Understanding 1stDibs New Estimate Tool

 

When relying on market data to inform the value of an item, 1stDibs is a useful site with a global network of trusted sellers, including established dealers, galleries, and antique experts from all over the world. You’ll find sellers based in cities like London, New York, Paris, Tokyo, Sydney, and many more.

There’s also a dedicated Sydney location page on 1stDibs where you can browse thousands of items currently available in or shipping from Sydney.

Dealers on 1stDibs set their own net prices, and the platform doesn’t add a buyer premium, so what you see is generally what you pay (plus shipping and taxes).

A new feature is being introduced: the 1stDibs Estimate. This feature is still being rolled out across categories, so not every item will have an estimate yet.

 

What is the 1stDibs Estimate?

It is an automated pricing tool that provides an estimated market value for select items based on similar listings, historical sales, and market trends. The estimate is displayed as a price range (e.g., “Estimated: $2,000–$2,500”) to help buyers determine whether the listed price is in line with comparable items. It’s not an appraisal or a guarantee of value—just a guide to help inform consumer decision-making. Used correctly, it is also a useful tool for valuers to collect market data.

Valuers using 1stDibs need to look for this feature because if it is there, it appears below the price of the item. In the example below, you can see the asking price and the 1stDibs Estimate; however, it helps to scroll further down.

 

Above:The item offered for sale with the asking price with the 1st Dibs Estimate circled in red

Above: 1st Dibs Estimate found by scrolling further then the sale price

 

At the bottom of the 1stDibs Estimate is ‘Comparing Prices? View similar sold items.

Be aware that there is no date for the sale, so it may have been sold some time ago

 

How It Works

1stDibs Estimate is data generated using a proprietary algorithm that analyses a wide range of data points—such as similar items listed on 1stDibs, historical sales, item attributes (e.g. designer, materials, condition), and current market trends.

Instead of a single figure, it provides a price range (e.g., “Estimated: $4,000–$5,000”) to reflect the variability in market value.

Prices are updated in real-time, as new data becomes available—like recent sales or changes in demand—the estimate may adjust accordingly.

What It’s Not

It is not suitable to rely on information on 1stDibs without sourcing market data from other sources however, it does assist with transparency in the luxury marketplace, where pricing can be opaque and inflated. It is not just used when the asking price is too high relative to the available comparable data. In the example below, the asking price is lower than the 1stDibs Estimate, but the description is silent on any treatments, which will vary the value considerably in some cases.

Why It Might Be Missing

The estimate tool is more common for certain categories like fine art or design furniture, where comparable market items are more standardised. For unique or highly subjective items—like rare jewellery —it’s harder to generate a reliable estimate.

If there aren’t enough similar listings or historical sales data for an item, the algorithm may skip it to avoid misleading guidance.

New listings or those marked as “Price Upon Request” often don’t show estimates, since the pricing is still being fine-tuned or intentionally withheld.

It’s a bit like a silent curator—only stepping in when it has enough context to be helpful.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Website: 1st Dibs
For more information download this document