If you are unable to attend a Guernsey's event, there are a variety of ways you can still participate in the auction. For a variety of reasons many bidders choose to participate (and win that special lot) through a variety of absentee methods. While nothing compares to the excitement of being on the auction floor live, the following options are available for most sales.
Each auction will have an Absentee Bidding form. Forms are available for download from our web site. They will also be included with catalogue orders or can be requested over the phone or by mail. Once completed they will need to be signed and faxed or mailed back to Guernsey's before the event.
To participate with a mail or phone bid, complete the appropriate Absentee form and indicate by which method you wish to participate. The form requests some identification and financial background information, and which lots you intend to purchase. For mail bids, you must indicate your top (or ceiling) bid amount. For phone bids, we still encourage you to indicate a ceiling bid. We make every reasonable attempt to contact you at the number you list, but due to a host of technical and human reasons it may not be possible.
Phone bidders will know their winning lots at the time of the auction. Both phone and mail bidders will receive invoices for their winning lots shortly after the event.
For many of our events, we have partnered with eBay Live Auctions and Live Auctioneers to bring our outstanding collections to a wider audience. Not all auctions will include internet participation and even for auctions with online bidding enabled, certain lots may not be available online.
You must complete an application process when registering online, and all applications will be reviewed by Guernsey's staff before applicants are approved for online bidding. Please allow time for this process. Application links will be available on the website in advance of each auction for interested internet bidders.
Winning internet bidders will receive email notification of won lots and an invoice will be mailed shortly after the event.