[Boatanchors] Sniping (was: RE: auction time linked to what timing source?)

[D C *Mac* Macdonald]

When I first started searching on eBay for boatanchor
stuff, I frequently got beaten out at 2 to 5 seconds
prior to closing time.  At first, I blamed a slow (true)
connection capability.  I lamented that fact and some
kind soul (it might have been Carl, KM1H) who told me
about eSnipe.  I learned to simply decide what my max
bid for an item would be, place that amount on eSnipe,
and let chips fall where they may.  A whole lot easier
on my already elevated blood pressure, for sure.  And
the added expense when you win is really insignificant.
 
I definitely agree with the poker analogy.  You don't
tip your hand and neither does anybody else.
 
It is up to bidders to learn how the WHOLE system runs
and adjust their tactics accordingly.
 
There is an old saying that is appropriate here.
 
"Don't bring a knife to a gun fight!"
 
 
73 - Mac, K2GKK/5
(Since 30 Nov 53)
Oklahoma City, OK

p.s.  I REALLY dislike the hiding of the winner's
identity AFTER the auction is over.  No longer can I
see when I have outbid Joe Walsh!
 


_____________________________________
Date: Fri, 12 Feb 2010 12:15:18 -0500
From: hlvaught at bellsouth.net
To: boatanchors at mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Boatanchors] auction time linked to what timing source?

I've only seen this mentioned in one of the many posts on this subject
but your bid is not absolute, it only matters if someone comes close or
above your bid.

If you decide the absolute maximum you're willing to pay and enter it it
doesn't matter whether you are "sniped" or not. It doesn't matter
whether you enter your bid seconds, minutes, hours or days ahead. You
will only lose if someone wants it more than you do. It doesn't matter
whether this process takes place over a period of seconds or painfully
over a period of days.

Are you willing to pay more just because you know what my bid is? I'm not.

Harry, KT4AE
Maryville, Tennessee