Henri Maik. Oil on canvas, 1978
Price Realized: $23,750.00
How to Bid on an Auction Item
Before you bid, please familiarize yourself with our CONDITIONS OF SALE and AUCTION INDUSTRY TERMS. Here are the four ways to bid with us at Stefek’s:
1. By Phone
When bidding by phone, Stefek’s will call you during the auction a few lots before your specified lot is to be auctioned. You are able to bid live, with a Stefek’s phone representative acting as a liaison between you and the auctioneer.
2. By Absentee
Absentee bids are bids you leave in advance. You can call in advance to set a maximum bid amount on individual lots and Stefek’s will bid on your behalf up to that amount during the auction. You can call our office or send us an e-mail to set your absentee bid. Absentee bids will be accepted until 4:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time the day of the auction.
3. In Person
Attend the auction in person. It is free and open to the public. Bidders can pre-register or register upon arrival. Please bring photo identification, method of payment, and (if applicable) tax exempt certificate. Once registered, bidders will receive a paddle. Door opens an hour and a half prior to the auction.
4. Online
Stefek’s auctions are currently hosted through the internationally recognized online bidding platform LiveAuctioneers. If you prefer to bid live online, please view our auction page here and register with LiveAuctioneers to make an account. If you require any assistance with setting up an online bid with us on LiveAuctioneers, please give our office a call at (313) 881-1800 or send us an e-mail at: info@stefeksauctions.com.
Bid Confirmation
Once you have placed a phone or absentee bid with us, one of our staff members can e-mail you a bid confirmation with a list of all active bids.
Auction Results
Winning bidders will be notified via e-mail or phone. Auction results will be listed on LiveAuctioneers immediately following the sale. Successful bidders will be emailed an invoice that includes all the information needed to make a payment and begin the shipping process the day after the auction.
What is a Buyer’s Premium?
A buyer’s premium is an additional fee based on a percentage of the hammer price and the payment method. Buyer’s premium pays for the services the auction house provides to make the items available for purchase. At Stefek’s, our buyer’s premium is a flat rate of 25%, regardless of method of payment. There is no extra charge for a credit card payment.
Should I ask for a Condition Report of Items I am Bidding on?
As a courtesy, Stefek’s provides a general condition report for all items in our auction catalogs. All condition reports are based on “age appropriate wear” and buyers should note that an item that “appears fine” may have some wear. Stefek’s staff will always provide a detailed condition report outlining any and all damage and wear upon request of the buyer. All buyers are encouraged to request a detailed condition report to ensure satisfaction of their purchase.
Bidder FAQs
What is a Buyer’s Premium?
A buyer’s premium is an additional fee based on a percentage of the hammer price and the payment method. Buyer’s premium pays for the services the auction house provides to make the items available for purchase. At Stefek’s, our buyer’s premium is a flat rate of 25%, regardless of method of payment. There is no extra charge for a credit card payment.Should I ask for a Condition Report of Items I am Bidding on?
As a courtesy, Stefek’s provides a general condition report for all items in our auction catalogs. All condition reports are based on “age appropriate wear” and buyers should note that an item that “appears fine” may have some wear. Stefek’s staff will always provide a detailed condition report outlining any and all damage and wear upon request of the buyer. All buyers are encouraged to request a detailed condition report to ensure satisfaction of their purchase.How to Ship
Stefek’s does not pack or ship any items purchased through auction. It is the buyer’s responsibility to arrange and pay for all packing and shipping. Information on local shipping businesses is listed below:
PakMail of St. Clair Shores
PakMail of Lake Orion
Navis Pack & Ship
Craters and Freighters – Large Items
Plycon Transportation Group
HOW TO SELL YOUR ITEMS AT AUCTIOn
Stefek’s is continuously interested in consigning items for upcoming auctions. Stefek’s specializes in hosting auctions showcasing items within (but not limited to) the following categories:
Gorham Sterling Tea Service and Tray
Price Realized: $3,808.00
- 19th/20th Century Art & Design
- Automobiles
- Couture
- Decorative Arts
- Fine Jewelry, Gems
- Furniture – Antique, Mid-Century
- Important Collections
- Michigan Artists
- Objets d’art
- Oriental Rugs, Textiles
- Photography
- Pottery, Ceramics, Crystal
- Rare Books
- Sterling Silver
Getting Started
Interested in consigning an item or collection? Contact Stefek’s today for a complimentary pre-auction estimate. Stefek’s may be reached at (313) 881-1800 or info@stefeksauctions.com to reserve an appointment to speak with an auction estimate specialist. For larger collections, in-person onsite visits may be arranged.
