Putting your maximum bid in early I found brought out the big hitters. There are some serious collectors out there with serious money. If they know you as a collector and see your name or tag on an item and possibly had a doubt about the item, your interest gets them moving.

I know only too well as several times I did bid early and received a phone call from another collector who spoke to a friend of a friend and remarked on my interest in the item confirmed the item must be good.

A late sniper keeps your powder dry and you don't play your hand too early.