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For those passionate about uncovering rare vintage finds, online auctions present an exciting alternative to traditional estate sales. Imagine embarking on a digital treasure hunt where you can discover mid-century furniture, eclectic art pieces, and hidden gems, all from the comfort of your living room couch. No need to rush from one sale to another—everything you need is just a few clicks away.
However, diving into the online auction scene requires a blend of expertise, patience, and a sprinkle of luck. Whether your goal is to acquire distinctive designer pieces, whimsical decor, or elusive artworks, knowing how to assess quality and bid strategically is crucial.
Why online auctions are thriving
The world of online auctions was already on the rise, but the onset of the pandemic accelerated this trend significantly. David McAlary, the proprietor of Swank West Hartford LLC, experienced a transformative shift in his business model. Reflecting on this change, he states, “The pandemic turned everything upside down. After hosting my first online auction during the initial COVID lockdown, I realized the traditional selling methods were a thing of the past.”
McAlary’s auction house has established itself as a premier destination for mid-century and Danish modern finds, meticulously selected from local estates. He emphasizes that not every item is accepted; they curate only the finest pieces that align with their distinctive aesthetic, ensuring a quality experience for online shoppers.
New sourcing avenues for designers
This online pivot has also reshaped how designers, like Kate Pearce of Kate Pearce Vintage, source their materials. Pearce notes, “Previously, I relied heavily on estate sales and physical shops. However, the transition to online platforms opened up an entirely new universe for me. I quickly became familiar with websites like AuctionNinja, LiveAuctioneers, and Everything But The House.”
For some designers, the convenience of online auctions is particularly appealing. Leanne Ford expresses her love for bidding online, stating, “I enjoy participating in art auctions on platforms like Artsy and Artnet. For unique lighting, I turn to Chairish and 1stDibs. There’s always something extraordinary waiting to be discovered if you know where to look.”
Identifying reputable auction houses
With numerous online auction platforms available, finding trustworthy ones can be challenging. According to McAlary, transparency is key. “When I list items, I ensure to provide clear, well-lit images from multiple angles. If I attribute a piece to a particular brand or designer, I conduct thorough research to verify that information.”
Pearce concurs, noting that high-quality photographs and detailed descriptions significantly influence her bidding decisions. “We want a clear understanding of what we’re dealing with—its quality, condition, and even color accuracy,” she explains. “In the art world, provenance is vital; a certificate of authenticity (COA) can make or break a sale.”
Trusting your instincts
However, relying solely on descriptions can be misleading. Brown advises bidders to listen to their instincts. “Photos don’t always convey the full picture,” he cautions. “Sometimes, what you see online may not match the actual item. Trust your gut, but be aware that appearances can be deceiving.”
Strategies for successful bidding
When it comes to securing the best finds, experts recommend focusing on certain categories that consistently hold value. McAlary asserts that art remains a lucrative area for bidders. “If you’re aiming for something of significant value, look for art pieces. Signed prints and lithographs from the 1950s to 1980s are particularly sought after,” he shares.
Ford adopts a clever tactic by intentionally searching for misspellings in item listings to uncover hidden treasures. “I often look for common misspellings, which can lead me to unexpected finds,” she explains. “Mistakes like ‘midcentury’ versus ‘mid century’ or ‘Willy Guhl’ versus ‘Willie Guhl’ can yield fascinating results.”
Both Ford and Pearce emphasize the importance of verifying dimensions before placing a bid. Ford learned this lesson the hard way, saying, “Always double-check measurements—many a tiny chair has tricked me into thinking I found a fantastic deal.” Pearce echoes her sentiment, highlighting the necessity of ensuring dimensions are as expected to avoid surprises later on.
Balancing style and trends
When curating pieces for clients, finding a harmonious balance between timeless design and current trends is essential. Pearce suggests that materials such as exotic woods like tigerwood or walnut are excellent choices, as they have proven their durability over time. “You can find these woods on everything from Louis XIV desks to Milo Baughman coffee tables,” she states. “This versatility is a good indicator that they will remain stylish while also feeling classic.”
Brown agrees, emphasizing that mixing styles is crucial but stresses the need for visual harmony. “I incorporate various styles in my designs, but I pay close attention to the color palette and the scale of the pieces,” he notes. “This consideration ensures that the final mix feels cohesive rather than chaotic.”
Bidding smartly in online auctions
To avoid getting swept up in the excitement of bidding, having a clear strategy is vital. McAlary endorses a tactic known as max bidding. “If you see an item you’re eager to have, set a maximum bid and step away. Establish your limit and let the software do its job,” he recommends.
Pearce also advises setting a maximum bid beforehand to maintain focus. “Emotions can run high during bidding, so committing to a max bid before you start helps you stay grounded,” she explains. For more expensive items, Brown prefers a collaborative approach: “For bids exceeding $10,000, I always consult with the client to establish a budget. This prevents any surprises when the final bid is placed.”
The future of online auctions
The popularity of online auctions shows no signs of waning, as they merge the thrill of discovery with the convenience of home shopping. “People enjoy the rush of bidding while relaxing at home,” says McAlary. He often witnesses this excitement with unique items, such as a vintage vase or a carved sculpture. “You never know when a quick bid could lead to acquiring a significant piece of design history or a quirky object that becomes a beloved part of your collection,” he adds.
Experts agree that instincts play a significant role in finding the right pieces. “If something catches your eye or appears well-crafted, it’s worth investigating further,” suggests McAlary. Brown stresses the importance of trusting your gut when assessing how a piece fits into your overall design: “It’s about the careful mix and edit. Sometimes, a piece you didn’t expect to work fits perfectly into your vision.” Pearce adds, “Finding the right item may take time, but when it happens, it feels magical. You just need to be ready to act when the opportunity arises.”