Online Antique Marketplace Vinted Selling Communal Trash at Exorbitant Markups, Leading Users to Question the Platform's Bargain Potential
Hola there! Vinted, the popular second-hand marketplace, is no longer just about clothes, they're dabbling in vintage furniture now. But, hold your horses! Is this the Antiques Roadshow of the internet, or just a jumble sale in disguise? We've got some insider tips to help you dodge the duds and snag those hidden gems. So, let's dive in!
Spotting treasure among the tat
This online second-hand platform, Vinted, boasts more than 16 million users in the UK. They're trading pre-loved clothes, and now vintage furniture as well. But, with antiques, authenticity is tricky. Alex Davison, manager of Newark Antiques & Interiors, says, "You might save up to 20%, but you could also lose money." Specialists guarantee authenticity, but without seeing it in person and consulting with a furniture expert, it's a risky game.
Here's how to play this game with a bit more safety:
- Check those photos! If a seller has only a couple of photos, or they're low-res, watch out! Good sellers will provide numerous high-resolution photos from all angles, highlighting any defects, and lighting arrangements that reveal hidden details. If you're not convinced, don't be afraid to ask for more.
- Furniture history matters. Items previously treated for woodworm should be displayed in photographs. Cross-reference photos with the description. If there's a mismatch, there's a red flag. Remember, sellers must disclose known faults under the Consumer Rights Act; so, ask tons of questions to get more details.
- Stick to honest traders. If an item is listed as "as new," but the photos tell a different story, walk away. Legitimate traders will honesty detail imperfections, and while an "as new" item might be a rare find, expect to pay a premium if it's worth it.
Antiques: treasure, junk, or just a fancy fancy term?
So, what's the deal with antiques? They're 100 years old or more, according to most, but sometimes it's just a buzzword for something old that's not worth much. Experts warn that "antique" and "vintage" may just be a fancy cover term for junk.
Just like vintage clothing, age doesn't necessarily imply value. Keep an eye out for inconsistencies in styles or materials, or anything that seems out of place. For instance, if an item's interior doesn't match the supposed era, like modern wood in a chest of drawers, proceed with caution.
The problem with reviews
When buying online, reviews can offer useful insights into a seller's reputation and trustworthiness. But beware, because some sellers may resort to shady tactics, like creating fake reviews or leaving generic comments, to trick you. Common red flags: spelling mistakes, vague phrases, and repetitive language.
Beware new sellers offering rare, high-value items at suspiciously low prices. They may be looking to make a quick buck and disappear. Established sellers with consistent offerings and positive feedback are safer bets.
Treasure or tat? We put Vinted's antiques to the test
We asked antiques expert Paul Evans to evaluate 13 items listed on Vinted and compare their values to the listed prices. Here's what he found:
- Mahogany mirror: Value: £10 (Car boot sale tat) vs. Listed Price: £30.10
- Tenerife pocket mirror: Value: £10 (1970s kitsch powder compound) vs. Listed Price: £3.33
- Brass lions' feet: Value: £20 (Only three legs) vs. Listed Price: £21.70
- Edwardian clock: Value: £150 (Nice, but not perfect) vs. Listed Price: £324.29
- Victorian double-barrel telescope: Value: £0 (Cheap, nasty new rubbish to avoid) vs. Listed Price: £42.70
- Rivet cabinet: Value: £30 (1980s reproduction) vs. Listed Price: £63.70
Remember, this is just one expert's opinion. Always do thorough research and consult with multiple resources before making a decision. Happy hunting!
Sources:
- Vinted Buyer Protection
- Vinted: Beginner's guide - 8 things you need to know
- Buying vintage furniture - tips and mistakes to avoid
- Vinted enlists pros to police knock-offs
- For those looking to venture into the world of antiques on Vinted, it's essential to consider items as more than just 'treasures' or 'tat' - thorough research, such as cross-checking styles and materials, is vital to discern their true value.
- Vinted's lifestyle section extends beyond clothing, offering a variety of home-and-garden antiques. However, be aware that some sellers might inflate prices, so it's crucial to compare the listed prices with their estimated values to make informed decisions.
- When browsing a home-and-garden antique collection on Vinted, it's advisable to stick to sellers with a proven track record of honesty - those who provide detailed descriptions, multiple high-res photographs, and are transparent about any defects.
