As someone in our group has had a bad experience on E-bay, as in empty package scenario....I was wondering has anyone had this experience with Amazon or other similar companies?
Deborah-Jane, I have bought dozens of Filofaxes through eBay, and I never had any issues with it. They all arrived safe and sound. I you wanna play extra safe, request tracked shipment! I assume that the postal service would notice that they are shipping an empty envelop?
I have also purchased several on ebay from both private customers and Pens & Leather and Goldspot and never had a problem. I am sorry you did. I know PayPal/ebay will protect you - have you contacted them?
Deborah - I can understand your reluctance - I had some doubts in the beginning, too but I have been buying on ebay for probably 10 years now and there is nothing to fear with PayPal. They are fully bonded, insured, etc. They also protect buyers up to $50,000! It is completely safe - trust me. Hope you have a chance to try it out one day soon! :) Marianna
I've never heard of any problems with Amazon and haven't experienced any myself. In the past I have mostly bought higher value FF from either Folofax themselves (when they have had a sale) or from City Organiser which is now sadly closing. I've never had a problem with anyone selling from this group either seling direct or via Adspot.
Despite Steve being the model of discretion, the cat is out of the bag!! Websters Pens (www.websterspenshop.co.uk) have on sale the new Original and Charleston models already! They also have them on Amazon. Woods Stationers in Bath showed me the new catalogue a few days ago ( I didn't tell the contents out of respect for Steve keeping stumm but now its all over the web I think the info is fair game) and they have held both models although did not have them to show me. They will only be stocking a token number of the Original in one colour only which they were derisory about to say the least but thought that the Charleston felt much better with a slightly textured leather. Neither they say come up to the Malden or Holborn. Sadly the catalogue does not show the insides of either model so I cannot divulge anything there.
Of course I immediately rushed to Websters Pen to check it out (thanks, Helen!). Looks like the cheapo range is going to be far bigger than we assumed (or feared even?). The Original looks like the vintage models (like the College e.g.), but from the side view I gather that it's nothing more than a Domino with a push button closure. In bright new shiny colors. I guess the green could do well, since there's not much green Filofaxes available. I do like the look of the Domino-ish Woodland. Pity that the Easterweekend just passed, I wouldn't see myself carrying around a rabbit all year through. But - hey - probably aimed at the younger generation anyway, right? Then there seems to be a Navy Malden (zipped). Perhaps they'll have other Malden models available in Navy as well? While not a huge fan of the color Navy, it would fit the Malden style perfectly (and probably even better than the Aqua). So, this could be something to hold out for. The Charleston - dunno if it will be made available in Personal size as well. That wide clasp totally doesn't do it for me.
The whole range breathes Paperchase to me, if I have to be honest .....
Well I've kept quiet about what I know for about 5 months, but I doubt if there's much choice now but to spill the beans a little bit more... goes against my normal principles I suppose... but some peoples commercial values seem to over rule their honesty etc...
So the Original... it is similar to "Satchels" in the way the leather is colour/finished... so that might give you a bit more of a clue.. It is leather though.
It is a very reasonably priced leather organiser. The Charleston is more traditional in it's design etc but comes in at a slightly higher price point.
Okay, can I say I'm so excited about the adorable little keyrings??? Holy cow they are so cute! I just alarmed my husband as I shouted to the computer "oooooh, how adorable!" All I know is, they'd better sell them in the US!
Re: Satchels...that was my exact first thought upon seeing the Original, especially the Flouro colours with which the Cambridge Satchel Co became trendy with. Its almost as if they've collaborated specifically. I do like the design of the Woodland. I sort of detest the Kidston-esque design, only because it feels clumsy in its execution. I almost wish that they had done a collaboration with Cath Kidston, in a hard-wearing oilcloth, that would have improved the aesthetic for me.
Its a shame that there hasn't been a consistency between retailers etc with release of new products and news.
Hmmm. So, within a few weeks, those looking for an English made filofax on Ebay will have to wade through "original" binders, in addition to all those "vintage" Maldens.