Next Steps
Stefek’s will work with the seller to establish a pre-auction estimate. The seller will be required to sign Stefek’s Consignment Agreement for their items, which outlines terms and conditions, as well as a complete listing of consigned lots. Stefek’s will provide recommended shipping accommodations for items to the seller; it is the seller’s responsibility to secure transportation of items to Stefek’s. Upon arrival to Stefek’s, items are photographed, cataloged and promoted to prospective buyers.
After The Sale
The seller will be contacted post-auction regarding the status of any remaining items and payment for sold items. Stefek’s will send the seller’s payment for sold items approximately 45 business days after the sale. Any remaining items can be included in a future auction, or picked up by the seller.
Who staffs your auction events?
Stefek’s is comprised of highly experienced and trained staff.
How do you price the items?
Stefek’s utilizes a wide range of resources to conduct research and will consult with our own network of experts for specialty items.
Where do you sell items?
At live and online auctions conducted at our auction gallery in Roseville, Michigan.
Where do you advertise the auction?
We advertise events through local and national print publications, international auction listing sites, social media, and our email list of active buyers. Our mailing list is comprised of dealers, private collectors, and interested individuals.
Will I get an inventory of everything you sold for me?
Yes, complete and detailed accounting comes with your settlement.
Are you insured?
Yes. Coverage begins when Stefek’s Auctions takes possession of the item(s).
What is your service area?
Stefek’s motto is consign local, sell global. And we do just that. We are mainly focused around the tri-state area of Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana.
Can I place a reserve on my consignments?
Stefek’s works with each client every step of the consignment and sale process to ensure satisfaction and success. A reasonable reserve will be accepted on important property only.
After the commission, are there any additional fees?
Stefek’s does not charge a photography or online catalog listing fee. We like our contract to be as simple and straightforward as possible. Our commission covers all of our service fees and there is a 1.5% insurance fee for sold lots only. Please contact Stefek’s for a sample contract and one of our staff will explain all of our terms of consignment.
When should I receive my payment?
You will receive your payment approximately 45 days after the auction date.
What do you do with items that are unsold?
Stefek’s will discuss with the seller the best course of action for any remaining items, which may include offering the item(s) at a future auction, or returning the item(s) to the seller.
Seller FAQs
Who staffs your auction events?
Stefek’s is comprised of highly experienced and trained staff.How do you price the items?
Stefek’s utilizes a wide range of resources to conduct research and will consult with our own network of experts for specialty items.Where do you sell items?
At live and online auctions conducted at our auction gallery in Roseville, Michigan.Where do you advertise the auction?
We advertise events through local and national print publications, international auction listing sites, social media, and our email list of active buyers. Our mailing list is comprised of dealers, private collectors, and interested individuals.Will I get an inventory of everything you sold for me?
Yes, complete and detailed accounting comes with your settlement.Are you insured?
Yes. Coverage begins when Stefek’s Auctions takes possession of the item(s).What is your service area?
Stefek’s motto is consign local, sell global. And we do just that. We are mainly focused around the tri-state area of Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana.Can I place a reserve on my consignments?
Stefek’s works with each client every step of the consignment and sale process to ensure satisfaction and success. A reasonable reserve will be accepted on important property only.After the commission, are there any additional fees?
Stefek’s does not charge a photography or online catalog listing fee. We like our contract to be as simple and straightforward as possible. Our commission covers all of our service fees and there is a 1.5% insurance fee for sold lots only. Please contact Stefek’s for a sample contract and one of our staff will explain all of our terms of consignment.When should I receive my payment?
You will receive your payment approximately 45 days after the auction date.What do you do with items that are unsold?
Stefek’s will discuss with the seller the best course of action for any remaining items, which may include offering the item(s) at a future auction, or returning the item(s) to the seller.Auction TERM GLOSSARY
Absentee Bid
Absentee bids are left in advance of an auction. Bidders can call in advance to set a maximum bid amount on individual lots. Stefek’s will bid on your behalf up to that amount during the auction. You can call our office or send us an e-mail to set your absentee bid. Absentee bids are accepted until 1 hour prior to the auction start time.
Auctioneer
An auction industry professional who presides over the auction, initiating the sale of a lot by describing the item and starting the bidding. If a work sells, the auctioneer announces, “sold.” If the item does not meet its reserve or there are no bidders, the auctioneer signifies this with a “pass.”
Bid
Amount a buyer signals the auctioneer he/she would pay to buy the lot during the bidding process. Once the first bid is made on a lot, other buyers may offer higher bids. There are four methods to bid at Stefek’s Auctions: in person, online, phone, or absentee. Click here for details.
