Auctions: Why would you bother

[Pal]

I have just been perusing some auctions that came up showing some “original, authentic, WW2 German helmets “
Well I have attached a couple of photos that may amuse or make you angry.
I know everyone says to stay away from auctions, guess everyone could be correct.
You be the judge

[Gwar]

Hello ! There are a few auction houses that actually offer estate items, the boomer generation is slowly dying, and all of grandpa's war booty is on the block, all it really boils down to is being knowledgeable in the area you collect, and not to be lured into some of the nonsense, being able to discern original from replica is the key, I have found a great number of items on these type of platforms, the other hindrance is the premium fees associated with these type of sales.. G

[Watchdog]

Hello ! There are a few auction houses that actually offer estate items, the boomer generation is slowly dying, and all of grandpa's war booty is on the block, all it really boils down to is being knowledgeable in the area you collect, and not to be lured into some of the nonsense, being able to discern original from replica is the key, I have found a great number of items on these type of platforms, the other hindrance is the premium fees associated with these type of sales.. G

It's also crucial to know which auction houses have any idea of how to tell good from bad. There are a couple of really good specialist auction houses that are connected via members here (no names no pack drill but we know who you are and where you live! )to the forum and these are the kind of sources to consider rather than some provincial "house clearance" business in places you have never heard of.

Regards

Mark

[zook]

I look at two factors , reputation of the auction house ( as watchdog states ) and the buyer’s premium. There are great variances on premiums. Some auction houses are decent but have a really high premium on the hammer price - so it is my choice to stay away. That’s just my view - Dan

[BlackCat1982]

Not withstanding the odd descriptions above, auction houses can still yield some nice items now and then. Sadly though one also has to consider the buyers premiums and where the hammer price lands - some you win and some you lose.

[Schwerpunkt]

No military auctions for me , the photos are often lacking details. No return warranty in case they sell fakes which happens a lot and the prices are often higher than dealer prices. Maybe for some it is a hobby but I get what I need from going to fairs and buying direct online.