Auction

[J66Bass]

Probably already debated in the past and my apologies if it has.Do  you think auctions room such as Gardiner are still worth it , by the time you pay the fees and postage , you might just as good to shop on basschat ? Your experience and opinions please, thank you Jm

[dudewheresmybass]

It totally depends on what they're selling at any one time TBH

[police squad]

it's worked for me on the couple of occasions I've done it

'64 Hofner violin bass for £1700

[oldslapper]

GH are down the road from me. I’ve scored some bargains and it’s good to be able to take a look beforehand. I pre bid, limit my bidding and don’t check in until after the auction has finished. 
That way I don’t get caught up in ”auction frenzy”. It may be different if it’s something I’m desperate for or is rare, but even then I limit my bidding. 
You’re right, it’s important to factor in the fairly high commission. 

[Woodinblack]

As long as you check what the final price will be on what you pay, you can get some unusual thing. Probably not worth it for an old fender or gibson, but for other less trendy brands you can find good stuff.