Here's a spot which is all but hidden and you could easily walk past without even noticing it's existence. However, if you happen to stumble upon Fats Comics in Annerley Junction, then you are in for a treat!
Boxes upon boxes of vintage comics from Batman to Phantom are stacked under tables, against walls and in front of the counter just waiting for the patient collector to find them. There are pop culture prints, mugs and collectible figurines which Grant painstakingly cleans to give them new life.
Alongside these treasures, Grant's own artwork adorns the walls. In a previous life, he was a sign writer and ad painter and has a keen eye for detail and his own vintage styling. You can purchase an original for only a few hundred bucks and many have made their way into happy art collectors hands.
When we used to pass this shop and gazed through its dark door, we marveled that a business could open 11:30am - 3:30pm on only five days per week and survive! But now I know that those who are aware of the secrets within are happy to keep time with Grant and come by in the scant window of time which he opens his cave of wonders.
Grant specialises in vintage and collectible The Phantom comics as he has been the recipient of a large amount of writer Lee Falk's estate in days gone by. He has faciliated many purchases and sales of Phantom collections and is the true Australian expert when it comes to all things Falk.
It's worth the trip to see Fats Comics - even if you just want a peek into the history and story of early comic books. Well worth the wait for the doors to open just before it's time for lunch!