Was it me you were trying to contact? I found an email in my spam box last night from an M. Johns who was interested in buying my Holborn. If that's you, I've replied to your email now and in very sorry about the delay.
I have also got an ebay problem and am hoping someone here can help me. Have you got a genuine, vintage Mulberry agenda and can tell me how to spot a fake? I bought one off ebay, but naively didn't ask for closeups of the zip pull and popper - aren't they supposed to have the Mulberry stamp? I decided to sell it on and buyers raised doubts that it was genuine, so I took the listing down and need hard facts to convince the seller to take it back for a refund. Grateful for any replies to type 247 at msn dot com.
Find a designer handbag authenticator, someone who specializes in Mulberry. I haven't had to do this myself but I'm a little familiar with the process. I think for a fee you send them requested pictures and they will give you an official statement about the item's authenticity. Hope that helps. Good luck!
I forgot to add, you should be able to do a search on the net. If you need any more assistance you can head over to Purse Forum and visit the Mulberry SubForum. There is a lot of information and helpful people over there. I believe you can get an unofficial authenication opinion. They should also know who specifically to use if you need an official statement.
LM - if the seller stated "no returns", then you might have to go to ebay/PayPal and file a claim and they may help you out if you do find it ia a fake. The only thing I would do is watch the wording carefully in auctions and if they don't say 100% authentic or offer to accept a refund, I would be a bit wary. I'm sorry I cannot be much help in how to authenticate it. Good luck! Marianna (don't know why Google is not showing my name!!)
about a year or so ago i read a post on here, about making your own planner or something....with links to where you can buy ringmechanisms and make your own binder....i can't seem to find it now...can anyone help?
Ahoy, This post? http://philofaxy.blogspot.co.uk/2011/10/making-your-own-organiser.html
If it helps, I contacted both the UK companies listed in that post re: A5 binder mechanism, just the one. Loose Leaf replied saying that unless I could go there in person they would not supply. I'm the wrong side of the Midlands. The other company never responded.
In the end, I hacked out a A5 binder mechanism from a cheapo binder and inserted it into an A5 Flex. It has its advantages and disadvantages, I'm slowly working on a guest post for Philofaxy on same.
Hi Early models didn't have the F on the spine or on the cover of the mechanism. But you will also notice that the cover isn't riveted on and it is just clipped on, it can be removed with care should you have any problems with inner workings of the mechanism.
You have by the sound of it a Harrods branded Winchester Filofax
This filofax is in good shape. The leather needs some conditioning but the mechanism is crisp and smooth and there are no tears or damage.
The inserts are marked 1985. Would this be the right year or is the filofax likely older?
Also the prym snap fastner button cover is gone. Do you know a source for a replacement button or is it better with a vintage filofax to leave it as it is?
Hi Anne Yes 1985 would be about the right sort of age, possibly older than that but it's about the right 'era' from the description.
Yes the covers on those buttons often break. My own Winchester one broke some time back, but it left behind a metal dome, which after cleaning it up, I just painted it with a tiny drop of enamel paint and then left it to dry for a week. Some times though even that metal dome comes off.
If you send me a photo I can advise accordingly.
You can get replacement press studs and covers from craft shops or dress making shops, or the usual Amazon or Ebay! But try a local shop first that way you know you will be getting the right size.
You'll see the button snap has a slight ding but I don't think that will be a big deal to straighten. I like your idea of filling the "well" with black enamel paint. That should end up looking pretty sharp. I may tinker with some Filo clay as well and see if I can make and then epoxy a new button.
Yes yours has lost the metal cap as well. A little bit of Araldite epoxy glue will help you create a new 'cap' which you can then paint, or may be some epoxy putty.
On Alison's we used a small jewel glued in there, it came from an ear ring which she had lost the matching one! Not expensive ones...
I received a personal Dakota as a gift, and have been using it for about 2 weeks now. Yesterday I noticed the strap is separAting into two pieces, has anyone else had this happen to them?
