All kinds of explanations...
There could be all kinds of reasons the bidding would go so high. Someone with deep pockets into Eureka's. Someone who has the other colors and wants the full lineup. Who knows? Or, like any other online auction, it's a gamble,some people are high rollers. And some people get caught up in the excitement. Also, looking at the sellers other items -- they seem to generate a lot of bids, and are in great condition. That seller may have a following that is willing to pay a premium.
Myself, I have a few "preferred" sellers that I will pay a premium for their wares as I know it will be exactly or better than stated, and packed to survive a nuclear blast.
There *ARE* some ridiculous bidding wars on eBay. At the same time the bid sheet on my Elextrolux was gathering dust (I was the only bidder) there was a free-for-all going on a Dyson that was advertised as -- get ready for it -- "Does Not Work!" And yes, the derelict Dyson sold for multiples of what my working Electrolux cost. So goes the way of the world.
Heavy breath here, because I'm going to get in trouble for this, I'm sure...but a few, one in particular, responses here are kind of...well...over the top.
A bit of background. I've known about the VCCC for years and years. I was even going to join as the next convention was going to be in St. Louis. I thought "Perfect! It'll be local and I'll get to meet like-minded folks!" But at the time, some brouhaha about something or other flared up, and I deferred joining as I thought "Ok, they've got some issues they need to work out, and this is not the right time."
Fast-forward to current day, In my short time, I've seen shootouts on these forums over what vac is better that what other vac, so on and so forth.
I like old technology, most all of it. Collecting and restoring these things is what I do to bring peace and light, not heat. It's something I really enjoy, and it brings me satisfaction. I think those sentiments can be understood by anyone reading this forum...and few others, as we all know.
Now, I know, I can click the "delete my account" button, and make sure the door doesn't hit my @ss on the way out, and be just fine. Granted, I'm still a newbie, a short-timer, and it's probably inappropriate for me to say anything at this point in my tenure, as none of you really know me. But it's my hope that this is a place where I can learn new things, come to appreciate other things (such as the recently added Electrolux and Hoovers to my collection), and offer the same to others. I love looking at all your collections, and your finds. I love seeing someone acquire something others would call "junk" and from it, show a shining example of vintage technology.
I know it cannot be graciousness, tea, scones, and pleasant "ladies who lunch" light conversation. But something between that and CNN Crossfire would be a good meeting point, wouldn't it?
Said in respect, and just my opinion...YMMV...
John