CAVEAT EMPTOR
I recently purchased some items on eBay from p.a.l.00. They showed pictures of a medical case, a set of saddlebags, and a surgical instrument case.
I was interested in these items primarily for the medicine case and the saddlebags. I won the auction. Much to my dismay, upon receiving the items I found the saddlebags were in terrible condition. I wrote to the seller about the discrepancy.The seller claims that she did nothing wrong and that there were numerous pictures of the saddlebags on the site. She also says she described the bags as "rough".
Here is what the seller had to say about the saddlebags:
"The saddle bag type belt that is the item to the left of the photo has his name on it followed by Scott Co KY December 1st 1870. Some areas of this are pretty rough but for example the pockets are in good shape. I think a good leather person could do some restoration if you wish."
I have also included comparison photos. On the left, I have placed all pictures of the saddlebags the seller had on her offering. On the right I have placed pictures showing their actual condition. You decide if this is a vendor you can trust.
I paid over $600 for these items. I am very happy with the case, but in my opinion the bags were obviously misrepresented. The seller has placed me in a very awkward position: she has given me the option of returning both items or keeping both items. While I wish to keep the case, it is obvious to me that I paid more than the combined items were worth because of the way the saddlebags were presented. The saddlebags are essentially worthless in this condition.
