I always assume my max bids can be seen. Only use them at this point when I just can't stay up that late...and I have to come with terms if I'm going to get the item it may well be at my max bid.
Honestly the only auction houses I ever thought it was screwy because it seems like EVERY time I won for my max bids were with Mastro and Legendary. Surprise. With REA i've had my max bids hit, and at other times got lucky...maybe a 50/50 split or so.
Assume everyone can see your bids....