Buyer’s Premium
The amount that is charged to the buyer above the hammer price that is paid as part of the total purchase. Stefek’s has established percentages for the buyer’s premium which are 25%, regardless of payment method.
Consignor/Seller
The owner who is transferring property to Stefek’s to act as agent on his/her behalf for sale.
Gavel/Hammer
Used by the auctioneer to close the bidding process.
Lot/Item
An individual object or group of objects offered for sale at auction as a single unit.
Pass/Unsold
Terms used by the auctioneer when a lot fails to sell at auction.
Price Realized
Hammer price and buyer’s premium combined.
Seller’s Commission
A commission paid by the consignor to Stefek’s, which is deducted from the hammer price.
As Is
Stefek’s sells all property at auction “as is,” meaning that the property is sold with all existing faults and imperfections.
Auction House Commission
This is the amount taken from the consignor and provided to Stefek’s once a lot is sold. Stefek’s commission is based off of the hammer price of the item.
Bidder/Buyer
An individual looking to purchase a lot at an auction.
Condition Report
A written description of the condition of a work, prepared by Stefek’s specialists prior to an auction. Condition reports are available from Stefek’s upon request and are highly recommended.
Estimate
Each lot is given a low and high estimate, representing the opinion of Stefek’s experts about the range in which the lot might sell at auction. Estimates are based on the examination of an item and recent auction records of comparable pieces.
Hammer Price
The winning bid at an auction that a lot sold for. It is the price upon which the auctioneer’s hammer falls, determining the sale price. This price does not include the buyer’s premium.
Online Bidding
Stefek’s Auctions are administered live on LiveAuctioneers. Buyers may register to bid online on LiveAuctioneers by clicking here.
Photography
Every work that goes to auction is professionally photographed by Stefek’s for documentary and promotional purposes. Photographs appear in the catalog, and are an important way for buyers to identify lots that they wish to acquire.
Reserve
The amount a consignor sets for a lot. The lot will not be sold for less than the reserve price. Stefek’s accepts reasonable reserves on important property only.
Start Bid
The start bid can also be referred to as start price or opening bid. The lot will open at this price and is typically 75% of the low estimate.
Auction Catalog
Published with each auction, the catalog houses factual information about a lot offered for sale.
Auction Specialist
An expert in a specific field of collecting.
Bid Increment
The amount by which the auctioneer increases the bidding.
Conditions of Sale
This important information describes the terms in which Stefek’s and the consignor agree to sell a lot to the buyer. To review Stefek’s Conditions, click here.
Fair Warning
A warning sometimes given by the auctioneer that the hammer is about to come down on a lot. The fair warning offers one last chance to increase the bidding. If there are no subsequent bids, the auctioneer’s hammer falls and the sale is completed.
In-person Bidding
Attend the auction in person. It is free and open to the public. Bidders can pre-register or register upon arrival. Please bring photo identification, method of payment, and (if applicable) tax exempt certificate. Once registered, bidders will receive a paddle. Doors open an hour and a half prior to the auction. To place a bid, simply raise your paddle until the auctioneer acknowledges you. If you win the auction, your paddle number is recorded alongside your bid. To pay for your purchase, you will need to bring your paddle to the payments counter.
Paddle
An object displaying the number assigned to a bidder when he/she registers at the auction.
Presale Exhibition
With specialists on-hand to answer all questions, Stefek’s puts lots from its sales on public display in the days before an auction.
Results
Stefek’s results include the hammer price plus the buyer’s premium.
Telephone Bidding
Many buyers prefer to bid via phone, using a Stefek’s representative who is present at the auction to relay bids to the auctioneer on their behalf. When bidding by phone, Stefek’s will call you during the auction a few lots before your specified lot is to be auctioned. You are able to bid live, with a Stefek’s phone representative acting as a liaison between you and the auctioneer.
Stefek’s Conditions of Sale
Important notice: Please make sure you read the Terms and Conditions before you bid.
Auctions move quickly, typically at the rate of 80-100 lots per hour. On some occasions, the bid software or the Internet may not be able to keep up with the pace of the auction. We recommend placing a realistic absentee bid now as insurance to avoid disappointment.
Occasionally the auctioneer may eliminate or reject a live bid, and the auctioneer may also reopen a lot after the close of the live bidding (typically if an audience bid is missed), and may reject your bid — even if it shows you as the winning bidder.
For all auctions, you agree that Stefek’s may award the lot to another bidder at its sole discretion under the circumstances described above or any other reasonable circumstances.
