Stephen P. Storfer, MD

I am very pleased to write about my experience with FORTUNA.

As you are aware, my mother passed away some seven years before we met.  As I was the only “local” the task to liquidate her estate befell me with three backseat drivers. For several years and many potential buyers and auctioneers, I slogged on at the behest of my family, never finding the right “fit” for them until I came across FORTUNA. From our first phone discussion I knew that you were well aware of the obstacle course through which I had run. Your willingness to work within the demands of my family as in setting reserve prices not only helped us achieve successful sales but also kept the siblings from being torn apart in that pursuit.

In detail, we/I had seen many other potential buyers and auctioneers from Christie’s to Betteridge Jewelers, Circa to Doyle Auctions and all had their own bent on the value of the jewelry. While they all communicated some consistent information their target and reserve pricing varied widely. Your thoughts about target and reserve pricing fell more consistently within the expectations of my family and when there were disagreements you were willing to work with them as well. As a testament to your skill, you were correct when those disagreements were tested.  I was most impressed by FORTUNA’s ability to achieve original reserve/target prices upon second auction consignment just by lowering the initial ask and reserve.

I guess my great first impression came when you showed excitement over what I regarded as my mother’s most lavish and stunning piece; a Marie Ostier designed brooch. I also enjoyed your interest in the history of this brooch.  That you would take the time to go over each piece with me and then offer to auction the lot, not cherry-picking only a few sold me.  My family was sold by how you run your house in that by and large expenses of photography, marketing, cataloging, and insurance were not an issue as they are with other auction houses.

Frankly, my experience with FORTUNA was without compare. You have never disappointed me and I am very comfortable in recommending FORTUNA to anyone who asks. Please feel free to use my name as you see fit.  You deserve the accolades!