Liz in which country are you? I would suggest returning it to the retailer and request a replacement, if you don't get any luck with the retailer then to Filofax themselves.
Lloyd Giardino Manager, Customer Experience Team Manager, Corporate Sales
Filofax, Inc. 372 Danbury Road Suite 171 Wilton, CT 06897 Phone: (800)-345-6798 Fax : (203)-563-2214 Email: lgiardino@filofaxinc.com Member of the Letts Filofax Group Ltd.
It seems like there are slim-pickings right now. I'm having a hard time finding the planners I want now that I have some cash to spend to buy my first Filofax! (current FC user) Is this typical during this time of the year as the new planners start to roll out? I'm looking for a personal-sized raspberry metropol or a good deal on a personal vintage pink or purple malden. Anyone have any tips on finding planners? I've been browsing ebay daily, checking FilofaxUSA website, Pens & Leather website, etc..
And Steve, thanks for putting this site together! I wish I found it years ago :) I could spend hours here -- well, actually I do spend hours here! LOL! And I especially love the Web Finds and Video Finds posts.
You're welcome! Yes, I've been stalking Ad-spot, too! LOL! I'll just keep looking around until I find one. I know eventually something will come up for me.
Janis, Have you tried www.samflaxny.com? The website has a personal raspberry Metropol and a lavender one at a slight discount. I think the shipping might be a little high.
Janis, I've also been stalking all the websites, but I can't find a lot either. Just keep in mind--the pinks and purples are RARELY on sale. If you know the exact style you're after, it couldn't hurt to check out the retailers on FilofaxUSA and call them. I live about 1.5 hours away from Dallas which is the closest retailer to me, and I call them periodically just to ask what they have on sale. I also found a great vintage condition Kensignton on Amazon. Try Etsy, too. Good luck=)
Dang! I just posted how excited I was about the keyring. Well, I went to this site: http://www.websterspenshop.co.uk/shop/filofax/new-2013-filofax/keyring/filofax-the-original-key-ring-pink/ And clicked on the zoom image. These little binders don't have real rings after all. It's a silver stamp on the leather. Thanks, Filofax, for helping me save my money.
Try Amazon as well but they are always higher than ebay and even Filofax USA at times! You can check some local merchants in larger cities in the US - they usually have residual stock that hasn't been discovered. In NY just google Filofax in NY and there are several. I have found Sam Flax to be a bit higher than Pens and Leather and Goldspot (online and ebay stores) so I don't go there. Good luck - I have found recently that there are less available right now, too and I thought it was b/c the new range is imminent. Keep trying - you never know what will show up! Marianna
As someone in our group has had a bad experience on E-bay, as in empty package scenario....I was wondering has anyone had this experience with Amazon or other similar companies?
ReplyDeleteDeborah-Jane, I have bought dozens of Filofaxes through eBay, and I never had any issues with it. They all arrived safe and sound. I you wanna play extra safe, request tracked shipment! I assume that the postal service would notice that they are shipping an empty envelop?
DeleteHi Deborah:
DeleteI have also purchased several on ebay from both private customers and Pens & Leather and Goldspot and never had a problem. I am sorry you did. I know PayPal/ebay will protect you - have you contacted them?
Marianna, I personally haven't bought anything of e-bay purely because I don't trust paypal, someone else has though, hence my question...
DeleteI have never had any issues with eBay or PayPal no matter what I purchased.
DeleteDeborah - I can understand your reluctance - I had some doubts in the beginning, too but I have been buying on ebay for probably 10 years now and there is nothing to fear with PayPal. They are fully bonded, insured, etc. They also protect buyers up to $50,000! It is completely safe - trust me. Hope you have a chance to try it out one day soon! :) Marianna
DeleteI've never heard of any problems with Amazon and haven't experienced any myself. In the past I have mostly bought higher value FF from either Folofax themselves (when they have had a sale) or from City Organiser which is now sadly closing. I've never had a problem with anyone selling from this group either seling direct or via Adspot.