For LiveAuctioneers auctions, bids are not shown to us until we open the lot on the floor. We treat those bids just like floor bids. In most cases, the floor responds before the LiveAuctioneers bid is presented to us, due to Internet lag time. So, for consistency, we have made it a policy that floor bids are always considered first over tie LiveAuctioneer bids.Also please note that all Stefek’s lots purchased through LiveAuctioneers carry a 25% Buyer’s Premium.
The lots listed in the catalog will be offered by Stefek’s as owner or as agent for consignor(s) subject to the following terms and conditions:
All lots are sold “AS IS” and are not eligible for return or refund. Prospective buyers are strongly advised to personally examine any property in which they are interested before the auction takes place. Condition reports are usually available upon request. Just because a condition report is not provided with the item does that mean the item is in “perfect” condition. All lots are sold “AS IS” and without recourse, and neither STEFEK’S nor its consignor(s) makes any warranties or representations, express or implied, with respect to such lots. Neither STEFEK’S nor its consignor(s) makes any express or implied warranty or representation of any kind or nature with respect to merchantability, fitness for purpose, correctness of the catalog or other description of the physical condition, size, quality, rarity, importance, medium, material, genuineness, attribution, provenance, period, culture, source, origin, exhibitions, literature or historical significance of any lot sold. The absence of any reference to the condition of a lot does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. No statement, whether written or oral, and whether made in this catalog, or in supplement, a bill of sale, a salesroom posting or announcement, the remarks of an auctioneer, or otherwise, shall be deemed to create any warranty, representation or assumption of liability. STEFEK’S makes no warranty or representation, express or implied, that the purchase will acquire any copyright or reproduction rights to any lot sold. STEFEK’S expressly reserves the right to reproduce any image of the lots sold in this catalog. We do not refund shipping.
Refusal of Admission
STEFEK’S has the right, at our complete discretion, to refuse admission to the premises or participation in an auction and to reject any bid.
Registration Before Bidding
A prospective buyer must complete and sign a registration form and provide identification before bidding. We may require bank or other financial references.
Potential bidders registering to bid online with STEFEK’S through LiveAuctioneers who have won 5 or less items in previous online auctions at the time of registering for this auction must provide a copy of their state issued identification as well as a valid credit card. A $1.00 registration fee will be applied to the credit card at the time it is provided by the potential bidder prior to approval of the auction. When fully processed and approved, the $1.00 registration fee will be voided by STEFEK’S and the bidder will be approved for the auction. Potential bidders will receive an email notification at the end of the process, along with a receipt of the voided $1.00 registration fee.
Potential bidders registering to bid online with STEFEK’S through LiveAuctioneers who have won 5 or less items in previous online auctions at the time of registering for this auction must provide a copy of their state issued identification as well as a valid credit card. A $1.00 registration fee will be applied to the credit card at the time it is provided by the potential bidder prior to approval of the auction. When fully processed and approved, the $1.00 registration fee will be voided by STEFEK’S and the bidder will be approved for the auction. Potential bidders will receive an email notification at the end of the process, along with a receipt of the voided $1.00 registration fee.
Bidding as Principal
When making a bid, a bidder is accepting personal liability to pay the purchase price, including the appropriate buyer’s premium of the final bid price, unless it has been explicitly agreed in writing with STEFEK’S before the commencement of the sale that the bidder is acting as agent on behalf of an identified third party acceptable to STEFEK’S and that STEFEK’S will only look to the principal for payment.
Absentee Bids
We will use reasonable efforts to carry out written bids given to us prior to the sale for the convenience of clients who are not present at the auction in person, by an agent, or by telephone. Bids must be placed in U.S. currency. If we receive written bids on a particular lot for identical amounts, and these are the highest bids on the lot at the auction, it will be sold to the person whose written bid was received and accepted first. Execution of written bids is a free service undertaken subject to other commitments at the time of the sale and we do not accept liability for failing to execute a written bid or for errors and omissions in connection with it. Absentee bid forms must be submitted by the end of business hours the day before the scheduled auction in order to be processed. Absentee bid forms or requests received after this time will not be guaranteed to be processed.
Telephone Bids
If a prospective buyer makes arrangements with us prior to the commencement of the sale we will use reasonable efforts to contact them to enable them to participate in the bidding by telephone, but we do not accept liability for failure to do so or for errors and omissions in conjunction with telephone bidding. Phone bid forms must be submitted by the end of business hours the day before the scheduled auction in order to be processed. Phone bid forms or requests received after this time will not be guaranteed to be processed.
