We caught up with Mike Oborne from West Sussex about his model railway business on Preloved.
What do you sell on Preloved?
I sell model railways. These are mainly collectable items that are now often hard to obtain. I have sold many from the 1950’s and thereabouts.
Have you always been interested in model railways?
I’ve been interested in model railways since I was a teenager, living within sight and sound of loco depots in London. I am now 74 and have a lot of memories of that time. Railways have been a passion of mine all of my life. I have my own OO gauge model railway in the garage but I have little time to spend on it these days. Hopefully, one day it will go to a new home who will enjoy it as much as I have.
What’s been the most special item you’ve sold?
The most special items I have sold has been actual smokebox door numberplates from real steam locomotives. These had been in a shed since being taken off engines in the 1960’s and were sold for £3,000.00. It was a once in a lifetime happening. The most valuable model engine I have sold was for £1,000.00, but usually items sell for under £50.
How long have you been a business member for?
I have been selling successfully on Preloved for 10 months now, I find it suits my needs very well. I chose Preloved as it seems to suit my requirements well, and the charges were lower than other sites. It is not expensive and reaches fellow enthusiasts and beginners, who I like to help if I can.
How has Preloved helped your business?
In the last 10 months I have sold literally hundreds of Model Railway items. I have made many friends through Preloved who are repeat buyers, who also ask for advice. A lot of people tell me that they are getting fed up with other well known sites who charge more for fees and a percentage of postage. I would definitely recommend Preloved as a successful selling medium.
Business Membership on Preloved comes with a 2 month free trial period, so you can test it out before fully committing. To find out more about what a business membership can offer you, click here
