From Car Boot to Collector’s Item: Tony Hawk’s First Pro Model
In the world of skateboarding collectibles, few items carry the historical significance and rarity of Tony Hawk's original pro model deck. Here at 608 Skateshop, we're proud to display this iconic piece of skateboarding history above our till, where it serves as a daily reminder of how far skateboarding has come.
The Origin Story
Released in 1982 by Powell-Peralta, this deck represents the very beginning of Tony Hawk's professional career. At just 14 years old, Hawk was granted his first signature model, a remarkable achievement for such a young skater. The deck features a simple yet striking white background adorned with a red and black hawk graphic, complemented by Tony's signature in black and yellow.
The artistic vision behind this deck came from Vernon Courtlandt Johnson, whose distinctive style would later become synonymous with the Powell-Peralta aesthetic. This particular model had a "pig shape" with no concave, reflecting the skateboard design sensibilities of the early 1980s.
A Slow Start
Despite its current legendary status, Tony's first pro model wasn't an immediate hit. The skateboarding industry was experiencing a downturn in the early '80s, and Tony hadn't yet become the household name we know today. Additionally, the board's smaller dimensions (essentially a mini-model presented as a full-size deck) and its initial graphic didn't resonate with the wider skateboarding community at the time.
In 1983, Powell-Peralta replaced the original hawk graphic with Johnson's now-iconic "Screaming Chicken Skull" design, which proved much more successful and helped elevate Tony's profile in the skateboarding world.
The 608 Collection Piece
Our shop's particular specimen has quite the journey behind it. The deck found its way to us through a serendipitous exchange at an Ashley Heath car boot sale, traded not for money, but for a pair of trainers! We were the third owners of this deck, with the previous owner having received it from his nan, who had originally purchased it at another car boot sale.
Today, original examples of Tony Hawk's first pro model deck are among the most valuable skateboard collectibles on the market, with some commanding eye watering prices on platforms like eBay.
A Piece of History
When you visit 608 Skateshop, be sure to look up above the till to catch a glimpse of this rare artifact. It's not just a skateboard, it's a testament to the beginnings of one of skateboarding's greatest icons and a tangible piece of the skating's rich history.
This deck marks the starting point of our blog series exploring the treasures in the 608 Collection. Stay tuned as we continue to highlight more remarkable pieces from skateboarding's past!