roots of an old Ortonville tree.
Branch is looking for the owner of the 1925 gold class ring.
Although the gold doesn’t have unusual value, the owner’s family may want it for its sentimental value, he says.
‘A lot of people look at (metal detecting) and it seems kind of boring,? said Branch, ‘but it’s actually kind of addicting.?
?(Metal detecting) is getting more popular because these things are so sophisticated now compared to what they used to be.?
Fisher M-Scope metal detectors start at around $200. Branch also sells high-end models that indicate depth. They not only beep when locating metal, but indicate what kind of object is detected, reducing unnecessary digging.
The business will expand to include other product lines in the future, based on customers? wants.
Although Branch continues to service electronics, including pick-up and delivery of large electronics, he’s looking forward to sharing treasure-hunting advice with customers who buy a metal detector, or perhaps unwrap one on Christmas.
‘I just want everybody to get one and go have fun with it.?
To learn more, call Rick Branch at (810) 636-7542.