I've got a few but would not consider myself a "collector" per say. Just more of a few knives I picked up along the way.

Bought two brand new ones not too long ago and the quality has unfortunately decreased. It wasn't terrible but certainly not the quality of yesteryear. Most of the issues I was able to resolve without exchanging them - as they were Christmas gifts and had no time to do so. Had they been for me and had no time restrictions, I would have had them exchanged.
From what I have read, the ones to buy new now are the "select" models that they put a little more effort in prior to shipping. Still, for the money they are descent American made knives that can still be quite serviceable!
I own more knives than I care to count and I still prefer EDC-ing a traditional folding pocket knife rather than some of my high tech modern clip on pocket knives. While the modern styles of the Spyderco, Kershaw, Benchmade etc. are excellent and quite well made, nothing warms my heart like an old well worn and carried pocket knife that is razor sharp.
When in the presence of others and you take out an old Case, Marbles, Uncle Henry etc. no one feels intimidated. Flip open a new style Spyderco and you'll get a different reaction most of the time.
Caj, why don't you try calling Case (Phone: (800) 523-6350) they might be able to help. There is also a Case collectors forum if you really strike out there.