In the world of collecting only the rarest, most unique Air Jordans, the name of @depeche23mode needs no introduction. Simon Voltaire Tan is one of the most respected names in the world of collectors, with his personal stash regularly drawing the biggest names in the game in efforts to secure some of the most prized gems off of his hands.
We interviewed Simon over a decade ago, a time in which he whittled his collection down to a mere 20 pairs. It has regrown considerably since, and he’s been slowly letting these exclusive, almost one-off gems go to the public via eBay auction.
His latest share: this ultra-rare Air Jordan 3 Tinker “UNC” that has rarely seen the light of day. Using the Air Jordan 3 Tinker as the base, this version applies the iconic UNC Tar Heels thematic via the UNC logo on the heel and the University Blue touches on the laces, MJ insignia, and swappable Swoosh logos. This sample never released to the public and was likely given to those close to the Jordan Brand and UNC program.
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- Air Jordan 3 Tinker “UNC” Sample @depeche23mode
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- Air Jordan 3 Tinker “UNC” Sample @depeche23mode
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- Air Jordan 3 Tinker “UNC” Sample @depeche23mode
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- Air Jordan 3 Tinker “UNC” Sample @depeche23mode
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- Air Jordan 3 Tinker “UNC” Sample @depeche23mode
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- Air Jordan 3 Tinker “UNC” Sample @depeche23mode
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- Air Jordan 3 Tinker “UNC” Sample @depeche23mode
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- Air Jordan 3 Tinker “UNC” Sample @depeche23mode
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- Air Jordan 3 Tinker “UNC” Sample @depeche23mode
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- Air Jordan 3 Tinker “UNC” Sample @depeche23mode
If you recall, the Air Jordan 3 Tinker is a variation of the iconic Air Jordan 3 inspired by Tinker Hatfield’s earlier sketch of the shoe. It features a Swoosh logo on the upper and a NIKE embossed onto the upper collar, but this pair highlights the year 1986 instead.
It’s not clear of Tan intends to sell the shoes at some point, but even DJ Khaled has taken interest by dropping a comment on Instagram.