ReplyDeleteOh and also I have purchased from Amazon and never, ever had a problem - they have terrific and efficient Customer Service!
DeleteDespite Steve being the model of discretion, the cat is out of the bag!! Websters Pens (www.websterspenshop.co.uk) have on sale the new Original and Charleston models already! They also have them on Amazon.
ReplyDeleteWoods Stationers in Bath showed me the new catalogue a few days ago ( I didn't tell the contents out of respect for Steve keeping stumm but now its all over the web I think the info is fair game) and they have held both models although did not have them to show me. They will only be stocking a token number of the Original in one colour only which they were derisory about to say the least but thought that the Charleston felt much better with a slightly textured leather. Neither they say come up to the Malden or Holborn. Sadly the catalogue does not show the insides of either model so I cannot divulge anything there.
Of course I immediately rushed to Websters Pen to check it out (thanks, Helen!). Looks like the cheapo range is going to be far bigger than we assumed (or feared even?). The Original looks like the vintage models (like the College e.g.), but from the side view I gather that it's nothing more than a Domino with a push button closure. In bright new shiny colors. I guess the green could do well, since there's not much green Filofaxes available.
DeleteI do like the look of the Domino-ish Woodland. Pity that the Easterweekend just passed, I wouldn't see myself carrying around a rabbit all year through. But - hey - probably aimed at the younger generation anyway, right?
Then there seems to be a Navy Malden (zipped). Perhaps they'll have other Malden models available in Navy as well? While not a huge fan of the color Navy, it would fit the Malden style perfectly (and probably even better than the Aqua). So, this could be something to hold out for.
The Charleston - dunno if it will be made available in Personal size as well. That wide clasp totally doesn't do it for me.
The whole range breathes Paperchase to me, if I have to be honest .....
Well I've kept quiet about what I know for about 5 months, but I doubt if there's much choice now but to spill the beans a little bit more... goes against my normal principles I suppose... but some peoples commercial values seem to over rule their honesty etc...
DeleteSo the Original... it is similar to "Satchels" in the way the leather is colour/finished... so that might give you a bit more of a clue.. It is leather though.
It is a very reasonably priced leather organiser. The Charleston is more traditional in it's design etc but comes in at a slightly higher price point.
Steve
Pens and Leather has descriptions of the new ones as well, but no pics. The German Filofax also has some new ones with photos.
DeleteOkay, can I say I'm so excited about the adorable little keyrings??? Holy cow they are so cute! I just alarmed my husband as I shouted to the computer "oooooh, how adorable!"
DeleteAll I know is, they'd better sell them in the US!
Re: Satchels...that was my exact first thought upon seeing the Original, especially the Flouro colours with which the Cambridge Satchel Co became trendy with. Its almost as if they've collaborated specifically. I do like the design of the Woodland. I sort of detest the Kidston-esque design, only because it feels clumsy in its execution. I almost wish that they had done a collaboration with Cath Kidston, in a hard-wearing oilcloth, that would have improved the aesthetic for me.
DeleteIts a shame that there hasn't been a consistency between retailers etc with release of new products and news.
not familair with Satchels. From what I see, I am really disappointed. I hope this is not all they have to offer as a new range ...
DeleteHmmm. So, within a few weeks, those looking for an English made filofax on Ebay will have to wade through "original" binders, in addition to all those "vintage" Maldens.
Deletenavy Malden............. Ohhhhhhhhhh
ReplyDeleteWhat can I do if a seller on Adspot just not reacts... anyone?
ReplyDeleteContact me with the details...
DeleteI have been looking, but where can I reach you?
Deletephilofaxy at gmail dot com
DeleteHi Michaeline,
DeleteWas it me you were trying to contact? I found an email in my spam box last night from an M. Johns who was interested in buying my Holborn. If that's you, I've replied to your email now and in very sorry about the delay.