Reserves
Some lots in the sale are subject to a reserve which is the confidential minimum price below which such lot will not be sold. Reserves are agreed upon with consignors, or the absence thereof, in the absolute discretion of STEFEK’S.
The auctioneer may open the bidding on any lot below the reserve by placing a bid on behalf of the seller. The auctioneer may continue to bid on behalf of the seller up to the amount of the reserve, either by placing consecutive bids or by placing bids in response to the other bidders. With respect to lots that are offered without reserve, unless there are already competing bids, the auctioneer, in his or her discretion, will generally open the bidding at 75% of the low estimate for the lot. In the absence of a bid at that level, the auctioneer may proceed backwards in his or her discretion until a bid is recognized, and then continue up from that amount.
Auctioneer’s Discretion
The auctioneer has the right at his or her absolute and sole discretion to refuse any bid, to advance the bidding in such a manner as he may decide, to withdraw any lot, and in the case of error or dispute, and whether during or after the sale, to determine the successful bidder, to continue the bidding, to cancel the sale or to re-offer and resell the item in dispute. If any dispute arises after the sale, our sale record in conclusive.
Successful Bid
The highest bidder acknowledged by the auctioneer will be the purchaser. In the event of a dispute between bidders, the auctioneer has final discretion to determine the successful bidder or to re-offer the lot in dispute. If any dispute arises after the sale, the STEFEK’S sale record shall be conclusive. Title passes upon the fall of the auctioneer’s hammer to the highest acknowledged bidder subject to the conditions of sale set forth herein, and the bidder assumes full risk and responsibility.
Buyer’s Premium
In addition to the hammer price, the buyer agrees to pay STEFEK’S a buyer’s premium as well as any applicable taxes. The buyer’s premium is 25% regardless of payment type. Any purchases made through LiveAuctioneers by a buyer outside of the United States must pay via PayPal with a 25% buyer’s premium added. All purchases are subject to state and local sales and use taxes, when applicable.
Payment
The buyer must pay the entire amount due (including the hammer price, buyer’s premium and any applicable taxes) no later than 5 pm on the seventh business day following the sale. Payments may be made in U.S. dollars by certified or cashier’s check drawn on a U.S. bank unless other arrangements are made with STEFEK’S.
STEFEK’S reserves the right to hold merchandise purchased by personal check until the check has cleared the bank. The purchaser agrees to pay STEFEK’S. a handling charge of $50 for any check dishonored by the drawee.
All international bidders must pay via PayPal or by wire transfer. STEFEK’S does not process credit card payments from international bidders by any method or capacity.
Tax Exempt Notice
For some lots, we may not be obligated to collect Michigan state or local sales tax on the total purchase price. Please see the printed catalog or listing for notification on what lots are affected.
Collecting Purchases
Once STEFEK’S has received all funds due to us, the buyer shall collect purchased lots within 7 business days from the date of the sale.
Packing and Shipping
STEFEK’S does not pack, handle, or ship auction items. The buyer is responsible for all shipping arrangements via a third-party shipping company. If your bid is successful, we can provide you with a list of shippers. We will not be responsible for the acts or omissions of carriers or packers whether or not recommended by us. Property will not be released to the shipper without the buyer’s consent and payment has been made in full. Packing and handling of purchased lots by us is at the entire risk of the purchaser, and STEFEK’S will have no liability of any loss or damage to such items.
Non-Payment
If we do not receive payment in full, in good cleared funds within 7 business days following the sale, we are entitled in our absolute discretion to exercise one or more of the following measures.
In addition to any additional actions available to us by law:
- To impose a late charge of 1% per thirty (30) days of the total purchase price
- To hold the defaulting party liable for the total amount due and to begin legal proceedings for its recovery together with interest, legal fees and costs to the fullest extent permitted under applicable law
- To cancel the sale
- To resell the property publicly or privately on such terms as we find appropriate, resell the property at public auction without reserve, and the purchaser will be liable for any deficiency, cost, including handling charges, the expenses of both sales, our commission on both sales at our regular rate, and all other charges due hereunder and incidental damages. In addition, a defaulting purchaser will be deemed to have granted us a security interest in, and we may retain as collateral security for such purchaser’s obligations to us, any property in our possession owned by such purchaser. At our option, payment will not be deemed to have been made in full until we have collected funds represented by checks, or in the case of bank or cashier’s check, we have confirmed their authenticity.
