Dominic Winter Auctioneers

Great auction house for 19th Century illustated books and Paintings. Very helpful staff.

like

Report

Based on my recent dealings with Dominic Winter, I would warn people not to use this Auction House. I was recommended to them by a family member who had in the past known one of the Directors. They tried on three occasions to sell a set of books for me. The first time they didn't reach their reserve. On the second occasion they sold for a good price. I checked their website and saw that they had definitely been sold. Two days later I received a phone call from a member of Dominic Winter's staff to say that my books had not been sold. I argued that they had. I was then told that the final bid had been rescinded for the spurious reason that the highest bidder had made a mistake when writing down the Lot number. Given that the Lot number was 500, not a number that can easily be confused, I find this a very flimsy excuse. Generally, the rule is, that once the hammer goes down, you are in a legally binding contract with the Seller. It clearly states that on their website. The Buyer then should pay for the item they've bought. If the buyer then decides to re-auction the item then that is their decision. I can only assume that the bidder was someone well known to them, so they thought it was fair to let him renege on the sale. Clearly, fairness to the seller is less important. Dominic Winter then attempted to auction the books for me a third time without success. I have now collected my books and will take them to a REPUTABLE auction house. I have bought and sold at many auctions both in person and live on line, and have never experienced such a disreputable way of dealing. It seems to me that they ignore the usual rules, then change them on a whim. Very dodgy, avoid.

like

Report

I have been dealing with Dominic Winter Auctioneers for over 15 years. There is none of the aloofness you can find at other auction houses. The staff are very friendly and approachable. They have an excellent auction schedule, and I have bought some really beautiful and rare items there over the years. In fact, as a result of their fine reputation in the rare books, art and antiques world, they always seem to bring an excellent selection of items to market. It's not just about selling and buying either: you can have a fascinating day there even if you don't bid. Just browsing can be fun, and their café serves excellent nosh and tea/coffee. If you've never been to an auction before, and feel a bit daunted by the whole idea, then this friendly auction house is definately a good place to start. You can even combine the experience with a walk round the beautiful lakes on their doorstep!

like

Report

Excellent buying experience, very helpful staff. My purchase arrived quickly and safely. Will definitely use again.

like

Report