Ashlene
I was looking forward to more Maldens in A5.... but seems mostly to be binders of not as high a quality. A bit disappointed TBH.
ReplyDeleteI have also got an ebay problem and am hoping someone here can help me. Have you got a genuine, vintage Mulberry agenda and can tell me how to spot a fake? I bought one off ebay, but naively didn't ask for closeups of the zip pull and popper - aren't they supposed to have the Mulberry stamp? I decided to sell it on and buyers raised doubts that it was genuine, so I took the listing down and need hard facts to convince the seller to take it back for a refund. Grateful for any replies to type 247 at msn dot com.
ReplyDeleteFind a designer handbag authenticator, someone who specializes in Mulberry. I haven't had to do this myself but I'm a little familiar with the process. I think for a fee you send them requested pictures and they will give you an official statement about the item's authenticity. Hope that helps. Good luck!
DeleteI forgot to add, you should be able to do a search on the net. If you need any more assistance you can head over to Purse Forum and visit the Mulberry SubForum. There is a lot of information and helpful people over there. I believe you can get an unofficial authenication opinion. They should also know who specifically to use if you need an official statement.
DeleteLM - if the seller stated "no returns", then you might have to go to ebay/PayPal and file a claim and they may help you out if you do find it ia a fake. The only thing I would do is watch the wording carefully in auctions and if they don't say 100% authentic or offer to accept a refund, I would be a bit wary. I'm sorry I cannot be much help in how to authenticate it. Good luck! Marianna (don't know why Google is not showing my name!!)
Deleteabout a year or so ago i read a post on here, about making your own planner or something....with links to where you can buy ringmechanisms and make your own binder....i can't seem to find it now...can anyone help?
ReplyDeleteAhoy,
DeleteThis post?
http://philofaxy.blogspot.co.uk/2011/10/making-your-own-organiser.html
If it helps, I contacted both the UK companies listed in that post re: A5 binder mechanism, just the one. Loose Leaf replied saying that unless I could go there in person they would not supply. I'm the wrong side of the Midlands. The other company never responded.
In the end, I hacked out a A5 binder mechanism from a cheapo binder and inserted it into an A5 Flex. It has its advantages and disadvantages, I'm slowly working on a guest post for Philofaxy on same.
This comment has been removed by the author.
Deleteyes that's exactly it! Thank you.....how did you insert the ringmechanism into the flex?
DeleteHi,
ReplyDeleteI have what looks like a Black Winchester marked
Harrods
Filofax
4 CLF 7/8
Real Calf
Made in England
What I don't see is the embossed f on the spine or on the metal binder. Do you know why some filofax models were embossed and not others?
Thanks.
Hi
DeleteEarly models didn't have the F on the spine or on the cover of the mechanism. But you will also notice that the cover isn't riveted on and it is just clipped on, it can be removed with care should you have any problems with inner workings of the mechanism.
You have by the sound of it a Harrods branded Winchester Filofax
Steve
Hi Steve,
ReplyDeleteThanks for the prompt reply :)
This filofax is in good shape. The leather needs some conditioning but the mechanism is crisp and smooth and there are no tears or damage.
The inserts are marked 1985. Would this be the right year or is the filofax likely older?
Also the prym snap fastner button cover is gone. Do you know a source for a replacement button or is it better with a vintage filofax to leave it as it is?
Thanks.
Anne
Hi Anne
DeleteYes 1985 would be about the right sort of age, possibly older than that but it's about the right 'era' from the description.
Yes the covers on those buttons often break. My own Winchester one broke some time back, but it left behind a metal dome, which after cleaning it up, I just painted it with a tiny drop of enamel paint and then left it to dry for a week. Some times though even that metal dome comes off.
If you send me a photo I can advise accordingly.
You can get replacement press studs and covers from craft shops or dress making shops, or the usual Amazon or Ebay! But try a local shop first that way you know you will be getting the right size.
