How a Vendor POV Video Sparked Winson's Collecting Journey
Winson’s story with trading cards actually began long before Pokémon.
Back in 2011, he was already immersed in the world of trading card games through titles like Cardfight Vanguard. While Pokémon wasn’t on his radar then, the foundation of collecting had already been laid. But like many collectors, he eventually stepped away from the hobby around 2016.
It wasn’t until 2024 that things came full circle.
One day, he stumbled across a Pokémon vendor POV video by the YouTuber Bulbastore—and that was all it took. One video turned into another, and soon he found himself deep in the rabbit hole, rediscovering the world of Pokémon.
That feeling led him to visit the Pokémon Center Singapore at Jewel, where he picked up his very first 151 booster bundle. And just like that, his journey began (again).
A Special Lorcana Grail For Tournament Players
Winson’s holy grail is the Top 32 Elsa Ice Maker Lorcana Promo (PSA 10); a card awarded only to top tournament players.
During one of the lowest periods in his life at 17, he found himself isolated from the world for weeks, even months. It was during that time that he came across Frozen. Elsa’s story resonated deeply with him, reflecting his own struggles and emotions.
Elsa’s story resonated deeply with him, mirroring his own struggles and emotions in a way that felt almost personal.
It gave him the courage to open up, reconnect with others, and slowly find his way back to a happier version of himself.
So when the opportunity came to acquire this card, he didn’t hesitate. Despite having an exam the very next day, he immediately secured a deal and rushed down to meet the seller. Today, the card sits in his collection as a deeply personal symbol of growth and change.
The Magic of Collecting: Across Borders & Communities
One of Winson’s most memorable moments highlights what makes this hobby so special.
While in Japan, he was hunting for one of his favourite cards: the Latios & Latias GX from Tag Bolt, when he finally came across a copy in a card shop. As it turned out, the card had been consigned by a local Japanese collector who just so happened to be in the shop at the same time.
Winson ended up negotiating directly with him on the spot, eventually securing the card at a great price—and even taking a photo together to mark the moment!
And that same sense of community didn’t stop there.
Back home, PK from OFL helped him secure an exclusive sunset guard for the card at a great price, knowing it was the perfect match for his grail.
To Winson, moments like these reinforce what collecting is really about; because while they may just be “pieces of cardboard,” the meaning behind them, and the people you meet along the way, are what he’ll cherish for life.
"Collect what you love." Genuinely, this is my most important advice for collectors. Given the state of the market, it can be rather tempting to follow trends and to chase high prices. Before making that decision, perhaps it is wise to ask yourself: Do I really want that card for its monetary value or do I really want that card for its intrinsic value?
What's Next In Winson's Collecting Journey?
For Winson, the ultimate goal still lies ahead.
His dream grail is the D23 Expo Elsa Lorcana card in a BGS 10: a card with only 900 copies ever released, and just two graded at that level.
Owning it would mean completing the ultimate tribute to something that changed his life.
But beyond the chase, it’s the journey itself that means the most.
To him, this hobby is a true blessing, and being able to share his passion with like-minded collectors is something he finds genuinely heartwarming.
Connect With Winson And Follow His Collecting Journey!
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