Oh, the joy of antique auctions. Spent all day monday at one and emerged at the end of the day with Stockholm syndrome, I'd been in that room for so long. Addictive fun, though. Snagged a solid gold Omega ladies' watch at a steal of a price. Only problem is I don't want to resell it because it's so pretty, even though I know I can make a profit. I was good though and only bid on things I actually wanted or could resell. Unlike my first auction where I accidentally bought a clock so hideous (it only cost £8, that was my excuse) I had to smuggle it from the car to the dustbin lest anyone see my folly. I did manage to turn around the other two purchases for a profit, though, which made up for it somewhat. The trick is to be really disciplined, go to the previews and decide your top price in advance. Sometimes that top price depends on how much you want the item (mainly collectors) and how much you think you can resell it for (mainly dealers). And stick within your area of expertise (mine is jewellery and watches). But once you've been to an auction, you never pay dealer price again. A £30 painting will be in some antique store the next day for £150. A £85 branded vintage watch will be on ebay for £200, that's how it goes.Or it should if you can stop yourself falling in love with what you buy.
