Bidding Fever.

The article presents information on tips for buying antiques in an auction without losing one's head. Smart collectors bid only on objects they've researched. Learn about the piece. Read reference books, price guides and trade magazines. Search the Internet. Talk to dealers willing to share their often-profound knowledge. Most auctioneers print catalogs, plain or fancy, that list lots in selling order and provide abundant information. Many houses post those on the Internet with photos and some even allow one to bid online. Usually days--but sometimes only hours--before the sale, lots are on free public exhibition. These previews are, at a minimum, a learning experience; if one is planning to bid, they're imperative.