Item Watch 

Item Watch helps keep an eye on auctions which are listed that you are interested in. On any item page of an auction, in the top left box you will see a link to add the item to the Item Watch List. You must be logged in to add an item to your list. Item watch notifies you when someone bids on the auctions that you have added to your Item Watch List. When the auction closes you will also be notified. 

Auction Watch

Auction Watch helps keep an eye on auctions which have been listed matching your keywords. To use this feature, insert a keyword into the Watch List in your control panel. When the keyword you entered into your list appear in an auction's title or description, you will receive an e-mail notice informing you that an auction has been listed containing your keyword. You may also add a seller's nickname and if that user opens an auction you will get notification by e-mail.

How do I bid on this Auction?

To bid on an auction, enter your bid amount in the bid box located on the auction page, and click the 'Go' button. You may bid any amount that you feel appropriate and comfortable with. You will be asked to confirm your bid. Fill in your username and password and click 'Submit ' to complete your bid. If an item has a reserve price your bid will be accepted up to that reserve. If your bid was under the reserve price you may continue to bid until the reserve is reached. 

Should I bid on this Auction?

If you are a registered user and want to bid, you should do the following: 1. Read Seller's Feedback - To do this click on the number alongside the sellers nickname - read comments left by other users to determine what kind of reputation they have with other users of this site. 2. Get the Details - read the item description and ask questions if you need more information. 3. Be sure you understand all the conditions or terms of the listing. 

Buying an Instrument

How do I know if an instrument is genuine?

Labels, Brands, Stamps and inscriptions are not good indicators of whether an instrument is by a particular maker. Always ask the seller if there are any supporting documents, certificates or receipts that would help support the opinion. 

Selling an Instrument

Labels, Stamps, Brands and Inscriptions in instruments and bows, particularly stringed instruments may not necessarily be genuine. Many instruments can be later production copies with facsimile or outright fake labels of more important makers. Labels should be described accurately. However unless your are very sure of the provenance of the instrument or have supporting documents, it is advisable never to describe it as "BY" a particular maker but rather "LABELLED". Any deliberate attempt to mislead or deceive could put the sale at risk and jeopardise your future use of our site

How should I describe the condition of my instrument

The condition of the instrument should be described as accurately and as honestly as possible. Cracks, damage and repairs should be noted. you should be prepared for potential buyers to ask questions about your instrument. Any intentional mis-description or deceit could invalidate the sale and jeopardise your future use of our site.

Photographing my instrument

Good images are an essential aid to selling your instrument on-line. Close up shots of the body as well as labels, brands, damaged or repaired areas will all help towards a successful sale. If you have any supporting documents or certificates, then photograph those as well.


Can I have my instrument appraised before selling?

Violinauctions.co.uk is strictly a venue for buyers and sellers (see our terms and conditions). We take no responsibility for the provenance or condition of instruments that have not been seen or verified by us. However we do offer expert advice and appraisals and would verify an instrument that had been brought to us for appraisal, prior to a sale. This verification would be stated on your item listing. Please email contact@violinauctions.co.uk or fill out our preliminary Appraisal form

How do I place a Classified Advert?

Log on to your sellers account and enter the details of the items you want to sell. MOST IMPORTANTLY, make sure you tick the CLASSIFIED ADVERT box and then choose the duration of your advert from the drop down menu. Enter the Currency and Classified price you require for the item and then continue. Once you have set a fixed price, no bidding can take place.

Guidance for all Buyers and Sellers

1) Always remember to protect your password and username.

2) Always be on your guard for fraudulent Buyers and Sellers.

3) Make sure payments are received and cleared before parting with the item.

4) Never divulge your Bank Account or Credit Card details unless you are sure of who you are dealing with.

5) Be aware of 'Scammers' who look only to obtain your account details.

6) Whenever possible pay through a secure payment gateway.

7) Always be aware that any Auction may contain stolen items or may not have the owners permission to sell.

8) Always make sure you are satisfied with the situation.

9) Remember, winning bids do constitute a legal agreement in law between Buyer and Seller, unless there are reasonable grounds for either party to cancel the transaction.