What can a photograph tell us?
Clear photographs can show the design, visible marks, apparent condition and whether a collection includes matching pieces or accessories. Tell us about repairs, missing parts and known faults. A sharp close-up is more useful than a filter or a heavily cropped image.
What can a photograph not establish?
An image cannot verify metal purity, prove a mark or signature is genuine, establish gemstone treatments or confirm that a watch movement works correctly. Kitchen scales give a starting weight, not a laboratory measurement. Stones, springs, filled sections and other non-gold parts may be included in the reading. Any early guidance is provisional until the item can be assessed.
What not to send yet
Do not send bank details, full identity documents, probate documents or private family correspondence during an initial chat. If paperwork is relevant, Fair Vintage can advise what is genuinely needed and where to send it.
How to make the photographs useful
Use indirect daylight and a plain background. Send the whole piece before close-ups so details can be matched to it. Place a ruler beside marks without rubbing, polishing or scraping them. Photograph the clasp separately. Do not force open a watch caseback: photograph the outside, and mention any service records you already have.
Keep the communication record
If you later request a label, keep the chat, emails, tracking number and offer message together. That makes the customer journey easier to review and prevents item details being split across channels.
Your photo checklist
- The whole piece, front and back.
- Marks in focus next to a ruler.
- The clasp, fastening and any damage.
- The item and weight reading on kitchen scales, if available.
- For watches: the dial and the outside of the caseback.
- Boxes and papers, with names, addresses and other personal details covered.
Questions before sending photos
Can I call the WhatsApp number?
Yes. 01234 815116 is the office landline and takes both calls and WhatsApp messages.
Can I email photos instead?
Yes. Email support@fairvintage.co.uk with a short item description and clear photographs.
Should I send ID or bank details in chat?
No. Keep initial messages to item photos and basic context. Redact personal information in paperwork.
Is photo guidance a guaranteed offer?
No. Photographs cannot confirm every aspect of material, authenticity, condition or weight. Physical inspection may change the assessment.
Sources and fact-check record
Last reviewed 2026-10-15. Contact details confirmed by the business owner. Keep initial messages to item photographs and avoid unnecessary personal information.
Choose your next step
How the postal process works · Request a label · Understand gold-content calculations