How to buy antiques online with confidence

Buying antiques online opens up far more choice than any local shop, but you can’t pick a piece up and turn it over in your hands. These checks will help you buy with confidence and avoid disappointment.

Study every photograph

Start with the photographs. Enlarge every one and look for what a quick glance misses: wear on edges and high points, chips, cracks, repairs, replaced parts and the marks on the base or back. A good listing shows a piece from every side, including its faults. Be wary of a single flattering photo, or images that look like they came from a catalogue rather than the item itself.

Read the description for specifics

Measurements, weight, materials and a plain statement of condition tell you far more than words like “lovely” or “rare”. For silver and gold, the weight and any hallmarks matter. For watches, ask whether it runs and when it was last serviced. For coins, look for a grade or a clear description of wear.

Check the marks

Hallmarks on British silver and gold tell you who made a piece, what it is made of, where it was tested and often the year. Ask for a close-up photo if the marks aren’t shown. Our guide to UK hallmarks explains how to read them.

Ask before you buy

If something you need to know is missing, ask. A seller who knows the piece will be glad to answer, and happy to send extra photos or a short video. Vague or slow answers are useful information too.

Check the seller

• Is there a real business behind the website, with contact details and a company name?
• Are delivery costs, timings and the returns policy clearly stated?
• What do other buyers say about them?

Know your rights

When you buy online from a UK business, you usually have the right to cancel and return most items within 14 days of delivery under the Consumer Contracts Regulations, and goods must be as described. Buying from a private individual gives you far fewer rights, so the checks above matter even more. Paying by credit card can add extra protection on purchases between £100 and £30,000.

Compare prices sensibly

Look at what similar pieces have actually sold for, not just asking prices, and compare like with like: condition, maker, date and completeness (original box, papers, certificates) all affect value.

Check how it will be packed and delivered

Finally, check the practical details: how the item will be packed, what delivery costs, whether it is tracked and insured, and what happens if it isn’t right. At Simply Collectable, UK delivery is free and tracked on every order, items over £100 go by Special Delivery, and you have 30 days to return any item, including pre-owned. See our delivery details, or ask us about any piece.

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