Do you need to get auction catalogs?

[Jewish-collector]

The only thing better than an auction catalog is a free auction catalog.

No, seriously a lot of the auction houses have said that some of their big buyers want to see all of the lots in a condensed format because they take their catalogs with them on business trips, family vacations, etc,... and it's easier for them to bid by phone than to worry about bidding online.

[4815162342]

Yes.

[scooter729]

Originally Posted by Jewish-collector

The only thing better than an auction catalog is a free auction catalog.

No, seriously a lot of the auction houses have said that some of their big buyers want to see all of the lots in a condensed format because they take their catalogs with them on business trips, family vacations, etc,... and it's easier for them to bid by phone than to worry about bidding online.

I appreciate that 'some' buyers want the physical catalog, and I know the catalogs won't entirely go away.

However, I'd love for some auction companies to see that not all collectors need the catalogs, and they could save big bucks (and hopefully pass some of that savings on to buyers / consignors) by not having to print and mail catalogs for every bidder.

[E93]

Yes, I like auction catalogs. I always miss some things in the fatiguing internet scan that I catch in the catalog in big auctions like REA. I don't want to read a phone book on the internet.
JimB

[bh3443]

I enjoy the auction catalogs very much. With my unique situation of being sick, it's easier for me to read the actual catalog than going on-line to read it.

I am by no means a big buyer, however, I do buy an item or two.

I want to take this opportunity to thank Doug Allen and Rob Lifson for their kindness and generosity in mailing me all their books. The reference material is price-less and i certainly appreciate their kindness.

My favorite two items won in recent auctions are an E95 of Wagner from legendary and a wonderful group of 1974 PSA cards from our leader and all around good guy Leon Luckey!

As for Steve's question, I'd have to say yes; I would pay for the catalog if it was necessary. I believe it was a conversation with our friend Rich Klien where we were conversing about the value of such catalogs for simply reference value.

Once again, I would like to extend my thanks to all our members. Our group here on net54 represent the very best of all hobbyists in our chosen field.

Thanks for this opportunity to express my opinion about another important issue in our industry.

Best Wishes to ALL my friends,

Bill Hedin

[Bicem]

I'm probably in the minority but I personally much prefer just to view auctions online (assuming there are large scans and the site is easy to navigate). Current bid prices, watch-lists, search function, etc. are all benefits vs. a catalog to me. Catalogs are fun and all to sit and read, but AH's would be just fine w/o them in my opinion.

I know a lot of people say that they miss things that they only catch in the catalog, that viewing online is more trouble, that AH's would lose bidders w/o catalogs, etc., but take away the catalogs and I have no doubt that those same bidders would adapt.

[vargha]

I'm old school. I prefer reading the catalogues. Beside, it's too much of a pain to read auctions on my computer while I'm sitting on the can.

[Bicem]

Originally Posted by vargha

I'm old school. I prefer reading the catalogues.

Are you British too?

[willworkforT206]

I also prefer to view the auctions on-line only. I'm registered with nearly all of the on-line auction houses and I've called every last one of them asking to take me off their mailing list. Most of them found my request to be unusual and many of them asked me "are you sure you don't want to receive the catalog?" Despite my efforts, I still get a few in the mail every now and then.

If you do go paperless, be sure to stay on their e-mail list so you continue to receive their notifications regarding upcoming auctions.

Steve

[E93]

Originally Posted by Bicem

I have no doubt that those same bidders would adapt.

Jeff,
I refuse to adapt!
JimB

[scooter729]

I agree, given a choice, I'll take the catalog(ue) if there's no direct cost for it.

But, if more places had the H&S option of "save $10 or $20 to opt out of the catalog", would you take them up on it? I know I would.

I have a feeling a "pay for the catalog" model could hurt business and wouldn't be adopted by many, but I think the H&S option is a good one which could be used by others to the benefit of all parties.