Regards
Steve
Hi Steve,
DeleteI've posted photos at
http://www.flickr.com/photos/94617831@N06/with/8614394668/#photo_8614394668
You'll see the button snap has a slight ding but I don't think that will be a big deal to straighten. I like your idea of filling the "well" with black enamel paint. That should end up looking pretty sharp. I may tinker with some Filo clay as well and see if I can make and then epoxy a new button.
best,
Anne
Yes yours has lost the metal cap as well. A little bit of Araldite epoxy glue will help you create a new 'cap' which you can then paint, or may be some epoxy putty.
DeleteOn Alison's we used a small jewel glued in there, it came from an ear ring which she had lost the matching one! Not expensive ones...
Steve
All good suggestions. Thank you :)
DeleteI received a personal Dakota as a gift, and have been using it for about 2 weeks now. Yesterday I noticed the strap is separAting into two pieces, has anyone else had this happen to them?
ReplyDeleteLiz in which country are you? I would suggest returning it to the retailer and request a replacement, if you don't get any luck with the retailer then to Filofax themselves.
DeleteSteve
I'm in the US and it was purchased fron Filofax USA. I will have to contact them, thanks Steve :)
DeleteHi Liz
DeleteThis is the guy to contact:
Lloyd Giardino
Manager, Customer Experience Team
Manager, Corporate Sales
Filofax, Inc.
372 Danbury Road
Suite 171
Wilton, CT 06897
Phone: (800)-345-6798
Fax : (203)-563-2214
Email: lgiardino@filofaxinc.com
Member of the Letts Filofax Group Ltd.
Thanks very much Steve!
DeleteIt seems like there are slim-pickings right now. I'm having a hard time finding the planners I want now that I have some cash to spend to buy my first Filofax! (current FC user) Is this typical during this time of the year as the new planners start to roll out? I'm looking for a personal-sized raspberry metropol or a good deal on a personal vintage pink or purple malden. Anyone have any tips on finding planners? I've been browsing ebay daily, checking FilofaxUSA website, Pens & Leather website, etc..
ReplyDeleteAnd Steve, thanks for putting this site together! I wish I found it years ago :) I could spend hours here -- well, actually I do spend hours here! LOL! And I especially love the Web Finds and Video Finds posts.
I hope everyone has a great week!
Janis
Janis
DeleteOh it was created before I came along in 2009! But thank you.
Don't forget to check out Ad-spot you might see something there you like....
Regards
Steve
You're welcome! Yes, I've been stalking Ad-spot, too! LOL! I'll just keep looking around until I find one. I know eventually something will come up for me.
ReplyDeleteJanis,
DeleteHave you tried www.samflaxny.com? The website has a personal raspberry Metropol and a lavender one at a slight discount. I think the shipping might be a little high.
Janis,
ReplyDeleteI've also been stalking all the websites, but I can't find a lot either. Just keep in mind--the pinks and purples are RARELY on sale. If you know the exact style you're after, it couldn't hurt to check out the retailers on FilofaxUSA and call them. I live about 1.5 hours away from Dallas which is the closest retailer to me, and I call them periodically just to ask what they have on sale. I also found a great vintage condition Kensignton on Amazon. Try Etsy, too.
Good luck=)
Dang!
ReplyDeleteI just posted how excited I was about the keyring. Well, I went to this site:
http://www.websterspenshop.co.uk/shop/filofax/new-2013-filofax/keyring/filofax-the-original-key-ring-pink/
And clicked on the zoom image.
These little binders don't have real rings after all. It's a silver stamp on the leather.
Thanks, Filofax, for helping me save my money.
Janis:
ReplyDeleteTry Amazon as well but they are always higher than ebay and even Filofax USA at times! You can check some local merchants in larger cities in the US - they usually have residual stock that hasn't been discovered. In NY just google Filofax in NY and there are several. I have found Sam Flax to be a bit higher than Pens and Leather and Goldspot (online and ebay stores) so I don't go there. Good luck - I have found recently that there are less available right now, too and I thought it was b/c the new range is imminent. Keep trying - you never know what will show up! Marianna