vortex
"A billion Eddie Barzoons jogging into the future
I thought I'd post some observations and interpretations that may help someone considering bidding on eBay tins.
Authenticity:
There is not much recourse in some cases if you are taken. IF you can prove it, then maybe. But buyer beware is a better alternative. First, and this is always true, don't blindly trust. One of the reasons certain tins go for more is because it's easy to verify authenticity. An example is a Dunhill with the tall letters - almost impossible to fake. Another is a blend you know was discontinued after a certain date.
On the other hand, I saw a "Buy It Now" offer of $44 for a "Painted" Dunhill tin. Most, BUT NOT ALL, Dunhill painted tins are from the Murray era. Don't buy a tin of Orlik for $44!
Rip-offs:
How do you know a date on the bottom of a tin is real? You don't!!
It says in the conditions of the sale that the item is "no longer available". While this may be interpreted as other than the obvious, it's sometimes just a lie.
Tins that are not vacuum packed OR sealed in the sense of airtight. Old C&D tins(not sure of the cut-off year) are one example. It says as a condition of sale that the contents are NOT FOR CONSUMPTION. Stale tobacco is NOT a reason for refund or return. Not technically a rip-off but the seller knows most plan on smoking it so ...
I hope this helps,
Steve
Authenticity:
There is not much recourse in some cases if you are taken. IF you can prove it, then maybe. But buyer beware is a better alternative. First, and this is always true, don't blindly trust. One of the reasons certain tins go for more is because it's easy to verify authenticity. An example is a Dunhill with the tall letters - almost impossible to fake. Another is a blend you know was discontinued after a certain date.
On the other hand, I saw a "Buy It Now" offer of $44 for a "Painted" Dunhill tin. Most, BUT NOT ALL, Dunhill painted tins are from the Murray era. Don't buy a tin of Orlik for $44!
Rip-offs:
How do you know a date on the bottom of a tin is real? You don't!!
It says in the conditions of the sale that the item is "no longer available". While this may be interpreted as other than the obvious, it's sometimes just a lie.
Tins that are not vacuum packed OR sealed in the sense of airtight. Old C&D tins(not sure of the cut-off year) are one example. It says as a condition of sale that the contents are NOT FOR CONSUMPTION. Stale tobacco is NOT a reason for refund or return. Not technically a rip-off but the seller knows most plan on smoking it so ...
I hope this helps,
Steve