- To not allow any bids at any upcoming auction by or on behalf of the buyer
- To take other action as we find necessary or appropriate
Failure to Collect Purchases
If property is not picked up within 7 business days following the sale, whether or not payment has been made, STEFEK’S reserves the right to charge $15 per lot per day or to deliver said property to a warehouse for storage at the purchaser’s expense. Should the property be delivered to a warehouse, you are responsible for an $85 per lot uplift fee. STEFEK’S shall have no liability for any damage to property left on its premises for more than 7 business days following the sale. For property that is not picked up after 30 days, an additional administration fee of $75 will be charged. Property which is paid for but left on our premises for any reason in excess of sixty (60) business days is subject to sale by us with the balance of any funds recovered in excess of storage charges and any other fees being remitted to you.
Condition Reports
STEFEK’S is not responsible for the correctness of any statement of any kind concerning any lot, whether written or oral, nor for any other errors or omissions in description or for any faults or defects in any lot. Neither the seller, ourselves, our officers, employees or agents, give any representation, warranty or guarantee or assume any liability of any kind in respect of any lot with regard to merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, description, size, quality, condition, attribution, authenticity, rarity, importance, medium, provenance, exhibition history, literature or historical relevance. Except as required by local law, any warranty of any kind whatsoever is excluded by this paragraph. Please note that ivory cannot be shipped out of the United States and tortoiseshell items cannot be shipped out of the state of Michigan.
Purchased Lots
If for any reason a purchased lot cannot be delivered in the same condition as at the time of sale, or should any purchased lot be stolen, mis-delivered, or lost prior to delivery, STEFEK’S shall not be liable for any amount in excess of that paid by the purchaser.
Legal Ramifications
The rights and obligations of the parties with respect to these Conditions of Sale, the conduct of the auction and any matters connected with any of the foregoing shall be governed and interpreted by the laws of the jurisdiction in Michigan.
If any part of these Conditions of Sale is found by any court to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable, that part shall be discounted and the rest of the conditions shall continue to be valid to the fullest extent permitted by law.
Discretion
Any and all of the conditions may be waived or modified in the sole discretion of STEFEK’S.
Before the Sale
All lots are sold “AS IS” and are not eligible for return or refund. Prospective buyers are strongly advised to personally examine any property in which they are interested before the auction takes place. Condition reports are usually available upon request. Just because a condition report is not provided with the item does that mean the item is in “perfect” condition. All lots are sold “AS IS” and without recourse, and neither STEFEK’S nor its consignor(s) makes any warranties or representations, express or implied, with respect to such lots. Neither STEFEK’S nor its consignor(s) makes any express or implied warranty or representation of any kind or nature with respect to merchantability, fitness for purpose, correctness of the catalog or other description of the physical condition, size, quality, rarity, importance, medium, material, genuineness, attribution, provenance, period, culture, source, origin, exhibitions, literature or historical significance of any lot sold. The absence of any reference to the condition of a lot does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. No statement, whether written or oral, and whether made in this catalog, or in supplement, a bill of sale, a salesroom posting or announcement, the remarks of an auctioneer, or otherwise, shall be deemed to create any warranty, representation or assumption of liability. STEFEK’S makes no warranty or representation, express or implied, that the purchase will acquire any copyright or reproduction rights to any lot sold. STEFEK’S expressly reserves the right to reproduce any image of the lots sold in this catalog. We do not refund shipping.
