Vintage Weights Collecting Etiquette - A Common Practice Guide
All too often, vintage weight collectors take from each other, step on each other’s toes, and even sabotage one another. I’m not perfect, and especially when I first started out, I’m sure my newfound obsession with vintage weights overcame common courtesy at times. But not anymore.
I humbly present to you, beginner and veteran, an etiquette for collecting vintage weights with the hope we can help each other. I do not have any authority over any collector. I am merely suggesting this etiquette. Thank you for reading.
If a listing is marked pending or sold, treat it as sold. A message to the seller simply stating something along the lines of, “if anything falls through, I’d be interested,” is acceptable. Any attempt to offer a higher amount or hinder/stop the sale is unacceptable.
If a listing is not marked pending or sold, but the seller states that someone has made an offer, it is acceptable to make a higher offer.
If not marked pending or sold, but the seller says they have made a deal, someone is picking it up, or in other similar words the deal is done, it is unacceptable to make an offer or hinder the sale in some manner.
If a listing is shared on a vintage weights group (Facebook, forum, social media, etc.) and a member says that they have secured a deal, refer to #1, #2, and #3.
If not serious about purchasing, do not contact a seller. An influx of messages hurts a potential buyer.
When selling or trading, all known defects or negative qualities of the item should be disclosed.
Trades should be made of equal value for both parties. If one party values an item more for some reason (complete a set, personal nostalgia, etc.), monetary inequity should at least be acknowledged and known to both parties.
Sales can be made to the highest offer and/or priced at the seller’s best interpretation of fair market value. However, courtesy to a fellow collector, a discount to help out a beginner, and entertaining offers in a friendly manner is acceptable.
When shipping, ship promptly and provide tracking information. Pack items securely to give the greatest chance possible of safe shipment. Insurance benefits both parties.
If an item is damaged or lost in shipment, both parties should come to an amicable agreement.
What are your thoughts? I’m open to suggestions for this guide. Please contact me if you have any.
