While recently searching Ebay for any interesting Items available in Model Trains, once again, I noticed something that has bothered me for quite a while. First let me say I believe it is the responsibility of all “bidders” to do his/her homework before bidding on anything of value. Sadly though, there are a few sellers that know, not all bidders, take the time to research. There are a few sellers that have very expensive digital cameras. They take incredible pictures of train engines (the old steam “General” type in particular) and then use any of the available photo softwares available to enhance them. The pictures are usually taken outdoors, with only land in the background. The engine and tender look like full size versions of the model. This model in particular normally sells for a “buy it now” price of $89. I just watched one sell for $554!! Although, it’s against the rules to contact bidders and disuade them, they’re not reachable anyway, because the seller uses what is known as a “private auction”. The bidders names are hidden, therefore, there is no one to send a warning even if you wanted to. Again, it is still the responsibility of the “bidder” to know what they are bidding on. It just bothers me to no end to see someone taking advantage of what can be a great resource for the honest collector. So, always, always, always, search the internet first for a fair market price of the item your interested in.
As always - Caveat emptor! (let the buyer beware). Participating on an eBay auction (private or open) is no different that going to a public auction, a train show, or a swap meet. You need to be educated on the item you are going after. There is no law against being stupid or an a _ _ hole. We cannot police or warn everyone on every item for sale. Remember - a fool and his money are soon parted. Also, be weary of giving advice as a wise man doesn’t need it and fool rarely heeds it. Enough of the clichés, I’ll go back under my rock now.
Bill, I think you put it very well. Doesn’t the bible even say something along those lines?
The only problem I’ve experienced with eBay is from an honest seller who didn’t realize that the item he had was not what he thought.
Hello
I just wanted to add some of the newer cameras have a tendency to "clean up " the photo .
people have no clue that the photo looks better than the item .
guess thats how we get the wonderful photos from our 10.000 meg pixel cameras
dont think its intentional
B -