At the Sale
Refusal of Admission
STEFEK’S has the right, at our complete discretion, to refuse admission to the premises or participation in an auction and to reject any bid.Registration Before Bidding
A prospective buyer must complete and sign a registration form and provide identification before bidding. We may require bank or other financial references. Potential bidders registering to bid online with STEFEK’S through LiveAuctioneers who have won 5 or less items in previous online auctions at the time of registering for this auction must provide a copy of their state issued identification as well as a valid credit card. A $1.00 registration fee will be applied to the credit card at the time it is provided by the potential bidder prior to approval of the auction. When fully processed and approved, the $1.00 registration fee will be voided by STEFEK’S and the bidder will be approved for the auction. Potential bidders will receive an email notification at the end of the process, along with a receipt of the voided $1.00 registration fee.Bidding as Principal
When making a bid, a bidder is accepting personal liability to pay the purchase price, including the appropriate buyer’s premium of the final bid price, unless it has been explicitly agreed in writing with STEFEK’S before the commencement of the sale that the bidder is acting as agent on behalf of an identified third party acceptable to STEFEK’S and that STEFEK’S will only look to the principal for payment.Absentee Bids
We will use reasonable efforts to carry out written bids given to us prior to the sale for the convenience of clients who are not present at the auction in person, by an agent, or by telephone. Bids must be placed in U.S. currency. If we receive written bids on a particular lot for identical amounts, and these are the highest bids on the lot at the auction, it will be sold to the person whose written bid was received and accepted first. Execution of written bids is a free service undertaken subject to other commitments at the time of the sale and we do not accept liability for failing to execute a written bid or for errors and omissions in connection with it. Absentee bid forms must be submitted by the end of business hours the day before the scheduled auction in order to be processed. Absentee bid forms or requests received after this time will not be guaranteed to be processed.Telephone Bids
If a prospective buyer makes arrangements with us prior to the commencement of the sale we will use reasonable efforts to contact them to enable them to participate in the bidding by telephone, but we do not accept liability for failure to do so or for errors and omissions in conjunction with telephone bidding. Phone bid forms must be submitted by the end of business hours the day before the scheduled auction in order to be processed. Phone bid forms or requests received after this time will not be guaranteed to be processed.Reserves
Some lots in the sale are subject to a reserve which is the confidential minimum price below which such lot will not be sold. Reserves are agreed upon with consignors, or the absence thereof, in the absolute discretion of STEFEK’S. The auctioneer may open the bidding on any lot below the reserve by placing a bid on behalf of the seller. The auctioneer may continue to bid on behalf of the seller up to the amount of the reserve, either by placing consecutive bids or by placing bids in response to the other bidders. With respect to lots that are offered without reserve, unless there are already competing bids, the auctioneer, in his or her discretion, will generally open the bidding at 75% of the low estimate for the lot. In the absence of a bid at that level, the auctioneer may proceed backwards in his or her discretion until a bid is recognized, and then continue up from that amount.Auctioneer’s Discretion
The auctioneer has the right at his or her absolute and sole discretion to refuse any bid, to advance the bidding in such a manner as he may decide, to withdraw any lot, and in the case of error or dispute, and whether during or after the sale, to determine the successful bidder, to continue the bidding, to cancel the sale or to re-offer and resell the item in dispute. If any dispute arises after the sale, our sale record in conclusive.Successful Bid
The highest bidder acknowledged by the auctioneer will be the purchaser. In the event of a dispute between bidders, the auctioneer has final discretion to determine the successful bidder or to re-offer the lot in dispute. If any dispute arises after the sale, the STEFEK’S sale record shall be conclusive. Title passes upon the fall of the auctioneer’s hammer to the highest acknowledged bidder subject to the conditions of sale set forth herein, and the bidder assumes full risk and responsibility.After the Sale
Buyer’s Premium
In addition to the hammer price, the buyer agrees to pay STEFEK’S a buyer’s premium as well as any applicable taxes. The buyer’s premium is 25% regardless of payment type. Any purchases made through LiveAuctioneers by a buyer outside of the United States must pay via PayPal with a 25% buyer’s premium added. All purchases are subject to state and local sales and use taxes, when applicable.Payment
The buyer must pay the entire amount due (including the hammer price, buyer’s premium and any applicable taxes) no later than 5 pm on the seventh business day following the sale. Payments may be made in U.S. dollars by certified or cashier’s check drawn on a U.S. bank unless other arrangements are made with STEFEK’S. STEFEK’S reserves the right to hold merchandise purchased by personal check until the check has cleared the bank. The purchaser agrees to pay STEFEK’S. a handling charge of $50 for any check dishonored by the drawee. All international bidders must pay via PayPal or by wire transfer. STEFEK’S does not process credit card payments from international bidders by any method or capacity.Tax Exempt Notice
For some lots, we may not be obligated to collect Michigan state or local sales tax on the total purchase price. Please see the printed catalog or listing for notification on what lots are affected.Collecting Purchases
Once STEFEK’S has received all funds due to us, the buyer shall collect purchased lots within 7 business days from the date of the sale.Packing and Shipping
STEFEK’S does not pack, handle, or ship auction items. The buyer is responsible for all shipping arrangements via a third-party shipping company. If your bid is successful, we can provide you with a list of shippers. We will not be responsible for the acts or omissions of carriers or packers whether or not recommended by us. Property will not be released to the shipper without the buyer’s consent and payment has been made in full. Packing and handling of purchased lots by us is at the entire risk of the purchaser, and STEFEK’S will have no liability of any loss or damage to such items.Non-Payment
If we do not receive payment in full, in good cleared funds within 7 business days following the sale, we are entitled in our absolute discretion to exercise one or more of the following measures. In addition to any additional actions available to us by law:- To impose a late charge of 1% per thirty (30) days of the total purchase price
- To hold the defaulting party liable for the total amount due and to begin legal proceedings for its recovery together with interest, legal fees and costs to the fullest extent permitted under applicable law
- To cancel the sale
- To resell the property publicly or privately on such terms as we find appropriate, resell the property at public auction without reserve, and the purchaser will be liable for any deficiency, cost, including handling charges, the expenses of both sales, our commission on both sales at our regular rate, and all other charges due hereunder and incidental damages. In addition, a defaulting purchaser will be deemed to have granted us a security interest in, and we may retain as collateral security for such purchaser’s obligations to us, any property in our possession owned by such purchaser. At our option, payment will not be deemed to have been made in full until we have collected funds represented by checks, or in the case of bank or cashier’s check, we have confirmed their authenticity.
