Mayfair Auctions

CONDITION REPORTS

Important information concerning condition reports

Potential buyers should note that condition reports are matters of opinion only, they are non-exhaustive and based solely on what can be seen to the naked eye unless otherwise specified by the cataloguer. Lots will not be removed from frames, cases or housings of any form unless specified by the cataloguer. The responsibility for ascertaining the condition of the lot remains with the purchaser and Mayfair Auctions cannot be held responsible for these reports which are of an advisory nature only. It is your responsibility to examine any Lot in which you are interested.

If you do not agree with these terms, please advise the relevant specialist department and a condition report will not be issued for the lot. Failure to do so implies that you are in agreement with these terms.

If you have physically viewed an item for which you request a report, the condition report cannot be a reason for cancelling a sale.

LOT-SPECIFIC NOTICEs

Important information concerning jewellery

Metals

1.1 If a Lot is made entirely or partly of metal but is not hallmarked, Mayfair Auctions may conduct non-destructive testing to provide an indication of the metal type and its likely purity. The result of this indicative testing maybe stated in the Entry relating to the Lot. Unless the Lot is hallmarked by a British assay office, however, no guarantee is given as to the metal type or purity by such tests and neither Mayfair Auctions nor the Seller accepts any liability for contradictions or differing test results obtained by Buyers on any Lots subsequent to the Sale. Such tests are an indication only and Bidders should satisfy themselves as to each and every aspect of a Lot, including the metal used and its purity.

1.2 In particular, Bidders should be aware that a Lot may be plated with different or higher purity metals and tests may not identify this. A Lot may be made up of parts with different or differing purity metals and different or differing purity metals may have been used in any repairs or adjustments to a Lot.

Gemstones

1.3 Historically many gemstones have been subjected to a variety of treatments to enhance their appearance. Sapphires and rubies are routinely heat treated to improve their colour and clarity, similarly emeralds are frequently treated with oils or resin for the same purpose. Other treatments such as staining, irradiation or coating may have been used on other gemstones. These treatments may be permanent, whilst others may need special care or re-treatment over the years to retain their appearance. Bidders should be aware that Estimates assume that gemstones may have been subjected to such treatments.

1.4 A number of laboratories issue certificates that give more detailed descriptions of gemstones. However, there may not be consensus between different laboratories on the degrees, or types of treatment for any particular gemstone.

1.5 In the event that Mayfair Auctions has been given or has obtained certificates for any Lot in the Sale these certificates may be disclosed in the Catalogue. Although, as a matter of policy, Mayfair Auctions endeavours to provide certificates from recognised laboratories for certain gemstones, it is not feasible to obtain certificates for each Lot. In the event that no certificate is published in the Catalogue, Bidders should assume that the gemstones may have been treated.

1.6 Neither Mayfair Auctions nor the Seller accepts any liability for contradictions or differing certificates obtained by Buyers on any Lots subsequent to the Sale.

Estimated Weights

1.7 If a stone(s) weight appears within the body of the Description in capital letters, the stone(s) has been unmounted and weighed by Mayfair Auctions.

1.8 If the weight of the stone(s) is stated to be approximate and does not appear in capital letters, the stone(s) has been assessed by us within its/their settings, and the stated weight is a statement of our opinion only. This information is given as a guide and Bidders should satisfy themselves with regard to this information as to its accuracy.

Signatures

1. A emerald and diamond ring by Cartier

When the maker’s name appears in the title, in Mayfair Auctions’ opinion the piece is by that maker.

2. An emerald and diamond ring signed Cartier

Has a signature that, in Mayfair Auctions’ opinion, is authentic but may contain gemstones that are not original, or the piece may have been altered.

3. An emerald and diamond ring mounted by Cartier

Has been created by the jeweller, in Mayfair Auctions’ opinion, but using stones or designs supplied by the client.

4. An emerald and diamond ring with Cartier mount.

Important information concerning clocks and watches

1.1 All Lots are sold “as is”, and the absence of any reference to the condition of a clock or watch does not imply that the Lot is in good condition and without defects, repairs or restorations.

1.2 Most clocks and watches have been repaired in the course of their normal lifetime and may now incorporate parts not original to them.

1.3 Furthermore, Mayfair Auctions makes no representation or warranty that any clock or watch is in working order. As clocks and watches often contain fine and complex mechanisms, Bidders should be aware that a general service, change of battery or further repair work, for which the Buyer is solely responsible, may be necessary.

Terms and Conditions