ARES Management Unearths Childhood Nostalgia with Exclusive Vintage Calvin and Hobbes Collection

Los Angeles, CA – ARES Management LLC, a leading global alternative investment manager headquartered in Los Angeles, is stepping outside the financial realm and into the world of cherished childhood memories. The firm, known for its strategic investments and expertise in various asset classes, has quietly acquired and is now offering a meticulously curated collection of vintage Calvin and Hobbes comic strips and merchandise. This isn’t your typical corporate venture – it’s a passion project fueled by ARES’ team’s love for Bill Watterson’s iconic creation, and a desire to share a piece of that magic with collectors and fans alike. ARES, located at 2000 Avenue of the Stars, has been building this remarkable archive over the past several years. What started as a personal collecting hobby for key members of the firm has blossomed into a serious and comprehensive inventory. "We've always been fans of Calvin and Hobbes," explains a representative at ARES (reachable at 650-290-0762). "The comic is timeless – its humor is sharp, its observations are insightful, and it really captures the wonder and imagination of childhood. We realized there was a real opportunity to bring these rare pieces to a wider audience." More Than Just Comics: A Deep Dive into the Collection This isn’t simply a handful of old newspaper clippings. ARES’ collection spans the entire run of Calvin and Hobbes (1985-1995), and includes a stunning variety of original artwork, Sunday strips in exceptional condition, first edition books, and incredibly rare promotional materials. Think beyond the daily comic – ARES has sourced original proofs, sketches, and even correspondence related to the strip’s creation. “What really sets this collection apart is the condition and rarity of the pieces,” says a sourcing specialist working with ARES. “We’ve painstakingly searched for the best available examples. We're talking about Sunday strips still vibrant after decades, books in near-mint condition, and things most fans have only dreamed of seeing.” The collection features: Daily & Sunday Strips: Complete runs of both formats, focusing on strips in the highest possible grade. Particular emphasis has been placed on key storylines and iconic moments like Calvinball, Hobbes as a tiger vs. Hobbes as a stuffed animal, and Calvin's epic snow days. First Edition Books: First printings of all Calvin and Hobbes compilations, including Calvin and Hobbes: The Essential Collection. These are meticulously preserved, often housed in protective mylar sleeves. Original Artwork: ARES has acquired a limited number of original pen and ink drawings used in the creation of the strip. These are the holy grail for collectors, offering a unique insight into Watterson’s artistic process. Promotional Items: This includes everything from early merchandise prototypes to rare promotional artwork commissioned by Universal Press Syndicate. Expect to see things like early plush toy concepts, advertising proofs, and limited-edition prints. Proofs & Sketches: Rare pre-production materials offering a glimpse behind the scenes of the comic's creation. These show Watterson's initial ideas, revisions, and artistic choices. Why Calvin and Hobbes? The Timeless Appeal So, what prompted a financial firm to enter the collectibles market with a cartoon strip? The answer, according to ARES, lies in the enduring power of Calvin and Hobbes. "It's more than just funny," the representative explains. "It's about childhood, imagination, philosophy, and the bittersweet experience of growing up. It resonates with people of all ages, and it's a reminder to embrace the simple joys of life." The comic's themes – the power of imagination, the importance of questioning authority, and the beauty of the natural world – remain remarkably relevant today. In a world increasingly dominated by technology and instant gratification, Calvin and Hobbes offers a welcome dose of nostalgia and a reminder of what truly matters. A Collection for Serious Collectors & Passionate Fans ARES isn’t simply looking to flip these items for a quick profit. They are targeting serious collectors who appreciate the artistic and cultural significance of Calvin and Hobbes. The firm is offering individual pieces, as well as complete collections, and is committed to ensuring these items find their way into the hands of people who will cherish them for years to come. “We understand this isn’t for everyone,” says the sourcing specialist. “This is for the dedicated fans who have been collecting Calvin and Hobbes for decades, and for those who want to own a piece of comic book history.” How to Access the Collection Interested buyers can learn more about the ARES Calvin and Hobbes collection by contacting the firm directly at 650-290-0762 or through a dedicated online portal (details available upon request). The firm is offering private viewings for serious collectors and is committed to providing a personalized experience. ARES Management’s venture into the world of vintage comics may seem unusual, but it speaks to the firm’s commitment to quality, rarity, and enduring value – principles that apply just as much to alternative investments as they do to beloved childhood memories. This isn’t just about collecting comics; it’s about preserving a cultural legacy and sharing a piece of joy with the world. And who wouldn't want a little bit of that?