Scott Vs Showgard Mounts

Although this has been discussed before, I was hoping to reopen the discussion. I was accidentally sent Showgard instead of the Scott I had ordered. I really can't see much of a difference. Yes, the seals on the edges are a tiny bit smaller on the Showgard. And I've compared this Showgard I received to old Showgard mounts I have. The old ones have a smaller gauge (thickness) and the black isn't as black. But I don't see a difference in gloss between the new Showgard and Scott. And I like the packaging on the new Showgard better than Scott -- less bulky.

Am I crazy? (I may be, but I'm only talking in the context of stamp mounts.) Are the newer Showgard noticeably different?

Let me ask this; If you placed a Scott mount, an old Showgard and a new Showgard side by side on an album page, how noticeable would the differences be? Enough for you to hate the page?



Edit: Removed signature

The differences between the two are so subtle that they've never bothered me. I agree on the packaging and also prefer the Showguard variety. And you're a stamp collector, so OF COURSE you're nuts !


(edited for spelling boo boo)

Actually perhaps I am nuts. I want things to be perfect. I think stamp collectors have discriminating visual skills. Otherwise, who would care about different shades of colors, perforations, etc.

I've used both brands for years now, and I absolutely see no difference between them other than their packaging. They're interchangeable as far as I'm concerned, and when either of them has a stamp in them in an album you cannot tell any difference. In fact, I had always heard they were made by the same company, but that is not true.

I'm always surprised at how few people bother to ask their question generally online to see if there is an answer. It took me 10 seconds to find this AI answer:

"Showgard and Scott stamp mounts are made by different companies. While both provide archival, plasticizer-free polystyrene mounts, they are manufactured and distributed by distinct entities:

"Showgard Mounts: Manufactured in Germany, these are distributed and branded in the US by the Vidiforms Company.

"Scott Mounts: These are custom-manufactured in Germany by Prinz and then branded and packaged as "ScottMounts" for Amos Advantage (publishers of the Scott Catalogue) and other distributors.

"Because both brands rely on premium German manufacturing, they are virtually identical in design, though the packaging and brand names differ."

Hope that helps.

I do not consider these needing any special premium German technology. It just requires a company that wants to do it. Many American companies do not seem to want to make anything. The costs to make in Germany are not lower than the US. We are lucky companies like Lighthouse that continued the HAWID brand.

I prefer Prinz. They have blacker backs, have been cheaper, and available in more sizes. They are made of a less rigid materials. I have seen too many Showgards that have wrinkled with age.