Vintage view

Auctions may appear a terrifying spectacle to the uninitiated, but your biggest danger on the great day is actually you.

Lack of decision, failure to view, and impulsive ego-fuelled bidding can leave you financially hammered as the gavel falls. Keep your head and follow our essential survival tips to coolly bag that beauty.

* If you’ve skidded up to the venue and not viewed, get in there and do so. During bidding this will infuriate other bidders. Take up a roach-backed, creeping shape and oil your way around avoiding eye contact.