Carbid.co.za, a new Web site devoted to the auction of classic cars, went live yesterday. The site gives local sellers access to the global classic car market, and enables purchasing both locally and internationally.
For classic car enthusiasts, the sourcing and selling of vehicles in a globally dispersed, but dedicated niche market, has often been impractical. Cue Carbid.co.za, created by salesbid.com, the Internet company owned by Auction Alliance, who have been at the forefront of auctioning in SA for close on a century.
The site is headed by director Alon Kowen, who says that the site will only list classic and exotic cars that are in good condition, that come from genuine collectors or can be authenticated through a recognised car club.
"Even then," says Kowen, "every car offered for auction will be thoroughly assessed by an independent authority and an undisclosed reserve price set - which will only be revealed to the bidder when that figure is reached. The price that the successful bidder ultimately pays is all inclusive apart, of course, from the price of delivery which is fixed in South Africa."
Selling by Internet auction is fast becoming a favourite way to sell vehicles, he says. Once a bidder`s identity and creditworthiness have been established through their credit card number they will be able to bid by e-mail, through the Web site or via a call centre.
Photographs of the cars will by displayed along with their details and history and each car will remain "live" for bids for 7 to 10 days.
"There are many advantages for the seller," says Kowen. "They have exposure to a global market, no up-front costs, deal through a long-standing, reputable company and are spared the time-consuming administrative details. We take photographs of the cars, verify their authenticity and even advise on realistic sale values. Finally, the seller gets a bank-guaranteed cheque for his vehicle."
For those with their heart set on a specific make, model, (or even colour), of classic car, the site will carry a "request" icon, where enthusiasts can communicate their needs and sellers respond.
For the convenience of overseas bidders, click through icons on the site will connect the buyers to updated currency conversions and shipping costs. South African classic and vintage motor vehicles are in high demand internationally, because of the weak rand. "It is far cheaper for a European or American purchaser to secure stock in South Africa."
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