Serial number, provenance and history: what to ask

Where the product type uses one, a serial number can help verify the model, production period and consistency of the photographed item.

It may also be useful to ask for:

• the original purchase receipt, if available;
• service or repair documentation;
• certificates or documentation for special editions;
• information about modifications made over time.

Lack of the original receipt does not automatically make a used item problematic. However, for expensive, rare or heavily modified gear, a better documented history reduces uncertainty.

Do not unnecessarily publish or redistribute personal information contained in documents you receive.