B & L Auction is Up...and I have a question

[Theoldprofessor]

I understand why you're doing it -- technology isn't always predictable -- but can I throw in a small plea from one insignificant bidder? Please drop the "extra 15 minute" rule. It's a sham. What's magic about 15 minutes? Why not keep the thing open an extra hour? Or a day? Or a week? Why ever close it? Eventually the really big spenders will find a way to amortize their earlier massive debts, probably with a federal subsidy, and find themselves able to outid the rest of the world. The longer the auction goes, the less likely it is that my top bid, based on what I can reasonably afford, will be able to survive.

This is, of course, great for those whose stuff is being auctioned. And for those with more money than brains. But not so good for the average collector.

[Steve D]

Don't fret too much Scott & Leon.....you're not the first auction house this has happened to. I can remember at least two other auctions just this year that had to extend a day due to website issues.


Steve

[robesm]

All things considered, you're definately doing the right thing.

[3-2-count]

Cool. Auction now extended through Sunday night.
Good call guys.

[Bridwell]

I'm sure the consignors will line up to support this decision. However, as a bidder, I am disappointed. I got my bids in early, before the computer closed the auction.

If the 3 lots I 'won' last night go to someone else, I will be unhappy. The auction rules say the auction is over when the computer ends the auction.

Everybody knows to bid early, or use the 'Max Bid' option.

Ron R

[calvindog]

Oh you guys will be fine, stop whining. None of you work tomorrow, right?

[bijoem]

I don't think anyone is particularly happy with what happened (auction house, consignors, bidders). But.... stuff happens. We have to roll with it.

For anyone who is seriously upset about it -
may I suggest this book.....

[Leon]

Originally Posted by Theoldprofessor

I understand why you're doing it -- technology isn't always predictable -- but can I throw in a small plea from one insignificant bidder? Please drop the "extra 15 minute" rule. It's a sham. What's magic about 15 minutes? Why not keep the thing open an extra hour? Or a day? Or a week? Why ever close it? Eventually the really big spenders will find a way to amortize their earlier massive debts, probably with a federal subsidy, and find themselves able to outid the rest of the world. The longer the auction goes, the less likely it is that my top bid, based on what I can reasonably afford, will be able to survive.

This is, of course, great for those whose stuff is being auctioned. And for those with more money than brains. But not so good for the average collector.

Hi Bob,
With all due respect what you are asking for is in direct opposition to what our mission has to be. We have to do as good as we can for the consignors and get them the highest amount for their valuables. The trick for collectors is to make the right decisions on what is there, with respect to "value", or also, unless the item is needed for a collection . (do we really "need" any of this stuff?) .

So for that reason I am quite sure the rules will have to stay the same. Please do consider using the max (or is it "up to"?) bid feature. No one sees that amount except you. We know it's not perfect but it is a good system when keeping our goals in mind. Thanks again for the feedback and support. Good luck if you go for anything!!