Author Topic: Buying Alembic on Ebay (Read 306 times)

jazzyvee · « **on:** October 02, 2003, 03:30:07 PM »

Has anyone done this, has the experience been good?
there are a few Alembics there at the moment and the prices seem ok. How is payment and delivery done? How do I know the person is not gonna clear off with my money and not deliver the bass?
How do I know the sale is a genuine alembic. I've read postings here where Mica has had to challenge sellers before about their claims to be selling alembics.
Seems a very risky business....!!
Some advice would be welcome... before they all go... :-)

wideload · « **Reply #1 on:** October 02, 2003, 04:56:29 PM »

I purchased my Rogue 5 on ebay in June. Not only was I concerned about condition and the potential for fraud, I had never ebayed before! The seller was very prompt in returning e-mailed questions, and since I lived only 40 miles away, offered to let me come by and see and play to my heart's content. Paypal gives you some consumer protection through your credit card company, but it is buy as-is. Also, get the serial number, check to see if it matches Alembics scheme, and I'm sure someone can check the serial to give you a description. If it matches, you're good to go.
I never thought I could have an Alembic- it has been my grail since 1978. I am now playing an instrument I am very proud to be seen with. Good luck in your search!
Larry

elzie · « **Reply #2 on:** October 02, 2003, 05:22:36 PM »

I bought my Excel on ebay over two years ago. I had the same thoughts as you. I checked the seller's feedback as well as e-mailing the seller to kind of gauge the person. They were very nice!

The auction also contained pictures of the serial number, which put me at ease a little more. However, when it is all said and done, ANY auction holds the same potential for scams or losing money. As Larry said, Paypal provides a little more security, as does your credit card.

I suppose, if you found one you like and know of someone who lives in the seller's area, you may be able to set up a viewing. The good side is, my Alembic was not only perfect, it also arrived in tune!

Paul TGO

malthumb · « **Reply #3 on:** October 02, 2003, 08:47:52 PM »

I haven't bought Alembics on eBay, but I have sold two on eBay. I've also bought 3 online through other means.

Paypal or an escrow service can help protect you. Also as was mentioned earlier, get the serial number, check it at the Alembic site against the list of stolen Alembics, and request serial number info from Alembic.

Some of the sellers on eBay are legitimate Alembic dealers (Superbass comes to mind) and can be considered very low risk. Some sellers are Alembic Club members and should be considered traitors (just kiddin'). It's much easier transacting business with someone who has a consistent online persona.

Good luck on your search!

Peace,

James

thebass · « **Reply #4 on:** October 07, 2003, 05:49:30 AM »

I've bought mine on ebay too. But before I was bidding I met the seller and played the bass. I would never bid for such an instrument if I neither had the chance to play the bass before nor if I knew the seller well enough to trust him/her. And after the auction I carried the bass home in my car. I would never ship an Alembic by normal cargo.

zappahead · « **Reply #5 on:** October 07, 2003, 06:01:17 AM »

Ive bought guitars via the web and ebay. Ive never had any issues. I also find Fed Ex and UPS to be just fine as long as you ship the guitar in a hard case. Its a fantastic way to get a good deal on an instrument. As long as you get a decent deal you can always sell it via ebay again if you dont like it. You also have a 48 hour window to return anything bought from a dealer.

lbanks · « **Reply #6 on:** October 29, 2003, 12:52:13 PM »

I got my Orion from Ebay, along with sveral other basses and it is a bit nerve-wracking, hoping you don't get rooked. I'd have to say I've been pretty lucky, so far.

essencetimestwo · « **Reply #7 on:** November 14, 2003, 06:24:46 PM »

I have learned over many Ebay transactions that people are mostly good with a few bad tendencies. I have purchased 4 Alembic basses on Ebay and have only been let down once. The seller listed it as an Essence and didn't have any pictures. I took a big chance and bid and won the auction. When it arrived I discovered it was an Epic. Fortunately the seller was a stand-up guy and we worked out a deal and I sold the bass for what it was really worth and he paid me the difference. I am a true beleiver in Ebay and would be willing to advise or help you in any way if you see one that you are interested. If you want to check my history on Ebay my user ID is Modulust. The thing that impresses me the most is that the folks at Alembic don't treat me any different than someone who custom ordered a $13k Series II from the factory. They are so helpful and even covered some needed repairs under warranty. Too cool for school! Alembic rocks! Bid on!