San Rafael Auction Gallery

Don’t know where John D. is from or if he is a regular participant in the auction world but as someone who has been attending many auctions, especially @ San Rafael Auction Gallery for over 20 years, I would have to say, John D., had a problem with his shipper, not the auction house. Burt Hem and his wife Martha not only are trained specialists in their fields, with many decades of experience between the two of them, BUT they are also two of the finest, incredibly knowledgeable and honest business associates that I’ve had the pleasure to dealt with. Their vast knowledge, ability to procure fabulous items and their integrity in running an honest business surpasses the «big» auction houses in the Bay Area and nationally that I have dealt with in the past. I always great deals there! I believe their estimates are very fair and conservative. Many auction houses don’t provide an estimated value. Over the last 2 decades, I have spent a lot of money at S.R.A.G. and bought some true treasures. I have always left feeling that I got a great value for my purchases. Private appraisals have proven that to be true.
A person must be very careful when bidding on auction items on the internet. I can assure John D. that S.R.A.G. does not photo shop their items in their catalog. That would be a poor decision because any successful auction house want satisfied, returning customers. I’ve purchased very few items on internet auctions because you don’t have the opportunity to preview the item in person before buying. That’s just me. However, I know many who regularly purchase auction items successfully on the internet but they do their due diligence first.
San Rafael Auction Gallery states very clearly that the buyer is responsible for shipping. You know that before you bid.
I just went to their site to get their phone number for a friend. When I saw this review from John D., I had to respond. It’s unfortunate that John had a disappointing experience with the shipping company and possibly with his purchase. His review did not give San Rafael Auction Gallery a fair shake or reveal what a true treasure this auction house is, along with it’s owner’s, Martha and Burt Hem.