- To offset against any amount owed
- To not allow any bids at any upcoming auction by or on behalf of the buyer
- To take other action as we find necessary or appropriate
Failure to Collect Purchases
If property is not picked up within 7 business days following the sale, whether or not payment has been made, STEFEK’S reserves the right to charge $15 per lot per day or to deliver said property to a warehouse for storage at the purchaser’s expense. Should the property be delivered to a warehouse, you are responsible for an $85 per lot uplift fee. STEFEK’S shall have no liability for any damage to property left on its premises for more than 7 business days following the sale. For property that is not picked up after 30 days, an additional administration fee of $75 will be charged. Property which is paid for but left on our premises for any reason in excess of sixty (60) business days is subject to sale by us with the balance of any funds recovered in excess of storage charges and any other fees being remitted to you.Liability
Condition Reports
STEFEK’S is not responsible for the correctness of any statement of any kind concerning any lot, whether written or oral, nor for any other errors or omissions in description or for any faults or defects in any lot. Neither the seller, ourselves, our officers, employees or agents, give any representation, warranty or guarantee or assume any liability of any kind in respect of any lot with regard to merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, description, size, quality, condition, attribution, authenticity, rarity, importance, medium, provenance, exhibition history, literature or historical relevance. Except as required by local law, any warranty of any kind whatsoever is excluded by this paragraph. Please note that ivory cannot be shipped out of the United States and tortoiseshell items cannot be shipped out of the state of Michigan.
Purchased Lots
If for any reason a purchased lot cannot be delivered in the same condition as at the time of sale, or should any purchased lot be stolen, mis-delivered, or lost prior to delivery, STEFEK’S shall not be liable for any amount in excess of that paid by the purchaser.
Legal Ramifications
The rights and obligations of the parties with respect to these Conditions of Sale, the conduct of the auction and any matters connected with any of the foregoing shall be governed and interpreted by the laws of the jurisdiction in Michigan.
If any part of these Conditions of Sale is found by any court to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable, that part shall be discounted and the rest of the conditions shall continue to be valid to the fullest extent permitted by law.
Discretion
Any and all of the conditions may be waived or modified in the sole discretion of STEFEK’S.
Shipping information
Stefek’s does not pack or ship any items purchased through auction. It is the buyer’s responsibility to arrange and pay for all packing and shipping. Information on local shipping businesses is listed below:
PakMail of St. Clair Shores
- (586) 773-3377
- US516@pakmail.com
- pakmail.com
PakMail of Lake Orion
- (248) 393-3277
- ship@pakmailmichigan.com
- pakmail.com
Navis Pack & Ship
- (248) 692-0007
- MI1053@gonavis.com
- gonavis.com
Craters and Freighters – Large Items
- (586) 268-4102
- detroit@cratersandfreighters.com
- cratersandfreightersdetroit.com
Plycon Transportation Group
- (888) 655-2664
- plycongroup.com
Bidder FAQs
What is a Buyer’s Premium?
A buyer’s premium is an additional fee based on a percentage of the hammer price and the payment method. Buyer’s premium pays for the services the auction house provides to make the items available for purchase. At Stefek’s, our buyer’s premium is a flat rate of 25%, regardless of method of payment. There is no extra charge for a credit card payment.Should I ask for a Condition Report of Items I am Bidding on?
As a courtesy, Stefek’s provides a general condition report for all items in our auction catalogs. All condition reports are based on “age appropriate wear” and buyers should note that an item that “appears fine” may have some wear. Stefek’s staff will always provide a detailed condition report outlining any and all damage and wear upon request of the buyer. All buyers are encouraged to request a detailed condition report to ensure satisfaction of their purchase.How to Ship
Stefek’s does not pack or ship any items purchased through auction. It is the buyer’s responsibility to arrange and pay for all packing and shipping. Information on local shipping businesses is listed below:
