The Chatter Newsletter

The Spotlight's On:
soko*antiques
by Ryan
eBay Staff Member

soko*antiques finds himself visiting the site frequently. “Morning, noon, and night! Even on my vacation I'll at least browse eBay!” Besides satisfying his penchant for collecting, his eBay activity is also providing him with a substantial second income.

In his dual role as a PowerSeller and an active collector, soko*antiques has participated in some memorable transactions. He once purchased a 19th century statue from Shanghai, China. “It looks like a green monster, but its frightening appearance is actually to ward off evil. So far, it has worked!” His most unexpected selling success was when he listed the box for a 1930's Li'l Abner toy. Not expecting much for the empty box, soko*antiques started the listing at $9.99. When bidding ended seven days later the price had reached $250. “I later found out that the cardboard box was (rarer) than the actual toy!”

soko*antiques is a big believer in thoroughly researching items, taking clear pictures and writing good item descriptions. He also feels it is important to pick your timing carefully. “My strategy is to concentrate listings on the weekends when eBay traffic is the highest.”

eBay's Community area is one of soko*antiques' favorite places on the site. He's not only found great tips for buying and selling there, but has also met many people with similar interests. “I visit the PowerSellers discussion board at least once a week, and I am also an active member in several eBay Groups. He's a member of the SF Bay Area eBay Group and leads the Japanese Antiques, Woodblock Prints, & Art group. soko*antiques' fascination with Japanese woodblock prints started during his visits to art museums in San Francisco and Honolulu. “I have a collection of over 100 prints from such well known artists as Ando Hiroshige and Otagawa Kuniyoshi."

Whether it's for selling or buying, soko*antiques continues to be amazed by the variety and scope of the marketplace. "eBay allows me to reach every part of the world."

soko*antiques warmly describes eBay as a "part of his family," embracing the way it has changed his life:

"eBay allows me, as a collector, to locate unique items for my collection. I deal with people from all over from Honolulu to San Francisco to Tokyo to Berlin. It has given me the opportunity to open a 'world-wide‘ store called Eric's Unique Antiques! I have a loyal following in Japan, South Africa, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Italy, France, Germany, Sweden, and New Zealand. I love eBay and hope one day to make it my only job. The best part is that I can make money while in my pajamas or even on vacation! The income generated on eBay has increased my quality of life. I love it!"