Bidding On Blind Auction Lots

There is an auction ending today that has an intriguing lot which is estimated at $150-$300. Bidding is up over $425. Unfortunately there are no pictures. I have gambled on such lots in the past and in some cases got burned and other cases made out very well. However, I usually stick to around the estimate price.

Has anybody had success asking the auction house for photos? Is this something commonly done?

I'm reluctant to ask because I know there's a lot of work involved and the house would probably rather spend the time and effort on running the auction.

Thoughts?

Depends on the auction. For such a low value lot at such a late date it might not happen, but it frequently does on lots when there is more time.

Call the auction house on the phone ,well ahead of the auction and ask one of the describers to view the lot and ask questions. I do it all the time . It should take 5 to 10 minutes .
You have to understand bidding sight unseen is a very big gamble .Many firms, always place a few lots in their auctions geared to the bidder who bids sight unseen .

By the nature of auctions, I tend to bid sight unseen, because it isn't practical for me to attend sales. I've bought a couple of turkeys over the years, but, in general, I've been pleased with my purchases. Does help if you've dealt with the house often enough to have a sense of how it conducts its business. I wouldn't have any qualms about asking for further information, although not on the day of the sale itself.