How to Collect 16mm Film

Measure the film stock. If the stock measures around 4.8 millimeters, it's polyester, the most modern film type. Look for film measuring around 5.5 millimeters. These are made of acetate and are significantly older and therefore more valuable.

Inspect the film color. If it's faded, the film is likely to be useless if it's pre-1980 stock. As a general rule, film should have either a dark blue or black film track.

Check for scratches and splices. Look on a couple of clips of the film. If you see any noticeable lines within the frames, then the film is probably useless. One or two small ones are fine, and often normal, but long scratches or cuts will significantly damage the film.

Project the film at about 10 feet wide. This is the best way to check for quality and authenticity. A fake will look grainy, cloudy and out of focus for character movement and images. A damaged film will skip and cut scenes, or simply not show a picture.

Bargain your purchase. Never settle for the asking price at a pawn shop or collector's shop. Sellers are usually always willing to negotiate a final price.

Store your film stocks in low temperature and humidity conditions slightly above freezing. This will keep them from fading and potentially catching fire for older nitrate stocks.