ARES Management Unearths Nostalgia: Rare Vintage Calvin and Hobbes Strips Hit the Market

ARES Management LLC, a global alternative investment manager based in Los Angeles, is making headlines – not for a multi-billion dollar deal, but for a surprisingly heartwarming venture into the world of collectible art and childhood memories. The firm, known for its complex financial strategies, is now acting as a custodian and facilitator for a remarkable collection of original, vintage Calvin and Hobbes comic strips by the legendary Bill Watterson. For those unfamiliar, Calvin and Hobbes ran from 1985 to 1995 and quickly became a cultural phenomenon. It’s not just a comic strip; it's a touchstone for a generation. The adventures of the imaginative six-year-old Calvin and his insightful tiger Hobbes resonated with millions, tackling profound themes of childhood, philosophy, and the human condition with wit and charm. And while reprints are plentiful, original artwork from the strip – particularly those from the early years – are incredibly rare and highly sought after by collectors. “We stumbled upon this collection as part of a broader asset management situation," explains a representative from ARES Management. “It became clear very quickly that this wasn’t just ‘stuff’ – it was a piece of American cultural history. We felt a responsibility to ensure these strips found their way to appreciative collectors who would truly value them.” ARES isn’t a traditional art dealer. They're primarily a financial powerhouse managing over $365 billion in assets. So why Calvin and Hobbes? "It's a bit of a departure for us, sure," the representative admits with a laugh. “But we're problem-solvers at heart. We saw an opportunity to connect a valuable asset with a passionate collector base. Plus, honestly, who doesn’t love Calvin and Hobbes?” What's Available? The collection ARES is handling is described as "significant," boasting strips spanning several years of the comic's run, from the early, more experimental phases to the beautifully refined art of the later years. The strips are all original artwork – meticulously hand-drawn by Watterson in ink on Bristol board. "We're talking about the actual pieces of art Watterson created for the newspapers," explains an art appraisal expert working with ARES. “These aren’t photocopies or prints. They show the artist's process – the initial sketches, the white-out corrections, even the tiny smudges and imperfections that make each strip unique.” Specifically, the collection features several Sunday strips in remarkably well-preserved condition. These larger, more complex strips – often telling a multi-panel story – are particularly prized by collectors. There are also a number of daily strips, offering a glimpse into the rapid-fire wit and observational humor that defined the comic. “One of the most striking things about these strips is the detail,” the appraiser notes. “Watterson’s art wasn’t just about telling a joke. He put incredible effort into the backgrounds, the character expressions, the dynamic action. When you look at the original artwork, you can really appreciate the skill and dedication that went into each panel.” Why the Hype? The Collector's Perspective The market for original comic strip art has been steadily growing for years, but Calvin and Hobbes consistently commands top dollar. Several factors contribute to this: Rarity: Bill Watterson was notoriously private and stopped drawing Calvin and Hobbes at the peak of its popularity. He also actively discouraged the sale of original artwork, making it exceptionally scarce. Cultural Significance: The comic resonates deeply with a large demographic who grew up reading it. This creates strong emotional connection and willingness to pay a premium. Artistic Merit: Watterson’s artistic skill is widely recognized. His use of watercolors, particularly in the Sunday strips, is considered masterful. Investment Potential: Like other collectible art, original Calvin and Hobbes strips have demonstrated strong appreciation in value over time. "For collectors, owning an original Calvin and Hobbes strip isn't just about having a piece of art; it’s about owning a piece of their childhood," says a long-time comic art collector. “It’s a reminder of simpler times, of imagination and wonder. It’s a conversation starter. And, let's be honest, it's a pretty smart investment too." ARES' Role: Facilitating the Connection ARES isn't marking up the strips or acting as a traditional art dealer. They are taking a more hands-off approach, working directly with qualified collectors and providing authentication and provenance documentation. "We're essentially acting as a facilitator," explains the ARES representative. "We're ensuring the strips go to collectors who will cherish them and preserve them for future generations. We’re handling the legal and logistical aspects, ensuring a smooth and transparent transaction.” ARES is utilizing a private sale process, vetting potential buyers and prioritizing those with a genuine appreciation for the comic. They are also offering comprehensive documentation, including authentication reports and detailed provenance information, guaranteeing the authenticity and history of each strip. “We understand the value of these strips, both financially and culturally,” says the representative. “We're committed to ensuring they find their way to the right homes.” Interested in Learning More? While ARES isn't publicly listing the strips, they are accepting inquiries from serious collectors. Interested parties can contact ARES Management directly through their website ([invalid URL removed] – though be prepared to demonstrate your credentials and financial capacity). This unexpected venture into the art world demonstrates ARES Management’s ability to think outside the box and leverage their expertise in asset management to facilitate unique and culturally significant transactions. And for Calvin and Hobbes fans, it’s a chance to own a piece of comic strip history – a tangible reminder of the power of imagination, friendship, and a very mischievous tiger.